Jett America Omega X1 Neck Brace - Dirt Rider Magazine

Since neck braces have become the product to have, companies have been scrambling to come up with variations on the successful theme. The science behind these braces is not irrefutable, and I'm the only editor on staff who routinely wears a brace at the track. In testing a brace I am testing the comfort, ease of use and quality. I'm not qualified to rate the safety aspects.Some of the newer braces have been pretty weak attempts in comfort and really intrude on the rider's movement and track vision. Happily, the Omega does not fall into that category. The Omega differs from the popular Leatt in many ways, but the two most significant are the opening in front that allows you to look down and touch your chin to your chest. The second is a split back section that has supporting structure on either side of the spine, but not over it.

Since the Omega is open in the front, it must be secured with a strap system. Other braces have strap options, but they may be worn without. Jett feels that any brace should be worn strapped in place. To put the brace on, remove the brace from the carrying bag and spread the front and back. The brace is hinged to help fit, and it folds fairly flat and fits into a supplied bag for storage. Slide the brace forward from behind your head and clip the straps. The process is simple, and the strap system is light and comfortable. All of the adjustments are easy as well.

With the neck opening in the front, the brace isn't overly warm and there is good airflow to the front of your throat area. The adaptation period was mere seconds, and soon I barely knew I had it on at the track. After a ride, the brace is equally easy to remove. I generally only wear a brace on the track, but some riders do wear them off-road, so I wore the brace on an extended trail ride. After a five-hour ride a light chafing at the side of my neck showed up that had never been an issue at the track. Overall, though, comfort is very good. Installation and adjustability are all well designed. At $299.95 the pricing is in the ballpark with competing products, and there are a variety of replacement part options to make sure the brace lives a long time. If you're looking for a brace that only minimally restricts your movement while still claiming full protection, don't buy without looking at and trying on the Omega.

-Karel Kramer