A racing helmet for car track days usually means one certified to Snell SA (Special Application) or to an FIA standard. Some organisers also accept motorcycle (M) ratings at HPDE and some do not, and the cited rules are below. Every pick here carries a current Snell SA2025 label, and four also carry FIA 8859-2024.
We cannot test helmets, so every pick is spec-checked. Certifications were checked against the Snell Foundation's SA2025 certified list and the FIA's Technical List 107. Prices and stock are from Pegasus Auto Racing or the maker's own page on 19 October 2026. We left out helmets that are SA2020 only. Simpson, Sparco and Schuberth also have SA2025 helmets on the Snell list, but we did not cover them.
A certification label says what a helmet was tested to. It does not promise any outcome in a crash. Your organiser's rulebook decides what is legal, and it changes, so check it.
We can’t test everything, so each pick is labelled with where the evidence comes from. How we research and test. Some links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you (disclosure).
The M8 is Bell's sport-series full-face helmet. Pegasus says it has a very large eyeport for drivers who wear glasses, and it comes in extended sizes from 2X-Small to 4X-Large. It meets the Snell SA2025 standard, which includes a flammability test that motorcycle ratings do not.
Certification
Snell SA2025 (listed on the Snell SA2025 certified list as Bell M8). No FIA 8859 listing found
Sizes
2X-Small to 4X-Large, 54 to 68 cm
Head restraint posts
M6 female inserts factory-installed in the shell, anchors sold separately (Pegasus)
Eyeport
Very large opening, marketed for drivers who wear glasses (Pegasus)
Weight
1,531 g (3 lb 6 oz) in size M, measured by Fast Racer, which allows about 50 g either way
In the box
Clear shield, hex wrench and a drawstring bag
Best for
First-time and regular HPDE drivers who want a mainstream Snell SA2025 helmet with a wide field of view.
Worth knowing
Snell only, with no FIA 8859 label. Fit varies by head shape, and one 2022 Rennlist poster found the older SA2020 M8 ran large.
The RZ-57 is the cheapest helmet here with a current Snell SA2025 label and factory M6 inserts. Zamp pitches it at budget racers and replaces the RZ-56. You give up a washable interior and an anti-fog shield, and it carries the same Snell SA2025 certification as the dearer helmets.
Certification
Snell SA2025 (Zamp page, and listed on the Snell SA2025 certified list as RZ-57)
The GT-EV replaces OMP's B2 Vision EV. Its extended opening and low chin bar give more room for glasses and a better view of gauges, according to Pegasus. It costs $100 less than the Bell M8 and carries the same Snell SA2025 label.
Certification
Snell SA2025 (listed on the Snell SA2025 certified list as OMP GT-EV)
Sizes
Small to X-Large, 56 to 63 cm
Eyeport
Extended Vision opening with a low-cut chin bar (Pegasus)
The RZ-63F is the cheapest full-face helmet of those we checked that is homologated to FIA 8859-2024 and certified to Snell SA2025. That matters if you also enter events under FIA, Motorsport UK or Motorsport Australia rules. Zamp sells the FIA-only RZ-61F for $379.95 and the dearer RZ-70F for $529.95.
Certification
Snell SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024 (Zamp page). Listed on the Snell SA2025 list as RZ-63F. FIA Technical List 107 lists RZ-63F and RZ-61F as PH.042.26-C, homologated from 04.2026, end 04.2031
FIA sizes
The FIA entry lists sizes 54, 56, 58, 60, 61, 62 and 63
Shell
Aramid mix shell with a larger duck-bill chin bar
Interior
31 Series cheek pads and 28 Series crown liner, fire-retardant, removable and washable
Head restraint posts
M6 inserts, head and neck restraint compatible (Zamp)
Comms
Built-in ear pockets for optional Zamp ear cups
Best for
Drivers who may enter FIA-style events and want a washable interior at a mid price.
Worth knowing
It is a 2026 homologation with little track record, and the FIA label covers only the sizes in the FIA list, so check your size on the sticker.
The GP-I is an open-face helmet that carries the same SA2025 label as the full-face models. Pegasus recommends it mainly for closed-cockpit cars, and notes it is also used in vintage racing with goggles. It suits drivers who want a lighter feel and more air.
Certification
Snell SA2025 (listed on the Snell SA2025 certified list as OMP GP-I)
Type
Open face with an adjustable peak visor and anti-glare strip. It cannot be fitted with a face shield (Pegasus)
Sizes
Small to X-Large, 56 to 63 cm
Head restraint posts
M6 female inserts factory-installed, anchors sold separately (Pegasus)
Best for
Drivers in closed-roof cars whose organiser allows an open-face helmet with eye protection.
