HELMET RATINGS...WHAT DO THEY MEAN?
When will Snell M2010 and SA2010 helmets be available?
Snell SA2010 (automotive) helmets are slowly arriving as we speak (end of October 2010). Check our Snell SA2010 Helmet Page for a complete list.
Auto racing helmets are rated by Snell as either SA, M, or K...
Snell SA Rated Helmets:
Snell "SA" (Sports Application) rated professional helmets are designed for auto racing and provide extreme impact resistance and higher fire protection.
Snell M Rated Helmets:
Snell "M" (Motorcycle) rated helmets are designed for motorcycling and other motorsports. They offer slightly less protection than SA rated helmets.
Snell K Rated Helmets:
Snell "K" (Karting) rated helmets are designed for Karting applications. They are subjected to the same test standards as SA helmets except the do not require a fire retardant interior.
What are the key differences between SA and M Rated Helmets:
- SA standard requires flammability test while the M standard does not.
- SA standard has rollbar impact test while M standard does not.
- SA standard allows narrower visual field than M standard (Some SA helmets aren't street legal).
How do I know if my helmet meets the necessary Snell requirements for the organizations that I race with?
Always check your club rulebook to determine what helmet specifications they require. Most clubs seem to allow you to use the current Snell specification, as well as the previous Snell specification. So, in that case, for the 2011 season, you could use Snell M2005/SA2005 or Snell M2010/SA2010 rated helmets. Snell M2000/SA2000 helmets would not meet requirements after October 1, 2010. Bottom line... read your rulebook carefully.
Also, if you are considering the purchase of a Snell "M" rated helmet, be sure that your club will allow them. SCCA Solo does allow Snell "M" rated helmets, although some organizations that run high speed events will require Snell "SA" rated helmets. We recommend Snell "SA" rated helmets because they will be legal for any type automotive activity you participate in.
What is the current Snell rating?
New ratings typically come out every 5 years. The current Snell rating is 2010. We carry Snell SA2010 helmets, and as of October 2010, still have some Snell M2005 and Snell SA2005 rated helmets.
Where can I get more info on Snell helmet ratings?
Check out the Snell Memorial Foundation website for some very good helmet information.
