NoWay

Looking to purchase a SA2005 helmet for roadracing and maybe some autocross. I understand the need for a good fit: snug but not too tight or too loose. It seems to me to do this right the first time one would need to walk-in to a retail outlet for these helmets. However, all I find is mail-order houses. What to do to get it right? Experienced racers pls chime in. Also do I go close face or open face? I prefer open face but it seems this is all about protection and closed seems to be the obvious choice. Am I missing something? Thanks.

c4cruiser

Most of the helmet makers will have a chart that shows a cross-reference for helmet to your hat size or a chart that shows a measurement of the circumferance of your head just above the ears to a helmet size.

Not all helmet makers use the same sizing when it comes to hat size. Fore example, a Bell helmet in a 7 3/4 hat size is not quite the same as a Simpson in the same size.

If you enter an autocross event, most of them wil have loaner helmets or you can ask somebody to simply try on their helmet to get an idea of the correct size.

Also visit a motorcycle/ATV shop. Big shops will have a wide variety of helmets and may even have some automotive helmets. They should also have people who can help you get measured properly. Ask if they can order a helmet and guarantee the fit.

Open or closed face is IMHO, a matter of choice. If you will be in an open car (or a coupe with the windows down) then a full-face may work better. Some full face helmets may be an issue if you wear glasses but that depends on the specific helmet design. Some people find that vision to the sides is restricted with a full face design but again helmet design plays a part there.

I wear a Bell Mag-5 open face as I wear glasses and it slips on easily without my having to remove my glasses. I can also change to sunglasses once the helmet is on.

ghoffman

My parents spent alot of money on Orthodonture for me, so I can't see an open face helmet. A Kevlar helmet like a Bell M3 is hard to beat with the light weight and penetration resistance. Bell's also come in hat sizes in 1/8 increments. When it comes to helmets, I do not even consider cost as even part of the decision. As the very old saying goes, if you have a $10 head get a $10 helmet...

AU N EGL

Rember a SA2005 not an M 2005. or any helmet that says "exceeds Snell ratings"

I have a G force full face. I also ware glasses. I just take the glasses off to put the head sock and helmet on. Then slip my glasses though the eye port.

Too many track turds and other hard chit that flys into your drivers window that has bounced off my chin garud. Even had my drivers side mirror bounce off my chin gard when I went into a tire wall in the rain.

wiped off many many dead bugs off the chin guard too, which could have been fast food for me without the chin gaurd.

CrvtBB

I have a Bell M3 and it is VERY comfortable and cooler than the Simpson I had. Good helmet for the money and made in the USA!!!

YorkL8apex

After using a n open face for a few years I just bought a full face Bell M3. Very comfortable, and with the larger eye opening does not cause any vision probs for me. Plenty of vents so I think it will be cool enough when summer gets here

larryfs

I just splurged for an ARAI SA05

Bill Dearborn

Try and find a circle track race shop in your area. In my area we have one part time store that supplies all of the circle track racers in the area through the store or through the trailers he sends out to each track on race nights. They usually have good prices because their customers are all working on shoe strings and they know what works and doesn't work. Also a good place to pick up such things as harnesses, ductwork, braided hose, Wilwood brake parts and fluid. When you need good info some times its better to work with somebody who you can visit in person Vs talking over the phone before you buy something.
Bill

Wicked Weasel

it might not be 100% cost effective, but when you order from a mail order place order 2 sizes or different types.

For my suit I ordered 4 different types and returned the 3 that didnt fit right.


BTW

I used the chart for my G-force and was lucky that the helmet fit perfectly.

forhamilton

I purchased an Impact helmet and I like it very much. Very comfortable and breathes well.