Ever watched a Formula 1 race and felt a chill when a car crashes? Think about the driver. What’s the most important thing protecting them? That’s right, the helmet! It’s not just a cool-looking accessory; it’s a life-saving piece of gear. Choosing the right car racing helmet is a serious decision. There are so many choices! It can be confusing to figure out what features you need and what they all mean. Getting it wrong could mean serious injury, or worse.
Finding the perfect helmet can be tricky. You need to think about safety standards, comfort, and how well it fits. Do you know the difference between Snell and FIA ratings? And what about the different types of visors? Don’t worry, this post will help you. We will break down everything you need to know. This guide cuts through the jargon and makes selecting the right helmet easy. We’ll help you understand the key features and make a smart choice.
By the end of this post, you’ll be an expert on car racing helmets! You’ll know how to pick the best one for your needs. You’ll understand the important safety features and what to look for. You’ll also learn how to ensure a perfect fit. Ready to become a helmet pro? Let’s dive in and explore the world of car racing helmets!
Our Top 5 Car Racing Helmets Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Car Racing Helmets Detailed Reviews
1. ILM Snell SA2020 Approved Auto Racing Helmets
Rating: 8.5/10
The ILM Snell SA2020 Approved Auto Racing Helmet is built for speed and safety. This lightweight, full-face helmet is made for adult men and women. It’s designed for auto racing. This Model 890 (L, MatteBlack) helmet uses a fiberglass shell. It also has useful features to keep you safe while racing. This helmet is not for use on public roads.
What We Like:
- Snell SA2020 Certified. This means it meets high safety standards.
- The helmet is made of Fiber Reinforce Plastic (GFRP). This makes it strong and lightweight.
- It has a Double D-ring. This keeps the helmet secure.
- It has M6 threaded inserts. These are for Head & Neck Support devices.
- The visor has a sunshade film. This helps reduce glare.
- The inner pads are fire retardant. They also add comfort.
- Tear-off posts can be added to the visor. This keeps your view clear.
What Could Be Improved:
- HANS/HNR devices are not included. You must buy them separately.
This ILM racing helmet is a good choice for racers. It offers great protection and useful features for the track.
2. Conquer Snell SA2020 Approved Open Face Auto Racing Race Car Helmet – Adult
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to race with the Conquer Snell SA2020 Approved Open Face Auto Racing Race Car Helmet! This helmet is made for speed. It’s designed for adults, men, women, and youth. You can get it in black or white. This helmet will keep you safe on the track. It is built with safety in mind and meets important standards.
What We Like:
- Lightweight fiberglass shell keeps your head safe.
- The inside is padded with fire-resistant Nomex.
- You can take out the cheek pads.
- Air flows well for comfort.
- It has a strong Kevlar chin strap.
- HANS M6 threaded inserts are built in.
- It is Snell SA2020 certified.
What Could Be Improved:
- The helmet is only for racing, not street use.
This helmet is a great choice for racers. It is safe and comfortable. You can feel confident on the track with this helmet.
3. Conquer Snell SA2020 Approved Full Face Auto Racing Race Car Helmet – Adult
Rating: 8.8/10
The Conquer Snell SA2020 Approved Full Face Auto Racing Race Car Helmet is built for speed. This helmet is for auto racing. It is made for adults, men, women, and youth. You can get it in black or white. It keeps you safe while racing. It has important safety features. The helmet is lightweight and strong. It is designed to protect your head in a crash.
What We Like:
- Lightweight fiberglass composite shell protects the head.
- Fire retardant paint and interior keep you safe.
- Removable cheek pads make it easy to add an intercom.
- Kevlar chin strap and stainless steel D-rings offer a secure fit.
- Anti-scratch, flame-resistant shield gives a clear view.
- Snell SA2020 certification means it passed safety tests.
- HANS/HNR M6 inserts make it easy to use with neck restraints.
- Airflow vents keep you cool.
What Could Be Improved:
- This helmet is only for auto racing. It is not for street use.
This helmet is a good choice for racers. It is designed for safety and comfort. It will help you stay safe on the track.
4. GLX GX11 Compact Motorcycle Helmet – Matte Black
Rating: 9.0/10
The GLX GX11 Compact Motorcycle Helmet in Matte Black is a full-face helmet designed for riders. It has a sleek look and is DOT approved, meaning it meets safety standards. This helmet aims to offer safety, comfort, and a good riding experience. It’s designed in Southern California, and GLX created it in 2002. The helmet includes a tinted visor for better vision in bright sunlight.
What We Like:
- The helmet is designed for a snug and comfortable fit.
- It has an optimized ventilation system with adjustable air vents to keep you cool.
- The visor offers a wide view and is easy to change.
- It uses a Multi-Density EPS liner for impact protection.
- The inside of the helmet can be taken out, washed, and adjusted for comfort.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some riders may prefer more advanced features found in higher-priced helmets.
- The specific noise level might vary based on riding conditions.
