Forget fast cars – go-karts are where it’s at for adult racing thrills these days! But before you rush to the track, getting the right protective gear should be your first pit stop if you care about your melon like I do.
After some, let’s say “enthusiastic,” testing crashes between my buddies and I, I’ve sorted out the best helmets that offer serious cranium cushion. Safety can still look slick too! From graphics to visors and ventilation, the lids I’ve got on tap below balance that crucial combo.
Strap in and let’s roll through the top models I suggest every avid kart racer adds to their race day bag of tricks before hitting the gas. Pedal to the metal!
Related Article: Best Go-Kart Helmets Under $100
Best Go-Kart Helmets For Adults
We understand that finding the perfect go-kart helmet can be challenging, especially with so many options on the market. That’s why we’ve taken the time to do the heavy lifting for you. Get ready to dive into an exciting and informative journey as we unveil the best helmets available based on our hands-on testing and comprehensive evaluation. Stay tuned, and let’s gear up for an amazing racing experience!
1. Best Overall Helmet: Zamp RZ-70E Switch Snell SA2020
Let’s kick off our top 10 with the Zamp RZ-70E Switch. I recently tested the Zamp RZ-70E Switch, and it earned the title of the best overall helmet. I was blown away by its exceptional ventilation system, the DDAIR-SYSTEM. My head stayed cool during intense races, which was a game-changer. However, I found the sizing slightly off, so double-check before purchasing.
No products found.
Features:
- Brand: Zamp
- Material: Composite Aramid Mix Lightweight Shell
- Safety Rating: FIA 8859-2015/Snell SA-2020 Approved
- Interior: DDAIR-SYSTEM with full 360-degree air channeling
- Age Range: Adult
- Visit Website
Design and Construction:
The Zamp RZ-70E Switch is built with a composite aramid mix lightweight shell that offers a strong, durable, and lightweight construction. The Z-design in the shell allows for efficient air circulation throughout the helmet, utilizing large internal channels. This helmet also features M6 inserts for head and neck restraint and triangle front chin bar caps for open-wheel racing.
Comfort and Fit:
The DDAIR-SYSTEM offers a dual-density air integration relief system, providing full 360-degree air channeling for ultimate airflow. The cool air enters the helmet while the warm air is efficiently expelled, ensuring a comfortable and well-ventilated experience. The helmet’s unique system enables easy configuration for various racer setups, requiring only the removal of a cheek pad and three screws.
Visibility and Protection:
The Zamp RZ-70E Switch has a ZF-20 Series 3mm clear shield with tear-off posts, using 12.125-inch banana-style tear-offs. The helmet offers excellent visibility, ensuring safety and performance on the track. Channels in the chin bar EPS make mounting communications/microphone and drink tubes easy.
Safety and Certification:
This helmet is FIA 8859-2015, and Snell SA-2020 approved, ensuring that it meets high safety standards for racing. With M6 inserts for head and neck restraint, the Zamp RZ-70E Switch provides additional protection and support for racers.
2. Best Premium Helmet: Bell RS7 Pro Stamina Helmet
I enjoyed trying out the Bell RS7 Pro Stamina, a premium helmet that wowed me with its advanced multi-density liner. This feature greatly enhanced energy absorption and impact performance, making it a fantastic choice for serious racers. The only downside is the hefty price tag, but I believe it’s worth the investment.
No products found.
Features:
- Brand: Bell Racing
- Material: Lightweight carbon composite shell
- Safety Rating: Snell SA2020 approved; FIA 8859 approved
- Weight: Not specified
- Interior: Advanced multi-density, multi-piece liner
- Age Range: Adult
- View Website
Design and Construction
The Bell RS7 Pro Stamina comes from the Bell HP7 design and has a light carbon composite shell made with Bell’s special high-pressure molding system. The cool shell and shield design allows quietness, going fast, smoothly, and soaking up energy. The helmet’s outside is a light and strong carbon composite without being heavy.
