With so many options out there for auto racing and karting helmets, it can be difficult to decide which style is the best for you and your team. Explore our auto racing helmet buying guide for tips on choosing the features you need, how to determine the appropriate safety certifications, which helmet will fit best, and how to know you’re getting the right protection for the track.

Consider the Certifications

When choosing helmet certifications, first refer to the requirements of the circuit or venue. The most common helmet ratings include:

• Snell: This standard tests for impact rating, projectile, chemical, and fire resistance, as well as considerations such as comfort, ease of use, and compatibility with vehicle restraints.
• FIA: Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, or FIA, is a rating that is common in Europe and considers resistance to penetration and energy absorption in case of impact. FIA-approved helmets are designed and tested for strength.
• SFI: SFI ratings, which are similar to Snell standards, require performance minimums for retention system and shield performance, as well as impact, penetration, and fire resistance. The SFI helmet standard is accepted in a variety of USA-based motorsport circuits, refer to your rulebook for specific requirements.
• DOT: The DOT rating is for highway use and is not a race-specific rating.

Most circuits require Snell certification, which updates the Special Application rating (such as racing) every 5 years. This rating is displayed as SA, with the year the certification was last updated. For example, the rating “SA2020” was last updated in 2020. To determine which certifications your helmet must meet, always check the safety standards issued by your race rulebooks.

What Is the Best Material for a Racing Helmet?

Auto racing helmets are made of various protective layers, including an outer carbon fiber or fiberglass shell, an inner polystyrene or polypropylene shell, a polycarbonate shield, and additional padding for fit and comfort.

In terms of which outer material is best—carbon fiber or fiberglass—the answer comes down to a few key details: How much protection you need, and how much you're willing to spend. Carbon fiber is considered lighter and stronger than fiberglass, but may also be more expensive. Consider the protection you need based on venue or track requirements, and explore the options—from budget choices to helmets that offer top-end features—to find the safety equipment options that work for you.

How to Choose the Right Racing Helmet Size

When looking for the right helmet size, you can either have your head professionally measured, or measure yourself so you know where to start when trying on helmets. To get your helmet size, you'll need a flexible measuring tape and helmet size charts from any brands you intend to try.

These quick tips will help you find your helmet size:

• If you wear a head sock under your helmet, wear it while you take your measurements.
• Measure the circumference of your head at about one inch above your eyebrows and around the back of your head—this will provide a measurement of the largest part of your head.
• Measure three times for a more accurate measurement.
• Begin by trying helmets that match the largest measurement you receive: You may find that it's too big and have to try the next size down, but it's a good starting point.
• You may need to try a few different helmet sizes and styles to find the best fit.
• Consider what helmet accessories, restrain systems, fresh air systems, speakers, and communications equipment you will use and ensure compatibility with whichever helmet you choose.

Test the Helmet for Proper Fit

A properly fitted helmet provides even pressure throughout the wear area and it should always turn with your head. A racing helmet should be snug—when the strap is secured, the helmet shouldn't shift or move when you turn your head or tug on it. While it should fit closely, it shouldn't be uncomfortable to use. Test it out: Check that you can secure and release the helmet strap easily, ensure the visor is easy to use, and make sure it's comfortable and offers sufficient ventilation.

No matter the safety certifications the style meets, if your helmet doesn't fit properly, you're not fully protected. After getting your helmet measurements and comparing the results to brand size charts, try on a few and test for fit, considering these three key points:

1. Do you feel firm, even pressure the whole way around? A helmet should hug your head—without gaps in pressure or causing discomfort.
2. Is there also pressure in your cheeks, where the cheek pads rest? You should feel the cheek pads while wearing the helmet—and when you press on your helmet, the pressure should remain in the same area.
3. Does the fastened helmet stay in place when you tug gently upwards from the base of your neck? It should not move or slide; if it does, it's too big and you need to try another option (size, helmet style, brand, etc.) for a better fit.

Different helmets offer different fits—even within the same brand—so don't assume that because one style fits, all helmets from the manufacturer will fit. Before making your final decision, try on a variety of styles, shapes, and sizes and choose the one that offers the best fit.

How Long Do Racing Helmets Last?

While a racing helmet may still look functional beyond its expiration date, your helmet should always be within the expiration date as safety standards are updated regularly for the most protection. In addition to the changing guidelines, helmet materials, including the padding, strap materials, and Energy Absorbing Material (EAM), or liner, may deteriorate with time and use. Proper helmet storage and transportation can prevent damage when the helmet isn't in use, but sweat from regular use can weaken the materials, causing them to be less effective as the helmet ages.

When Should a Racing Helmet Be Replaced?

Always check your helmet prior to use to ensure there is no damage, and check again before you put your helmet away after a race. Watch for delamination, cracks, or marred finishes, damage to or beneath the foam padding, and damage to the helmet liner. When in doubt, consult the helmet manufacturer for advice.

Replace your helmet when you see signs of wear or damage, if the helmet has been worn during a collision or serious impact, and especially when it reaches its expiration date. Snell certifications are updated every five years, and the entity recommends auto racing helmets be replaced after five years of use.

How Do You Extend a Racing Helmet's Lifespan?

Proper helmet care and maintenance can help your helmet last longer. Choose a high-quality helmet to start, and inspect it carefully after every use. Helmets should be cleaned with a quality cleaning solution and set on a helmet dryer to keep bacteria and orors at bay. Store your helmet in a dry area away from excessive heat or sunlight. Parts and accessories, such as the helmet shield or visor and interior padding can be replaced, updated, or adjusted as needed to extend the life of your helmet, but safety is the priority: always replace your helmet after impact or when it reaches its expiration date.

When choosing auto racing safety equipment, the helmet is an important consideration. Stick with auto racing helmets from top brands including Bell, Simpson, and Impact for the best results. No matter your budget, always research safety standards and track regulations to choose a well-fitted helmet that meets or exceeds the requirements.