My first track day is May 5th. The instructions for that day (through PCA), don't require a SA Snell, just M Snell. Have you found that there are non-racing track days (with instructor) that will require SA, or should I be o.k. ordering the M Snell helmet?

Thanks,
Rick

 

order an SA...its about $50 more but there are many organizations that will not allow the M

 

I have a long, oval head. The Arai Profile fits me really well. Normally $629, on closeout for $350. Because of the M rating, it isn't fire retardant, but should protect me really well if all the airbags don't. I can also get a Fulmer SA Snell for $250 locally, but it isn't as good a brand, and is not made as perfectly for my head shape. I'm leaning toward the Arai since SCCA, PCA, and Lapping Days at my track all allow the M rating. Decision, decisions....

 

It's also probable a M 2005,,,,it will only be good to 2015. A SA2010. Will be good till 2020.

My PCA regions will not allow M versions and in some cases the track mandates the use of SA.

I would keep looking.

 

I'd get an SA2010, so that you're covered wherever you go. The wife and I are shopping for helmets as well.

 

OK. You guys convinced me. Cancelled the order for the Arai Profile. Looking at the Pyrotect Pro Airflow, and the HJC AR-10. Mail order guy couldn't tell me what head shapes are best in each. Anyone have experience with them and can tell me if they fit an oval head well?

Thanks!

 

The other choice to make is full face vs open face. Some tracks require full face, and that's what I plan to go with. I don't find it overly confining, it's safer, and it looks cooler ().

 

call linda at apexperformanceDOTnet

she is the best there is in figuring our what type of helmet a person should get.

 

Full face is better protection...last week a chunk of rubber flew thru the window and hit my helmet on the chin area.

 

I can never understand the reason that track events require the windows to be down. Makes no sense.

As for open vs close face, it's a personal preference. You definitely get more protection with a closed face. Open face allows easier communication with an instructor and is much easier to put on.

SA2010 is the way to go. It makes no sense to use a motorcyle helmet for auto use. Any accident severe enough to warrant helmet will certainly benefit from the fire protection of an SA helmet.

Shop apex performance. They have awesome service and a 6speed discount.

 

I've dealt with both http://www.speedwaremotorsports.com/ and http://www.subesports.com/home/

 

Isn't there anywhere local you can go to fit some on? I'm a huge proponent of online purchases, but for something like this it makes sense to go and see what feels comfortable.

 

None of the stores in my area have them in stock. The race track is around 45 minutes away, and I didn't feel like driving all the way over there to see what they have. I ordered the HJC AR-10 from Linda. Hopefully it is a good fit.

 

Good luck with that! There's nothing worse than an uncomfortable helmet at the track.

A helmet is a very personal thing. A local shop here had a great selection and were extremely helpful in getting me something that fit well. I must have tried on 10-12 different ones. Sure, they cost a bit more than the same helmet online, but it was more than worth it.

 

I've tried the HJC motorcycle helmet, and it fit me pretty well. If it is no good, I'll have to pay to ship it back.