Comfort and Fit
The helmet has a fancy liner with many layers and pieces that help soak up the energy and protect it from impacts. The strong top and chin bar vent system has 14 air holes for breathing in and out, ensuring you have lots of air and feel good wearing it. The RS7 Pro Stamina fits tight and comfy, perfect for long races.
Visibility and Protection
The Bell RS7 Pro Stamina uses a clear SE07 3mm DSAF (Double Screen Anti-Fog) shield, so you can see well when you race. The shield and rubber seal prevent air, water, and dirt from entering the eyehole. This fancy helmet gives great protection and helps you see, letting racers think about racing without being bothered.
Safety and Certification
The RS7 Pro Stamina is Snell SA2020 and FIA 8859 approved, so it follows high safety rules for racing. The helmet also has Hans post anchors already on it, giving racers extra safety and help.
3. Best Budget-Friendly Helmet: Zamp RZ-60 Aramid SNELL SA2020 Helmet
The Zamp RZ-60 is my top pick for a budget-friendly helmet that doesn’t compromise on quality. Its Aramid Mix Shell provides a lightweight yet durable design. I was impressed with the level of protection this helmet offered for its price, but I did notice that the padding could be slightly more comfortable.
Features:
- Brand: Zamp
- Material: Aramid Mix Shell
- Safety Rating: DOT Certified
- Weight: 15 Pounds
- Interior: Plush Fire Retardant Removable/Washable ultra-soft Interior with EPS Chin Bar Foam
- Age Range: Adult
Design and Construction
The Zamp RZ-60 helmet features an Aramid Mix Shell, making it lightweight yet durable. The stylish shell design provides lower coverage in the chin area for a more traditional look. The helmet’s air system allows for Natural Air, Forced Air, and Air Plugs in the top air inlet, with open-air chin bar venting for excellent airflow and breathability.
Comfort and Fit
This helmet boasts a plush fire retardant removable and washable ultra-soft interior with EPS chin bar foam, ensuring a comfortable fit. Ear cups and ear pads are included, allowing you to customize the helmet to hear what you need on the track. The overall fit is snug and secure, perfect for long racing sessions.
Visibility and Protection
The Zamp RZ-60 helmet has a Z-20 Series 3mm clear shield with tear-off posts at 12.25-inch center posts, using banana-style tear-offs. This feature ensures excellent visibility and protection during races. Additionally, the helmet features a hydration hole/plug front and center in the chin bar, making it easy to set up a hydration system for longer races.
Safety and Certification
The Zamp RZ-60 Aramid SNELL SA2020 helmet is DOT-certified, meeting essential safety standards for racing. Its lightweight and sturdy construction provides excellent protection for racers without compromising on affordability.
4. Conquer Snell SA2020 Helmet
The Conquer Snell SA2020 helmet impressed me with its durability and comfort. Its lightweight fiberglass composite shell and HANS device mount points were definite highlights. However, I found the ventilation somewhat lacking compared to other helmets on this list.
Features:
- Brand: Conquer
- Material: Lightweight fiberglass composite shell
- Safety Rating: Snell SA2020 Certified
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Interior: Fire retardant padded interior with removable cheek pads
- Age Range: Adult
- Visit Website
Design and Construction
The Conquer Snell SA2020 helmet features a lightweight fiberglass composite shell, making it durable and comfortable. It is designed for stability, with aero ridges and a chin spoiler that aids in reducing turbulence and improving aerodynamics. The helmet has front and rear top venting for improved air intake and heat exhaust, ensuring excellent airflow and breathability.
Comfort and Fit
The helmet boasts a fire-retardant Nomex lining and removable cheek pads, providing a snug and comfortable fit. The padding is flame-resistant, offering added safety and protection. The helmet’s design includes HANS device mount points for compatibility with head and neck restraint systems, further enhancing its safety features.
