The best karting helmets:
- 1STORM Motorcycle Bike Full FACE Helmet
- Snell SA2020 Full Face Racing Helmet
- Conquer Snell SA2020 Aerodynamic Vented Full Face Auto Racing Helmet
- RaceQuip Full Face Helmet
- Conquer Carbon Fiber Full Face Auto Racing Helmet
- Zamp RZ-36 SNELL SA2020 Helmet
If you’re serious about karting, you realize the importance of a good helmet. You should wear a helmet not only to keep your noggin safe in the event of an accident but also because it improves your level of comfort behind the wheel.
Here in this article, we’ll take a look at many of the top helmets for go-kart racing. We’ll go over the features and benefits of each helmet so you can choose the best one for your needs.
In a hurry?
If you don’t have much time please check the table below for quick access to our favorites. Detailed guide below.
How to Choose the Best Karting Helmets to Buy
If you’re going to make the investment in a karting helmet, you might as well have the finest protection money can buy. Here, we’ll go through some of the criteria you should use to select a karting helmet.
Safety Standards
When selecting a karting helmet, this is the first and most crucial feature to consider. Ensure that the headgear you select satisfies or surpasses the safety requirements established by the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile).
If an accident occurs, you want to be certain that your helmet will keep you safe. The FIA safety requirements are the strictest in the world, and they are updated frequently to guarantee that karting helmets provide the strongest defense.
Shell Material
Your head is impact-protected by the helmet’s shell. A karting helmet’s shell is mostly made of three types of materials:
- Composite – This is a mixture of materials, usually fiberglass, carbon fiber, and kevlar. Composite shells are lightweight and offer good protection. Helmets with this material are highly-priced as they are the most advanced.
- Carbon fiber – This is a lightweight material that offers good protection. It is also one of the most expensive materials used for helmet shells.
- Fiberglass – This is a cheaper alternative to composite and carbon fiber shells. It is not as lightweight or protective as the other two materials but it is still an excellent choice for a karting helmet.
Visor
The visor is the transparent piece of the helmet that shields your eyes. Selecting a helmet with a high-quality visor is crucial for keeping road debris and grime out of your eyes.
Visors often fall into three categories:
- Clear – This type of visor is ideal for driving in daylight as it offers good visibility.
- Tinted – This type of visor is perfect for driving in sunny conditions as it reduces glare.
- Mirrored – This type of visor is ideal for driving in all conditions as it offers the best protection from the sun and glare. It is also the most expensive type of visor.
Certification
Now you may be wondering, “What does certification have to do with choosing a karting helmet?” The answer is simple: it shows that the helmet has been tested and meets the safety standards set by the FIA.
When a helmet is certified, it means that it has undergone rigorous testing to ensure that it can protect you in the event of an accident. Most karting helmets sold in the US are certified by the Snell Foundation, which is the leading independent testing organization in the world.
They certify helmets for many different activities, including karting. So look for the Snell certification when choosing a karting helmet.
Helmet Type
There are two main types of karting helmets:
- Full-face – This type of helmet covers your entire head, including your chin. It offers the best protection possible as it prevents debris from entering the helmet. Full-face helmets are also the heaviest and most expensive type of karting helmet.
- Open-face – This type of helmet covers the top and back of your head but not your chin. It is the most popular type of karting helmet as it offers good protection and is less expensive than a full-face helmet.
The Size of the Helmet
Of course, the most crucial step is picking out a helmet that really fits your head. Going to a karting track and trying on a variety of helmets until you find one that fits well is the ideal way to achieve this.
For optimal comfort, the helmet should fit tightly but not painfully so. It should rest slightly over your eyebrows and low on your head.
After you’ve settled on a comfortable helmet, don’t forget to pick up a visor to go with it.
Ventilation
This is just as crucial as making sure the helmet fits properly. To avoid overheating while behind the wheel, select a helmet with effective ventilation.
Vents on the top and sides of the helmet are standard on kart racing helmets. A higher ventilation rate can be expected in proportion to the number of vents.
However, a helmet with more vents would be less aerodynamic, which is something to keep in mind when competing.
Helmet Features
Helmets have several characteristics that you might or might not want. Here are a few of the most well-liked attributes:
- Padding – This is usually made of foam and helps to make the helmet more comfortable to wear. It also absorbs sweat and keeps your head cool.
- Removable lining – This is a great feature as it allows you to wash the lining of the helmet. This is important as the lining can get very sweaty and dirty after a day of driving.
- Integrated communications – Some helmets come with built-in communications systems, such as Bluetooth. This is a great feature if you want to stay in touch with your team while you’re racing.
- Hydration system: Some helmets come with a hydration system, which is a great feature if you want to stay hydrated while you’re driving.
Other additional features include integrated earmuffs, anti-fog visors, and sun visors.
Warranty
Don’t forget about the warranty while buying a karting helmet. Helmets typically come with a one-year warranty, but some manufacturers provide extended guarantees.
