Racing Helmets are available in many different styles. However, the safety ratings can be confusing. Before you buy a helmet, check the rule book for your track or sanctioning body. Most organizations will specify what type of helmet is required.
Snell vs. DOT
In the United States, Snell and DOT are the most common safety ratings.The Snell Foundation is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to helmet safety standards. Manufacturers submit samples for testing. If the samples pass, they earn the Snell certification.
Snell ratings begin with a letter. Each standard is intended for a different purpose.
| Snell Prefix Code | Application |
| K | Karting |
| SA | Competitive Automotive Sports |
| M | Motorcycle |
| CM | Children's Motorsports |
After the letter is the year the standard was updated. Snell updates the standards every 5 years.
A DOT-approved helmet meets the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This applies to street-use, motorcycle helmets. Unlike Snell, manufacturers self-certify to the DOT standard.
A Snell-approved helmet is generally regarded as safer than a similar DOT-approved helmet without a Snell rating. For this reason, most racing organizations require a Snell-approved helmet.
For more specific information, follow these links:
What about SFI?
The SFI Foundation also certifies helmets for racing use. There are 3 SFI Standards that apply to helmets.
| SFI Standard | Application | Primary Use |
| 24.1 | Youth Full Face Helmets | Karting, Jr. Dragster, etc. |
| 31.1 | Flame Resistant Motorsports Helmets | Auto Racing |
| 41.1 | Motorsports Helmets (non-flame resistant) | Motorcycle |
SFI standards are similar to Snell Standards. In fact, many organizations allow either a Snell- or SFI-approved helmet.
Other Safety Ratings
The Federation Internationale De L’Automobile (FIA) is the governing body for many motorsports around the world. FIA has high standards and sets strict requirements for safety and quality.
The Economic Commission of Europe (ECE) acts similarly to the DOT in the U.S. The ECE helmet standards apply to street-use, motorcycle helmets.
For More Information
Check out "Racing Helmets 101" on our blog.
