As a serious racer, you know the importance of high-quality safety gear for peak performance and protection on the track. While the market offers a wealth of options, narrowing down the best helmets and accessories can be intimidating. Immerse yourself in our roundup of the top 5 racing helmets and accessories for 2024, where we’ll explore the essential features, benefits, and considerations to guarantee you make an informed decision. From cutting-edge carbon fiber construction to neck-supporting collars, these carefully curated products could be the missing link in your quest for racing excellence.
ScorpionEXO R1 Air Full Face Premium TCT-U 3K Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmet
If you’re a serious motorcycle rider seeking a cutting-edge helmet that delivers uncompromising protection and performance, the ScorpionEXO R1 Air Full Face Premium TCT-U 3K Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmet is an exceptional choice.
Crafted with a resin-infused TCT-U 3K carbon fiber shell, this helmet offers aircraft-grade impact dispersal properties, ensuring your safety.
The aerodynamic design minimizes lift and turbulence, while the advanced ventilation system keeps you cool and dry, even during the most demanding rides.
With the Airfit inflation adjustment system, you can customize the fit for maximum comfort.
Backed by a 5-year warranty and DOT/ECE certifications, the ScorpionEXO R1 Air is a no-compromise helmet that will elevate your riding experience.
Best For: Serious motorcycle riders seeking a premium, high-performance helmet that prioritizes safety, comfort, and advanced features.
The YEMA Motorcycle Full Face Helmet (YM-829) offers motocross enthusiasts a comfortable and quiet riding experience with its outstanding aerodynamic design and advanced ventilation system.
Crafted with an ABS shell and multi-density EPS, this DOT-approved helmet provides exceptional protection while maintaining a lightweight and durable construction.
The dual-visor design, featuring an inner retractable smoked visor and an outer clear shield, offers versatility in varying light conditions.
Users rave about the helmet’s quick-release buckle and removable inner lining pads, which allow for a customized fit.
Although some customers have reported minor issues with the strap and sun visor, the YEMA’s overall performance and features make it a compelling choice for serious motocross riders.
With a 4.5-star rating and positive reviews, this helmet delivers on both safety and rider comfort.
Best For: Serious motocross riders looking for a comfortable, well-ventilated, and DOT-approved full-face helmet.
Pros:
Comfortable and quiet riding experience
Good ventilation system
Adjustable and removable inner lining pads
Cons:
Some issues reported with the strap and shipping packaging
A ridge in the forehead area for some users
Sun visor may be too dark or too far down for some
Simpson Racing 23022BK Black SFI Approved Neck Collar
For racing enthusiasts seeking safety and comfort, the Simpson Racing 23022BK Black SFI Approved Neck Collar delivers superior neck support to enhance your performance on the track.
Crafted by the trusted brand Simpson Racing, this neck collar features an SFI approval, ensuring it meets the highest safety standards for your driving adventures.
Weighing just 3.04 ounces, it won’t weigh you down while providing vital protection.
With its sleek black design and compact dimensions of 6 x 9.8 x 1.8 inches, the collar seamlessly integrates with your racing gear.
Boasting a 4.6-star rating from over 500 Amazon customers, this neck support has proven its worth in various racing and riding scenarios.
Trust the Simpson 23022BK to keep your neck secure and your focus on the road ahead.
Best For: Racing enthusiasts who prioritize neck safety and comfort while maintaining a sleek, lightweight profile on the track.
Pros:
SFI approved for enhanced safety
Lightweight at 3.04 ounces
Compact and streamlined design
Cons:
May not provide as much coverage or support as larger neck braces
Limited color options (only available in black)
Relatively expensive compared to some other neck support products
Raider BCS-8B Deluxe Black Nylon Durable Motorcycle MX Helmet Bag Medium
Designed to shield your motorcycle helmet from the elements, the Raider BCS-8B Deluxe Black Nylon Durable Motorcycle MX Helmet Bag Medium offers a weather-resistant and tear-resistant solution for safeguarding your valuable riding gear.
Crafted with a durable 400D poly/fleece-lined shell, this helmet bag boasts a spacious interior that can accommodate even the largest motocross helmets.
The top-mounted two-way zipper allows for quick and easy access, while the built-in slot for D-ring attachments guarantees secure transport.
Customers rave about the bag’s quality and protection, with the soft, fuzzy interior effectively preventing scratches on your helmet.
While a few users have noted some shedding of material, the overwhelming consensus is that this helmet bag provides excellent value for the price.
Best For: The Raider BCS-8B Deluxe Black Nylon Durable Motorcycle MX Helmet Bag Medium is best for motorcycle riders who need a weather-resistant and spacious helmet storage solution.
Pros:
Good quality and durable
Soft, fuzzy interior protects helmet from scratches
The Bell Qualifier Full-Face Helmet’s lightweight yet durable construction ensures supreme protection and comfortable wear during your rides.
Crafted with a strong, expanded polystyrene (EPS) outer shell, this helmet meets the DOT FMVSS 218 safety standard, giving you peace of mind on the track.
