Where to buy racing helmets for track use?
 

Not for just drag racing down the 1/4 mile, but for track racing, DE events, etc. this newbie know nothing about the required/approved helmets for these such events. If this is not the appropriate forum, please advise. Thanks.

I've found U.S. Race Gear to be very helpful. http://www.usracegear.com/

I just picked up a new Stilo helmet from them. Craig carries most major manufacturer's helmets. He has a true brick and mortar store.

apex performance, a RL sponsor, has a good selection.

Carbon fiber, lighter is better!

DrDrilZ:
We have a great selection of helmets in stock and would be happy to assist you. For starting out doing Drivers Ed events with PCA, NASA, SCCA etc, you will currently need either an SA2005 or SA2010 helmet, though some groups allow "M" rated motorcycle helmets. Make sure you check the rules and regulations for the club you plan on running with.

For your first event, you will need to get your car tech inspected by the shop you use to maintain your car. Some PCA regions will hold a free tech session the week before a scheduled event. Should have fresh brake fluid and enough life left in your brake pads to get through the event. Also check out the Club Racing, Driver's Ed forum here on Rennlist. Lots of good information there as well. And be careful. Driving on the track whether racing or doing drivers ed, is addicting. You will have a lot of fun and learn a lot about your car.

You can view our helmet selection here: http://www.ogracing.com/driver/helmets

If you have any questions, please contact us at 1-800-934-9112.

Kind regards.

Apex Performance in Murrell's Inlet, SC. They do mail-order and offer a 10% Rennlist/PCA discount off their already good prices.

+1 I picked up a G-Force carbon fiber helmet from Apex. :)

1) Buy a helmet that is SA rated. It will meet nearly any on-track standard, while a motorcycle (M/DOT rated) will only work for autocross and/or some of the DEs.

2) I would strongly suggest finding a shop where you can try on several options. Fit is critical, and every manufacturer builds to a different head shape. IMO, you should then give your business to the shop that carried the inventory you used to select the helmet. These businesses support us, and we should support them.

3) If your sanction requires a head-neck restraint (HANS, et al), it's even better if you can try on the helmet with the HNR to make sure there are no interference issues.

Hey Mark.

When will the SA2015 come out? Thanks.

I've been very pleased with Helmet City:

http://www.helmetcity.com/?gclid=CLS...FUFufgodEKYApw

Do NOT buy an SA2005. Get the current Snell 2010 rating.

i always use helmetcity but ill check out the other sponsors here shortly

You've already got some good advice re: vendors to look at, but I'll add this: Try to get to a shop that stocks helmets in different brands.

I never knew how bad my $300~ Bell helmet was for my head shape until I tried a $1,000 Arai. I cringed all the way home after paying for the Arai, but thought it was some of the best money I've ever spent after one track day in it. Probably safer, too, since it doesn't have the pressure point at the top of my skull the Bell did. But your head may be just fine in a Bell, or some other brand.

Again, some good leads for shops here. Wish I knew one in Atlanta, as I've had very good service from Wine Country Motorsports here—but that doesn't help you much.

Best,

pete

SA2015 may come out late if SA2010 is any indication. Most org.'s allow one prior- ie. current SA2010, allows SA2005.

I'd get the best helmet available for your budget. I am a big fan of Arai, have used them since 2003 in car/karts, and before that, Stand 21. Don't get caught up in CF or not, unless you are planning on open wheel/exposed helmet racing, and even then it may be much more than you need. I pay full retail for my Arai, but wouldn't wear some of the other brands even if they paid me.

http://www.helmetcity.com/page/HC/CTGY/AH

I bought my motorcycle helmets from them but I happened to be in Daytona at the time. IME, need to try it on to make sure it fits properly, so I would be a little leery buying online from anyone. Cyclegear has a great selection and there might be a location near you. I forget the difference between car & bike helmets but depending on that answer, you might do well there. Seem to think motorcycle helmets are not fire retardant.

Gotta try them on, find a local vendor. Arai is very popular here, they don't fit my fat head well. I've Bell head. You can go to any of the helmet maker websites and find local shops.