Racing Helmets

I'm planning on doing my first track event in the next couple months and need to get everything that would be required at VIR to run on the track. Can someone make some recommendation on what I need and where to order them. Do I need more than just the helmet? I assume there is a good website for purchasing theses items but never having tried one on, how do I know what size to get? Are they returnable like online shoes until you get the right size?

 

You can measure your cranium for fitment. Helmets are pretty easy to fit. Go to:

www.hrpworld.com
www.racerwholesale.com

 

I got mine from http://www.soloracer.com

It took 3 tries to get a helmet that fit comfortably. They let me return the ones that didn't fit, but I had to pay the return shipping each time.

Just because the helemts say they are the same size doesn't mean that they fit the same way. Most brands have a particular feel to them, like they were designed to fit a head with a certain shape.

For me, my first try was a Bell helmet. It almost ripped all the skin off my forehead. Clearly my head is square while the Bell helmet is shaped for a more round head. Then I tried a Pyrotect, which turns out is Bell's budget line and is shaped similarly, although it wasn't as uncomfortable as the Bell. I ended up with an HJC AR10, which fit me very comfortably and is also one of the less expensive SA rated helmets, and is fairly light for a fiberglass model.

 

http://www.tracksidetim.com/helmets_clearance.asp

Tim Lee has been a racer for many years as well as being in the safety business at least 25 years . Extremely knowledgeable and helpful , with great deals on closeouts as well as occasional blems at 10% off . And if you have a medium sized head he still has one Ferrari helmet (Zamp) in stock

 

I noticed that these helmets are SARA-2005 & 2006. I'm sure that is why they are clearance. Should I be getting a later 2010 or newer model? Does it make a difference and do they check at events? No sense in saving a few dollars if it is obsolete in a couple years.

Also, is a fire suit needed at most tracks or at lease recommended?

 

Check with whom you plan on running with , some places will allow SA 2005 for another 2-5 years , he also has SA2010 inventory , with a 10% discount on blems when available . Also has just about any safety item and other racecar stuff too , just check the sidebar. Tim is very helpful , if you call him mention I sent you , I've known him over 20 years.

For suits I like Hinchman , not only were they the original and virtually every legend has raced in them (almost exclusivly thru the 70's) but there is nothing better than a well made suit built just for you , off the rack stuff does not compare.

 

Different track day organizers require different equipment although most only require a helmet (make sure you get an SA rated helmet vs an M rated helmet). You should check with who ever is putting on yours as sometimes gloves are also required. saferacer.com is also a good bet for equipment.

Have Fun

 

I'm gonna take a slightly contrary view here; IMO you should go to a racing store and have a knowledgeable tech fit it for you - You *will* believe it's too tight initially! But, you only get one egg and if it's needed it better be on right.....

Cheers,
Ian

 

Problem is I don't know which tracks I'll be on. I am in NC so VIR would be most common but I also plan to go to the national FCA event in CA so who knows. That's why I can't just check the "website.". Anyone know of a race store near Greenville, NC. I travel a lot so even anywhere in NC, SC, on Lower VA?

 

Just be sure to get an SA-2010 - I believe that's still the latest and will be good everywhere for a few years. FWIW, all the track days I've done they always checked the sticker.

Cheers,
Ian

 

As others have stated, rules are different at each venue depending on the event. Generally, helmets will be good for 10 years and yes they check them, so I'd buy a 2010 helmet if I were you. Also, be sure to buy an SA, not an M. Levels of protection depend on how serious your run group is. You will never be turned away for having too much protection and if you ever crash or have to help another driver who is on fire, you will be glad that you had it. Most beginner run groups will require a helmet and a fire extinguisher and recommend long pants and sleeves and socks made of cotton. But confirm when you sign up. Your biggest decision at this juncture is open face or full face.

 

SA2010 and a set of inexpensive racing gloves. See ya in March at the track!

 

I would definitely go to a store where you can try different models and sizes to see what fits you best - I have a hard time imagining buying a helmet online unless you have tried elsewhere and know exactly what fits best. Also note that weight of helmet can make a difference - lighter is nicer as it puts less strain on your neck.
Jes

 

Found it! Here's a pretty good video; Jay Leno and Bruce from Arai helmets discussing what's what. As it says in the intro, 8 out of 10 riders helmets don't fit correctly.....

http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/video/arai-helmets/283819/

Cheers,
Ian

 

Hey Daniel,
Your local. Any recommendation on a local shop to try them on?

 

That's a great video and helps a lot. I'm convinced I need to find a shop to try them on.

 

+1 Pretty much any race supply store should have not just a good selection but more importantly, a skilled "fitter" - This is the key as left alone you're almost certain to get it wrong.......

Cheers,
Ian

 

NC?

SIMPSON WORLD RETAIL LOCATIONS
Simpson World East
185 Rolling Hills Road
Mooresville, NC 28117
Email: [email protected]
Toll Free 800-473-7077
Phone 704-662-3366
Fax 704-662-3360
Monday-Thursday 9:00 AM till 5:30 PM
Friday – 9:00 AM till 5:30 PM
Closed Saturday & Sunday

 

As others have said go to a store. But make sure they carry different brands to determine which fits best. While you may get some help from the store's staff you need to understand how a helmet sould fit. Check the following:

www.araiamericas.com/default.aspx?pageid=92
www.thebellstore.com/Fit/fitprint.html

Proper sizing is essential and most people get it wrong. A helmet should be snug, touch on the most areas of your head, minimize gaps (especially on the forehead) and not slide. Different brands have different molds. Pads loosen up a bit with use.

I always wear a balaclava (head sock). Both for safety when it matters and to absorb sweat. If are going to wear a balaclava always put it on when trying a helmet.

Don't fall for the "how much your head is worth, buy the most expensive helmet you can". Buy a recognized brand (Arai, Bell, Sparco, Simpson), they have models at many price points. Consider a larger eye port model if you'll be using it for track days only.

 

+1 on the balaclava. helps keep your helmet from stinking. i like my foam neck brace. i made it myself from closed cell foam and a fireproof sock. just whittled the foam down while i had my helmet on in the car. holds my head in place comfortably.

 

I'm a geek for this stuff.

Fitment is the most important factor, period, and you can't do it by size charts. Every head is different and you'll have your own particular pressure points.

Call my buddy Steve at OG Racing and have a chat. They carry a bunch of lines.

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT use gloves for track days, unless you have exceptionally sweaty palms. Gloves put another layer between the tire's contact patch and your hands that masks feedback.

 

We will be on full course at VIR, but the FCA regs should be the same around the country. Stick with 2010 certs (non M, of course) and I suspect you'll be fine anywhere for HPDE days.

Don't know of any locations in your neck of the woods for helmet fitment, but the shop at VIR is fine if you can get up there in advance of the track day.

 

Ever get to Irmo, SC ? That's where that "Trackside Tim" guy is located , give them a call if you are going to be in the area , I'm sure they can help you there .


http://www.tracksidetim.com/about_trackside.htm

 

Thanks. I'll do that

 

I don't get to that area that often. Irmo is a little out of the way. I'll be in Charleston and through Florence this week but Irmo is another 1+ hours east.