Best brand/style/type of helmet

I will eventually need a helmet if I am to attend track days etc. What are everyone's opinions on the aforementioned subject? Thx for your input.

In my circle track days I used the predecessor of THIS HELMET. I'd buy again if I were to get back into that type of hobby.

Depends on how much you want to spend. I looked at it that my brain was worth a lot so...... I ended up with an Arai but that was many years ago and it was salty expensive. I actually need a new one now because mine is of the age it needs to be replaced. I am in interested to see what others have bought recently. I remember back then the major players were Arai, Bell, and Simpson. This was 10 years ago so I don't now if things have changed.

Simpson sold Simpson, started a new company, Impact. Not sure which company was recently in the news about the quality of their helmets vs actual testing. Something about putting approved stickers on helmets that weren't approved. I don't remember the details, so research it first to see what I recall is correct or not.

I had a chance to try a carbon fiber helmet at Putnam. More expensive than my head and light as a feather.

While not meant for a car, I have a kevlar kayak helmet. Literally saved my life. Lesson I learned, don't skimp on helmets.

I've got a Zamp FSA-1 that I absolutely love. Nice and cool, and no fog issues with the visor.

I didn't realize that Impact was owned by Simpson, or that he was based out of Brownsburg. My son uses an Impact helmet for his karting. I'll have to check it out. Thanks for the heads up.

I bought mine from North American Race Gear down on Gasoline Alley. He doesn't have a huge selection in his shop but he can order anything in. I purchased a Bell and really like it. Might go with something a little lighter when I get a new one. Here is a link to his website: http://www.northamericanraceparts.com/site/index.cfm

I was thinking about an open face helmet like this one.

http://www.saferacer.com/simpson-cruiser-fr-open-face-helmet...

My question is will this type helmet be ok for track days? Or do they require a full face hemlet? Anyone know?

You read my mind. That was going to be my next question. Open face or full enclosure.

I do not know the rules but I like the full enclosure since most of the road tracks make you drive with your windows down.

I have an Impact helmet that I use for karting, and I love it!

My son has one as well. I think he would get a kick out of it if my helmet matched his. Did you pick it up at their offices on the west side? Any issues with the helmet/visor etc.? I am sure you have used your helmet longer than my 6yr old, and can tell me a little more about it other than 'Dad its on backwards....."

I've seen both open and full at the track events. Just have to meet the current standard. Motorcycle helmets don't meet the requirements. I've only used a full at the drag strip for street-legal drags.

If you have a full, you can wear it karting at Fastimes.

My old helmet was a full face. I wear glasses and I found it hard to get comfortable in the full face with glasses. That and I just think you would have more visability and range of motion in a open face design. I could be way off base though.....

I got it from a friend who won it in a raffle, I love the style of the Impact helmet but my cheap $80 Vega motorcycle helmet has a much better view of everything. The visor on the Impact is much smaller. You're peripheral vision (spelling?) is taken away and the way the helmet comes to a point covering your nose takes away the ability to take a quick glance down at the tach on a kart, or dash on the car

I like full face motorcycle helmets cause they let you have a much better view of your surroundings!

Motorcycle helmets dont meet the requirements for use in auto events. Different kind of impact ratings.

This one looks pretty attractive. Designed by Bell, larger eye port for those of us with glasses (or sun glasses), great price.

http://www.soloracer.com/pyrofullfacesa.html

Thought about this one $379.


Or I could be a super hero...$399

The opening is crucial as I do wear glasses. Just need to get some time and get out to see what fits.

I appreciate all the input. Quite a lot of good information and suggestions. Thx to everyone.

buy the Stig mask

New Snell 2010 rated Bells are out. My new Sport: Under $300, lightweight, nice fit. Added extra smoke visor.

Need paint scheme ideas.