The GLX GX11 is a good helmet for riders who want a safe and comfortable option. It has many features that make it a solid choice for the price.
5. ILM Snell SA2020 Full Face Auto Car Racing Helmets for Men and Women Model 760(White
Rating: 9.0/10
The ILM Snell SA2020 Full Face Auto Car Racing Helmet is designed for racers. This helmet protects your head during auto racing. It’s certified by Snell SA2020. The helmet is made for men and women. The model 760 comes in white and is a size large.
What We Like:
- The helmet is Snell SA2020 certified. This means it is safe.
- It is made of Fiber Reinforce Plastic (FRP). This makes it strong and lightweight.
- It has a Double D-ring. This keeps the helmet secure.
- The helmet is ready for a Head & Neck Support (HANS/HNR) device.
- There is a sunshade film on the visor. This helps with sun glare.
- The EPS inner pads are fire retardant.
- You can add tear-off posts to the visor. This gives you a clear view.
What Could Be Improved:
- The HANS/HNR M6 Threaded Inserts are not included. You need to buy them separately.
- This helmet is only for auto racing. It is not for street use.
This ILM helmet is a good choice for auto racing. It offers safety and comfort for racers. Make sure you buy the right size for your head.
Car Racing Helmet Buying Guide: Stay Safe, Drive Fast!
Are you ready to hit the track? Then you need a car racing helmet! This guide will help you choose the right one. It’s important for your safety. A good helmet protects your head and face. Let’s learn how to pick a great one.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy a helmet, look for these things:
- Snell Certification: This is a big deal! Snell is a safety standard. Helmets with Snell certifications have passed tough tests. Look for a sticker inside the helmet. The most common is the SA2020 standard.
- Proper Fit: The helmet must fit snugly. It shouldn’t move around when you shake your head. Try different sizes to find the best fit. Your cheeks should be snug.
- Wide Eyeport: A wide eyeport gives you good vision. You need to see the track clearly.
- Ventilation: Racing gets hot. Good ventilation keeps you cool. Look for vents on top and in the front.
- Fire-Resistant Interior: The inside of the helmet should be fire-resistant. This protects you in case of a fire.
- Communication System Compatibility: Some helmets have space for communication systems. This helps you talk to your team.
Important Materials
Helmets use strong materials to protect you:
- Shell: The shell is the outer layer. It’s usually made of materials like carbon fiber, fiberglass, or a mix of materials. These are strong and can handle impacts. Carbon fiber is often the most expensive but also the lightest.
- Liner: The liner is inside the shell. It’s made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam. This foam absorbs impact energy. It helps protect your brain.
- Visor: The visor is the clear shield. It protects your eyes from the sun, debris, and impacts. Visors are usually made of polycarbonate plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality matters a lot! Here’s what to look for:
- Construction: A well-made helmet will last longer. Look for smooth finishes and quality materials. The helmet should feel sturdy.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands have a great reputation for safety. Research the brand before you buy.
- Price: Usually, more expensive helmets have better features and materials. But don’t always think expensive is the best.
- Weight: Lighter helmets are more comfortable. They can also reduce neck strain.
- Certifications: Always check for certifications like Snell. This is a sign of quality.
- Maintenance: A helmet is only as good as it is maintained. Make sure to clean it and replace it if it is damaged.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your helmet? Think about this:
- Racing: If you race, you’ll need a helmet certified for racing.
- Track Days: For track days, a racing helmet is also a great option.
- Comfort: A comfortable helmet is important. You’ll wear it for hours.
- Visibility: Good visibility helps you drive safely.
- Communication: If you need to talk to your team, choose a helmet with communication features.
- Durability: A good helmet will last for several years.
Car Racing Helmet FAQs
Q: What is Snell certification?
A: Snell is a safety standard. Helmets must pass tests to get certified.
Q: Why is helmet fit so important?
A: A properly fitted helmet protects your head better. It shouldn’t move around.
Q: What is the shell made of?
A: The shell can be made of carbon fiber, fiberglass, or a mix of materials. These are strong materials.
Q: What does the liner do?
A: The liner absorbs impact energy. It protects your brain.
Q: How do I clean my helmet?
A: Use mild soap and water. Don’t use harsh chemicals. Always remove the visor first. Let it air dry.
Q: How often should I replace my helmet?
A: You should replace it after any impact. Also, replace it every few years, even if you haven’t crashed.
Q: What is a visor?
A: A visor is the clear shield in front of your eyes. It protects you from debris and sun.
Q: What is the difference between SA and M rated helmets?
A: SA-rated helmets are for auto racing and are more fire-resistant. M-rated helmets are for motorcycles.
Q: Can I use a motorcycle helmet for car racing?
A: No, you should use a helmet specifically designed for car racing. Motorcycle helmets may not meet the same safety standards.
Q: Where can I buy a car racing helmet?
A: You can buy them online or at racing supply stores. Make sure to try them on.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!