Looking at an SA2010 Helmet

And of course the range of options is huge. What features are on your "must have" list in a helmet?

I autox, and lap, but don't do extended racing. I currently don't use a HANS device.

Thoughts?

Rob

do track days require SA certs? I would use an M rated helmet as they are much cheaper. If it's good enough to save my skull from a 70 mph header into the concrete on a motorcycle, it is probably good enough for stuffing it in the tire wall.

Investing in a Hans might be the smartest thing to do. I don't use one either, but this is on par or worse than racing your DD which you cannot afford to crash (something I also do).

You need an SA helmet because they are also rated for fire resistance, whereas motorcycle helmets do not have this requirment. Most organizations disallow M rated helmets. Sounds like it is a casual hobby so I would look for one that is comfortable and has good eyeports. Open face is better for chatting with co-drivers and students/instructors if you dont mind looking like a dork. Nobody looks cool in an open face, not even Boris Said.

If you have the money to invest my priorities are: comfortable, as light as you can afford, largest eyeport and hans ready. Carbon fiber helmets have become more affordable in recent years. I have the basic pyrotec full face and it has served me well for the last 2 years.

Yes most Track day groups will want you to have an SA rated helmet because aside from being fire resistant also SA rated helmets are rated for multiple impacts in a single accident (bouncing around in a car that is rolled or hits several hard objects before coming to rest) M rated helmets are rated for one impact when you hit the ground and that's it. Of course neither type is considered serviceable once they have been in any type of impact.

Don't know where you live but on some forum(can't find it right now) I read that the State of New Jersey was now requiring full-face helmets with shields.