If you want to purchase a go-kart, you must make sure you have the necessary safety equipment, which includes a helmet. The following criteria are crucial in guiding your decision regarding the go-kart helmet you want;
- Certification
- Ventilation
- Type
- Material
- Visibility
- Safety
- Design
- Size
- Features
In this blog post, I will discuss the requirements for go-kart helmets in detail. I’ll also provide tips on choosing the right helmet for your needs.
Go-kart Helmet Requirements Checklist
When choosing a helmet, it’s important to consider the following requirements;
Certification
Certification is crucial for karting. If the governing bodies of the karting industry do not approve of your accessories, you will not be permitted to wear them during an official race.
As you might assume, this is strongly enforced with go-kart helmets.
There are regulations for family-friendly go-kart racing. More specifically, CMR-approved helmets are the only ones that are “legal” for minors under the age of 15.
These go-kart helmets are also easier on the neck because they weigh less than regular ones.
If you are older than 15, you do not need a helmet with CMR approval. The Snell Memorial Foundation must still approve your go-kart helmet, though.
A go-kart helmet must also pass Snell testing in order to ensure your protection from any impacts. Additionally, they keep track of a list of all helmets that have been approved, which you should study before making a purchase.
Ventilation
Ventilation is an important consideration when selecting a go-kart helmet. You’ll be spending extended periods in your go-kart, so your helmet must have sufficient ventilation to keep you cool.
Consider helmets with several vents and a cooling system.
Type
There are various kinds of go-kart helmets, and the one you select should depend on your individual requirements.
The following are the top three varieties of go-kart helmets:
The safest option for go-karting is a full-face helmet, which completely encloses the head and face. Many racing organizations mandate full-face helmets because they provide the best crash protection.
An open-face helmet is the second kind of helmet. The top and back of the head are covered by this sort of helmet, but not the face.
Open-face helmets are more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time but provide less protection than full-face helmets.
The last category of helmet is a half-helmet. Half-helmets simply protect the top of the head; they don’t shield the face.
Half-helmets are not advised for go-karting since they provide very little safety in the event of an accident.
Material
Another key factor is the helmet’s material. The shell of the helmet should be constructed of a high-impact material, such as Kevlar or carbon fiber.
The interior of the helmet ought to be lined with a supple material that will cushion the blow in the event of a collision. Additionally, the fabric should be light-weight to prevent neck aches when driving for long periods of time.
Visibility
The visibility of the helmet is also an important consideration. The helmet’s visor should be made from a clear material that will not obstruct your view while driving.
The helmet should also have a low profile to allow for a wide field of vision.
In go-kart racing, visibility is crucial. It can be difficult driving a kart while wearing glasses, particularly when they get foggy. Imagine that your go-kart helmet is both hazy and blocking your vision simultaneously.
This will be borderline hazardous, racing or just having fun, especially because go-karts lack side mirrors.
You will turn your head to the side while racing a go-kart to check where your rivals are. At the same time, you’ll need to turn behind as little as possible since doing otherwise puts you in danger.
This is where a good helmet comes in, as you’ll be less inclined to turn your head if the helmet gives you a clear and wide field of view.
Some brands known for their great visibility go-kart helmets are Bell, Arai, Simpson, and HJC. These companies make full-face helmets that give you an unobstructed view of the track.
Size and Fit
It’s also essential to think about how well the helmet fits your head. The helmet ought to fit securely but comfortably. For best efficacy, it should sit low on your head.
Having a helmet with straps that can be tightened or loosened is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Likewise, the straps should be simple to adjust behind the wheel.
In the event of an emergency, the helmet should also have a quick-release system that allows you to remove it swiftly. The use of a racing organization-approved go-kart helmet is mandatory.
A DOT or Snell label verifying the helmet’s compliance with safety standards is also recommended. If a helmet has a certification label on it, that means it has been tested and found to be safe by the organization in question.
Features
The helmet ought to offer conveniences that make driving less stressful. Keep an eye out for helmets that double as a communicator, for instance.
You can now have conversations with your crew even when you’re behind the wheel.
For optimal seeing via the visor, the helmet should come equipped with a wiper. When you’re behind the wheel, it’s important that your goggles stay put, and the helmet may help with that, thanks to its goggle retainer.
It’s important that the helmet has vents so that you can breathe when you’re driving. Vents in the helmet should be aerodynamically optimized to minimize wind resistance.
Your perspective on go-karting is the sole determinant of the qualities you’ll need in a helmet for the sport. If you’re serious about karting and want to compete, your go-kart helmet should have just about everything you need. The more ease you experience will allow you to devote more of your attention to the race.
Integrated Communications System
The helmet ought to provide for the wearer’s comfort while driving. For instance, you should search for helmets that include a built-in radio.
It’ll be easier to talk to your crew members while on the road.
Every good helmet needs a wiper for the visor so the wearer can see clearly at all times. While you’re behind the wheel, your goggles won’t fly off your face if the helmet has a goggle retainer.
If you want to stay cool and comfortable while behind the wheel, your helmet should include vents. Additionally, the helmet should feature aerodynamically designed vents to reduce wind resistance.
Go Kart Helmet FAQs
Conclusion
When shopping for a helmet, you must keep these go-kart-specific guidelines in mind. Make sure the helmet you buy satisfies the safety requirements of the racing group you intend to join.
Having a well-fitting and comfortable helmet is also important. And finally, pick a helmet with plenty of vents and is aerodynamically optimized so you can see what you’re doing.
Please be careful and use at your own risk
None of the authors, contributors, administrators, or anyone else connected with RCRideOnCars.com, in any way whatsoever, can be responsible for your use of the information contained in or linked to these web pages.
