Helmets?

[machvvv]

I want to start HPDE and autoX. Do they require a full face helmet or can I get the open face kind? What do yall' use, and where did you get the helmet?

[Dirt]

I don't know for sure, but I think that stuff on-track requires a full face helmet. However, I've done a couple of autocrosses and I used one with an open face.

[BThayer23]

Full face is not required by most schools, but it's much safer. And if you start doing track schools, you'll be driving 120 mph with the windows down and trying to talk into a microphone. The full face shields the wind more, especially when it's raining and you have the windows down for safety.

I know the open face helmets are a little cheaper, but you're better off with a full face helmet.

[blitzcat]

I have a full face Zamp (which is bell brand somehow) that I got from apexperformance.net. They are out of South Carolina, I really liked working with them. I've seen them at the track a couple times, and they went out of their way to help me. There might even be a THMMC discount code.

I really like the helmet too. I've used it for kart, HPDE and autocross. During my various driving 'incidents' my head was well protected.

If you don't plan to kart, don't sweat the different weights. And every helmet is going to be hot.

I'm another vote for full face. The latest safety spec is SA2010 but I think everyone will accept SA2005 for a few years if you find a sweetheart deal on it.

Safety equipment is an expensive slippery slope. Your wallet says 'no no no' and your head says 'but I have to protect this!'

[TRACKRAT]

Just be sure to get a helmet that's SA rated, not M. And make sure it fits snugly. After a few events, they tend to loosen up. Remember that old admonition: "If you have a $10 head, then get a $10 helmet!". I heartily recommend the closed face over the open face style. Remember, with the closed face helmets, most of us in closed cars, tend not to use the face shields.