ResMed Kontor Head Strap for Apple Vision Pro review: bring balance to spatial computing

People have complained about Apple Vision Pro's weight, so ResMed built the Kontor Head Strap that helps by adding counterweights to three adjustable straps.

This could be the shortest review in AppleInsider history because I can honestly say the Kontor Head Strap isn't for me. However, I don't write these reviews for me — I write them for everyone else, and I'm willing to bet this product is useful for someone.

I'm a bit of an oddball in the Apple Vision Pro universe because I happen to love the Solo Knit Band. I've tried the Dual Loop Band, but it proved too uncomfortable to use. On the other hand, my Managing Editor Mike Wuerthele hates the Solo Knit Band and tolerates the Dual Loop Band.

The Kontor Head Strap might as well be an Apple-made Tri Loop Band, but it is thicker and provides more surface area to distribute the weight. It's not a bad band, and honestly, counterweights may solve your comfort issues.

You're able to use the Kontor Head Strap with no weights, so that's always an option. Especially if the idea of adding yet more weight to your head isn't appealing.

Kontor Head Strap review: not for me

I don't know who needs to hear this, but headwear is a very personal thing. Everyone is going to have their own opinion over what is comfortable and what isn't.

Kontor Head Strap review: that's a whole lot of straps

I used to wear baseball caps a lot. It wasn't optional, it was a requirement. Then the nub thing started giving me headaches. My time in the military got me used to 8-point covers, which sit atop your brow.

My personal preference is beanies. I don't wear hats ever, but I wear beanies, especially in the colder months.

So, I think that may have something to do with my preference for the Solo Knit Band. I don't have anything on top of my head when using it, and I like that.

The Kontor Head Strap is a million pressure points across my head, and it's just not doing it for me. I've tried all the troubleshooting tips for fitting it properly, different weight adjustments, and different levels of tightness.

Nothing works for me.

Kontor Head Strap review: like Apple's Dual Loop Band, but more

That said, I'm not going to tell you not to get the Kontor Head Strap. In fact, I honestly think that anyone that likes the Dual Loop Band — like Mike does — but wants more support, should look into the Kontor Head Strap.

I've used the Kontor Head Strap for several hours to try and get my head around it. I even recorded an episode of the AppleInsider Podcast with AirPods Max on over it.

My personal preference won't affect the overall review or the score. The remainder of this review will cover specifics of the product — you already know it's not for me, so I won't belabor the point.

Kontor Head Strap review: Design & features

ResMed is a company that specializes in building ergonomic health equipment like CPAP devices, ventilators, and more. The Kontor Head Strap was built with 30 years of experience dealing with objects that have to rest on a person's head and face.

Kontor Head Strap review: use zero, one, two, four, or six weights

The strap connects to Apple Vision Pro using the proprietary connectors with orange release tabs. It looks and feels like something Apple built, which is a plus.

One strap sits at the nape of your neck, another on the crown of your head, and a third at the top of your forehead. These are all easily adjustable with one hand thanks to simple hook and loop fasteners.

Once you've got the strap on and tightened so the Apple Vision Pro rests on your forehead and cheeks comfortably, you're good to go. However, if Apple Vision Pro still feels too front-heavy, there are six weights included.

Each of the weights weighs 52 grams. Apple Vision Pro is about 600 grams with only the light seal and face cushion attached.

Kontor Head Strap review: counterbalance half the Vision Pro weight

That means you can counterbalance the weight by half using all six weights — or 312 grams. All six weights, the head strap, and Apple Vision Pro come in at an incredible 980 grams or 2.16 pounds.

However, you're not going to feel all that weight on your head. It might fatigue your neck muscles faster, but the more equal distribution of weight makes the total package feel closer to a motorcycle helmet than heavy goggles.

Of course, you can go with whatever combination of weights works for you. One, two, four, or six weights can be attached in different configurations.

Finding the right balance

The more I wore the Kontor Head Strap and adjusted it to fit me correctly, the more used to it I became. That said, it still isn't for me, and wearing it for any length of time left my temples pulsing.

Kontor Head Strap review: the third-tier strap Apple should have built

If you like the Dual Loop Band and want more support and options for counterweights, the ResMed Kontor Head Strap will do the trick. Don't let my personal fitting needs get in the way of a good product.

The price is actually quite competitive considering the build quality and the additional materials and weights. Apple's Dual Loop Band is only a little less expensive.

I'm a fan of bespoke accessories, and Apple Vision Pro needs more, not less. This is the head strap Apple should have made as a third option, but thankfully ResMed was here to do it.

Kontor Head Strap - Pros

• Great alternative to the Dual Loop Band
• Customizable counterweight system
• Plenty of adjustability for comfort and fit

Kontor Head Strap - Cons

• Trial and error finding the right fit
• Might require loosening straps to remove, depending on the person and fit
• Increased strain on the user's neck, even if counterweights help get pressure off the forehead and cheeks

Rating: 4 out of 5

This three-loop strap isn't for everyone, and it certainly isn't for me. It purposefully adds weight to an already heavy headset on purpose and executes that well.

It's fairly priced compared to Apple's option, offers a better fit and more utility, and is well designed. The people who need this strap should get one.

The biggest knock against it is that it isn't an option to include with Apple Vision Pro at checkout. Like a mouse or trackpad, it would be nice if Apple let users swap the Solo Knit Band or Dual Loop Band for a surcharge at checkout.

Where to buy the ResMed Kontor Head Strap

ResMed sells the Kontor Head Strap exclusively through the Apple Store. It comes in a small or medium/large option.

If you wear the medium or large Apple Vision Pro Dual Loop Band, get the medium/large option. If you're a small Dual Loop Band, get the small.

Order the Kontor Head Strap for $119.95 from the Apple Store.