Worth knowing
No face protection, and some organisers, such as Hooked on Driving at its convertible events, require a closed-face helmet in open cars.
The RS7 is Bell's pro-level helmet and is built on the design used in Formula 1. It has flow-through channels, a dual-pane anti-fog shield and factory-fitted post anchors. It carries both the Snell and the FIA label, so it meets the Snell lists US organisers use and the FIA lists used internationally.
Certification
Snell SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024. FIA Technical List 107 lists Bell RS7 as PH.019.25-C, homologated from 02.2025, end 02.2030
Shell
Fibreglass-reinforced carbon composite, based on the Bell HP7 used in Formula 1 (Pegasus)
Sizes
54 to 61 plus, in cm
Venting
14 inlet and outlet vents
Head restraint posts
HANS post anchors factory-installed (Pegasus)
Eyeport
Very narrow (Pegasus)
Best for
Regular track-day and club drivers who want a lighter shell and FIA homologation.
Worth knowing
Pegasus calls the eyeport very narrow, and one Rennlist poster (2022, earlier RS7) found it too narrow for his head shape.
The ST6 replaces Stilo's ST5 and is the Italian maker's current range. Stilo built three shell sizes to keep weight down, and its redesigned visor lock follows the FIA 8859-2024 and 8860-2018 rules. Pegasus says the GT version is for sedans and closed cockpits, with chin ports for forced air or a drink tube.
Certification
Snell SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024. FIA Technical List 107 lists Stilo ST6 Composite as PH.008.24-C, homologated from 10.2024, end 10.2029
Shell
Composite, built in three shell sizes (Stilo and Pegasus)
Sizes
XS to 3XL, 54 to 64 cm
Features
Ports on each side of the chin for forced air or a drink tube (Pegasus). Stilo says up to 11% lighter than the ST5
Visor
Two-position shield that locks in the vent position to meet FIA rules (Pegasus)
Best for
Drivers in sedans and closed-cockpit cars who want FIA homologation.
Worth knowing
It is the most expensive composite-shell helmet here, and the ST6 GT is made for closed cockpits.
The GPV-R is Arai's current auto racing helmet and carries both the Snell and the FIA label. Pegasus says it uses the same shell design as the GPV-R worn in F1 and IndyCar. Fit varies by brand, so try one on if you can.
Certification
Snell SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024. FIA Technical List 107 lists Arai GPV-R as PH.040.26-C, homologated from 03.2026, end 03.2031
Shell
Hand-laminated complex composite (Pegasus)
Eyeport
68 mm high, taller than the previous GP-7 (Pegasus)
Sizes
X-Small to X-Large, 53 to 62 cm
Head restraint posts
M6 female threaded receptacles in the shell, anchors sold separately (Pegasus)
Fit
Removable 7 mm and 5 mm pads allow up to two sizes of fit adjustment (O.G. Racing)
Best for
Drivers who already know Arai's shape fits them and want a dual-rated helmet.
Worth knowing
Only five sizes, X-Small to X-Large, and it was homologated in March 2026 so it is new to the market.
Price seen at pegasusautoracing.com, 19 Oct 2026 (colour options up to $1,219.95; ogracing.com $1,199.95).
How to choose
Snell SA, Snell M and FIA: what the labels mean
Snell is a non-profit that writes helmet standards and tests samples. The letters mark the use. SA is Special Application, for competitive auto racing. M is for motorcycling and K is for karting. Snell's FAQ lists two major differences between SA and M. The SA standard requires a flammability test, and M and K do not. SA and K also allow a narrower field of view than M, so some SA helmets may not be street legal.
Snell SA2025 took effect on 1 October 2025. Compared with SA2020, Snell lowers the peak acceleration limit from 300 g to 275 g for most head forms, and says its impact velocities and peak g values are the same as or more severe than FIA 8859-2024. Snell's cover document (revised 25 April 2025) gives a proposed schedule for SA2020. Label shipments end on 30 October 2026, and production and shipping of SA2020-labelled helmets must stop by 31 December 2026. Fast Racer already has an SA2020 clearance section.
The FIA runs its own system. FIA 8859-2024 is the current standard for premium helmets (Technical List 107), and FIA 8860-2018 is the advanced standard. A helmet can carry a Snell SA2025 sticker, an FIA label, or both. Pegasus notes that not all SA2025 helmets are submitted to the FIA and the reverse. SFI also has helmet specifications, 31.1 and 41.1, that some organisers accept alongside Snell.
