What's a good lid?

[Blu3R]

As title really, I'm going to start to do a few track days when funds permit and I'll be needing a helmet. Which are good without breaking the bank?

Thanks
Rob

[Dave2P]

[insert debate about value of head versus cost of helmet, full-face versus open, etc. and set budget accordingly.]

Be aware of the standards required by almost all circuits for track day helmets now; bike helmets won't do.

There are a few full-face designs optimized for tin-tops/plastic-tops with wider apertures, like the Arai GP5W :-



OMP do a similar one that's a fair bit cheaper.

Most important aspect is fit, as we all have different shaped heads. So you need to try a few on - the decent mail order shops have no problem with changing lids (postage at your cost, which is fair enough) if you're not near a stockist. Frustratingly, most bike shops (of which there are many) don't stock car helmets.

The OMP didn't fit me well so I ended up with the GP5W (also has switchable cheek pads which really helped get the fit right). It's definitely worth shopping around and then phoning your "favourite motor sports retailer" to see if they'll price match...

[Adrian W]

I use a GP5-ped, lie he said its down to what you think your head is worth, the cage is quiet hard and hittable in a noble, you might also want to consider padding on the cage.

[C&C]

I have a Sparco Formula. At the time it seemed one of the better priced ones conforming to the required standards.
They (and many others) are available from GPR - might give you some ideas of options. They used to have a shop in Chiswick (was useful for trying a few different ones for fit), but I believe only "shop" is now at Silverstone.

ETA - This link might be useful.

Edited by C&C on Wednesday 7th July 17:28

[williams f1]

Just bought Bell sport sv from tweeks £400 delivered and is now at the sprayers same guy that does Lewis Hamilton,s look for his special design for the british gp this week [quote=C&C]I have a Sparco Formula. At the time it seemed one of the better priced ones conforming to the required standards.
They (and many others) are available from GPR - might give you some ideas of options. They used to have a shop in Chiswick (was useful for trying a few different ones for fit), but I believe only "shop" is now at Silverstone.

ETA - This link might be useful.

Edited by C&C on Wednesday 7th July 17:28

[/quote]

[obes]

Another vote for the GP5 here

[Blu3R]

Thanks all for the suggestions, I'll have to go somewhere and try a few on to give me a better idea.

Adrian W said:

the cage is quiet hard and hittable in a noble, you might also want to consider padding on the cage.

I've found that out already, good idea thanks.