Helmets.

[andybond]

Happy Christmas all!

How can you determine what is a decent helmet and what isnt?

I spy 4000 different brands. Some I recognise like Aria or Bell. Others I dont.
I would hate to discount something because I hadnt heard of it and it was the best ever just no one knew.

What should I be looking for?

[seriouslylotus]

Start with one that fits properly and is comfortable!
I find bell so uncomfortable!
I have an Aria shaped head...

[andybond]

Comfort is a high priority, admittedly!

I guess its a case of go into a shop and ask to try on lots of lids?

I specifically want one with hans posts.

[tlracer]

Yep, the only way to get it right is forget specific brands, go to a reputable shop and try on as many as it takes to find the right one.

A good shop will understand and help guide you through the regs and ensure you get the best helmet for your needs.

[series_one]

Try them with closed eyes and no mirror, with the shop assistant helping you put them on blind and judge by fit feeling.

Im strongly Arai biased and if I dont do this I invariably know Im not judging fairly.

It’s all about head shape.

[winthattt]

Good advice on comfort, you have said HANS which I think is wise. It will get sweaty inside so look at how easily it comes apart to be disinfected. I use silver spray to keep the bacteria down. Though I have never tested it, get one with approvals. Snell 2015. FIA approval is also an option but may be over the top, though, just because it’s a track day you can still hit your head.

If you wear glasses, see if you can put them on with the helmet on your head, it is tricky!

Get a storage bag for it (and your HANS) and don’t let it get biffed in storage or in the boot of your car, I had to destroy one that got cracked in transit.

I have used Bell and Arai with no bother, I struggle getting cycle helmets to fit.

[dris]

If you're using harnesses HANS is a must.

I tried loads on but found I was between sizes with a few makes until I tried Bell.

Demon Tweeks usually have a good selection if you're in the area.

[Fonzey]

I was booked to go to the NEC for the Autosport show later in Jan for this very reason. Good opportunity to try lots on, usually.

Alas, it's been Covid-Postponed. Road trip to Demon Tweeks?!

[andybond]

I was booked to go to the NEC for the Autosport show later in Jan for this very reason. Good opportunity to try lots on, usually.

Alas, it's been Covid-Postponed. Road trip to Demon Tweeks?!

That could work. Wrexham though isn’t it?

[Fonzey]

I never said it was a short road trip!

There's surely a closer alternative...