A headrest is a component intended to support the head. It is commonly built into the upper rear of a seat—such as the back of a chair or the front seats of an automobile—and serves both comfort and protective functions.
Purpose and safety
Headrests limit excessive rearward motion of the head relative to the torso, helping to lower the risk of neck injury in rear-end collisions. By supporting the neck and upper shoulders, they reduce the likelihood and severity of whiplash-type injuries. In many regions, motor-vehicle standards require seats to include some form of head restraint; automotive manufacturers also offer advanced systems that activate during certain impacts to provide additional protection.
Design and common types
- Integrated headrests: molded as part of the seat back and not intended to be removed.
- Adjustable headrests: mounted on posts that allow vertical (and sometimes tilt) adjustment to suit occupants of different heights.
- Detachable or removable headrests: can be taken off for repair or to fit different seat configurations.
- Active or dynamic restraints: engineered to move or change position during a crash to reduce head and neck loading.
- Furniture headrests: typically shaped and padded for prolonged comfort rather than crash protection, and found on sofas, office chairs, and recliners.
Positioning and use
For effective protection, a headrest should be adjusted so its upper surface is at or slightly above the top of the occupant’s head and as close to the back of the head as is comfortable. Proper headrest placement complements seat belts and airbags but does not replace them; all vehicle occupants should continue to use primary restraints correctly. For children, follow vehicle and child-restraint manufacturer guidance regarding booster seats and head support.