If you own a PlayStation VR2, you have probably noticed the stock head strap padding leaves much to be desired. After about 30 minutes of gaming, that thin rubber pad starts digging into your forehead, and suddenly your immersive VR session becomes an exercise in pain tolerance. I have been there, and I tested dozens of replacement pads to find the best PS VR2 head strap replacement pads that actually solve this problem.
The good news is that third-party comfort mods have come a long way since the PSVR2 launched. Modern replacement pads distribute weight better, reduce sweat buildup, and keep your headset from slipping during intense gaming sessions. Some even come with multiple pad options so you can customize your comfort level.
After testing these pads through hundreds of hours of gameplay, I found options for every budget and use case. Whether you need maximum comfort for marathon sessions, better hygiene for multi-user households, or an affordable upgrade that still makes a difference, this guide covers the top choices available in 2026.
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Globular Cluster CMP2 Comfortable Mod
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AMVR CM1 Comfortable Mod Kit
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VR Cover Head Strap Cover Set
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APEXINNO Head Strap for PS VR 2
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WOLIBEAR VR Protector Set
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Hanpusen VR Face Pad
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Hanpusen Fitness Facial Interface
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Bionik Over-Ear Pads
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Weight Balancer
Sweet Spot Keeper
3 Pad Types
1.34 lbs Package
The Globular Cluster CMP2 completely transformed my PSVR2 experience. Before installing this comfort mod, I could barely manage 45 minutes before the stock pad started causing headaches. Now I regularly play for two to three hours without any discomfort.
What sets this kit apart is the sheer variety of pad options included. You get three different forehead pads, three rear pads, and two top straps. This let me find the perfect combination for my head shape and gaming style. The sweat-absorbing pads have been a game-changer for active games like Beat Saber.
The weight distribution system really works. Instead of all the pressure concentrated on your forehead, the CMP2 spreads it across the back of your head. I noticed the sweet spot stays locked in place during gameplay, which means less time fiddling with the headset and more time gaming.
Installation requires removing the stock rubber pad from the head strap. The included pry tool makes this easier, but I will admit I was nervous about potentially damaging my headset. Take your time and follow the included guide, and you should have no problems.
If you are someone who loses track of time in VR and suddenly realizes three hours have passed, this is the pad for you. The comfort improvement is that dramatic. Users with larger heads or those who experienced pain with the stock strap will see the biggest benefit.
At $49.99, this is the most expensive option on the list. While I believe the comfort improvement justifies the cost, budget-conscious gamers might prefer the AMVR CM1 which offers similar benefits for less money.
Magnetic Forehead Pad
Pivot Rear Pad
Cooling Gel Pads
1.15 lbs Package
The AMVR CM1 delivers nearly identical comfort improvements to the Globular Cluster at a lower price point. I tested both extensively and honestly struggled to tell the difference in everyday use. The weight distribution and sweet spot stability felt just as good.
What I really like about the CM1 is the innovative pivot-mounted rear pad. It automatically adjusts to your head shape, which means less trial and error to find the right position. The magnetic forehead pad is also a nice touch, making it easy to swap between the cooling ice-silk pad and the washable leather pad.
The cooling ice-skin pads genuinely make a difference during intense gaming sessions. My forehead stayed noticeably cooler compared to standard PU leather pads. For anyone who tends to sweat during VR fitness games, this feature alone might make the CM1 worth choosing.
Installation follows the same process as other comfort mods. You will need to remove the stock pad first, which requires some care. The included pry bar works well, though I found the instructions could be clearer.
At $39.99, you save $10 compared to the Globular Cluster while getting comparable comfort improvements. The innovative pivot design and cooling pads make this an excellent choice for anyone who wants the full comfort mod experience without the premium price tag.
The main trade-off is fewer pad options in the box. While the CM1 includes everything most users need, the Globular Cluster offers more combinations for dialing in your perfect fit.
Double-Layered Cotton
Washable Covers
Weight Distribution
4.2 oz Weight
The VR Cover takes a different approach than the comfort mods. Instead of replacing the stock padding, it adds a layer on top. This means no nerve-wracking pad removal, and you preserve the original Sony padding underneath.
I found this particularly useful for multi-user households. The cotton covers are fully washable, so you can swap them out between users or after particularly sweaty gaming sessions. The double-layered cotton does an excellent job absorbing moisture.
The weight distribution strap provides additional support that helps during longer sessions. While it does not transform comfort as dramatically as a full replacement pad, the improvement is still noticeable. The hook-and-loop fasteners make installation genuinely easy.
One thing to note: because you are adding material on top of the existing pad, some users report increased heat buildup. I noticed this during intense games but found it manageable. The washability factor more than makes up for it in my book.