Is SA2020 still fine? Yes. NASA's 2026.3 rulebook requires Snell SA2015 or newer for racing now, and SA2020 or newer from 1 January 2027. SCCA Time Trials accepts the latest and two preceding standards. The phase-out is hitting SA2015. PCA's HPDE Committee now ends SA2015 helmets 10 years from manufacture: 30 June 2026 for helmets made in 2015 (or with no date label), 31 December 2026 for 2016, and 31 December 2027 to 2029 for 2017 to 2019, per Diablo Region's notice updated 25 February 2026. Some region pages still show an older 1 July 2026 cut-off, so ask your region. Check your organiser every season.
Can you use a motorcycle helmet? What organisers say
It depends on the organiser, and sometimes the region. NASA's 2026.3 Club Codes and Regulations accept a helmet meeting Snell 2010 (SA2010 or M2010) or ECE 22.06 or newer, for cars or motorcycles, at HPDE and Time Trial. Once you race under NASA's racing rules, section 15.17.3 requires Snell SA or an FIA 8859 or 8860 helmet, and says ratings other than SA, for example M2015 or M2020, are not acceptable.
SCCA Time Trials accepts M-rated helmets at Safety Level 1, listing SA2025, M2025, SA2020, M2020, EA2016, SA2015, SA2010 and M2015 among accepted standards. At Safety Level 2 it requires SA2015 or later, SFI 31.1, or FIA 8859 or 8860. Track Night in America says it follows the SCCA Track Events Rulebook and links a list of approved labels that we could not read, so check that page.
Hooked on Driving says no motorcycle helmets. Its FAQ requires a Snell SA-rated auto racing helmet within 10 years of the event date and says a DOT rating does not qualify, and its check-in page and 2026 event listings ask for a Snell SA2020 or newer helmet. PCA is a patchwork. Diablo Region says motorcycle helmets are not allowed at its HPDE days, Milwaukee Region says helmets with a DOT, K or M rating are not allowed, and Peachstate Region allows Snell M helmets in its first two run groups but advises SA2020 or newer.
That mixed rule set is the strongest reason to buy an SA helmet. SA2020 and SA2025 helmets were accepted at every organiser we checked, and they come with factory M6 inserts for a head restraint. State and insurer rules can add to the organiser's. NASA's magazine says New Jersey requires a full-face helmet with a Snell SM or SA 2020/2025 rating at sanctioned events from 1 January 2026, and Diablo PCA says its motorcycle helmet ban is partly an insurance matter. Rental helmets may be available for a first event. A Hooked on Driving listing shows rental at $50 a day, including a balaclava.
Open face or full face
Full-face helmets cover the chin and carry a shield. NASA's racing rules say a full-face helmet with an impact-resistant shield is required in open cars (formula cars, sports racers and similar) and highly recommended for all vehicles, and eye protection is required. SCCA Time Trials requires full face in vehicles without a windshield. A Hooked on Driving event listing requires closed-face helmets with a visor for convertibles.
Open-face helmets such as the OMP GP-I give a wider view and more airflow. Pegasus says the GP-I cannot be made to take a face shield and recommends it mainly for closed-cockpit cars. Motorsport Australia's Schedule D says a full-face helmet is highly recommended for drivers of open cars in speed events. If you drive a convertible, buy full face.
Head restraint posts and fire-rated lining
If you will wear a HANS-style restraint, buy a helmet with factory M6 threaded inserts. NASA's magazine says the Snell 2015 standard built them into SA2015, and Pegasus says SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024 testing checks that the inserts can take head restraint loads. Every pick here either lists factory M6 inserts or posts, or is FIA 8859-2024 homologated. The anchors that screw into them are usually sold separately and often come with the restraint. See our head and neck restraint guide.
For FIA events, the FIA says the helmet, tether and anchor must all be FIA approved and compatible, and helmets approved to FIA 8858-2002 or 8858-2010 have not been valid since 31 December 2023. In the UK, Motorsport UK's standards sheet v9.0 (January 2024, which predates SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024) lists FIA 8860-2018, 8860-2010 (valid to 31 December 2028), 8859-2015, Snell SA2015 (valid to 31 December 2026) and Snell SA2020, and for use with a restraint the anchors must be FIA 8858-2010.
SA testing includes a flammability test, and SFI Spec 31.1 is titled Flame Resistant Motorsports Helmets. NASA's magazine warns that household cleaners can inhibit the fire-retardant properties of racing helmet fabrics, so use cleaners made for racing helmets.
Sizing and fit
Pegasus suggests measuring head circumference about an inch above the eyebrows and just above the ears. If you will wear a Nomex hood, measure with it on, or add about a quarter inch for a single-layer hood and half an inch for a double. Size charts differ by maker. In Pegasus's charts Bell runs 54 to 68 cm, OMP 56 to 63 cm, Stilo 54 to 64 cm and Arai 53 to 62 cm.
