track helmet question?
 

I have a question about track helmets. Is there any difference in helmets you drive a car with and motorcycle helmets?

Auto racing helmets have the "SA" certification, motorcycle helmets the "M" certification. The difference, as I understand it, is that SA testing includes fire-resistance of the helmet materials / lining and also repeated impacts (like slamming your head repeatedly into the rollcage). Auto helmets often have smaller eyeports than motorcycle helmets, although not always. Also there are some auto helmets with features like aerodynamic design (for open-wheel racing), cooling tubes, etc that motorcycle helmets don't have. For casual AX and DE, you can usually use either type - check with the organizer.

There are two types of motorcycle helmets: DOT certified and Snell M certified. Snell helmets will pass DOT certification, but not vice versa. Thus SA is the best, M second, and DOT a distant last. (I think the DOT will certify a salad bowl!) :)

Snell M helmets are usually acceptable at autox and DE, but I have not been to any that would accept DOT only.

HTH,

I didn't even know the DOT certified helmets - showed how much cred they have (or how little I know).

Posted in advanvce in case someone says the age old myth riddled cliches: "if you have a $10 head, get a $10 helmet" or "you get what you pay for".

Seems those pop up every time helmets are mentioned.
Sooooooo......
in anticipation of those people who believe the myths, I have a half face helmet that is SA2000 rated and I'm willing to sell it for $1 million. Must be the best helmet in the whole world ;)