When it comes to karting, safety is paramount. Choosing the right helmet not only ensures protection but also enhances your performance on the track. In this guide, we will explore the best karting helmets available, highlighting their key features, benefits, and why they stand out in the market. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a beginner, finding the perfect helmet can make all the difference in your karting experience. Let’s dive into the top choices to keep you safe and competitive.
Best Karting Helmets: A Closer Look
1. Zamp RZ-59 Snell SA2020 Helmet: Best Overall
Zamp RZ-59 Snell SA2020 Helmet
Specification
- Material: Fiberglass
- Shell: Composite lightweight
- Ventilation: Minimal Forward Venting with Scalp and Exhaust vents
- Interior: Plush Fire Retardant
- Shield: Z-20 Series 3mm with Tear Off Posts, 12.25in Center Posts
- Inserts: M6 Inserts for Head & Neck Restraints
The Zamp RZ-59 Snell SA2020 Helmet in Matte Black, size Large, boasts a lightweight composite fiberglass shell, delivering an ideal blend of durability and reduced weight. The design features minimal forward venting, scalp, and exhaust vents, ensuring proper airflow for a comfortable experience. The plush, fire-retardant interior adds an extra layer of safety and comfort.
However, sizing can be a concern for some users. A customer reported that the large size felt tighter than other brands like Pyrotect, potentially indicating a tendency for this helmet to run small. Additionally, the helmet’s design may cause limited downward visibility for individuals, a crucial aspect in ensuring safety during use.
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
The Zamp RZ-59 Snell SA2020 Helmet appeals to budget-conscious individuals prioritizing lightweight design and decent protection. It caters to racing enthusiasts, amateur drivers, and weekend racers seeking a balance between affordability and safety.
Pros
- Lightweight composite fiberglass shell.
- Plush fire-retardant interior for comfort.
Cons
- Sizing may run smaller than expected.
- Limited downward visibility for some.
Final Verdict:
The Zamp RZ-59 Snell SA2020 Helmet offers a winning combination of safety, style, and comfort. While the limited forward venting may concern some, the overall performance justifies its price. For racing enthusiasts who demand quality, this helmet is a solid investment.
Detailed review is here!
2. Sparco 0033443ML Helmet: Unveiling Peak Performance and Safety
Sparco 0033443ML Helmet
Specification
- Shell Material: Lightweight Carbon Fiber
- Chin Strap: Anodized Aluminum
- Interior Design: Pre-Molded, Enhanced Airflow
- Certifications: FIA 8859-2015, Snell SA2015
- Available Sizes: XS to XL (including new M/L size)
The Sparco 0033443ML Helmet is the epitome of modern safety and comfort in motorsport gear. Built with a lightweight carbon fiber shell, anodized aluminum chin strap, and pre-molded interior, this helmet stands at the forefront of innovation, derived from over 40 years of research and development by Sparco.
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
The Sparco 0033443ML Helmet appeals to motorsport enthusiasts seeking top-tier safety and performance. Its lightweight design, enhanced airflow, and adherence to stringent safety standards make it a top choice for both amateur and professional drivers.
Pros
- Lightweight & Durable: Easy on the head, yet tough.
- Enhanced Airflow: Strategically designed for optimal ventilation.
- Multi-Purpose Eye Opening: Suitable for varied driving styles.
Cons
- Limited Availability: May face supply constraints.
- Premium Price: Higher cost compared to average helmets.
Final Verdict:
The Sparco 0033443ML Helmet is a pinnacle of safety and performance, aligning with the needs of discerning motorsport aficionados. While the price may deter some, the features and certifications justify the investment for those prioritizing safety and comfort without compromise.
3. RaceQuip Full Face Helmet PRO20 Series
RaceQuip Full Face Helmet
Specification
- Shell Material: FRP Composite Shell
- Liner Material: Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
- Visor: 3mm Polycarbonate Low Fog Shield
- Chin Strap: Kevlar Chin Strap
The RaceQuip Full Face Helmet PRO20 Series, sized Large in Gloss Steel finish, is a Snell SA2020-rated helmet designed for motorsport enthusiasts seeking both safety and comfort. The following product specifications highlight its outstanding features:
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
This helmet appeals to racing enthusiasts and professionals looking for a high level of safety and comfort. The Snell SA2020 rating ensures top-tier safety, making it attractive to those prioritizing protective gear for motorsport activities.
