No, you should not use a motorcycle helmet for car racing. They are designed for different impacts and safety standards. Car racing requires a helmet certified by the Snell Memorial Foundation (like SA2020) or meeting FIA standards, which are specifically engineered for the multi-impact, fire-resistant, and roll cage environments of a car. Motorcycle helmets (certified DOT or ECE) are built for single impacts and lack the necessary safety features for closed-cockpit racing, making them illegal and dangerously inadequate for the track.
The primary difference lies in the certification. Snell SA certification is the gold standard for auto racing. These helmets are tested for multiple impacts in the same area, a common scenario in car racing where a driver's head might strike the steering wheel or roll cage more than once. They also have a fire-resistant lining and are designed to work with head and neck restraint systems (HANS devices), which attach to anchors on the helmet. Motorcycle helmets are not fire-resistant and lack these anchor points.
Furthermore, the field of view differs. A car racing helmet offers a wider peripheral vision crucial for awareness of other vehicles on a tight track. Motorcycle helmets often have a narrower viewport. While both protect your head, using a motorcycle helmet in a car race compromises your safety, violates sanctioning body rules, and will likely get you black-flagged before you even start.
| Feature | Auto Racing Helmet (Snell SA) | Motorcycle Helmet (DOT/ECE) |
|---|
| Safety Standard | Snell SA2020, FIA 8859-2015 | DOT FMVSS 218, ECE 22.05 |
| Impact Rating | Multiple impacts on the same spot | Single impact |
| Fire Resistance | Yes, Nomex interior | No, typically flammable materials |
| HANS Device Anchors | Standard | Not available |
| Field of View | Wider peripheral vision | Often more restricted |
| Weight | Generally heavier for added protection | Lighter for comfort on long rides |
| Intended Use | Closed-cockpit, multi-impact crashes | Open road, single-impact crashes |