Snell's guide says to check size, shape and strap. The helmet should be snug all the way round and should not shift on your head. Snell also says to wear it five to ten minutes to find pressure points, and not to leave more than two fingers under the strap. In a Rennlist thread from 2022 to 2024, posters found the same size fits differently across brands and Bell models. One found the M8 ran large and the GT6 fit better, and another found the RS7 too narrow. Try before you buy, and buy a little snug because liners pack out.
If you wear glasses, check that the padding does not push the frames, as one Rennlist poster warned. The Bell M8 and OMP GT-EV are sold with wide eyeports for that reason.
Replacement, care and UK and Australia
Snell recommends replacing a helmet after five years of normal use, and says unused helmets stored in good condition do not expire automatically. Snell certified helmets are built for one severe impact, so replace after a crash. Snell also warns that aftermarket accessories, such as cameras or audio kit, can invalidate its certification if fitted wrongly. Organisers set their own limits, for example Hooked on Driving's SA2020-or-newer rule (within 10 years of the event date) and PCA's 10 years from manufacture for SA2015 helmets. Snell has also warned about counterfeit Snell labels sold on eBay.
For competition, Motorsport UK accepts FIA and Snell SA standards. Motorsport UK's v9.0 sheet (January 2024) lists the standards above but predates SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024, so check the current Yearbook. Motorsport Australia's 2026 Schedule D (last updated 1 January 2026) lists FIA 8860-2018, 8860-2010 (not valid at Level A after 31 December 2028), 8859-2024, 8859-2015 and Snell SA2015, SA2020 and SA2025 (with FIA 8858-2010 tether anchors) as Level A helmets. Its Level B, allowed at some speed events, also includes ECE 22 and AS/NZS 1698 helmets, and it lists Snell M ratings only for Superkart competition. UK track-day operators set their own helmet rules, and we could not confirm the current wording for MSV Trackdays.
Questions buyers ask
Is a Snell SA2020 helmet still legal?+
Yes at the organisers we checked. NASA requires SA2015 or newer for racing in 2026 and SA2020 or newer from 1 January 2027. SCCA Time Trials accepts SA2020. Snell stops shipping SA2020 labels on 30 October 2026 under its proposed schedule, so new SA2020 stock will fade out. SA2015 is the one being phased out.
Can I wear a motorcycle helmet at a track day?+
Sometimes. NASA's 2026.3 HPDE rules accept Snell M2010 or ECE 22.06 or newer for cars or motorcycles, and SCCA Time Trials accepts M ratings at Safety Level 1. Hooked on Driving does not allow motorcycle helmets, and PCA regions differ. Ask your organiser, and buy an SA helmet if unsure.
What is the difference between Snell SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024?+
They are separate certifications from separate bodies. Snell says SA2025's impact values are the same as or tougher than FIA 8859-2024. Pegasus notes that not every SA2025 helmet is FIA homologated and vice versa. US organisers mostly require Snell, and FIA and international events need the FIA label.
Do I need a HANS-compatible helmet?+
Only if you will wear a head and neck restraint. Buy a helmet with factory M6 threaded inserts. All SA2015 and newer helmets have them, and the picks here list them. See our head and neck restraint guide for anchors and tethers.
How long does a racing helmet last?+
Snell recommends replacing after five years of normal use and after any severe impact. Unused helmets stored well do not expire automatically. Organisers apply their own limits: Hooked on Driving asks for Snell SA2020 or newer within 10 years of the event date, and PCA ends SA2015 helmets 10 years from manufacture.
Should I buy an open-face or full-face helmet?+
Buy full face for a convertible or open car. NASA recommends full face for all vehicles, and SCCA Time Trials and Hooked on Driving require it or closed-face helmets in open cars. An open-face helmet such as the OMP GP-I suits a closed-roof car if your organiser allows it with eye protection.
Does a more expensive helmet protect better?+
Snell says price is not an indication of protective capacity and that all Snell certified helmets meet its test requirements. Higher prices buy lighter shells, better ventilation, fit options and comms. A helmet you will not wear because it does not fit is no bargain.
Which helmets are accepted in the UK and Australia?+
Motorsport Australia's 2026 Schedule D lists FIA 8860-2018, 8860-2010, 8859-2024, 8859-2015 and Snell SA2015, SA2020 and SA2025 as Level A. Motorsport UK's January 2024 v9.0 sheet lists FIA 8860-2018, 8860-2010, 8859-2015 and Snell SA2015 (not valid after 31 December 2026) and SA2020. It predates SA2025 and FIA 8859-2024, so check the current Motorsport UK Yearbook.
