Hello Again

Has anyone got an opinion on the best helmet for track days?

Full face, open face, type, make... etc?

Thanks

 

Kevin,
In the interest of safety, I would recommend a full face helmet. If your in a coupe I would go for a helmet with a wide eyeport for visibility. No need to get an 'aero' style helmet for a couple either.

I have an older Bell M2, which is a full face helmet with a wide eyeport.

Gary

 

Kevin,

For most drivers education in the US, the helmet must be rated by the Snell Foundation as SA-xx (helmet for auto racing plus the year of the rating) or higher (there will be a sticker in the helmet). The current standard available is SA-2000. In addition to the SA standard for auto racing, there is the M standard is for motorcycles (M-rated helmets are not valid for some events). The differences between the two standards are that SA-rated helmets undergo a flammability test, have a narrower field of vision than M-rated helmets, and have a rollbar impact test.

There are several manufacturers of helmets, with some of the major ones being Bell, Simpson, Arai, and Shoei, and each have several lines of helmets. One of the considerations is whether you want an open face or full face helmet. The full face helmet has coverage around your mouth/jaw area, and is recommended over an open face helmet due to it's added protection. (you won't see any open faced helmets in professional formula racing). If you wear glasses, take a look at the Bell M2, as it has a larger eyeport, making glasses on/off easier. You have a choice of materials in fiberglass (less expensive) or kevlar (more expensive, lighter), which both meet the same safety standards. Try to go somewhere to try on helmets (as opposed to mail order), even if you have to drive a couple of hours, as they all fit differently. I tried three brands of helmets when I bought mine: one was uncomfortable, one I got on and nearly didn't get off, and one fit just right. And the seller can help ensure that, comfort aside, the helmet fits correctly. Also, buy new, not used, unless you positively know that the helmet was never dropped/smacked or involved in an accident.

With helmet in hand, you should also buy a helmet support, which runs $25-$60. These are typically foam covered in nomex material, and sit on your shoulder under the helmet. The helmet support limits how far your head-with-helmet can move in the event of an accident (called hyperextension), and provides some support while you're driving.

 

Gary, Bill

Thanks a ton!

I will go and investigate the options today. Appreciate the insight!

Bye for now. <img src="graemlins/xyxwave.gif" border="0" alt="[bigbye]" />