Helmets and neck restraints

bonez

bonez

Member
What is a good helmet? I see them range for around $100 to $300 or $400. Are you paying for the name or is there a benefit to the more expensive helmets. What are the best neck restraints for a 7 year old first year rookie. And I don't mind spending some money if it means he is safer.
 
Helmets also have expiration dates on them. Buy a brand name like Simpson if you can. Used are OK for a growing kid but buy wisely.
 
The Snell Memorial Foundation tests and rates helmets - best to buy a helmet that is Snell certified. Some tracks require a Snell certified Motorcycle helmet, and may also specify a certain test date (or newer). Snell doesn't change their standards every year - 2010 was the latest year, but 2015 is now coming out. Their website is www.smf.org

Usually the cost difference is in looks and comfort. Any helmet with a Snell label should be as safe as any other helmet with the same Snell label. But unfortunately there are fake labels out there, so buy from a source you trust.
 
I bought my daughter a Necksgen neck restraint last year. The best purchase I ever made. We tried the 360 plus as an earlier post suggests, but it was not comfortable for her. Make sure you have something other than the foam doughnut. My daughter was put into the wall a few times last year and I really believe that the Necksgen prevented any serious injuries. In regards to the helmet, see what your track requires. I believe that most require a Snell certified helmet within a particular year.
 
Just started wearing a bell G.P2 cmr. Don't think you'll be catching me getting on anything but another bell anytime soon.... Sweet piece, comfortable, perfect fit, light, just all around nice.
 
I'm a tad partial for SIMPSON due to my personal relation with them, however make sure what ever helmet you purchase - that it fits proper!

Neck collar wise----For sure a Valhalla 360 Device. IMHO, the best available for karting.


Jeff Wesell
Streeter Super Stands
streetersuperstands.com
 
Looked at the Vahalla 360. With kids does the yoke get in the way. Looks like it could be very uncomfortable.
 
A few years back a bike magazine did a helmet test and the Snell helmets failed some of the tests that the un-Snell helmets passed.
We use a 'Bilt' brand helmet.
Went to the bike shop and had it fitted.
 
I would look at bell. We did Impact when we first start and the neck brace pushes the helmet up so the kids have difficulty seeing. I have seen a couple do this. We went to bell and havent had an issue since.
 
Looks like the impact helmet is best choice when it comes to being able to fit my son. His head measurement looks just a bit to small for some of the other brands. Anyone use these helmets?
 
Be sure you get the best when it comes to safety equipment. Hopefully you never have to figure out which is the best!!
 
I ordered a Valhalla 360 neck restraint and the vest they sell and an Impact racing helmet.
 
http://www.smf.org/
http://www.smf.org/cert
http://www.smf.org/stds
http://www.smf.org/certtrack
http://www.smf.org/testing

Note: The Ratings are good for only 10 years - The Snell 2005 rating runs out the END of year (good til end of 2014 - They are not valid for racing in 2015).. So, Buyer Beware... Reason why they (2005) should be really cheap...
Champs Buggies require a different and unique rating standards.

DOT rated helmets in general are not suitable or approved for kart racing... Get the proper rated helmet... Fit is IMPORTANT !!

We like the Valhalla 360 neck restraint and their vest too.
 
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