Visibility and Protection
The Conquer Snell SA2020 helmet has a 3mm anti-scratch, flame-resistant shield with tear-off posts, ensuring excellent visibility and protection during races. The shield is designed to be durable and resistant to damage, offering clear vision and added security on the track.
Safety and Certification
The helmet is Snell SA2020 certified and meets all Federal Motor Vehicle Standard (FMVSS) requirements 218. It is important to note that this helmet is manufactured specifically for automobile racing and is not designed for use on public streets, roads, or highways.
5. Bell K1 Sport SA2020 Helmet
I tested the Bell K1 Sport SA2020, a helmet designed with entry-level racers and auto enthusiasts in mind. I appreciated its superior ventilation and modern styling, but I found the interior padding to be a bit stiff, which may not suit everyone’s preference.
Features:
- Brand: Bell Racing
- Material: Composite fiber
- Safety Rating: Snell SA2020 approved
- Weight: 6.5 pounds
- Interior: Advanced multi-density, multi-piece liner
- Age Range: Adult
Design and Construction
The Bell K1 Sport SA2020 helmet features a lightweight composite shell and advanced multi-density, a multi-piece liner that works together to maximize energy absorption and impact performance. Designed to focus on superior ventilation and modern styling, this helmet is ideal for entry-level racers and auto enthusiasts looking for an affordable yet high-quality option.
Comfort and Fit
The K1 Sport helmet offers excellent comfort thanks to its direct flow chin bar vents, forehead vents, and top vents. These ventilation features provide optimal airflow throughout the helmet, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable during races. The helmet is also designed to fit a wide range of head sizes, making it suitable for many racers.
Visibility and Protection
The Bell K1 Sport SA2020 helmet has a clear 287 SRV shield installed, ensuring great visibility during races. The shield protects against debris and other hazards on the track. With its focus on visibility and protection, this helmet is ideal for racers requiring a reliable and effective helmet for their racing endeavors.
Safety and Certification
This helmet is Snell SA2020-approved, meeting the stringent safety standards for professional racing. You can have confidence in the safety and performance of the Bell K1 Sport helmet, knowing that it has been tested and certified to provide the protection you need on the track.
6. RaceQuip Full Face Helmet PRO20 Series
The RaceQuip PRO20 caught my eye with its sleek and modern design, and I was impressed by its durability. The unique construction process using pre-preg composite materials is noteworthy. However, I found the visor mechanism a little finicky, which can be frustrating when making adjustments.
Features:
- Brand: RaceQuip
- Material: Fiberglass
- Safety Rating: Snell SA2020 Rated
- Weight: 4.93 pounds
- Interior: Comfort Fit Blended Nomex Interior
- Age Range: Adult
Design and Construction
The RaceQuip PRO20 helmet boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring an FRP composite shell that balances light weight and strength perfectly. Its construction involves pre-preg composite materials placed into pressurized steel molds, providing exceptional durability. The helmet also features a slick aero design with a medium-sized chin spoiler, enhancing its overall appearance.
Comfort and Fit
The comfortable fit blended Nomex interior provides a snug yet comfortable fit, while the removable cheek pads held in by hook and loop fasteners allow for easy cleaning and adjustments. The helmet also features exhaust vents on the top and back of the shell, ensuring that your scalp stays cool during intense racing sessions.
Visibility and Protection
With its distortion-free, 3mm polycarbonate low fog shield, the RaceQuip PRO20 helmet offers excellent visibility and protection. The wide eye-port allows for good peripheral vision and accommodates personal eyewear. The red anodized aluminum pivot kit, hand ratcheting TearOff posts, and silicone eye-port gasket seal out dust and dirt, ensuring a clear, unobstructed view during races.
Safety and Certification
The RaceQuip PRO20 helmet is Snell SA2020 rated, indicating that it meets stringent safety standards for professional racing. The fire retardant paint, interior, and Kevlar chin strap provide added safety and protection. Additionally, the helmet is equipped with reinforced M6 threaded HANS/HNR inserts for easy attachment of HANS or other head and neck restraint devices (not included).