Pros
- Superior Safety Standards
- Enhanced Comfort with Blended Nomex Interior
- Wide Field of Vision
Cons
- Relatively Heavy
- Limited Ventilation
Final Verdict:
The RaceQuip Full Face Helmet PRO20 Series offers an optimal blend of safety and comfort for motorsport aficionados. Its Snell SA2020 rating, comfortable Nomex interior, and expansive field of vision make it a worthwhile investment, ideal for those seeking reliable head protection in high-speed racing environments. However, the helmet could benefit from improved weight distribution and enhanced ventilation for extended usage comfort.
4. Conquer Snell SA2020 Aerodynamic Vented Full Face Auto Racing Helmet
Conquer Snell SA2020 Full Face Auto Racing Helmet
Specification
- Material: Fibreglass Aeroshell
- Safety Certification: Snell SA2020 Certified
- Liner: fire-retardant Nomex lining, removable cheek pads
- Ventilation: Front and rear top venting
- Intended Use: Automobile racing only
The Conquer Snell SA2020 Aerodynamic Vented Full Face Auto Racing Helmet boasts a fiberglass Aero shell, HANS device mount points, fire retardant Nomex lining, and optimal ventilation features. This helmet is designed for stability with aero ridges and a chin spoiler, ensuring a safer racing experience. It meets the Snell SA2020 certification, reinforcing its quality and reliability for automobile racing.
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
This helmet is a top choice for professional and amateur auto racers seeking enhanced safety and performance. The meticulous design, including HANS device mount points and superior ventilation, encourages individuals to prioritize safety without compromising aerodynamics or comfort.
Pros
- Aerodynamic and Stable
- Fire-retardant lining
- Excellent Ventilation
Cons
- Specialized for Racing
- Cheek Pads May Be Uncomfortable
Final Verdict:
The Conquer Snell SA2020 Aerodynamic Vented Full Face Auto Racing Helmet excels in providing the utmost safety and stability for automobile racing enthusiasts. Its superior aerodynamic design, fire retardant lining, and efficient ventilation make it a top-tier choice for competitive racers, ensuring enhanced protection and comfort on the track.
5. ScorpionEXO R420 Full Face Polycarbonate Street Karting Helmet
The ScorpionEXO R420 is a top-tier full-face karting helmet designed for adult riders, boasting advanced features and safety measures. Here’s a concise review highlighting key aspects, product specs, and considerations for potential buyers.
ScorpionEXO R420 Full Face Karting Helmet
Specification
- Brand: ScorpionEXO
- Color: Black
- Age Range: Adults
- Special Features: Bluetooth, Ventilation, Scratch Resistant
Small Review: The ScorpionEXO R420 impresses with its aerodynamic design, efficient ventilation, and advanced safety features. Ideal for discerning adult riders seeking a premium helmet with Bluetooth capabilities.
Why & Which Type of People Buy It? The ScorpionEXO R420 appeals to riders who prioritize safety, comfort, and technology. It suits enthusiasts seeking a sleek, Bluetooth-enabled helmet with superior ventilation and anti-fog features. Ideal for adult riders craving a balance between style and performance.
Pros
- Aero-Tuned Ventilation System.
- Everclear Anti-Fog Shield.
Bluetooth Compatibility.
Cons
- Relatively Small Size Range.
Final Verdict: The ScorpionEXO R420 excels in delivering cutting-edge features and safety, making it an excellent choice for adult riders seeking a high-performance karting helmet with style and substance.
How to Choose the Best Karting Helmet – Complete Guide
It can be hard to find the right go-karting hat because there are so many on the market. After testing a lot of different choices, I’ve put together a list of the best karting helmets to help you make your choice.
When picking the right helmet, it’s important to remember that every driver has different needs and tastes. It’s a good idea to think about different aspects of race helmets before making a choice. The next part will talk about characteristics that make each helmet unique, such as its type, construction, comfort, size, appearance, and price.
1. Helmet Types
The most important consideration is to make sure that a full-face helmet is worn at all times. The lack of a roll cage to protect go-kart racers from coming into contact with the tarmac creates a significant risk for these competitors. In the area of helmet types, the spectrum runs from entry-level versions that boast comprehensive safety ratings with minimal extra features to high-end go-kart racing helmets.
