Wreck Me Otter

I'm about to start having some real fun with my 993 and do some AutoX's and then HSDE's. To that end, I first need a helmet and I'd appreciate some advice. I've never worn one so I don't know the issues.

I'm already convinced that I want a full face helmet but now I have to make a choice.

I have a few questions as follows:

1. Bell: Vortex Turbo Air - has some kind of built-in fan. Is this a complete gimmick or is there any real value?

2. Vented vs. non-vented. Is non-vented significantly hotter? If so, what is the purpose of non-vented?

3. I wear glasses (eyes too dry for contacts). Are there issues with helmet fitment? Anything I should look for to help?

4. Comments on any of the following (other than price): Bell Vortex, Bell M3, Bieffe Predator? Others I should consider? Safety and comfort are my main considerations.

TIA <img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />

GT-3S #40

You might want to consider a OMP Formula Wide Eyes. I have one after using several others for several years. I chose that one because it is light, well vented (stays cooler than my others) and I can get my glasses on after I get the helment on. Helments are like shoes, fit is all important.

Carrera51

Since you wear glasses, I would consider the Bell M2. Good helmet, good price. The M3 is lighter than the M2 but the eye opening is smaller. I switched to an M3 last year. A heavier helmet contributes to fatigue. I know a few people who tried Bieffe and they like them. Whichever helmet you get keep in mind that an SA95 helmet is still good until 2005 and if there are still some out there, you can get a great deal. Keep in mind that you probably won't want to use the same helmet for more than 2-3 years (depending on how many events you do) because the padding wears in and starts to smell from sweat. Nomex doesn't breath at all. Unless you get a helmet like the Bell Vortex, the vents will do little to really cool you off.

I would also recommend a neck collar. They take some getting used to, but reduce the amount of stress and fatigue on the neck muscles. I started wearing one last year after two years without one and it makes a difference.

Ken T

I have a Bell Vortex and I have bought them for all of my engineers. We are vehicle dynamics engineers in the automotive industry so we use them every day. Basically, I like it better than my previous helmet as it is lighter (Kevlar) and has a nice thick shield (rocks and such). In general, my motto is "IF you have a 50 dollar head, buy a 50 dollar helmet." Otherwise, don't skimp on safety items. Good luck.

Bill Gregory

[quote]<strong>Re: Pading - I take it that the padding is not replacable?</strong><hr></blockquote>

As I recall, Bell will rebuild any of it's helmets at nominal cost if it's less than 5 years old.

Geo

For some good info on helmets and safety (but certainly not brands and models), check out the Snell Memorial Foundation web site.

<a href="http://www.smf.org" target="_blank">http://www.smf.org</a>

pig4bill

Don't forget to take your nomex balaclava with you when you try on helmets. Otherwise you'll wonder why such a nice snug fit in the store feels a little too squeezy out on the track.

E. J. - 993 Alumni

Be careful Kim,

Sound like you should be a small or large. Remember that we are not looking for a Russian Mink hat - its not going to be that comfortable. It sounds like you did not put on the smaller ones the right way - you need to hold the helmet by the straps in either hand where they enter the helmet and actually spread it apart to get it on your melon. Also remember that an older used helmet will be packed out a little bit by the owner.

I would have an expert at a store work with you.

E. J.

Dave in Chicago

I second E.J.'s notes. I had mine fitted by an experienced Cup racer. I would not have bought one so tight without his recommendation. In the end, it's entirely tolerable for the time I have to wear it and provides better protection by not letting my melon bounce around inside.

Keep the shiny side up,

txhedg

IF you happen to be up at Sear Pt (I know its quite a bit past Oakland), I know the shop there at the track (Wine Country Motor Sports) sells the Bell Helmets. Their prices seemed a bit high, but they offered a 10% discount to all those who attended the Russel Racing School. YOu may be able to talk them into the discount by saying you are planning to go to Russel, but want to buy a helmet to use before you've actually signed up.......never hurts to try <img src="graemlins/bigok.gif" border="0" alt="[thumbsup]" />

pig4bill

You might also try this place in Oakland:
<a href="http://www.helmetcity.com/" target="_blank">http://www.helmetcity.com/</a>

I don't know if they have a storefront, but they have some good prices.

Bob C.

Regarding Silver Bullet's question about vented vs non-vented...

Do any of you drive with your visors down? Does that affect your vented vs non-vented decision?

txhedg

I will often drive with my visor almost all the way down, but opened just a crack to keep air flowing into it.....this seems to help a good bit.

Also, I will give my helmet a plug (since no one has mentioned it):

I have a Simpson Voyager that I really like. It has a bit more nose/chin space to fit my big snoz, and very large eye opening. Got it from OG

pig4bill

I guess this suggestion is a throwback to my old bike-riding and open car days, but something else you want to get is one of those heavy-duty, near-bulletproof face shields. The ones that usually come with the helmet are fairly thin and a good sized rock will go right through them at 80 mph. Probably not much of a concern in a closed car, but in a crash there could be lots of debris flying around and it's cheap peace-of-mind.