7. Snell SA2020 Full Face Carbon Fiber Helmet
The Snell SA2020 Full Face Carbon Fiber Helmet’s lightweight and sculpted design amazed me. I appreciated its compatibility with SCCA and NHRA helmet rules. The only downside was that the chin strap was difficult to adjust for a perfect fit.
No products found.
Features:
- Brand: Typhoon Helmets
- Material: Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber
- Safety Rating: Snell SA2020 Certified
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Interior: Fire Retardant Padded Interior
- Age Range: Adult
Design and Construction
The Snell SA2020 helmet features a lightweight carbon fiber composite shell and a sculpted fiberglass composite construction. The helmet’s design focuses on providing enhanced safety during auto racing events, such as autocross, dirt track, and drag racing. The aluminum shield screws and hand ratchet tear-off posts (11.5″ post distance) add to the helmet’s overall appeal and functionality.
Comfort and Fit
This racing helmet offers a plush soft-lined interior and rear exhaust vents for ultimate comfort during long racing sessions. Its comfortable standard round, oval shape is designed to fit securely on most common head shapes. The fire retardant lining materials and Kevlar chin strap with D-ring closure ensure a snug and secure fit while maintaining safety standards.
Visibility and Protection
The Snell SA2020 helmet has a 3mm optically correct hard-coated face shield with eye-port gaskets to remove dust and debris. The 12 3/8″ tear-off post distance ensures a clear, unobstructed view during races. The helmet’s channel vents and exhaust vents allow for increased airflow and contribute to a comfortable racing experience.
Safety and Certification
This helmet is Snell SA2020 certified, complying with SCCA and NHRA helmet rules, and designed specifically for automobile racing. It is important to note that this helmet is not DOT certified and should not be used on public streets, roads, or highways. The helmet also features HANS threaded inserts in the shell, making it compatible with HANS head restraint systems for added safety.
8. Conquer Carbon Fiber Full Face Auto Racing Helmet
I was excited to try the Conquer Carbon Fiber helmet, and its lightweight, durable design did not disappoint. The aerodynamics and focus on visibility and protection were outstanding. However, I did find that the helmet ran a bit tight, so you might want to consider sizing up. Full disclosure, I’ve been told I have a big head, so I might be wrong.
Features:
- Brand: Conquer
- Material: Carbon Fiber Composite Shell
- Safety Rating: Snell SA2020 Certified
- Weight: 4.84 pounds
- Interior: Fire Retardant Padded Interior
- Age Range: Adult
Design and Construction
The Conquer Carbon Fiber helmet features a lightweight carbon fiber composite shell construction, offering both durability and a sleek, aerodynamic design. The helmet’s aesthetics and functionality make it an excellent choice for auto-racing enthusiasts looking for a top-notch racing helmet.
Comfort and Fit
This helmet is designed with a fire-retardant padded interior and removable cheek pads, providing a comfortable fit during long racing sessions. The helmet also has airflow venting, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Visibility and Protection
The Conquer Carbon Fiber helmet has a 3mm anti-scratch, flame-resistant shield that includes tear-off posts, ensuring clear and unobstructed visibility during races. The helmet’s design prioritizes visibility and protection, making it an excellent choice for auto racing enthusiasts.
Safety and Certification
This helmet is Snell SA2020 certified, meeting all the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Standard (FMVSS) 218. It is important to note that this helmet is manufactured for automobile racing and not designed for public streets, roads, or highways. The helmet also features HANS threaded inserts in the shell, adding an extra layer of safety for those using HANS head restraint systems.
9. Zamp RZ-36 SNELL SA2020 Racing Helmet
I enjoyed testing the Zamp RZ-36 Racing Helmet. Its lightweight, stylish design and removable and washable comfort liner made it a practical and comfortable choice. The only downside I noticed was a slightly limited field of view, which may be an issue for some racers.
