Helmet use at the track

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Jul 13, 2012 | 07:32 PM

blackula 99

Thread Starter

Instructor

Joined: Apr 2008

Posts: 245

Likes: 2

From: melbourne florida

Helmet use at the track

I am looking for some info in regards to helmet use . I was planning to bring my vette up to Orlando speedworld in a few weeks and I was wondering what type of helmet is required? Any info would be greatly appreciated..thanx in advance.....

Jul 13, 2012 | 08:58 PM

CHJ In Virginia

Safety Car

Joined: Nov 2000

Posts: 4,549

Likes: 30

From: Shenandoah Valley Virginia

Check with the event operators. Requirements vary depending on who is running the show. Some groups will allow motorcycle rated helmets, others won't.

Jul 13, 2012 | 10:42 PM

jrose7004

Team Owner

Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 58,508

Likes: 1,841

From: Oklahoma City OK

C6 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019

Depends on how fast that they let you go. At the Lonestar meet at TMS you have to havea helmet if you run the road corse but don't have to have one to run on the 1.5 mile speedway. They only let you do 90 to 105 mph on the high banks.

Jul 13, 2012 | 10:59 PM

Bubbletop409

Drifting

Joined: Jan 2006

Posts: 1,726

Likes: 97

From: Castro Valley State of Insanity

I guess it all depends on how much you feel your head and brain are worth. I would go for the best I could find that met the sanctioning bodies requirements or rules.

Last edited by Bubbletop409; Jul 13, 2012 at 11:03 PM.

Jul 14, 2012 | 06:24 AM

04blackice

Burning Brakes

Joined: Feb 2011

Posts: 776

Likes: 1

From: spring tx

As far as i know.it has to be dot (snell) approved full face.15 sec or faster and passengers are allowed if car is 15 sec or slower.

Jul 14, 2012 | 11:29 AM

toddk

Racer

Joined: Feb 2004

Posts: 359

Likes: 7

From: St. Paul MN

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bubbletop409

I guess it all depends on how much you feel your head and brain are worth. I would go for the best I could find that met the sanctioning bodies requirements or rules.

I second this. There are two factors to consider - what is actually required by the track and/or group hosting the event, and second how much do you want to protect yourself in the event something unexpected happens.

Two aspects on the helmets from the events I've been to. First is the Snell rating (M, SA, etc), and second is the age of the helmet's certification (not manufacture date). Motorcycle M-rated helmets are less protective than SA helmets, and that is reflected in the price. The FAQ at their site may explain the differences: http://smf.org/helmetfaq Full-face versus open helmet wasn't mandated at the events I attended.

Some events require 2005-or-newer helmets, in case you consider buying a used one. They do "expire". New ones are rated on the 2010 testing standards. If the speed bug bites and you wish to attend other HPDE or AutoX events, getting an SA2010 rated one should cover any helmet requirement for novices.

Todd

Last edited by toddk; Jul 14, 2012 at 11:50 AM. Reason: Add URL

Jul 14, 2012 | 03:14 PM

FKING1

Safety Car

Joined: May 2003

Posts: 3,814

Likes: 105

From: Dearborn Heights Michigan

Get a Snell 2010 approved helmet ( not motorcycle) and it will be good at any event.

Jul 15, 2012 | 12:28 AM

chevylad

Pro

Joined: Dec 2003

Posts: 654

Likes: 1

From: chandler az

I would go to a reputable race shop and ask. The people I worked with showed me how it should fit and be worn. It was the first time I'd ever bought a helmet and they were very helpful and knowledgable.