kitkit22

I'm looking to buy a helmet for AX events and just wondering what is the most comfortable helmet to use and where to get one? Thanks

jsaindc

I think that this is a very individual choice as to comfort. I recommend that you try them on first...don't just buy on line. Each brand fits differently even in the same size. You should decide what is the most comfortable. With that said I recommend a closed face helmet, that way if you get the bug for DE or track events your helmet will still be good.

FRporscheman

One point my brother brought up: When you try on helmets, make sure you have the hair-do you usually have. My brother has been growing out his hair, and now it's long enough to reach his chin. He tried on a helmet that used to be loose, and now it is perfectly snug.

Anyway I don't know if you try different do's, but this got me thinking, that you can easily make a loose helmet more snug with a bandana/do-rag. Like if you only find 2 sizes - too big or too small - you can buy the bigger one and just wear a rag. Or grow out your hair.

aben8057

Also..not necessary for AX but in case you decide migrate over to DE events I would recommend an SA rated helmet.

knfeparty

yeah spring for the SA rated one so you can do those other events- I got a new gforce for $250 or so and I've liked it a lot even though it's about as cheap as you can get. My g/f's family really likes their simpson helmets.

kitkit22

Thanks for all the suggestions.

FRporscheman, do you know any shops/stores in the bay area that carries SA rated helmets?

NCporsche

Inside the helmet will be a year i.e. 2000 or 2005. Try to find a 2005. IIRC the helmet for DEs must be replaced within 8 (?) years of the posted date.

In addition, there has been some debate over closed face helmets and open faced helmet with driver side airbags. I've been told w/ DS airbags to use an open face only. Others say it makes no difference.

You may also want to check the websites for your local group running AX and DEs (the local PCA or SCCA) and see what their requirements are.

I bought mine at a local motorcycle shop. I'm thinking it was a SA2005.

Spidey944

Air bags hurt bad enough, can't imagine with a helmet on.

J Silverman

SA2005 is the current standard, and the most commonly available for new helmets. There are still some 2000 model helmets available though. Most groups require helmets that carry the current Snell rating, or the 2 previous, so right now you can use 05, 00, or 95. For DEs some groups follow race standards which is SA only, and current and previous rating (05, 00)


This was a study that the SCCA found done when the FIA investigated using airbags in Formula cars. They found that the angle of the airbag could get under the chin bar and possibly break the drivers jaw. SCCA nor any sanctioning body ever changed any rules to state that drivers of cars with airbags should only use open face helmets. In an autocross you almost have to try to hit something that will cause the bags to deploy and most racing sanctioning bodies require removal of the airbags for all race cars. For an autocross only helmet Id get an open helmet, not because of the airbag issue, but because they are more comfortable. I ran a $60 HJC helmet for 2 years and only upgraded because I wanted an SA helmet for DEs.

NCporsche

J Silverman, thanks for the clarification.

Want to buy a used motorcycle? It is rumored to be a historical piece from WW II.

RMills944

Make sure to go try them on to make sure you have the right size.

I got an HJC for about $120 and love it!

Z-man

I like G-Force Racing gear, and my current noggin' protector is a G-Force "Hybrid" helmet. SA rated.

The nice thing about G-Force is they offer the same protection and comfort as the "big name" brands, at a significantly reduced cost.
-Z

J Silverman

I also have a G Force, I think the pro force 1. I went in to the shop looking to spend $400-$500 on a helmet, but none of the more expensive ones fit my head as well as the GForce.

FRporscheman

Sorry, I don't know much about helmets. And my brother bought his from craiglist (it's actually a motorcycle helmet).

ausgeflippt951

If you motorcycle as well, get a decent helmet. Icon is a fantastic bang for the buck. Shoei and Arai are expensive but very high quality.

HJC is fantastic for the price. But pretty bare-bones.

Make sure when you buy it that it is very snug. It will form to your head.