Guide to Buying a Racing Helmet - FastLap Supply

Guide to Buying a Racing Helmet

Guide to Buying a Racing Helmet

Look, you need a helmet because the rules say so and also because your brain is pretty important. We get it. So let's cut through the marketing fluff and talk about what actually matters.

The Standards Thing

Two organizations test helmets in North America: Snell (California-based, indie, a bit more chill) and FIA (Europe's way of saying "we take this seriously"). Your sanctioning body probably cares about one of them. Call them and ask which one. Don't guess.

Current FIA Standard
8859-2024
No expiry
Club Racing Standard
8859-2015
No expiry
Snell Current
SA2020+
No expiry

Snell SA2020 or SA2025 ratings have no expiry. For FIA, the current standard is FIA 8859-2024 (or FIA 8859-2015 for older club racing setups)—both have no expiry date, which is solid. Most club-level circuit racing accepts either. If you're shopping, FIA 8859-2024 is the latest and greatest, but 2015 is still perfectly valid and usually cheaper.

If you're buying FIA, you get lighter weight and better impact absorption compared to older standards. You also get a bill that'll make you sweat. Worth it if you're racing competitively and every tenth matters.

Bell M8 Ultra Carbon Racing Helmet - SA2025

Actually Measuring Your Head

Use a soft measuring tape (craft store, like $3). Wrap it around the widest part of your dome, forehead to back, and get the same number twice. Use that number to pick your size. Revolutionary, we know. lol.

⚠️ Sizing varies between brands. Check the size chart for the specific helmet before you buy.

SHOP HELMETS

Sizing Without Trying On (Yeah, We Know)

Measure your head properly, we covered that above. Use that number to pick your size. But here's the thing: sizing varies between brands. A Medium in one helmet might be a Large in another. Check the specific size chart for the helmet you're eyeing before you buy.

Once it arrives, put it on. Leave it on for a few minutes in your home (not at the track). Fasten the chin strap like you mean it. Reach back and pull up slightly—if it slides over your eyes, it's too loose. If your forehead bunches, it fits. Even pressure all around. No pain points. Your cheeks should bunch a little.

If it doesn't feel right? Send it back. We work with you on returns. Helmet fit is non-negotiable, so don't force it. Better to swap sizes now than discover mid-session that your head is bouncing around in there.

✓ Good Fit
  • Forehead bunches when you pull back
  • Even pressure all around
  • Cheeks bunch slightly
  • No pain points
✗ Too Loose
  • Slides down over your eyes when you pull back
  • Moves around on your head
  • Pressure uneven

Carbon Fiber Is Legit

Carbon helmets are lighter and less fatiguing over a long race weekend. Every pound counts.

Here are some solid options:

Stilo ST5 GT

Solid all-around

Bell M8 Carbon

Trusted choice

G-Force Nova Carbon

Budget option

Schuberth SP1 Carbon

Performance play

Pick Your Brand

Bell, OMP, Simpson, Stilo, G-Force. Each has its own vibe. Style, fit, and price. Then check features.

Comm radio Stilo's system is legit for endurance racing. But - install aftermarket kits in any other helmet too.
Single-seater / open-wheel racing Look for a helmet with a narrow visor aperture (smaller opening) or advanced ballistic protection (ABP). This protects your face from flying debris and impacts in the tight cockpit. If you're stepping up to formula cars, ABP is the next level—it has reinforced panels and better protection against sharp objects. Most people call the forward nose protection a "duckbill," though that's more slang than official spec.
Replacement visors Some brands make it easy. Check specs.

Keep It Alive

At the Track
  • Keep it out of direct sun
  • Use the helmet bag
  • Air dry between sessions
  • Consider a helmet dryer
Offseason
  • Store in helmet bag + box
  • Keep in closet or spare room
  • Avoid temperature swings
  • No unheated garage

When It's Time

Dropped more than 12 inches? It's done. Replace immediately.
Padding peeling or smelly? Replace even if the expiration date says you have time.
Check your expiration date. Look for the sticker inside under the lining. SA2020 expires end of 2030.

Racing helmets take one impact. One. Don't test this.

The Real Talk

$250
Meets minimum standard
$750
Fit, features, comfort
$2k+
Weight, protection, pro-grade

What you actually need depends on whether you're running club races, competitive racing, or open-wheel. Know your category. Know your budget. Pick something that fits and feels right.

Then get on track and stop overthinking it.

SHOP HELMETS

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