Focus on...helmets and gloves

There have been some changes to MSA rules regarding helmets and gloves for 2010, and I thought it useful to make sure everyone's aware of them. If your branch of the sport isn't covered, then please email me to let me know so I can pass on the information to our customers.

Helmets

For 2010, the old "blue" BS6658 Type A is no longer acceptable for MSA licenced motor sport, meaning if you have one of these it must be changed for a BS6658 Type A/FR (red label) or Snell 2005 approved version.

Many track day organisers have traditionally stipulated that helmets must comply with MSA recommendations. Some have changed this rule to give the old standards a new lease of life but PLEASE CHECK before you turn up at scrutineering. It's unlikely you'll get a good deal if you have to buy one "on the day"!

A big change for karting comes in 2011, when all Cadet drivers will have to wear helmets homologated to Snell-FIA CMR 2007 or Snell-FIA CMS2007. These must not weigh more than 1550g, and are specifically designed for children's heads rather than being scaled-down shells. There are still stringent impact tests to pass, so these tend to be of tri-composite carbon/kevlar/fibre construction. From 1-1-2013 this standard will be compulsory for ALL kart drivers under 15. Note that you cannot wear these helmets after the age of 18.

Karting only helmets are denoted by a K after the SA number. They cannot be used for car racing as they do not have an FR lining.

Prices range widely for helmets. Why the difference in price? Quite simply, quality and weight. Above £300 (f/f) are lightweight tri-composite shells while the cheaper ones are made from fibre glass and somewhat heavier. There is also a difference in quality of finish, too, but not as much as you would expect. Which you buy is your choice,...if you wear your helmet for long periods at a time then comfort may become a factor, but hill climbers may not find it so necessary when they only have the helmets on for a minute or so. All helmets are different, it's worth trying on before you buy. We will refund or exchange without quibble if you do not like your helmet (provided it has not been used of course!).

How do I know which is which? The BS standards are on a sticker on the outside of the helmet - the one you want is red, neither the blue nor the green ones are acceptable. Snell 2005 & 2010 labels are stuck to the helmet liner on the inside of the helmet itself. Peel back the cloth lining, and you'll see it underneath - not easy to get at, but worth checking it does genuinely say Snell!

Gloves

It's now compulsory to wear gloves in speed events and karting, but strangely not in circuit racing or rallying until 2012! Likewise, track day drivers do not have to wear gloves, but many choose to take advantage of the protection.

Speed event drivers MUST wear "flame resistant" gloves, with no minimum specification - expect scrutineers to be looking for at least a Nomex label or something saying ISO6940 - and notice that it must be on EACH glove. Also acceptable is the FIA 8856-2000 standard, which can be used in any motor sport up to F1.

Karters and track day drivers do not have any minimum specification except to cover the wrist - most like to tuck their overall cuff down inside. Polycotton backs and leather undersides are popular, often with extra padding in the palms.

We have our glove options on www.Racewear.co.uk/gloves

What's the difference between fire resistant the standards? The ISO6940 fire resistant gloves are 2-layer Nomex backs with faux leather lowers, while the 8856-2000 homologated gloves are 100% Nomex with leather grips stitched onto the palms, offering far more protection. Well worth the extra money, they should last longer too.

That brings us to the end of Focus On... for February - bookmark the blog or become a fan of our Facebook page which will update you when we add more articles.

Max Tyler
www.racewear.co.uk
08452 604104