Top Brands for Performance Long Tube Headers

Long tube headers are essential for maximizing your vehicle's performance, and choosing the right brand can significantly enhance your driving experience. Some of the top brands renowned for producing high-quality long tube headers include Kooks, known for their precision engineering and superior materials, and American Racing Headers, which offer exceptional performance gains. Additionally, JBA Headers and BBK Performance are also popular choices among car enthusiasts for their durability and power-enhancing capabilities. To explore the detailed features and benefits of these leading brands, see below for more information.

Illustration of long tube headers

Best brands of long tube headers in 2025

Kooks Headers

Kooks Headers is renowned as one of the top producers of long tube headers, offering high-performance exhaust solutions with excellent materials and construction. Their headers are designed to improve vehicle exhaust performance significantly, and they are compatible with various vehicle models, including the 1998-2002 Camaro/Firebird and the 2009-2015 Cadillac CTS-V. Kooks Headers are known for their durability and are often paired with Kooks Green Cats, which are OBD2 EPA certified, making them ideal for boosted applications and compliant with stringent emissions regulations. The brand offers a 20% discount on several of its products, highlighting their commitment to affordability without compromising quality. With a strong market presence, Kooks Headers continue to be a preferred choice among car enthusiasts.

Stainless Works

Stainless Works is renowned as one of the best producers of long tube headers, offering high-quality, 304L Ever Last Stainless Steel products with a lifetime warranty. Their systems, fabricated entirely in-house in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, have been praised for their excellent fit and performance, supporting up to 450 rwhp in some configurations. The company's headers feature smooth mandrel bends, integrated merge spikes, and multiple connection options, including factory, performance, and aftermarket connections. Stainless Works' products are designed to maximize performance, sound, and mileage, and they come with all necessary accessories for a smooth installation. With a strong reputation since 2004, Stainless Works continues to be a top choice for performance enthusiasts.

American Racing Headers

American Racing Headers (ARH) is a renowned brand specializing in the production of high-quality, long tube headers, particularly for late model Chevy, Ford, and Dodge applications. Known for their optimal primary tube sizes, such as the 1-7/8" size which yields 10 additional RWHP at peak, ARH headers are engineered to enhance engine performance and are fully TIG welded for durability. Their products are designed as direct replacements for OEM exhaust systems, offering a free-flowing system with mandrel bends. ARH headers have been tested extensively, showing significant improvements in horsepower and torque, and are popular among both street and race car configurations. With a focus on premium materials and meticulous manufacturing, ARH ensures long-lasting performance.

Borla Exhaust

Borla Performance Industries is a leading manufacturer of stainless steel performance exhaust systems, including long tube headers, known for enhancing engine performance by 7-10% in horsepower and torque. Founded over two decades ago, Borla has evolved from producing exhaust systems for classic cars like Rolls-Royce and Ferrari to becoming a premier supplier for today's performance vehicles. With a state-of-the-art test and development center, Borla continues to innovate, holding three US patents for exhaust system technology. The company has an estimated annual revenue of $43.6 million and employs 132 people, having grown their employee count by 7% last year. Borla's commitment to quality and performance makes it a top choice among car enthusiasts.

Hooker Headers

Hooker Headers is a renowned brand in the automotive performance industry, known for delivering high-quality, bolt-on performance for over four decades. Their long tube headers, made from mild steel with mandrel bends and tuned tube lengths, provide optimal exhaust flow and significant performance gains, such as a 20-25 HP increase over stock manifolds. The headers feature machined flanges and high-quality MIG welds for excellent port sealing and durability. Many users recommend getting them ceramic coated for enhanced performance and longevity. Hooker Headers are widely used and praised for their fitment and performance in various vehicle models. For more detailed information on their offerings, visit the Hooker Headers website.

Gibson Performance Exhaust

Gibson Performance Exhaust is renowned for producing high-quality long tube headers, particularly the LS Swap Performance Header, which is made from 1-3/4-in. stainless 16-gauge mandrel bent tubing and features heavy-duty laser cut flanges, premium gaskets, and hardware. These headers are designed for both street and off-road use, ensuring improved horsepower and torque at low and mid-range RPMs. Gibson's products are dyno-tuned and engineered to enhance the engine's breathing and reduce operating temperatures. They are 50 State Emissions Legal and meet EPA & CARB requirements. Backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty, Gibson's headers are a trusted choice in the automotive performance market.

JBA Headers

JBA Headers is a leading brand in the aftermarket exhaust industry, renowned for its high-performance long tube headers that deliver maximum power gains and high RPM efficiency. With over 30 years of experience, JBA has established itself as a pioneer in 50-state emissions legal exhaust products, particularly with its CAT4Ward® Headers that hold numerous Executive Orders (EO numbers) from the California Air Resources Board (C.A.R.B.). Their long tube headers are dyno and race proven, featuring proprietary Firecone® collector technology for enhanced horsepower and torque. JBA's commitment to quality and innovation has made their products a staple in the performance market, with a forecasted market growth of 6.5% CAGR in the automotive exhaust headers sector by 2032.

BBK Performance

BBK Performance is renowned as one of the top producers of long tube headers, offering high-quality products designed, built, and tested in the USA. Their headers, such as the 1-5/8 inch Titanium Ceramic Long Tube Headers, can increase horsepower by double digits and are constructed from heavy-duty 14-gauge steel tubing with 3/8 inch thick laser-cut flanges. These headers are pressure-tested for leak-free performance and come with a resilient titanium ceramic plated finish to protect against debris, heat, and corrosion. For specific models like the 2005-2010 Ford Mustang GT, BBK headers are a direct bolt-on replacement, requiring mechanical expertise or professional installation. With a limited 1-year warranty, BBK ensures durability and performance.

Texas Speed & Performance

Texas Speed & Performance is renowned for producing high-quality long tube headers, particularly for vehicles like the Ford Mustang GT and Chevy Camaro SS. Their headers are fully mandrel-bent on CNC mandrel benders to ensure optimal flow and accuracy. Made from 304 stainless steel, these headers offer excellent durability and performance, with options including catted and off-road connection pipes. The brand is praised for its meticulous welding and fitment, although some models may require minor adjustments for installation. Texas Speed headers are often compared to other premium brands, highlighting their competitive value and performance.

Hedman Hedders

Hedman Hedders, founded in 1954 by Bob Hedman, is a premier manufacturer of performance exhaust headers, renowned for their high-quality and efficient designs. These headers improve engine performance by enhancing exhaust gas flow, allowing for maximum horsepower and torque production. Hedman Hedders are carefully crafted to fit specific vehicle applications, ensuring optimal performance whether for street, race, or off-road use. Their innovative HTC (Hi-Tech Coating) protects against rust and reduces underhood temperatures by up to 200°F. With a lifetime guarantee against defects, Hedman Hedders are a reliable choice for performance enthusiasts.