These are some of the most important considerations to make when choosing a karting helmet as a result. We believe that with the aid of our guide, finding the helmet that is best for you should be simple.
Now let’s look at the top 6 karting helmets on the market.
6 Best Karting Helmets for Go Karts
If you rather see the review, we have created a YouTube video.
1STORM Motorcycle Bike Full FACE Helmet
The 1STORM Motorcycle Bike Full FACE Helmet is among the most affordable full-face helmets on the market. This helmet comes with a tinted visor that provides good protection against the sun and UV rays.
The shell is made of high-quality thermoplastic, which is ultra-light and durable.
It has a three-level top ventilation control that allows you to adjust the airflow. A five-position ventilation channel allows you to customize the amount of airflow. The interior is heavily cushioned and very comfortable. It is also removable and washable.
The helmet has an aerodynamic venturi-effect exhaust spoiler on the rear. This helps to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics. The helmet comes with a glossy UV protection finish that looks great and protects the helmet from fading.
Verdict: If you are on the market for an affordable karting helmet with a lot of features, the 1STORM Motorcycle Bike Full FACE Helmet is a good option. While the shell material is not the strongest, I thought it gives good value for money spent with the numerous features it offers.
Key Features:
- Coms with a tinted visor
- The shell is made of high-quality thermoplastic
- The shell is ultra-light and durable
- 3-level top ventilation control
- 5-position ventilation channel
- Heavily cushioned and very comfortable interior
- The interior is removable and washable
- It has an aerodynamic venturi-effect exhaust spoiler on the rear
- Comes with a glossy UV protection finish
- Affordable
- Lightweight and durable
- Good ventilation
- Comfortable interior
- Removable and washable interior
- Aerodynamic design
- The shell material is not as strong as some of the more expensive helmets
Snell SA2020 Full Face Racing Helmet
The Snell SA2020 Full Face Racing Helmet is a top-rated karting helmet that is perfect for racing, dirt racing, drag racing, and more. This helmet features the HANS head restraint system to keep your head safe in the event of an accident. It has a plush soft-lined interior that is comfortable to wear.
The Snell SA2020 comes with rear exhaust vents to keep you cool and comfortable.
The shell is made of high-quality fiberglass composite, which is super-lightweight. The helmet also features a Kevlar chin strap with D-ring closure for safety. A three-millimeter optically-correct hard-coated face shield provides good protection against the elements.
Additionally, this helmet is certified by the Snell Memorial Foundation. It comes in multiple sizes to ensure a good fit.
Verdict: Looking for a high-quality karting helmet? The Snell SA2020 Full Face Racing Helmet is a great option. This product comes with some of the best features you can expect of a top-quality helmet, such as a HANS head restraint system, rear exhaust vents, and an optically-correct face shield. The only downside is that it is on the expensive side. However, you are going to get your money's worth with this product.
Key Features:
- Full-face karting helmet for racing, dirt racing, drag racing, etc.
- Features HANS head restraint system
- High-quality fiberglass composite
- The shell is super-lightweight
- Kevlar chin strap with D-ring closure for safety
- Certified by the Snell Memorial Foundation
- HANS head restraint system
- Plush soft-lined interior
- Rear exhaust vents
- Lightweight shell
- Kevlar chin strap
- Optically-correct face shield
- Snell certified
- Multiple size options
- The helmet is on the expensive side
Conquer Snell SA2020 Aerodynamic Vented Full Face Auto Racing Helmet
This is a great option for those looking for a full-face karting helmet. The Conquer Snell SA2020 Aerodynamic Vented Full Face Auto Racing Helmet is made with a fiberglass shell that is lightweight and super strong. This helmet comes with HANS device mount inputs.
It has a fire retardant Nomex lining that will keep you safe in the event of a fire.
The chin spoiler and aero ridges on this helmet provide extra stability. Additionally, the removable cheek pads make it easy to customize the fit of the helmet.
This helmet has air venting on the front, rear, and top. It is also Snell-certified, so you can rest assured that it meets all safety standards.
Verdict: If you want a full-face racing helmet that's going to give you the best chance of winning, then you need the Conquer Snell SA2020 Aerodynamic Vented Full Face Auto Racing Helmet. This helmet is made with a lightweight and strong fiberglass shell. With a Snell certification, you can be sure that it meets all safety standards.
Key Features:
- Aerodynamic vented full face karting helmet
- It has a fiberglass aeroshell that is lightweight and super strong
- Fire retardant Nomex lining
- Chin spoiler and aero ridges for extra stability
- Aerodynamic design
- Lightweight and strong fiberglass shell
- HANS device mount inputs
- Fire retardant Nomex lining
- Chin spoiler and aero ridges for extra stability
- Removable cheek pads
- Air venting on the front, rear, and top
- Snell-certified
- No comms system
- Relatively expensive
RaceQuip Full Face Helmet
The RaceQuip Full Face Helmet is a great option for kids. This helmet is made with a high-quality FRP composite shell. It comes with HANS threaded inserts.