The Velocity Flow Ventilation system keeps you cool and comfortable, while the NutraFog II shield with ClickRelease allows for quick, tool-free replacement.
With a removable, washable liner and anti-fog, anti-scratch visor coatings, the Qualifier delivers exceptional features at a great value.
Whether you’re an experienced racer or a beginner, this full-face helmet from Bell is an excellent choice that combines safety, comfort, and convenience.
Best For: The Bell Qualifier Full-Face Helmet is best for motorcyclists and riders looking for a durable, lightweight, and well-ventilated helmet that combines safety, comfort, and convenience.
Pros:
Meets DOT FMVSS 218 safety standard for maximum protection
Lightweight yet durable construction with an EPS outer shell
Velocity Flow Ventilation system for optimal airflow and comfort
Cons:
Some reviewers mentioned issues with wind noise and buzzing from the top vents
One reviewer reported a broken chin vent out of the box
May not be suitable for riders who prefer a more premium or feature-rich helmet
Factors to Consider When Choosing Racing Helmets & Accessories
When choosing a racing helmet and accessories, you’ll want to weigh key factors like safety standards and certifications, the helmet’s shell materials and construction, how well it fits and can be tailored, the ventilation and airflow management, and the vision and shield features.
These elements all contribute to your safety and comfort on the track.
Take the time to research and evaluate each of these areas to find the best helmet and accessories for your needs.
Safety Standards and Certifications
Understanding the helmet safety standards and certifications is crucial when selecting racing helmets and accessories to guarantee maximum protection in the event of a crash.
In the US, the Department of Transportation sets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 218, the mandatory safety standard for motorcycle helmets. Meanwhile, the Snell Memorial Foundation, a non-profit, establishes the voluntary Snell M2020 standard, which is more stringent than the DOT standard.
Over in Europe, the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE) mandates the ECE 22.05 standard.
When shopping, look for helmets with labels or stickers indicating they meet these key safety certifications. This confirms your gear will provide adequate protection should an accident occur.
Prioritize finding a helmet that aligns with the safety standards relevant to your region and intended use. By investing in a properly certified racing helmet, you can ride with confidence, knowing you’ve maximized your protection on the track.
Shell Materials and Constructions
The shell material and construction of a racing helmet are critical considerations, as they can substantially impact its weight, aerodynamics, and overall protective capabilities.
Carbon fiber shells, like the ScorpionEXO R1 Air Full Face Premium TCT-U 3K Carbon Fiber Motorcycle Helmet, offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, making them a popular choice for high-end racing helmets. The resin-infused TCT-U 3K carbon fiber composites used in these shells provide aircraft-grade impact dispersal properties, delivering superior protection.
On the other hand, ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) shells, such as the YEMA Motorcycle Full Face Helmet, offer a strong and durable construction at a lower cost than carbon fiber. While they may not be as lightweight or aerodynamic, ABS shells can still provide reliable protection.
Additionally, multi-density EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) liners, found in helmets like the Bell Qualifier Full-Face Helmet, further enhance impact absorption and distribution, adding an extra layer of safety.
Carefully consider the shell materials and construction when selecting a racing helmet to optimize your performance and protection on the track.
Helmet Fit and Customization
Once you’ve determined the appropriate shell material and construction for your racing helmet, you’ll want to guarantee a proper fit to maximize safety and comfort on the track.
A well-fitting helmet is vital, and it should be snug but not too tight, with no pressure points or hot spots. Customization options like adjustable ventilation, cheek pads, and airfit inflation adjustment systems can help you achieve a precise fit and tailor the helmet to your individual preferences.
Your head shape, hair style, and facial features can affect the helmet’s fit, so trying on different helmets before making a purchase is imperative.
Removable and washable liners, as well as adjustable padding, can be beneficial if you have unique fit requirements or preferences.
The ideal fit should allow for a fingers-width of space between the helmet’s interior and your eyebrows, and the helmet shouldn’t shift or move excessively during riding.
With the right fit and customization, your racing helmet will provide the perfect combination of safety, comfort, and performance.
Ventilation and Airflow Management
Effective ventilation and airflow management are crucial considerations when selecting a racing helmet, as they can profoundly impact comfort, safety, and performance on the track.
A well-designed ventilation system can reduce fogging and misting by up to 95%, allowing warm air to escape and cool air to enter. Aero-tuned ventilation systems, like those found in the ScorpionEXO R1 Air Full Face Premium helmet, use venturi-effect channeling to maximize airflow and minimize turbulence.
Adjustable dual ram-air intakes can provide high-velocity airflow from front to back, pulling heat and humidity up and out of the helmet.
Additionally, a helmet’s shell design can influence its airflow management, with some models featuring CAD-refined aerodynamics to minimize lift and turbulence.
Proper ventilation and airflow management can help reduce rider fatigue and improve overall performance by keeping the head and face cool and dry during racing.
When choosing a racing helmet, be sure to prioritize these critical features to guarantee superior comfort and performance on the track.
