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The Complete Guide to SFI 27.1 Window Nets for Off-Road Racing

What they are, why you need them, and whether your race sanction requires them

When it comes to off-road racing safety, few components are as overlooked but critically important as SFI 27.1 certified window nets. This guide breaks down everything racers need to know; what SFI 27.1 window nets are, why they’re required, how they work, and the sanctioning body rules you must follow to stay compliant.

Why Do Off-Road Vehicles Need Window Nets?

Window nets are essential safety equipment for open-cab off-road vehicles, UTVs, race trucks, and buggies. While many drivers install them to keep rocks, sand, and debris out of the vehicle, their primary purpose is occupant retention during a rollover.

Even with a properly tightened harness, your torso may stay planted, but:

  • Your arms and hands can still exit the window opening

  • Your head can shift without a HANS device

  • Centrifugal force in a rollover can push limbs into dangerous areas

This is exactly why window nets exist, to keep every body part inside the cage when things go wrong.

What Happens in a Roll Without Window Nets?

Many racers are taught to hold the wheel or grab their harness during a rollover, but real-world forces make that nearly impossible. In our test video, even a driver intentionally attempting to tuck in is pulled toward the window opening.

Because of situations like this, most off-road racing organizations require SFI 27.1-certified window nets.

What Is an SFI 27.1 Window Net?

The SFI Foundation creates safety certifications for motorsports equipment. SFI 27.1 specifically outlines the strength requirements for window nets used in racing.

To meet SFI 27.1 certification, a window net must:

  • Prevent a 3-inch diameter ball from passing through the webbing

  • Withstand a 175-lb punching bag dropped from 26.5 inches

  • Display an SFI 27.1 certification tag, valid for 2 years

Certification expires after two years because UV exposure and environmental wear reduce the strength of the webbing.

Additional Requirements From Racing Sanctions

SFI 27.1 only certifies the strength and construction of the net, but each racing series may add its own requirements. Most organizations have rules about fitment, coverage, mounting, and release methods.

Here are common standards you must meet:

  • Nets must fully cover the opening so no limb can protrude when occupants are fully strapped in

  • Nets must be mounted on the inside of the roll cage

  • Nets must have a quick-release mechanism that passengers can operate unassisted

  • Nets must be tight enough that a 50-lb push force deflects the netting no more than 4 inches

SFI Certification Lifespan: Why Only Two Years?

All SFI window nets expire two years after the manufacturing date. This isn’t a money grab, it’s because UV degradation weakens the webbing over time.

SFI has tested various exposure conditions and determined that two years is the maximum service life in which the net can reliably pass certification impact tests.

Where to Buy SFI 27.1 Certified Window Nets

Many companies produce SFI-certified nets, including PRP Seats. PRP specializes in custom SFI 27.1 window nets, made to fit almost any race vehicle.

Whether you’re racing or simply adding safety to a recreational setup, all we need is a detailed template of your window opening.

Learn how to order PRP’s SFI 27.1 Window Nets

Race Sanction Requirements: Does Your Series Require SFI 27.1?

Below is a quick overview of window-net rules by popular off-road racing organizations. Always check with your sanction for the most up-to-date rulebook.

  • SCORE – CR35 Safety Nets
    SCORE-approved safety nets are required on all vehicles.

  • SNORE – CR35 Safety Nets
    SNORE-approved nets are mandatory.

  • Ultra4 – 8.2.2 Safety Nets
    All window nets must meet or exceed SFI 27.1.

  • Best In The Desert (BITD) – SCR36
    SFI 27.1 driver/navigator ingress/egress nets are mandatory.

  • WORCS – 25.8
    Driver and passenger nets or hand restraints are required.

  • SXS Sports / SRT8 Series
    If the driver’s helmet is within a fist width of the cage, an interior safety net is required.

  • M.O.R.E – Safety Nets
    Nets are mandatory for all vehicles.

  • Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series – SR11
    Window nets must be SFI 27.1 certified with label attached.

  • PURE Off-Road Desert Series
    Approved safety nets required for all vehicles.

  • Southern Rock Racing Series
    Wrist restraints or window nets/roof panels are required.

SFI vs. Standard Window Nets: What’s the Difference?

Regular off-road window nets used on play vehicles may offer basic protection, but they are not designed for high-speed rollovers or race-level impacts.

SFI 27.1 nets are built to withstand:

  • Higher impact forces

  • Repeated stress

  • Professional racing conditions

Greater speeds mean greater risk, which means your safety equipment must perform at the highest level.

Final Thoughts

SFI 27.1 window nets are one of the most important safety upgrades you can make on an off-road race vehicle.They protect occupants in rollovers, reduce risk of injury, and help ensure you’re compliant with your race sanction’s safety rules.

If you’re prepping for a race season, installing new nets, or updating expired ones, make sure your setup meets the full SFI 27.1 requirements.