Why Your Helmet Choice Matters More Than Anything Else
In any form of motorsport, the helmet is the single most important piece of protective equipment you own. Unlike a race suit or gloves, a helmet is your primary defence in the event of a serious incident. Cutting corners here is never worth it — but that doesn't mean you need to spend a fortune to be properly protected.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know before making a purchase.
Understanding Helmet Safety Ratings
Safety ratings are the first thing to check when evaluating any racing helmet. Different motorsport disciplines and sanctioning bodies require different certifications:
| Rating | Used In | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Snell SA2020 | Car racing (US-focused) | Current standard; SA helmets include fire resistance testing |
| FIA 8859-2015 | International car racing | Required for FIA-sanctioned events including F1, WRC |
| CMR 2016 | Karting (children) | Specifically designed for kart racing forces |
| CIK-FIA | Karting (all ages) | The standard for competitive karting globally |
| ECE 22.06 | Road/motorcycle use | Not typically accepted for car racing competition |
Always verify which standard is required by your club or series before purchasing. A helmet that doesn't meet the required certification won't pass scrutineering, regardless of how much it cost.
Getting the Right Fit
A helmet that doesn't fit correctly provides less protection and is uncomfortable over long sessions. Here's how to measure and test fit properly:
- Measure your head circumference using a flexible tape measure placed about 2.5cm above your eyebrows.
- Try before you buy whenever possible. Different brands suit different head shapes — some are rounder, some more oval.
- The helmet should feel snug but not painful. You should be able to fit one finger between the helmet and your forehead, but no more.
- Check for pressure points. Wear it for at least five minutes in the shop — discomfort that's minor initially becomes significant over a 30-minute race session.
- The chin strap should hold firm. Try to push the helmet forward from the back — it should barely move.
Full-Face vs. Open-Face
For car racing, a full-face helmet is almost universally required and recommended. Open-face helmets leave your chin and jaw unprotected and are typically only seen in certain vintage or rally spectating contexts. For karting and circuit racing, always go full-face.
Key Features to Consider
- Shell material: Fibreglass shells are heavier and more affordable. Carbon fibre shells are lighter and stronger but cost significantly more.
- Visor quality: Look for scratch resistance and a wide field of vision. Tear-off compatibility is useful for muddy or wet conditions.
- Ventilation: Important for comfort on warm days and during physical racing.
- HANS device compatibility: If you use a HANS (Head And Neck Support) device, ensure the helmet has the correct anchor point cut-outs.
- Communication cutouts: If you race with team radio, check helmet compatibility with your intercom system.
When to Replace Your Helmet
Most manufacturers and sanctioning bodies recommend replacing a racing helmet every five years, regardless of visible damage. After any significant impact, replace it immediately — even if there's no obvious external damage, the internal foam may be compromised. Your helmet is not a place to economise on longevity.
Buy the best helmet your budget allows, ensure it meets your series requirements, and get the fit right. Everything else is secondary.