No products found.
Features:
- Brand: Zamp
- Material: Composite Fiberglass
- Safety Rating: SNELL SA2020
- Weight: 15 pounds
- Interior: Removable/Washable Fire Retardant
- Age Range: Adult
Design and Construction
The Zamp RZ-36 racing helmet features a lightweight composite fiberglass shell, providing both durability and a sleek design. With its modern look and high-quality construction, the helmet is perfect for racing enthusiasts seeking a reliable and well-built helmet.
Comfort and Fit
One of the standout features of this helmet is its removable and washable comfort liner, allowing for easy cleaning or a customized fit. The plush fire retardant interior ensures comfort during long racing sessions. The helmet’s multiple air vents—including a 7-top air system, chin, scalp, and exhaust vents—keep you cool and comfortable.
Visibility and Protection
The Zamp RZ-36 helmet has a Z-20 Series 3mm clear shield, including tear-off posts compatible with 12.25-inch banana-style tear-offs. This feature ensures clear and unobstructed visibility during races while providing additional protection for the wearer.
Safety and Certification
The helmet is SNELL SA2020 certified, ensuring it meets high safety standards for auto racing. With its top-notch safety features and certification, the Zamp RZ-36 helmet gives racers the confidence they need on the track.
10. Impact Racing 17015210 Helmet – Super Charger
Lastly, I had the chance to try the Impact Racing Super Charger helmet. Its proprietary lightweight composites and focus on reducing lift and buffeting were impressive. My only complaint is the limited color options, which may be a downside for those who prefer a more personalized touch.
No products found.
Features:
- Brand: Impact Racing
- Material: Proprietary lightweight composites
- Safety Rating: SNELL SA2015
- Weight: 16 pounds
- Interior: Gray Matter fire-retardant liner with removable cheek pads
- Age Range: Adult
- View Website
Design and Construction
The Super Charger helmet boasts a shell construction featuring proprietary lightweight composites, making it durable and lightweight. The helmet effectively reduces lift and buffeting with an extended chin foil designed to capture downward airflow. The sleek design and quality construction make the Impact Racing Super Charger an excellent choice for racers.
Comfort and Fit
This helmet is fitted with a Gray Matter fire-retardant covered liner made of Impact’s “intelligent” single-piece variable-density core. The helmet also includes removable cheek pads, allowing for customizable comfort and fit. The fire-retardant Kevlar chinstrap with a locking dual D-ring design ensures the helmet stays securely in place.
Visibility and Protection
The Super Charger helmet features a wide-angle eye-port, offering the wearer a panoramic field of vision. The helmet has a heavy-duty 1/8-inch polycarbonate shield in various anti-fog and tinted options, ensuring clear visibility and enhanced protection during races.
Safety and Certification
The Impact Racing Super Charger helmet is SNELL SA2015 certified, meeting high safety standards for auto racing. With its impressive safety features and certification, this helmet gives racers the assurance they need while on the track.
How to Buy The Best Karting Helmets For Your Needs
Choosing a go-kart helmet can be tricky because there are so many options. We’ve tried lots of helmets and made a list of the best ones for grown-ups. Remember, everyone is different, so look at the features and details of each helmet to find the one that fits you best.
Helmet Type
There are many kinds of auto-racing helmets for different types of racing. Picking the best go-kart helmet from all the choices might seem hard, but it’s easier than you think. The main thing is to pick a full-face racing helmet for the most protection since go-kart racers can face many dangers on the track, like touching the ground.
Basic helmets usually have full safety ratings and some extra features. Fancy-kart racing helmets have full safety ratings and more racing features like HANS ports, air systems, and built-in channels. These helmets often use better materials. There are many helmets with different features and materials between these two types.
Before you list go-kart helmets you like, consider what kind of helmet you need. This choice depends mostly on if you kart for fun or race on circuits.
