Thomas Northcut/Getty ImagesA motorcycle helmet, regardless if it's one of the high-quality models, or one suitable for new riders, may physically fit inside a race car, but that does not mean it is acceptable for car racing. For sanctioned competition, the answer is usually no. Drivers must wear a helmet that meets the event organizer's specified automotive racing standard. A motorcycle helmet with only a DOT label is not automatically suitable, even if it is expensive, full-face, and provides excellent protection on the road.The important distinction is certification. The Snell Foundation, for example, labels helmets by intended use: M is for motorcycling, K is for karting, and SA, or Special Application, is for auto racing. Rules vary by organization and event. For instance, the Sports Car Club of America allows certain Snell M-rated helmets in some lower-level activities, including specified Solo, RallyCross, and Time Trials categories, but its higher-level road-racing and time-trial requirements call for an SA-rated helmet. That means a motorcycle helmet could be permitted for a casual autocross or noncompetitive track-day session, but it may fail technical inspection for wheel-to-wheel racing.The rulebook, not a seller's marketing claims, should settle the question. Some clubs accept a current Snell motorcycle helmet for novice events, while others require SA, FIA, or SFI approval. A driver should check the organizer's rules before arriving at the track, along with the helmet's certification date; motorsport organizations commonly set expiration windows for approved equipment.AdvertisementAdvertisementRead more: 12 Of The Most Powerful Japanese Sports Motorcycles, Ranked By HorsepowerDifferent crashes, different helmet designsAdamdodd/Getty ImagesMotorcycle and auto-racing helmets both protect the head from impact, but they are designed around very different environments. A motorcycle rider is exposed to weather, wind noise, flying debris, and the possibility of sliding across pavement. As a result, motorcycle helmets generally prioritize aerodynamic stability, ventilation, wide visibility, and comfort in open air. Their certification testing is aimed at motorcycle crash conditions.An auto-racing helmet is designed for a driver strapped into a seat within a confined cockpit. Instead of sliding down a road, the driver may strike the steering wheel, roof, door bars, window area, or roll cage during a collision or rollover. Automotive helmets therefore undergo testing intended for that environment, including additional impact considerations associated with roll-cage contact.Fire protection is another major difference. Many automotive helmets use fire-resistant interiors, often based on Nomex materials, while typical motorcycle helmets use linings chosen primarily for comfort and moisture management. Racing helmets can also be configured for a frontal head restraint, commonly called a HANS device, which helps limit head and neck movement in a severe frontal impact. Snell SA helmets from SA2015 onward include threaded inserts for such restraints.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe bottom line is straightforward: Use a motorcycle helmet only when the event explicitly permits its exact rating. For competitive car racing, buy or rent a current auto-racing helmet that meets the organization's stated Snell SA, FIA, or other required certification. If you are shopping for a great motorcycle helmet specifically, check out our list of the major motorcycle helmet brands ranked from worst to best.Want the latest in tech and auto trends? Subscribe to our free newsletter for the latest headlines, expert guides, and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.Read the original article on SlashGear.
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