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Have you ever wondered why race car drivers wear helmets but everyday drivers don't?
For starters, vehicles are typically moving considerably faster when racing. Nascar drivers, for instance, have a top speed of around 200 mph, while dragsters can surpass 300 mph on the strip. At these speeds, even a minor error can quickly result in a major accident.
What's more, some races span hundreds of miles, with drivers often teetering on the edge of exhaustion while vying for the lead. Compared to a day of running errands, racing is much riskier.
Additionally, race cars often lack many of the safety features found in modern vehicles, like airbags, crumple zones, automatic braking, safety glass, or ABS. Instead, drivers must wear specialty safety gear during races, which may include fire suits, harnesses, head and neck restraints, etc.
The specific equipment you'll need depends on the type of racing you're involved in, whether that's Formula, drag, stock, rally, etc. However, there's one safety item required across all racing types – a helmet.
Thankfully, JEGS has your back (in this case, your head) with our ultimate guide to choosing a car racing helmet.
We'll start by exploring what a racing helmet is, how they differ from other helmet types, and their impact on driver safety. Then, we’ll review the different requirements for racing helmets and review some popular features you may want to consider when making a purchase.
What is an Auto Racing Helmet?
Much like a bicycle helmet, an auto racing helmet is designed to keep your head safe in the event of an accident. But make no mistake, racing helmets are leagues ahead in terms of design and protection.
For example, the average bike helmet is rated for speeds of around 12-15 mph and doesn't offer full-face protection. Even motorcycle helmets, while closer in comparison, still don't meet the safety and design standards of car racing helmets.
Below are a few more specifics typically related to racing helmets:
- Material: Racing helmets often use advanced composite materials such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, or high-grade fiberglass, which not only provide exceptional strength but are also lightweight.
- Fire Protection: Another feature found in most car racing helmets is Nomex, a fire-resistant material that can add critical seconds to the clock should a fire break out.
- Visor: Visors, crafted from polycarbonate, are engineered to shield the driver's eyes from debris, intense sunlight, or the glare from stadium lights in night races. They can also be easily replaced to match weather conditions or driver preferences.
- Design: Aerodynamics plays a massive role in helmet design for open-cockpit racing like Formula 1. Reducing drag enhances driver comfort and prevents the helmet from becoming a distraction at high speeds. Other design features may include forced air ventilation systems to help keep drivers cool during grueling endurance races or helmet eject systems for expedient removal by medical personnel.
- Harness Compatibility: Auto racing helmets are designed to work seamlessly with HANS devices and other safety restraint systems, which are required for some types of racing.
Importance of Driver Safety
A high-quality racing helmet is more than just a piece of gear; it's a lifeline for drivers. When you're on the track, the risk of accidents increases dramatically. A helmet doesn't just protect your head during a crash; it shields you from potential fire, keeps out debris, and can help reduce neck injuries during sudden stops.
What's more, a helmet helps you keep your mind on the race. When you're wearing a helmet, you know you've taken a big step to protect yourself. This peace of mind means less worry and more focus on the track, your car, and your strategy.
While it’s specific to motorcycle helmet safety, a recent study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that helmets are 67% effective in preventing serious brain injuries during a crash, showing just how effective a helmet can be at protecting a driver's head during an accident.
Helmet Requirements for Racing
If you plan on participating in any official races, a helmet isn't just recommended; it's required.
Safety rules from racing organizations worldwide mandate the use of approved helmets. The specifics depend on the type of racing you're doing, so you'll want to thoroughly research the requirements for your league before making a helmet purchase.
For example, NASCAR requires helmets that meet or exceed Snell SA2020 or FIA 8860-2018 standards. Meanwhile, drag racing events under the National Hot Rod Association typically require helmets with Snell or SFI certifications.
The most prominent entities regulating safety standards for auto racing include:
- Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell): Snell is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving helmet safety and sets rigorous standards that many racing organizations abide by. The foundation updates these standards every five years, with the latest being the Snell SA2020 standard.
Helmets that meet Snell standards undergo intensive testing for impact management, flame resistance, and even face shield effectiveness.
- Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA): FIA is another racing entity that sets auto racing helmet safety standards worldwide. FIA is considered the gold standard in international motor racing, from Formula 1 to rally racing.
Helmets that meet FIA standards have been put through stringent testing, including shock absorption, penetration resistance, and flame retardation tests. They also require compatibility with Head and Neck Safety (HANS) devices.
- SEMA Foundation (SFI): The SFI Foundation, another non-profit, also provides safety standards for racing equipment, including helmets, particularly within American motor racing.
SFI-certified helmets undergo rigorous testing for material quality, design, and performance under extreme conditions. They are renowned for high impact resistance and superior flame retardation, making them popular in sports like drag racing.
New in Race Helmet Features
As technology evolves, so do racing helmets. Innovative features are transforming helmets into more than just protective gear. They are becoming a critical part of the racing experience, making drivers faster, more comfortable, and ultimately safer.
In this section, we'll dive into some of the latest features you may want to consider in your next racing helmet:
- Carbon Fiber: Modern racing helmets increasingly use carbon fiber due to its unique strength and lightweight properties. Its superior impact resistance and rigidity offer unparalleled protection, while its lightweight nature reduces driver fatigue during long races.
- 3D Scanning: Personalized fit is becoming the new standard in helmet manufacturing. 3D scanning technology allows manufacturers to create helmets tailored to a driver's exact head shape and size, providing improved comfort and safety by ensuring the helmet fits perfectly.
- Forced Air Ventilation: Keeping cool under intense racing conditions is key for driver performance. Forced air ventilation systems channel cool air into the helmet, reducing heat buildup and increasing driver comfort during hot races.
- Hydration System: Staying hydrated during endurance races is crucial. Some helmets now come with integrated hydration systems, allowing drivers to take a drink without removing their hands from the wheel.
- Helmet Eject: In the event of a crash, a helmet eject system allows medical personnel to safely remove the helmet without putting any additional strain on the neck, minimizing potential injuries.
- Integrated Intercom: Communication is critical in racing. Built-in helmet intercom systems allow drivers to maintain constant communication with their pit crew, ensuring they are informed about race conditions, strategies, and potential hazards on the track.
While safety and advanced features are essential, you must also consider the cost when choosing a racing helmet. The price of helmets can vary significantly based on their features, materials, and certification.
Basic auto racing helmets, which still meet necessary safety standards, can start around $200. Mid-range models offering additional comfort or unique features like forced air ventilation or hydration systems might range from $500 to $1,000.
High-end helmets, often used by professional racers, come with premium features such as carbon fiber construction, advanced communication systems, and personalized 3D-fit. These can cost from $1,000 to over $4,000.
Race Safely With JEGS
Now that you have a better understanding of racing helmets, including their unique qualities, standards, and latest features, you should be fully equipped to make a purchase.
Consider JEGS for all your automotive needs, a trusted supplier of quality car parts, including racing helmets and other racing gear. Complete your order online and have your gear sent straight to your door.