The expanded Polystyrene liner provides great protection as it is impact-resistant. The distortion-free, low-fog shield offers great peripheral vision while it protects the eyes from debris. The blended Nomex interior is comfortable and fire retardant, so if you are ever in an accident, this helmet will help protect your head from any fire.
The silicone eye port seal keeps the helmet airtight and prevents fogging. The Kevlar chin strap is strong and durable. It provides a snug and secure fit. The tear-Off posts allow you to remove the helmet quickly in the event of an accident.
The hook and loop fastener and removable cheek pads make it easy to customize the fit of this helmet. This is a great option for kids who want a high-quality, safe, and comfortable helmet.
Verdict: If you have a kid who loves racing with their bike or kart, then the RaceQuip Full Face Helmet is a great option to keep them safe. This helmet is made with high-quality materials and features that will keep them protected in the event of an accident.
The helmet is also comfortable and adjustable, so as they grow, they can still use this helmet. It is a great investment for any parent who wants to keep their child safe while they race.
Key Features:
- Expanded Polystyrene Liner
- Offers great peripheral vision
- Silicone eye port seal
- Fire retardant interior
- Tear-Off Posts hand ratchet to 8 positions
- High-quality FRP composite shell
- HANS threaded inserts
- Distortion-free, low-fog shield
- Blended Nomex interior
- The kevlar chin strap provides a snug and secure fit
- Hook and loop fastener and removable cheek pads
- Relatively expensive
- Not the strongest shell material
Conquer Carbon Fiber Full Face Auto Racing Helmet
The Conquer Carbon Fiber Helmet is another great option for anyone looking for a top-quality racing helmet. This helmet is made with a carbon fiber outer shell that is among the most durable and lightweight materials available.
It comes in three sizes: Medium, Large, and X-large, so you can find the perfect fit for your head. The composite shell is very sturdy and durable. It can withstand multiple impacts without breaking.
The helmet has a fire-retardant and padded interior. This will help protect your head in the event of an accident. The helmet also has airflow venting to keep you cool and comfortable while you race.
The shield is made of a three-millimeter thick anti-scratch and flame-resistant material. It has a tear-off post so you can quickly remove it in the event of an accident. The helmet also has HANS threaded inserts.
This helmet is Snell-certified, so you can be sure that it meets the highest safety standards. If you are looking for a top-quality racing helmet, then the Conquer Carbon Fiber Helmet is a great option.
Verdict: Carbon fiber helmets are among the best you can buy. They are lightweight, durable, and offer superior protection in the event of an accident. The Conquer Carbon Fiber Helmet is a great option for anyone looking for a top-quality racing helmet. It is Snell-certified and has all the features you need to stay safe on the track.
Key Features:
- The outer shell is made of top-quality carbon fiber
- Comes in three sizes: Medium, Large, and X-large
- It has removable cheek pads
- Fire-retardant and padded interior
- 3-mm anti-scratch and flame-resistant shield
- Made with top-quality carbon fiber
- Sturdy, durable, and lightweight composite shell
- Fire-retardant and padded interior
- Airflow venting to keep you cool and comfortable
- Tear-off post
- HANS threaded inserts
- Snell-certified
- Expensive
Zamp RZ-36 SNELL SA2020 Helmet
This is a simplistic yet high-quality racing helmet that is perfect for those looking for great value. The Zamp RZ-36 SNELL SA2020 Helmet is made of composite fiberglass, which is lightweight, strong, and durable.
The helmet has a seven-top air system that provides ventilation to keep you cool and comfortable while you race. It also has a chin, scalp, and exhaust vents. The interior of the helmet is lined with plush fire-retardant material.
The shield is three millimeters thick and is clear so you have a good view of the track. It also has tear-off posts in case of an accident. The liner is comfortable and removable so you can wash it.
This helmet is a great option for those looking for a high-quality yet affordable racing helmet. It has all the features you need to stay safe on the track.
Verdict: The Zamp RZ-36 SNELL SA2020 Helmet is a great option for those looking for a high-quality yet affordable racing helmet. It has all the features you need to stay safe on the track. It is made of composite fiberglass, which is lightweight, strong, and durable.
Key Features:
- The shell is made of high-quality composite fiberglass
- It is lightweight, strong, and durable
- It has a 7-top air system
- Plush fire-retardant interior
- 3-mm clear shield with tear-off posts
- Made of composite fiberglass
- Chin, scalp, and exhaust vents
- Shield is three millimeters thick and clear
- The liner is comfortable and removable
- Doesn't have as many features as some of the more expensive helmets
Karting Helmet FAQs
Final Thoughts
Karting helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment for any kart racer. They are designed specifically for karting and offer better protection than regular helmets.
When choosing a karting helmet, it is important to consider the factors we have highlighted above. Hopefully, you can now find a helmet that fits your needs from the ones we have reviewed.
Stay safe out there, and happy racing.
Please be careful and use at your own risk
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