When it comes to karting, you need to ensure your safety and this begins with the right helmet. In addition to being protective gear, it is a critical piece of equipment that will save you in a high speed crash.
When selecting bell helmets, you need to check whether it meet the right safety certifications. These helmets need to be verified by recognized bodies and when you select a helmet with the certifications, this means that it has passed strict testing for penetration resistance, impact absorption, and effectiveness of retention system. You have to consider the material that the outer shell of the helmet is made from. For a high quality helmet, you can look for one that is made from carbon fibre, fiberglass or a composite of these two materials. Carbon fibre helmets are known for their high strength to weight ratio. This means that while it is lightweight, it offers sufficient protection. The strain on your neck is reduced when you wear this for a long time. The interior of the helmet has to be checked next. This should have a multi-density impact absorption liner. This will absorb energy that is generated in an impact and then disperse it so that the force transmitted to the head is reduced.
When examining the interior of the helmet
You can check whether it has advanced EPS liners. These will offer impact protection by offering varying density and thickness. The helmet should fit you properly and it should not be too tight or too loose. Most helmets have adjustable padding so that the fit is perfect. The retention system which is a chin strap in most cases has to be secure and adjustable. There has to be a reliable buckle for this so that the helmet doesn’t come off in an accident. Ventilation is another factor to consider so that you will be kept comfortable without overheating in an intense race. You can look for helmets that have well-designed ventilation systems. These will have an intake and exhaust vents so that air can flow through the helmet cooling your head. This can reduce the build-up of sweat.
The visor material has to be checked
Polycarbonate material is able to withstand impacts without shattering. You need to have a wide field of vision through the visor and this should be treated with anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings so that you will have a high level of clarity no matter what the weather condition is. There are tear-off strips in some visors that are a good option in environments where your vision can be obscured by dirt and debris. If you are involved in competitive karting, you need to look for a helmet that comes with fire-resistant linings. These are designed to bear high temperatures and give additional protection if there is a fire. This is not generally mandatory in all karting helmets but it is a good feature to look for if you are competing at a high level.
