question about helmets

[sicksubie]

I want to buy my own helmet for this upcoming auto-x season. I need a lot of insight in this area. What brand should I look for, how much should I expect to spend, what are the specfics?

[LetItSnow]

The first one I used was full-face. When it's 80 degrees, and you're sitting in line in your car, it's a pain in the arse to breathe in that thing. I recommend an open helmet.

Originally Posted by Page 32 of SCCA's 2008 Solo rules

4.3.1 Helmets
Helmets meeting the following standards must be worn while on course: All helmets meeting the current or two immediately preceding Snell Foundation standards (SA, K, or M), or SFI standards 31.1A, 31.2A, 41.1A, or 41.2A are acceptable. Helmets meeting British spec BS6658-85 type A/FR are also acceptable.

For maximum protection, helmets must fit securely and should provide adequate peripheral vision. The chin strap must be securely fastened. Loaner helmets should be available to vehicle occupants not having their own.

The shop you go to should have some good advice on how a helmet should fit your head. It woudn't surprise me if you spent between $80 and $130 for something basic, like an HJC.

[Hocrest]

A "M" rated helmet will be legal for AX, a "SA" rated helmet will also be legal for any other racing you want to do, but the cost is higher. You should look for a M-05 or a SA-05.

Some sizes are different between brands, some are designed around round heads, some around long/thin heads. Your probably best off going to a speed shop that carries different lines and trying them on for size.

[sicksubie]

where should I look? ebay? what stores/ websites?

[Hocrest]

Find a speed shop, circle track shop, motorcycle shop, etc... to try them on. Once you find one, you can price shop for that model/size on EBay, or other online shops. I have no experience with these, but found the links on the GR site;
http://www.newenough.com/helmets_eyewear/
http://www.discoveryparts.com/

Also, airbags and full face helmets don't play well together...

[sicksubie]

good thing my airbag is disconnected then.......

[RSVX]

I have found that my local Motorcycle shop has prices that are equal to any place I can find online.

I found this odd that I couldnt beat their prices online.

This was for motorcycle helmets, though.

[sicksubie]

Tom, what was the size helmet I borrowed for the Cumberland meet?

[Hocrest]

I'm not sure if you got one yet, but I found this link earlier...

http://www.gforceoutlet.com/index.php?cPath=24

[Crazy_pilot]

I use a full face motorcycle helmet for snow racing. I don't find anything wrong with it, but it can be a bit constricting. I do like the tinted visor on sunny days a lot.