Vision and Shield Features
When selecting a racing helmet, you’ll want to prioritize the shield’s optical clarity and scratch resistance, as these features directly impact your visibility and safety on the track or road. Look for a Pinlock-ready shield with an anti-fog insert, as this can substantially reduce fogging and improve your sight in humid or cold conditions.
Additionally, verify the shield provides at least 95% UV-A and UV-B protection to safeguard your eyes during extended riding sessions. The shield replacement mechanism should also be user-friendly, allowing you to quickly and conveniently swap out the shield without tools during pit stops or breaks.
Lastly, consider the shield’s shape and design, as these factors can influence the helmet’s overall airflow, noise reduction, and your riding comfort. By carefully evaluating these vision and shield features, you can choose a racing helmet that keeps you safe, focused, and comfortable on the track.
Comfort and Convenience Elements
Prioritizing the comfort and convenience of a racing helmet is crucial, as these factors can directly impact your performance and enjoyment on the track or road.
Look for helmets with removable and washable liners made of moisture-wicking materials like KwikWick. This helps maintain a clean, comfortable environment, even during extended rides.
Further, adjustable ventilation systems and quick-release buckles allow you to customize the fit and airflow to your preference, keeping you cool and dry.
Integrated features like breath deflectors and Comm-Ready speaker pockets enhance the overall riding experience and provide added convenience.
Emergency quick-release cheek pad systems and 3D sculpted cheek pads guarantee a secure, customizable fit that accommodates eyeglasses.
Top-tier racing helmets even boast spoiler-integrated exhaust and adjustable dual ram-air intakes, delivering high-velocity airflow to keep you performing at your best.
When selecting a racing helmet, prioritize comfort and convenience to maximize your on-track success and enjoyment.
Weight and Ergonomic Design
When selecting a racing helmet, the weight and ergonomic design are pivotal factors to ponder.
A lightweight helmet can reduce fatigue and improve your overall riding performance, without compromising safety features. Ergonomic design, such as adjustable ventilation systems and removable/washable interior linings, plays a paramount role in providing a comfortable fit tailored to your individual preferences.
Furthermore, a well-designed helmet can distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure points and promoting a snug fit that won’t compromise visibility or hearing. The placement and design of vents, visors, and other features can notably impact the overall weight and ergonomic design of a helmet, with top-mounted full two-way zippers and slot-built D-ring attachments providing easy access and storage options.
The shell material and construction of a helmet can greatly influence its weight and ergonomic design. Resin-infused TCT-U 3K carbon fiber shells, for instance, offer aircraft-grade impact dispersal properties while maintaining a lightweight profile, making them a desirable choice for serious racers.
Warranty and Maintenance Considerations
As you shop for racing helmets and accessories, consider the warranty and maintenance requirements, as these can substantially impact the long-term performance and safety of your gear. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment, with some manufacturers offering 5-year warranties or longer.
However, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions, as failing to follow them may void the warranty.
Regular maintenance is vital to keep your helmet in top condition. This includes cleaning and inspecting it regularly for signs of wear or damage.
Some helmets may need more frequent maintenance, like replacing removable liners or washing the interior. Don’t skip these steps, as they help maintain the helmet’s safety features.
Even if the warranty expires, manufacturers often offer repair or replacement services for a fee. Prioritize brands that stand behind their products and provide extensive support.
Investing in a high-quality helmet with a solid warranty and clear maintenance guidelines is essential for a safe and enjoyable racing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Properly Clean and Maintain My Racing Helmet?
To properly clean and maintain your racing helmet, gently wipe it down with a damp cloth, avoid harsh chemicals, and store it in a cool, dry place. Regularly inspect for any cracks or damage. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to keep your helmet in top condition.
What Is the Importance of M-Rated Vs. Dot-Rated Helmets for Racing?
You’re about to learn the vital difference between M-rated and DOT-rated helmets for racing. While DOT guarantees basic safety, M-ratings indicate the helmet’s superior performance and protection – a must-have for serious racers seeking the ultimate in on-track confidence.
Can I Use the Same Helmet for Both Street and Track Riding?
You can use the same helmet for both street and track riding, but it’s best to choose a helmet that’s designed for the type of riding you’ll be doing most. DOT-rated helmets work well for street use, while M-rated helmets are better suited for the track.
How Do I Know if My Helmet Is Due for Replacement?
You’re probably too busy showing off your sweet new lid to think about when it needs replacing. But hey, let’s be real – that thing’s gotta go once it starts looking like a cracked eggshell. Don’t be a crash-test dummy, buddy.
Are There Any Accessories That Can Enhance the Safety of My Helmet?
You can enhance your helmet’s safety with accessories like visors, chin curtains, and neck supports. These add-ons improve fit, ventilation, and impact protection, giving you greater confidence and security on the track.
Conclusion
When choosing premier racing helmets and accessories, protect your priceless personal performance with prudent preparation.
Prioritize paramount protection, pinnacle performance, and practical provisions to prevail as a proficient racer in 2024.
Pair potent protective gear with premium pouches, pads, and pockets to pursue your passions on the pavement with poise and precision.