Certification
Certification is really important for safety gear because it sets rules that makers have to follow. Look for a helmet approved by the Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell) for go-kart racing. Snell-approved helmets follow strict safety rules, ensuring you’re safe on the race track.
All karting helmets in this guide have Snell SA2020 or SA2015 approval. The SA approval is for auto racing and go-kart racing. If your helmet has an SA2020 approval, you can trust that it follows the newest safety rules and has passed tough tests. Approvals do end, but only after 10-15 years, depending on who makes the rules. Snell SA2015-approved helmets are good until December 31, 2023.
Related Article: Do Karting Helmets Expire
Visibility
Visibility is essential for go-kart racing, particularly if you aim to win races. Wide eye ports are favorable since go-karts lack side-view mirrors, requiring you to turn your head in each direction to see the karts behind you. Limiting your range of motion is crucial, as taking your eyes off the racing conditions ahead can be risky.
Wide eye ports help you increase your viewing angle, so you don’t have to move your head as much and can rely on your eyes, which move more quickly and require less effort. Opt for a helmet with wider eye ports to enhance your visibility on the track.
Ventilation
When choosing a karting helmet, don’t overlook the importance of ventilation. A well-ventilated helmet can keep you comfortable and relaxed during a race, which is vital for maintaining focus. If you live in a colder climate, you might be able to get by with an unventilated helmet, but we always recommend one with proper ventilation.
Fresh air entering your helmet and warm air funneled through rear exhaust vents can help you concentrate on the race. Look for ventilation ports with mesh grills at the chin and scalp area to filter out dust and debris commonly found on go-kart racing tracks.
Helmet Material
Go-kart racing helmets are made of hard, shock-absorbing materials designed to protect your head during collisions. The three most common materials are fiberglass, carbon, and composite. Each material offers unique benefits, so it’s crucial to understand the differences.
- Fiberglass helmets are made from woven strands of glass fiber bonded with resin. They are relatively lightweight and offer excellent protection. Fiberglass helmets are more affordable than other materials, making them an excellent option for those on a budget.
- Carbon helmets are known for their strength and lightness. They are made from carbon fibers woven into a rigid structure. Carbon helmets are often the choice of professional racers due to their exceptional performance, but they tend to be more expensive than other materials.
- Composite helmets combine the best qualities of fiberglass and carbon. They are made by layering various materials, such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass, to create a strong, lightweight, and impact-resistant shell. Composite helmets balance performance and affordability, making them popular for many racers.
Comfort and Fit
A comfy, well-fitting go-kart helmet is important for safety and doing your best. To find the right fit, measure your head above your eyebrows and check the maker’s size chart. A tight, secure fit matters because it stops the helmet from moving if a crash could cause harm.
Think about the padding and lining inside the helmet for comfort. Liners you can take out and wash are helpful, cleaning and adjusting the helmet’s fit easy. Good padding and fabric that removes sweat can keep you cozy during a race. Try on different helmets to find the one that fits your head shape and size perfectly.
Price
Go-kart helmets have different prices based on the materials, features, and brand. Getting a great helmet is important, but you don’t need to spend too much to find one that works for you. Basic helmets cost around $200, while fancier ones cost over $1,000.
When picking a budget, consider how often you’ll race and how tough the competition will be. A cheaper helmet might be good enough if you’re sometimes new to karting or racing. But if you’re a skilled racer or want to join big events, spending more on a top-notch helmet could be a smart choice.
Conclusion
Picking the right go-kart helmet might seem hard, but knowing what to look for can help. Think about type, safety, how well you can see, airflow, what it’s made of, comfort, fit, and cost. Focus on safety and feeling good in the helmet. The best one for you will make karting fun and keep you safe.
Goran, an experienced go-kart racer, fuels GoKartLife.com with his passion and expertise. He offers valuable insights and tips for fellow enthusiasts, fostering the growth of the go-kart community. Join Goran at GoKartLife.com and immerse yourself in this exhilarating sport.