Tidybuoy

I'm asking advice on where to buy a helmet for the track. This will be my first track day, actually drivers training at Buttonwillow on Aug 11th and I want to get any equipment that I will need. I have motorcycle helmets but I don't know if those are allowed and I would prefer to buy an open face helmet vs the full face helmets that I currently own.

Any other advice would be great as well.

Thanks.....Vern

Pep!RRRR

Tidybuoy

Thanks. I did find a sight that sells helmets and I noticed that 95%+ were full face helmets and that made me think that maybe I should not be getting open face. Regardless, I'm not going to spend a fortune this first time around as I wot be going to the track more than a couple times a year. I will invest in a better helmet down the road.

CaymanSinAR

Pep!RRRR

andy7777

my local pca group offers helmet rentals, if it's your first and you're not sure how much you will really need it, I'd check out if your group does rentals too.

You do need a certified helmet for most DEs I know of.

daylorb

I don't believe that is rated for auto - the fire retardant requirements are different from what I understand.

There are plenty of options around $200 for a full auto SA2015 like this one: https://www.motorsportpro.com/racequ...iABEgL80PD_BwE, or this one: https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Zamp-...SABEgKLPvD_BwE

blairb

I really like my HJC AR-10 III. Doesn't break the bank, and I find it pretty comfortable. If you can, definitely try some helmets on before you buy though.

If you end up the Napa/Sonoma area check out Wine Country Motorsports!

DBH

Many track groups will have helmets you can use or rent. Check it out before investing in a new helmet. Most track groups will NOT allow the use of a motorcycle helmet. If you should decide to buy one, do not skimp and buy the cheapest available. Are you willing to trust your skull to the lowest bidder??

Jim Cobb

nxfedlt1

If you have to run windows down, absolutely go full face. I get rocks and rubber all the time in the car.

Scooby921

I have a slightly older HJC AR-10 II and can say the same. Very affordable yet comfortable.

Not all helmets fit the same though. If you have a local shop that you can go to I would definitely do so. If not, then prepare for a high initial investment as the best option is to buy several helmets and then return those which don't fit or aren't comfortable. You may wind up with a temporary $1000 on your credit card, but buying an HJC helmet, a Bell helmet, a Simpson helmet, and perhaps an Arai helmet gives you multiple shapes. One might fit your head better than another. Definitely measure your head so you can pick the right size. Remember they are supposed to be snug. Not tight, but not at all loose. When you try them on leave them on for 20 minutes at a time. Make sure they aren't developing pressure points over time. It might feel great for the first minute, but if it's causing a migraine or vertigo by the end of a lapping session it's no good.

I usually head to saferacer.com for helmets.

This. For some reason almost all HPDE groups require windows down. On a dusty course you're going to get dirt in your eyes when the car in front of you puts a wheel off. Getting a full face helmet can help with this, so long as you actually close the visor. Going along with this, you'll want to check helmets for ventilation. Something like a cheap Pyrotect likely doesn't have any front or top vents to create airflow around your head. It'll fit well and feel good, but after 20 minutes your head will be a sweaty mess and you won't be looking forward to sticking you head back into that helmet for your next session.

Quadcammer

You can certainly pay more if you like, but a lot of that is branding, a few ounces of weight, and to some degree, ventilation. They all meet the same basic safety standards. And don't kid yourself that the more expensive helmet manufacturers aren't finding ways to cut costs by every way possible.

I have a $180 zamp and it serves my purposes just fine. Its comfortable, has adequate ventilation, and has the hans anchors I needed. Is it fancy? no. Does it still meet SA 2015 standards just like the $1000 one? yes.

Jim Cobb

SToronto

I grabbed a Bell M8 Carbon few months ago coming from much cheaper HJC. World of difference in terms of head comfort and weight reduction! Also ready to go for neck and head restraint devices.

Best is to find a shop and go try them on as they have different fitments. Need to see what goes well with your head shape. I spent less years ago because I wasn't 100% sure about my interest as it was first time.