The entry-level variations are at one end of the spectrum, while the high-end go-kart racing helmets are at the other. The latter not only conform to the required levels of safety but also have additional racing characteristics like HANS ports, an air circulation system, and integrated channels. In addition, the construction of these premium racing helmets typically involves the use of superior-grade materials. The available options cover a broad spectrum of facets and qualities in their varying manifestations.
When you are trying to limit your options for a go-kart helmet, giving careful thought to the type of helmet should be your top priority. This selection is dependent on how you view this activity, whether as a passive pastime or as an active involvement in circuit races, which will determine the type of helmet that you will need to wear.
2. Certification
The concept of certification is essential in all facets of the safety equipment industry since it provides manufacturers with a standard to measure their products. When it comes to go-kart racing, it is necessary to acquire a helmet that has been approved by the prestigious Snell Memorial Foundation, which is more often referred to as Snell. Snell certification serves as a guarantee of safety by defining particular metrics and prerequisites that manufacturers must meet to guarantee that they comply with the established safety standards.
The highly regarded Snell SA2020 or SA2015 certification may be found on any of the karting helmets described previously. The Snell Auto Racing (SA) grade was developed with auto racing and go-kart racing in mind specifically. A person who possesses a helmet that bears the SA2020 designation is guaranteed to be in conformity with the most recent safety standards and to have completed stringent helmet evaluations.
It is important to keep in mind that certifications have expiration dates, which can range anywhere from ten to fifteen years, depending on the regulatory organization that issued them. Helmets with the SA2015 rating will continue to be valid until the 31st of December in 2023, which means they can be securely deployed until this date. Snell will release new helmets at a later point in time, each of which will have a unique SA rating date; the most recent of them will be the Snell SA2020-certified iterations.
3. Enhanced Vision
In the world of go-kart racing, having unobstructed visibility is of the utmost importance, and this is especially true if winning races is a prized goal of yours. The absence of side-view mirrors on go-karts is the root cause of the preference for large eye ports in these vehicles. As a consequence of this, racers have to turn their heads in a variety of directions to identify the karts that are following them.
Although head movement is essential, it is wise to limit its range of motion because even a momentary distraction from the race track can significantly increase the likelihood of an accident happening. Wide eye ports expand the viewing angle, reducing the need for excessive head movement and making it easier to make quick and simple use of one’s ocular faculties. Therefore, if you want to get the most out of your helmet, you should choose one with larger eye ports.
4. Considerations Regarding Ventilation
When searching for the perfect karting helmet, ventilation is an important factor to take into mind. A helmet with enough ventilation can make a significant difference in the level of comfort and relaxation you experience while competing. This factor is of the utmost importance because any sort of pain has the potential to distract your attention, which in turn could lead to a reduction in performance.
If you live in a more frigid climate, you might be able to get away with wearing a helmet that doesn’t have any vents in it. Having said that, one should always wear a helmet that has adequate ventilation. The combination of the introduction of cool air into your helmet and the expulsion of hot air through the rear exhaust considerably adds to an increase in the rider’s level of concentration on the race.
Mesh grilles that are positioned around the chin and the scalp area of the helmet reveal the presence of ventilation openings within the helmet. These grilles do an excellent job of filtering out unwanted particles such as dust and dirt, which are typically found on go-kart racing circuits.
5. Materials
Helmets designed for go-kart racing are made of a durable shock-absorbing material that is designed to protect the wearer’s head from injury in the event of a collision. Fiberglass, carbon, and composite are the three basic materials that are utilized most frequently. Because each material offers its own set of benefits, it is necessary to have a detailed understanding of how the materials differ from one another.
Helmets made of fiberglass are constructed using a type of fiber-reinforced plastic that incorporates glass fibers. These fibers offer a respectable strength-to-weight ratio, which results in these helmets having a relatively inexpensive price despite being slightly heavier in comparison to other available options.
The opposite of this is the case with carbon helmets, which are made from a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer and feature an impressively high strength-to-weight ratio. As a direct result of the use of more expensive materials, the cost of these helmets is significantly higher.
The following is a condensed overview of the benefits that are connected with the use of each type of helmet material:
Carbon Fiber Helmets:
- Composition: Carbon fiber
- Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Exceptional
- Weight: Extremely light
- Affordability: Higher priced
Fiberglass Helmets:
- Composition: Fiberglass
- Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Admirable
- Weight: Relatively light
- Affordability: Reasonable
Fiberglass Helmets:
- Composition: Fiberglass
- Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Admirable
- Weight: Relatively light
- Affordability: Reasonable
6. Optimal Sizing
Acquiring a helmet in the appropriate size assumes paramount importance. An undersized helmet will invariably be uncomfortable or unwearable, while an oversized helmet risks instability and detachment upon impact—an immensely perilous scenario.
