Motorsport is not just about speed and adrenaline. It is, above all, about safety. Your skills on the track, your reaction time and your endurance are key, but protecting the brain centre where it all comes from is an absolute priority.
Your helmet isn't just a stylish accessory or a checkmark in the competition rules. It's your first and foremost line of defense when the going gets tough on the track. Unfortunately, even the most technologically advanced and expensive helmet won't protect you properly if it's not the right size.
A helmet that is too loose can shift or even fly off in a crash. A helmet that is too tight will be uncomfortable, distracting, and make you want to take it off at the first opportunity. The right helmet size is the perfect balance between comfort and protection, allowing you to stay focused despite the intensity of the race.
In this guide, we'll detail how to measure your head for a helmet so you can hit the track with complete confidence.
Why is the correct helmet size so important in motorsport?
In the world of high speed, protective racing gear is not a recommendation, but a necessity. And at the top of that list is your helmet. A properly fitted helmet doesn't just complete your professional racing look - it protects your life and improves your performance.
Why is this so important:
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Minimize the risk of injury: A tight-fitting helmet stays in place during an impact, effectively absorbing and dissipating energy. This is crucial not only in motorsport and drifting, but also in karting, as a karting helmet protects the driver's head from concussions and more serious injuries. A loose helmet can slide off, leaving you vulnerable.
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Comfort during long rides: A helmet that is too tight creates pressure points, rubs against the skin and can cause headaches. A properly fitted helmet distributes the load evenly, preventing discomfort even during long races.
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Maximum concentration on the track: Knowing that your helmet fits perfectly means you won't be distracted by adjusting it on the go. Your attention will be fully focused on apexes, braking and your opponents.
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Eliminate distractions: A helmet that is “sliding” around on the head can impair visibility, cause overheating, or create additional noise. All of this distracts the pilot from the main thing — the track.
Properly sized motorsport helmets are the key to your safety and confidence from the starting lights to the checkered flag.
What do you need to measure your helmet size?
You don't need any high-tech gadgets. The measurement process is simple and requires only a few things:
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A soft measuring tape is the kind used by tailors. It is flexible and allows you to accurately follow the contours of your head. Do not use a construction tape measure - its readings will be inaccurate.
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Mirror or friend - A mirror will help you make sure the tape is straight. Better yet, ask someone to help you to avoid any misalignment.
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Helmet liner (balaclava). If you plan to use a helmet liner for motorsports (which is a requirement for most competitions), put it on before measuring. This will ensure the most accurate fit.
Step-by-step instructions: how to measure head circumference
Once you're all set, it's time to get started. Getting your measurements right will ensure your helmet fits snugly, comfortably, and securely.
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Step 1: Position the tape. Wrap the tape measure around your head. The bottom edge should be about 2-2.5 cm (or the width of a finger) above your eyebrows.
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Step 2: Find the widest part. Continue to bring the tape just above your ears, covering the widest part of the back of your head. Make sure the tape is flat and horizontal all the way around. Use a mirror or a friend to help you.
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Step 3: Check the tension. The headband should fit snugly against your head, but not cut into your skin. It should fit like a comfortable hat—securely, but without excessive pressure.
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Step 4: Record the result. Look at the number where the end of the tape meets the main part of the tape. This is the circumference of your head in centimeters. Write it down.
How to decipher the helmet size chart
The result is your key to choosing the right size. However, it is important to remember that the size grids of different manufacturers (Arai, Bell, Stilo, OMP, etc.) may differ. This is a sample table:
However, there are some nuances with tables. Let's look at them:
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Always use the brand-specific size chart: Arai's “M” may be different from Stilo's “M”. Always check the official size chart of the helmet manufacturer you are interested in.
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What if your size is "between" two? For example, your head circumference is 59.5 cm, which is on the border between sizes M (58-59 cm) and L (60-61 cm).
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The rule for motorsport: always choose a smaller size. The inner lining of the helmet will "settle in" a little over time and shrink, ensuring a perfect fit. A larger helmet will become even looser over time.
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Not just size: Approval and safety standards. In addition to size, make sure the helmet has the appropriate certification for your racing discipline. The most common standard is FIA approval (e.g. FIA 8859-2015), which is mandatory for most official competitions in Ukraine and the world. For karting or track days, helmets with SNELL standards may be suitable.
Where to buy a helmet in Kyiv and Ukraine?
For a top-of-the-line racing helmet that combines safety, style and comfort, turn to ATOMIC-SHOP in Kyiv. We are your reliable supplier of track and race-proven equipment in Ukraine and around the world.
We offer a range of helmets from world-renowned brands. No matter what you do — circuit racing, time attack, drag racing, rally or karting — at ATOMIC-SHOP you will find the helmet that fits you perfectly. What's more, we can measure your head circumference right in our showroom to ensure a perfect fit. If you are unsure how to determine the correct size, we will advise you every step of the way.
ATOMIC-SHOP managers are truly passionate about their work, so they are very knowledgeable in the details of tuning and motorsports equipment. We are always ready to help and advise. If necessary, we will help you choose the optimal helmet, taking into account your discipline and budget.
Don't risk your safety. Choose wisely and drive with confidence!
There is no compromise when it comes to safety. A few minutes spent measuring your head correctly can save you from serious injuries. A well-fitting helmet not only protects you, but also allows you to fully concentrate on racing, feeling confident around every turn.
Regardless of whether you visit our showroom in Kyiv or place an order on the website, you can count on helmets from ATOMIC.
We understand how much professionals value comfort and safety. That's why ATOMIC-SHOP offers only certified helmets. You can be sure that every helmet in our collection is designed for maximum performance even in the most extreme conditions.
Ready to upgrade? Check out our range and buy your new racing helmet today!
