Helmet assessment protocols differ with respect to neckform and torso presence. To determine the relative effects of neckform and torso masses on predicted three‐dimensional human impact response, a suspended Hybrid III headform was impacted with a pendulum striker. Trials were completed with and without a Hybrid neckform attached to the base of the headform. Surrogate torso masses were increased in 11.3 kilogram increments to the base of the neckform simulating body masses up to 95 kilograms. These trials were then compared to impacts on a linearly translating table.

The dynamic impact responses from the trials were recorded and used as loading curves for finite element analysis using the University College Dublin Brain Trauma Model to calculate brain tissue deformations within the Cerebrum.

Statistical significance between impact conditions was assessed with ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc tests at an alpha value of 0.05. Differences were identified between the suspended conditions and the table conditions for linear acceleration;​ the no neck and the other suspended conditions for angular acceleration;​ and the no neck condition and all but the suspended no torso impact condition for maximum principal strain. This shows that torso mass and the neckform that mechanically links the mass to the headform should be considered when measuring headform impacts.