As a general rule, helmet sizes correspond to the circumference of your head. Utilizing a measuring tape, gauge the circumference from your forehead to the rear of your head. Match these measurements with the manufacturer’s sizing guide for a suitable fit.
7. Aesthetic Considerations
Evaluating personal design preferences concerning go-kart helmet aesthetics remains subjective. Individuals exhibit divergent tastes, and what may appeal to some might not resonate with others. It’s commonplace for individuals to prioritize style over substance. However, it’s pivotal to ensure that irrespective of the color combination, design, or style chosen, the helmet bears the crucial Snell SA2015 certification.
8. Diverse Features
Tailoring your racing helmet to align with your requisites hinges on whether you seek a simplistic or intricately featured helmet. Personally, being an avid go-kart racer, I favor a helmet endowed with an array of supplementary features. When procuring a new helmet, meticulous scrutiny is warranted to ascertain the presence of these features. Below encapsulates a general feature inventory deserving consideration in your quest for a go-kart racing helmet:
- Hydration System Integration
- Communication System Integration
- Additional Helmet Features:
- Anti-fog visors
- Front & rear ventilation
- M6 restraint ports
- Hydration system
- Integrated earmuffs
- Mounts for communication systems
- Employment of high-grade materials
9. Primacy of Safety
Unquestionably, safety constitutes the foremost prerequisite across all domains of motorsport, with go-karting being no exception. In the United States, two entities—the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell)—operate as custodians of safety standards. Both entities furnish certifications to equipment manufacturers, a facet previously elucidated.
Beyond certifications, it’s crucial to ensure that the helmet integrates robust and enduring components. Emphasis should be placed on the helmet shell, necessitating construction from top-tier, durable materials. Additionally, the internal padding should afford commendable protection. Some karting helmets incorporate a flame-retardant material known as Nomex, lauded for its abrasion resistance.
10. Budget Considerations
Selecting a karting helmet in alignment with your financial constraints is a prudent approach. Naturally, budget considerations are contingent upon diverse factors, varying from one individual to another. Another factor meriting contemplation is your overall perception of go-karting as a sport.
Budget-conscious options in the realm of karting helmets may prove adequate, provided their certification aligns with stipulated requirements. Intermediate-grade go-kart racing helmets commence at approximately $180, while professional-grade variants start at around $350. The ensuing range outlines budget segments for karting helmets:
- Entry-Level Karting Helmet: $130 – 180
- Intermediate-Level Karting Helmet: $180 – $350
- Professional-Level Karting Helmet: $350 – $1,200
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Are all karting helmets the same size?
Karting helmets come in various sizes to accommodate different head sizes and shapes. It’s crucial to measure your head and choose a helmet that fits snugly for optimal safety and comfort.
2. How do I clean and maintain my karting helmet?
Regularly clean the exterior and interior of your karting helmet using mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the helmet. Also, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance.
3. Can I use a motorcycle helmet for karting?
While both helmets offer head protection, karting helmets are specifically designed for kart racing, considering the unique demands and conditions of the sport. It’s recommended to use a helmet designed for karting to ensure optimal safety and performance.
4. How often should I replace my karting helmet?
It’s advisable to replace your karting helmet every five years or sooner if it has been involved in a significant impact or shows signs of damage. Regularly check for any wear and tear to ensure your helmet’s effectiveness.
5. Do karting helmets come with different visor tints?
Yes, karting helmets often come with options for different visor tints, allowing you to choose based on the lighting conditions during your races. Clear, tinted, or mirrored visors are popular choices.
6. Can I customize the design of my karting helmet?
Many manufacturers offer customization options for karting helmets, allowing you to personalize the design with your preferred colors, graphics, or sponsor logos.
Conclusion
Selecting the Best karting helmet is a vital decision for any karting enthusiast. Prioritize safety, comfort, and performance when making your choice. We’ve presented our top recommendations and addressed common queries to guide you in your pursuit of the perfect karting helmet. Stay safe and enjoy the exhilarating world of karting with confidence!