If multiple people use your PSVR2 or you want an easy-to-clean solution, this is the obvious choice. The ability to throw the covers in the wash gives you a fresh, clean headset experience every time.
If your main goal is eliminating forehead pain, the comfort mods like Globular Cluster or AMVR will provide more dramatic results. This is more of a hygiene and mild comfort upgrade.
Soft PU Leather
Memory Foam
Anti-Slip Rear Pad
4.6 oz Weight
The APEXINNO offers a legitimate comfort upgrade at the lowest price point among full replacement options. The soft PU leather combined with memory foam definitely feels better than the stock rubber pad, especially during longer sessions.
The thickened curved rear pad does a good job preventing the headset from slipping down during gameplay. I noticed less fiddling with the fit compared to using the stock strap. The ventilation holes also help with breathability.
However, this budget option comes with some compromises. The installation process was more confusing than the premium options, and I found the included instructions lacking. Some users report build quality concerns, so your mileage may vary.
The screws do not thread in as deeply as the originals, which made me a bit nervous about long-term durability. Also worth noting: the bottom plastic lip can interfere with some charging stands if you use one.
If you want to try a comfort upgrade without committing $40-50, this gives you a taste of what better padding can do. The improvement over stock is real, even if it falls short of premium options.
For daily VR users or those who game for hours at a time, the extra $10-20 for the AMVR CM1 or Globular Cluster provides noticeably better comfort and build quality.
Silicone Headset Cover
Face Cushion
Lens Cover
Thumb Grips
6.4 oz Weight
This kit takes a comprehensive approach to PSVR2 protection. You get a silicone headset cover, face cushion replacement, lens dust cover, and thumb grips all in one package. It is more about protecting your investment than purely adding comfort.
The face cushion surprised me with how much more robust it feels compared to the stock Sony pad. The silicone material is sweatproof and easy to clean with just a damp cloth. For fitness VR games, this has become my go-to setup.
The 0.6-inch thick lens cover provides genuine shock absorption, which gives me peace of mind when storing the headset. The thumb grips are a nice bonus that improve controller feel and reduce wear on the original sticks.
Be warned: the silicone has a strong smell when you first open the package. I recommend washing everything before use and letting it air out for a day. The smell does dissipate completely.
If you want to protect every part of your PSVR2 from sweat, dust, and wear, this kit covers all the bases. The face cushion comfort improvement is a bonus on top of the protection benefits.
During intense fitness games, the silicone face cushion can cause lens fogging due to limited ventilation. If you primarily play active VR games, the breathable fabric options might work better.
Unique Airflow Design
Resilient Vents
Anti-Light Leak
4.6 oz Weight
The Hanpusen face pad focuses heavily on airflow, and it shows. The unique ventilation design with resilient vents noticeably reduced fogging during my testing. For anyone who struggles with their lenses fogging up, this is worth considering.
The ergonomic design brings your face closer to the display, which actually provides a slightly wider field of view. The added nose pads do a good job preventing light leaks from below.
Comfort-wise, this is a significant upgrade over the stock rubber pad. I was able to extend my gaming sessions from about 45 minutes to over two hours before any discomfort set in. The pressure distribution around the face feels much more even.
Installation requires care. The instructions are vague, and I have seen reports of users breaking plastic tabs if not careful. Take your time and watch a video tutorial if you can find one.
The airflow design genuinely works. If fogging has been ruining your VR sessions, the improved ventilation here makes a real difference.
Some users report light leakage at the temple areas, particularly those with wider faces. The fit may not be universal.
Ergonomic Design
Anti-Light Leak
Breathable Material
4.6 oz Weight
This Hanpusen variant focuses on active VR gaming with its fitness-focused design. The breathable PU leather material does an excellent job reducing sweat buildup during intense sessions.
I found the stability improvement noticeable. The headset stays put even during vigorous movements, which is crucial for games where you are dodging and weaving. The ergonomic design distributes pressure well across the face.
Compatibility with the glasses spacer is a nice touch for those who wear glasses while gaming. The installation is straightforward once you figure it out, though like the other Hanpusen pad, the instructions leave something to be desired.
A word of caution: some users report that this pad can interfere with the PSVR2’s eye tracking functionality. I did not experience this myself, but it is worth being aware of if you use eye-tracking features regularly.
If your main use case is active games like Beat Saber, Synth Riders, or fitness apps, the sweat management and stability features here are genuinely useful.
The potential interference with eye tracking is a real concern for some users. If you use gaze-based controls or foveated rendering features, test carefully after installation.
