To wear or not to wear?

That is the question on riding with a neck brace and something we won't settle here. Some riders won't ride without one, others won't ride with one. Yes, they help but also hurt like nobody's business in a crash and often blamed for collarbone breaks. Plus, it's one more piece of equipment on your body and the double-blind study proving their undeniable worth doesn't seem to exist.

At any rate Motocross neck braces have come a long way since their inception with more manufacturers offering models with a better, lighter fit and more functionality through impact protection and preventing head torsion. Neck braces generally fit and work together with the helmet and prevent the neck from extreme movement.

The decision to wear a neck brace is personal. Ask around and, well, the old saying goes, everyone has an opinion and something else. So you probably won't get very far when asking for advice.

It's not a must-have like helmet and goggles but for those concerned with concussions or spinal cord injuries or wanting to fully "dress for the crash" we've outlined the best Motocross neck braces below. Click on the link or photo to see additional details.

Atlas Carbon Neck Brace

The Atlas Carbon Neck Brace weighs just 1.25 lbs. and is more functional and adjustable than its predecessor. It boasts a new frame shape manufactured with carbon fiber offering more mobility than the previous model and includes the Easy Open system. It's a smaller design but brings 27 percent more contact than other similar neck braces.

Other features include:

  • Stiffer front suspension dampens wider range of impacts
  • Sits on muscles surrounding sternum and spine
  • Multiple frame sizes for correct fit and function
  • Height adjustments address body type and helmet choice

Leatt GPX 6.5 Neck Brace

The pioneers of neck brace development, Leatt uses a new carbon chassis design that incorporates a MaxiWeave carbon matrix for the GPX6.5 Neck Brace that weighs just 600 grams and maintains a rigid profile without flexing. The GPX 6.5 is CE certified as Personal Protective Equipment.

Other features include:

  • On-board size adjusting
  • Improved helmet clearance
  • Great fit with sliding front and rear
  • On-board four-angle rear thoracic adjustment

EVS R4K Race Collar

EVS makes their R4K Race Collar using the revolutionary Koroyd core which consists of 95 percent air and provides efficient and consistent energy absorption properties. The lightweight, aerodynamic chassis using the Koroyd structure fills the gap between your helmet and shoulders to absorb impact energy.

Other features include:

  • Reinforced nylone upper shell
  • Rapid lock closure system for easy front entry
  • Integrated X-Strap cleats
  • Koroyd properties remain stable in hot or cold conditions

Alpinestars Tech Bionic Neck Support

The Alpinestars Tech Bionic Neck Support uses an advanced, high performance fiber-glass compound for optimized structural integrity and frame strength. The design of the lightweight frame promotes improves contact with helmet during impact including rear support, extra width and a raised chest that help avoid hyper-flexion injuries.

Other features include:

  • Performs in hot and cold temperature conditions
  • Adjustable and versatile fitment
  • Spine-free rear padding system
  • Quick-release locking provides rapid fitting and removal

Leatt Fusion 3.0 Vest

Leatt went all-in on their Fusion 3.0 Vest the first of its kind neck and torso protection. The Fusion 3.0 is a combined neck brace and chest protector which eliminates any discomfort or fitment concern when using a chest protector separate from a neck brace.

Other features include:

  • CE Certified or approved for neck, back, chest and shoulder protection
  • Three dimensionally designed for perfect fit
  • Lightweight
  • Well ventilated

The choice is yours. But remember, like any other protective gear the best neck brace is what fits and works well for you, your style of riding and comfort level.