Sizing:
Since people have different shaped heads, helmet size (the size of the
top of your head) is not always proportional to the chinstrap size (the size of your face). The Ops-Core retention system
provides a significant performance advantage over traditional systems, but has less overall strap adjustment range. This is
why we offer two retention system sizes instead of one to comfortably fit the full spectrum of users.
To ensure that you order the right size chinstrap,
we recommend that you check your 'face size' with the following measurement technique. This is more accurate than relying
on helmet size alone, and can save you the aggravation of buying the wrong size system.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
H-NAPE AND X-NAPE:
Both H and X nape versions utilize Head-Loc adjustment tabs on
the vertical and horizontal webbing straps to provide instant tightening or loosening of the chinstrap while wearing the helmet,
but without any loose ends. Both versions incorporate the same double-padded leather chin cup and nape pad for greater comfort
and durability.
H-Nape is intended for operators conducting rigorous activities while wearing NVDs like the PVS-15
or ANVIS9 with heavier accessories mounted to the helmet. This
added weight and subsequent CG problems could make the helmet unstable and cause it to rotate or slip back and forth during
use. When NVDs are not stable they are difficult to see through, and when they are difficult to see through, they are not
effective. We have received reports of helmets being so unstable that they slipped and hit users in the face, hard enough
to cause disorientation, which can be detrimental when trying to operate a vehicle or control a canopy.
H-Nape is extremely secure and eliminates these slipping and
rotational issues when properly tightened. The fifth adjustment point on the nape pad allows users to instantly customize
the force lines and leverage of the horizontal straps by setting the width in the back. It effectively cinches down on the
nape of the neck, providing a vise-like grip while still being comfortable. The system can still be loosened on the fly to
yield a more relaxed fit when desired. Most users who prefer H-Nape want the ability to go from a relaxed fit to a 'bear trap'
and don't mind using the fifth adjustment strap to do so.
X-Nape is intended for users conducting rigorous activities while wearing lighter NVDs like the PVS-14
or having smaller equipment mounted to the helmet. Without the added weight of heavier devices, the X-Nape provides the same
security and comfort as H-Nape and does not require the fifth adjustment point on the back. Unlike competitor designs that
require removal of the mounting screws to set the height of the nape pad, the X-Nape version self-adjusts to the back of the
skull, resulting in a simple, ultra-clean, low-profile system.
The X-Nape is 2X more stable than conventional
systems while the H-Nape is 3X more stable than conventional systems. This statistic comes from repeated lab testing which
measured the distance that correctly fitted helmets moved / rotated on correctly sized head forms when various dynamic forces
were applied in multiple directions. The dynamic forces were consistent with those resulting from walking, running, and jumping
heights while wearing PVS-14 and PVS-15
NVDs.
