
Simpson Racing Helmets
Simpson racing helmets are available for circle-track, drag, road racing, and other sanctioned motorsports applications, with full-face designs including Bandit, Vudo, Kingsnake, Speedway Shark, and Drag Bandit models. Behrent’s Performance Warehouse carries Simpson auto racing helmets in multiple sizes, certifications, shell materials, colors, and configurations, along with compatible shields, pivot kits, ear cups, and other accessories. Whether you’re comparing helmets for a new build or replacing your current Simpson race helmet, start with the certification required by your racing organization, then consider model, size, fit, visibility, ventilation, and accessory compatibility.
Shop Simpson Racing Helmets and Accessories
Shop Simpson racing helmets for sale and compatible shields, pivot kits, ear cups, and other accessories at Behrent’s Performance Warehouse. Compare helmet or accessory type, size, safety certification, shell construction, color, finish, and shield compatibility to narrow the selection.
How to Choose a Simpson Racing Helmet
Choose a Simpson racing helmet by checking the safety certification required by your sanctioning body, track, series, and class. Then compare helmet model, size and fit, visibility, ventilation, shell construction, and compatibility with the other safety equipment and accessories you use while racing.
| Selection factor | What to compare |
|---|---|
| Certification | Required Snell SA or other applicable standard and accepted certification year |
| Helmet model | Intended application, shell design, field of vision, ventilation, and weight |
| Size and fit | Head measurement and Simpson sizing information for the specific model |
| Shell material | Standard or carbon-fiber construction where available |
| Shield and accessories | Model-specific shield, pivot kit, tear-off, and accessory compatibility |
| Other equipment | Head-and-neck-restraint anchors, communications equipment, and forced-air compatibility |
Check Your Racing Organization’s Helmet Rules
Snell SA standards, including SA2025, apply to helmets designed for competitive auto-racing environments and are distinct from motorcycle-helmet standards. When comparing a Simpson SA2025 helmet with an SA2020 model, verify which certification years your sanctioning body, track, series, and class currently accept rather than choosing by the year alone. Certification requirements can vary among racing organizations and classes. A newer certification doesn't eliminate the need to check the rules that apply to your specific form of racing.
Compare Simpson Racing Helmet Models
Simpson offers multiple full-face helmet designs for different racing applications and driver preferences. Compare the helmet’s certification, shell construction, fit, visibility, ventilation, cockpit clearance, and available accessories rather than treating one model as the best choice for every racer.
| Simpson helmet model | General positioning | Factors to compare before purchasing |
|---|---|---|
| Bandit | Recognizable full-face Simpson design available for multiple racing applications | Current certification, size, shield compatibility, ventilation, and required accessories |
| Vudo | Modern full-face model offered in standard and carbon-fiber versions | Shell material, weight, fit, field of vision, ventilation, and shield options |
| Kingsnake | Premium full-face model offered in standard and carbon-fiber configurations | Certification, shell material, fit, visibility, accessory compatibility, and budget |
| Speedway Shark | Model commonly associated with circle-track applications | Current certification, sizing method, cockpit clearance, shield, and restraint compatibility |
| Drag Bandit | Full-face model intended for drag-racing applications | Sanctioning-body rules, certification, ventilation or air-system needs, and shield compatibility |
A Simpson Bandit helmet can suit multiple racing applications, while Simpson Vudo and Simpson Kingsnake helmets offer additional shell materials and configurations, including carbon fiber. For more specialized applications, the Drag Bandit targets drag racing, while the Speedway Shark is commonly associated with circle-track competition.
Measure for the Correct Simpson Helmet Size
Measure around the widest part of your head, above the eyebrows and ears, then compare the measurement with the current Simpson helmet size chart for that model. Use the applicable Simpson racing helmet sizing chart rather than relying on a size you've worn from another manufacturer.
A properly fitted helmet should feel evenly snug without concentrated pressure points or excessive movement. Check the fit with any balaclava, communications equipment, or restraint hardware you normally use.
Check Shield, Restraint, and Communications Compatibility
Simpson shields, pivot kits, and related accessories can be model-specific, so confirm compatibility with the exact helmet before ordering. Clear, tinted, or other shields, helmet tear-offs, and pivot hardware should all match the specific helmet.
Simpson racing helmets may work with HANS and other head-and-neck restraints when the helmet, anchors, and restraint are compatible. Pre-drilled helmets still require the correct hardware and installation.
Communications and forced-air systems can also be used with compatible helmets. Check the helmet's ports or provisions and accessory requirements before installation.
Simpson Helmet Care, Inspection, and Replacement
Clean your Simpson helmet according to its specific care instructions, avoiding harsh cleaners that could damage the shell, liner, or shield. Let it dry completely and store it away from excessive heat, moisture, chemicals, sunlight, and physical damage.
Regularly inspect the shell, liner, chin strap, hardware, shield, and restraint-anchor areas. Replace the helmet after a significant impact or if damage could compromise its performance. Continued use also depends on its certification and current racing rules.
Frequently Asked Questions About Simpson Racing Helmets
Can you still use a Simpson SA2020 racing helmet?
Yes, if your sanctioning body, track, series, and class still accept SA2020 certification. Check current rules before buying or continuing to use an SA2020 helmet, especially as SA2025 helmets become available.
Can you use a Simpson motorcycle helmet for auto racing?
Only if its certification meets the requirements of your racing organization and class. Don't assume a motorcycle-certified helmet satisfies rules requiring Snell SA or another auto-racing certification.
Are Simpson racing helmets street legal?
Racing certification doesn't automatically make a Simpson racing helmet legal for street use. Check the helmet's specific certifications and applicable requirements before using it for street riding.
What is the difference between clear, smoke, amber, and mirrored Simpson helmet shields?
Clear shields suit general and lower-light conditions, while smoke and mirrored shields reduce brightness in sunny conditions. Amber shields can increase contrast in certain lighting. Confirm that the shield fits your specific Simpson helmet.
Where are Simpson racing helmets made?
Manufacturing location can vary by Simpson helmet model and product line. Check the specific product information when country of origin is important.
