At my last NASA event at Sears Point, a good friend of mine was doing her first ever track day and all she had access to was a moto helmet. I told her that NASA wouldn't accept it so like a proper newb, she emailed the NASA HPDE director and got this clarification back:Can someone explain why motorcycle helmets are not appropriate for use in cars?
Is it impact resistance? multiple vs. single impact?
Fire retardant?
or is it just that the HPDE event requires a specific kind of helmet?
I find it hard to believe that my half face Snell approved helmet is "safer" than my full face DOT approved helmet. Yet, if I have an open face Snell i'll be allowed to run some HPDE when my full face DOT I am not.
I've never really heard a good answer but eager to hear some facts.
"You need a car helmet with a Snell rating. Motorcycle helmets are different and have a Snell M rating. A motorcycle helmet is designed to withstand one big impact where as a car helmet is designed for multiple impacts. Since I assume you're going to be doing this more than just this one event, it would be a good idea to have your own helmet that fits well. Open face is fine and probably better to learn in. It's lighter, cooler, easier to see out of and hear your instructor as well. If you buy a Snell 2010 you'll be able to use it for a loooong time". |
Thats interesting how old a Sparco is it? their other products seem to be good quality.
heres another company that does this style http://www.orgmotorsports.com/
If you wear glasses these are a great option