[silvergray545]

Since it is winter up here in Ohio, im going to start gathering everything I need to attend my first track session in the spring. I know I need a helmet, but I dont know where to buy them or what to look for? Also, are there any other things that I must have to race?

Thanks in advance!

[scollins]

You can order a helmet online for a pretty decent price, but I really recommend finding a local shop to at least try them on, as there are differences.

Also, what you need will really depend on what you are doing. Most HPDE schools will allow you to use a motorcycle helmet, as long as it is Snell 2000 or Snell 2005. I copied this from my local BMW CCA's website:

Current helmet requirements for CCA events require Snell ratings of 2000 or 2005. No earlier models will be accepted. Snell 2000 rated helmets will be eligible until 2011, which includes a one-year grace period after the 2010 helmets have been introduced into the market. Therefore, Snell 2005 helmets will be acceptable until 2016. Motorcycle helmets are also acceptable as long as the M rating conforms to the Snell rating for the appropriate period.

When shopping for a new helmet we recommend drivers try helmets on prior to purchasing. Although catalog and Internet shopping are great resources for compiling information about helmets it is not always the best way to purchase. All helmets, even those from the same manufacturer can fit differently. Just sending in measurements will not guarantee a helmet will fit you correctly.

If you are just getting into track days, I suggest just buying a decent Snell M2005 motorcycle helmet until you decide if this is really something you are going to do a lot of. At that point, look into a dedicated car racing helmet, and get the absolute lightest one you can barely afford. Remember, your neck not only has to control your head, but now the additional weight of the helmet too!

[S4to335]

Racers Wholesale has a lot...so does Pyrotect. I personally am gonna get an M2 Pro next. I have a Pyrotect now..and had a M2 before.

[sambonator]

Its best to try them on for size and comfort. I'm glad I did, because I ended up with a different size than the one I intended to purchase!

[TSM330i]

I ended up getting the HJC Si-12. It is a VERY light weight helment and very comfortable with excellent ventilation. It is SA2005 compliant as well.

[BeAmW335i]

I have a similar HJC AR10 that I bought 6 months ago, but it doesn't have that fancy ram air intake for the head It's fairly light also.

[scollins]

Is a full face helmet better than an open face one? I'm wondering about airbags going off and the additional heat inside the helmet.....

[TSM330i]

Originally Posted by scollins

Is a full face helmet better than an open face one? I'm wondering about airbags going off and the additional heat inside the helmet.....

There have been debates over open vs. full face helmets. I went full for added fire safety.

I run with my visor up most of the time. Heat wasn't an issue. I have good air flow with this helmet and you have to run with the windows open anyway.

[BeAmW335i]

The airbag issue may be true, but some events require you to have a full face helmet.

[K330i]

Originally Posted by BeAmW335i

The airbag issue may be true, but some events require you to have a full face helmet.

+1...verify what you will need then try them out at a local shop.

fyi: most scca events have loaner's. so you can try both and see what you are comfortable with before you buy. (if you could wait until then)

if had to do it all over again i would get an open face just for comfort.

[kenneth]

I went with open face for the following reasons:
- I wear glasses
- Don't need to scream my head off for instructor to hear me (when not using microphone or whatever you call it)
- When using microphones easier to install even after helmet on!

Which reminds me, I need to get a set of microphones for next season, cos not all instructors have them.

[Bubbles]

Originally Posted by kenneth

I went with open face for the following reasons:
- I wear glasses
- Don't need to scream my head off for instructor to hear me (when not using microphone or whatever you call it)
- When using microphones easier to install even after helmet on!

Which reminds me, I need to get a set of microphones for next season, cos not all instructors have them.

M4 Bell Flat Black.

[kenneth]

I'll check that out. Could be my next helmet !!!

[Feffman]

You may want to consider a full face helmet for the added protection OR if you get a ride at the track in an open car (Lotus 7, Radical SR3, etc.). Also consider an "SA" rated helmet as many clubs are insisting on that rating.

I use a Simpson Speedway Shark (www.TeamSimpson.com).

Feff

[03SG///M3]

I recommend Arai.

[S4to335]

My fat head doesnt fit in Arai helmets...I am probably getting an Bell M2 Pro next time..wide eyelet for my glasses..and relatively light..closed face...(I dont like open faced)..and I have a chatterbox for talking..so sound is not an issue.

[davig]

"Also consider an "SA" rated helmet as many clubs are insisting on that rating."
Good advice.

[kenneth]

Originally Posted by Feffman

You may want to consider a full face helmet for the added protection OR if you get a ride at the track in an open car (Lotus 7, Radical SR3, etc.). Also consider an "SA" rated helmet as many clubs are insisting on that rating.

I use a Simpson Speedway Shark (www.TeamSimpson.com).

Feff

True, true! Although I am not sure I'll have the guts to sit in an open car. I'll have to think about that.

Originally Posted by S4to335

My fat head doesnt fit in Arai helmets...I am probably getting an Bell M2 Pro next time..wide eyelet for my glasses..and relatively light..closed face...(I dont like open faced)..and I have a chatterbox for talking..so sound is not an issue.

So the chatterbox is in the helmet? All you need to do is put helmet on, then put glasses?

[SV Concepts II]

I would highly recommend a full face SA helmet for the added protection and just in case the club does not allow you on the track with a motorcycle helmet.

Wear the helmet you chose around the store (along with any glasses, ear plugs, balaclava or whatever you will be wearing) for a while to see if you develop a head ache or any discomfort. General rule of thumb is while wearing the helmet you should not be able to chew gum without biting your cheeks.

I'm assuming this is the same chatterbox S4to335 is referring to? If so it can be mounted on the helmet or anywhere inside the car/your pocket.
http://www.kneedraggers.com/details/...2--621315.html

[sambonator]

Originally Posted by kenneth

...So the chatterbox is in the helmet? All you need to do is put helmet on, then put glasses?

No, with an open face helmet, you just slide the ear-set into the side of your helmet between your ear and helmet.

I went with open face for lighter weight, comfort, easier communication with instructor, better visibility, and lower cost! .

[kenneth]

Originally Posted by sambonator

No, with an open face helmet, you just slide the ear-set into the side of your helmet between your ear and helmet.

I went with open face for lighter weight, comfort, easier communication with instructor, better visibility, and lower cost! .

I really meant to ask if the chatterbox is fixed inside the Full face helmet prior to slipping the helmet on. I have used chatterboxes but on an open face helmet, it was a breeze to install chatterbox after helmet on!

Thanks

[silvergray545]

Thanks a lot guys! I just realized than Summit Racing is only about 25-30 minutes away from my house. So Im going to take a ride up there sometime since Im on break now. Ill let you know what I see/get.