Snell approved racing helmets?

[srt4evah]

Anyone got a recommendation for a helmet? Apparently most drag strips require them if you're running under 13.99.

Seems like they start out at like $120, is that as cheap as they get? Sucks, I don't need a helmet to drive my car to the track, it's practically stock!

[BobF's 6POINT1]

Lots of motorcycle shops have some on clearance. I bought an open face for about $50 locally. If you buy used, you might want to make sure it has at least a SNELL 2000 rating... and get a big can of Lysol too.

[MangoInTX]

For quality and comfort look for a Simpson or Bell helmet and at lease SNELL 95 I think a SNELL 2000 or 2005 would be better and would be approved for use much longer then the 95.

Your right it isn’t cheap but also remember the track provides a somewhat controlled environment that you can go fast legally.

[dodgeboy]

I bought a SA2005 Pyrotect and I'm very happy with it. Great fit, and it came with a nice bag and neck guard. Reasonable price, too (can't remember exactly what it was now).

The SA95 helmets are no longer allowed at the road courses around here. They don't check the tags at the drag strip on a 12-13 second car, though. As long as you have a helmet of any kind, they don't ask questions. If you plan on racing on a road course, make sure to get a "SA" rated helmet and not a "M" rated helmet. Most courses won't allow motorcycle helmets.

Here's a link to my helmet, from the place I bought it: http://www.soloracer.com/pyrofullfacesa.html

Dave

[TxSwimDad]

Anyone got a recommendation for a helmet? Apparently most drag strips require them if you're running under 13.99.

Seems like they start out at like $120, is that as cheap as they get? Sucks, I don't need a helmet to drive my car to the track, it's practically stock!

Yes that is about right. Amazingly enough, check out the BMW bike dealer on N.Lamar. That is where I bought my last Biefe that I use to use for autocrossing. Also check out Zabors on Burnet Rd about 5 blocks south of 183. Both are good ole Austin spots.

Hope to see you Tuesday night!

[Jaak]

I remember an old Bell Helmet's ad in some motorcycle magazines when I was a kid...

Got a $10 Head? Get a $10 Helmet!

I'd be comfortable with anything that's both Snell and DOT approved. I remember some helmets with Snell approvals that weren't DOT as the side vision was obstructed. Haven't seen anything lately...

But yeah, motorcycle and/or snowmobile shops would likely have the best deals.

[srt4evah]

Yes that is about right. Amazingly enough, check out the BMW bike dealer on N.Lamar. That is where I bought my last Biefe that I use to use for autocrossing. Also check out Zabors on Burnet Rd about 5 blocks south of 183. Both are good ole Austin spots.

Hope to see you Tuesday night!

Tuesday night? What's going on on Tuesday night in Austin?

Thanks for the advice guys, I'll check out some of the places mentioned. Guess my Jofa hockey helmet won't do the trick... =]

[hyperbolic]

Look up Bell's web site. They have specials and a list of nearest dealers.

[Deuuuce]

DOT is simply a membership with testing that doesn't compare to SNELL. Hence SNELL being a requirement and no question superior.

If you think you may get on a motorcycle, get a full-face. Motorcycle helmets are not fire-rated and road-racing helmets are not DOT approved, hence they cannot be crossed-over for more serious levels of competition.

Don't buy used - that would be ridiculous.

Being a motorcyclist, I sure wouldn't buy a $125 Snell approved helmet. I'm partial to Shoei because they fit my head. Arai is another good brand. A good Snell helmet is over $300, excellent venting, aerodynamics and light weight. If you want to go extra-cool and extra-light - $800 for a carbon fiber helmet the last I checked.

Also, you're supposed to replace your helmet after 5 years due ot a break-down of the materials over time for crash worthyness.

[larry383]

Go to nhra.com website & look up their rules for helmet requirements. Most tracks are NHRA or IHRA sanctioned and have the same requirements. Every time I go to the dragstrip my helmet, seat belts, jacket, competition license are all checked. Sometimes local tracks will let it slide, BUT if you are in a mis-hap and they let you run without the required safety equipment they will lose their sanction.
I've seen 15 second cars wreck as well as a Top Fuel dragster that wrecked in 1996 @ 306 mph. How much is your head worth?
I bought my Bell helmet for less than $300 and it's good through 2017.
But it's your choice.

[Deuuuce]

Bell helmet for less than $300 and it's good through 2017.

Where did you get the "2017" part??

[larry383]

2017 is not a part number, it's certified through the year 2017. Of course though I may change helmets between now and then. The NHRA rule book lists the helmet specs as well as expiration dates.

[Deuuuce]

2017 is not a part number, it's certified through the year 2017. Of course though I may change helmets between now and then. The NHRA rule book lists the helmet specs as well as expiration dates.

That expiration date changes at SNELL's word. Which recommends replacement every 5 years according to Bell.

"When should I replace my helmet?
Snell recommends replacing your helmet every five years. However, the five-year rule is only a guideline. Remember, the consequences of auto racing accidents can be violent and permanent. As a result, only helmets that are in top condition should be worn in competition. The form of racing you participate in may also dictate the timeframe for replacing your helmet especially if you compete open cockpit environments. We recommend replacing your helmet if it is involved in an accident or shows any signs of structural damage. Even the best materials deteriorate over time. When in doubt, replace your helmet."

Interestingly they recommend replacing their bicycle helmets sooner:

"WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY HELMET?
How often should a helmet be replaced under normal wear and tear?
Bell has a general recommendation of replacing a helmet every three (3) years. If you have any questions as to the condition of your helmet please call us for information or to set up a free inspection."