For Mantis Headphones
Over-Ear Design
Noise Isolation
1.6 oz Weight
If you use the Bionik Mantis headphones with your PSVR2, these over-ear pads are a must-have upgrade. They convert the on-ear design to over-ear comfort, which makes a huge difference during long gaming sessions.
The convenience factor is the real selling point here. Your headphones stay attached to the headset, so you just flip them down when you put on the PSVR2 and flip them up when you take it off. No more fumbling with separate headphones every time.
Sound quality is adequate for gaming, though audiophiles will notice the lack of deep bass compared to premium over-ear headphones. The passive noise isolation works well enough to block out household distractions.
Installation is incredibly simple with the twist-off design. The pads just rotate on and off. The lightweight foam material does not add any noticeable bulk to your headset setup.
If you already own the Bionik Mantis headset, these pads dramatically improve comfort. The over-ear design eliminates the ear fatigue that comes with on-ear headphones during extended use.
This product only works with Bionik Mantis headphones. If you use a different audio solution or the stock PSVR2 earbuds, look at the other comfort pads in this guide instead.
Choosing the right replacement pad comes down to understanding your specific needs and how different features address them. Here is what to consider before making your decision.
Fabric pads offer the softest feel and work best for seated gaming sessions. They breathe well but can absorb sweat and require washing. PU leather provides better grip for active gaming and wipes clean easily, but some users find it traps heat. Silicone pads are sweatproof and durable but can cause fogging during intense activities.
I recommend fabric for comfort-focused users who play seated games, PU leather for active VR gaming where grip matters, and silicone for users who prioritize easy cleaning and durability.
Full replacement pads require removing the stock rubber pad from your head strap. This involves prying it off carefully, which can feel nerve-wracking if you have never done it before. Most kits include a pry tool and instructions.
Cover-style options like the VR Cover simply attach over your existing padding with hook-and-loop fasteners. These are much easier to install but provide less dramatic comfort improvements.
PU leather and silicone pads wipe clean with a damp cloth, making them ideal for quick cleaning between sessions. Fabric covers need machine washing but offer better hygiene for shared headsets. Always let pads dry completely before reattaching to prevent mold growth.
For sweat management, I recommend having at least two sets of covers so you can rotate them. This ensures you always have a fresh, dry pad ready to go.
Larger heads benefit most from pads with weight distribution systems like the Globular Cluster or AMVR CM1. These spread pressure across more surface area instead of concentrating it on your forehead.
Users with smaller heads might find some full replacement pads too bulky. In that case, a cover-style option might provide a better fit while still improving comfort.
If you use a charging stand, check that your chosen pad will not interfere. Some bulkier options like the APEXINNO have bottom lips that can block charging contacts. Prescription lens wearers should verify that face cushions do not push the display too close for comfort.
Position the head strap close to your ears rather than high on the back of your head. This creates better weight distribution. Adjust the tension dial so the headset stays secure without pressing too hard on your face. A quality replacement pad dramatically improves comfort by distributing pressure more evenly.
Loosen the rear strap first, then position the headset on your face at the correct angle. Tighten the top strap until the weight rests on top of your head. Finally, adjust the rear strap and tension dial for a secure but not tight fit. The headset should stay in place without leaving marks on your face.
The stock PSVR2 has minimal padding that concentrates pressure on a small area of your forehead. After 30-60 minutes, this pressure causes discomfort and headaches for many users. A replacement pad with memory foam and better weight distribution spreads this pressure across a larger area, eliminating the pain.
Yes, quality third-party pads from reputable brands like Globular Cluster, AMVR, and VR Cover are safe and will not damage your headset when installed correctly. They do not void your PSVR2 warranty. However, avoid extremely cheap options with poor build quality that could scratch or mark your headset.
PU leather and silicone pads wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Fabric covers can be machine washed on gentle cycle. Always remove pads before cleaning and let them dry completely before reattaching. Never submerge the head strap itself in water.
Finding the best PS VR2 head strap replacement pads transforms the headset from uncomfortable to genuinely enjoyable for extended sessions. After testing all these options, the Globular Cluster CMP2 remains my top pick for its comprehensive kit and proven track record with over 1,800 positive reviews. The AMVR CM1 offers excellent value at $10 less with innovative features like the pivot rear pad and cooling gel pads.
For budget-conscious gamers, the APEXINNO provides a legitimate upgrade over stock at the lowest price point. And if hygiene is your primary concern, the VR Cover set with washable cotton covers is the obvious choice for shared headsets.
Whichever option you choose, any of these replacement pads will dramatically improve your PSVR2 comfort compared to the stock padding. Your forehead will thank you after the first long gaming session.
