Looking for top-tier protection and performance on the track? The Snell SA2020 helmet raises the bar for motorsport safety and comfort. Certified to the latest standards, it’s a must-have for racers and enthusiasts seeking advanced features, robust durability, and optimal fit. This guide will help you choose the perfect SA2020 helmet to match your needs and elevate your racing experience.
Snell SA2020 Helmet Variations Comparison Table
| Helmet Type | Common Materials | Form Factor | Price Range | Sizes Available | Main Intended Use | Notable Brands |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | Fiberglass Composite | Full Face | $199-$300 | XS-XXL | General Motorsports | Zamp, RaceQuip, Conquer |
| Mid-Range | Composite, Fiberglass | Full Face | $250-$400 | XS-XXXL | Semi-Pro Racing/Track Day | G-Force, Bell, Zamp |
| Premium | Carbon Fiber Blend | Full Face | $400-$900+ | XS-XXXL | Professional Racing | Bell, Arai, Stilo |
| Youth/Small Sizes | Composite/Fiberglass | Full Face | $180-$300 | 2XS-XS | Youth, Smaller Adults | G-Force, Zamp |
| Open-Face | Fiberglass/Composite | Open Face | $200-$500 | S-XXL | Vintage/Club Racing | Bell, Arai, BridgeMoto |
| Fresh-Air Equipped | Composite/Carbon | Full Face | $350-$1000+ | S-XXL | Endurance Racing | Impact, Stilo, G-Force |
Everyday Usage: How and Where Snell SA2020 Helmets Are Used
Snell SA2020 helmets are engineered for the unique dangers of motorsports. These helmets are not for motorcycles or bicycles—they’re specifically designed for automotive applications where fire risk, flying debris, and high-speed impacts are concerns.
Who Uses SA2020 Helmets?
- Track Day Enthusiasts: Required at most High Performance Driver Education (HPDE) events.
- Autocross Racers: Often mandated for local and national autocross events.
- Drag Racers: Needed for both amateur and sanctioned drag racing, as required by NHRA and similar bodies.
- Club Racers: SCCA, NASA, and other sanctioning bodies require up-to-date Snell standards.
- Professional Drivers: Premium models are often chosen for pro-level endurance, sprint, and rally events.
- Youth Racers: Special small-sized SA2020 helmets are available for junior drivers moving up from karting.
Everyday Benefits
- Maximum Crash and Fire Protection – Meets high standards for impacts and fire resistance.
- Head & Neck Restraint Compatibility – All SA2020 models feature M6 threaded inserts for HANS and similar devices.
- Comfort and Ventilation – Designed for hours of wear without compromise.
- Adaptability – Widely accepted across most racing organizations.
- Ease of Communication – Many allow for easy installation of intercom systems.
Key Benefits of the Snell SA2020 Helmet
Improved Safety Standards
The Snell SA2020 standard incorporates the latest research in helmet safety:
– Stricter impact testing on both shell and visor than the prior SA2015.
– Enhanced flame resistance for both the shell and interior padding.
– M6 inserts pre-installed for certified head and neck restraint (HNR) devices, ensuring compatibility with modern safety gear.
Versatility Across Applications
These helmets are accepted in almost every motorsport discipline:
– Road racing
– Autocross
– Track days/HPDE
– Drag racing
– Rally, drifting, time attack
Broad Range of Designs and Prices
- From basic fiber-composite shells for budget-conscious buyers to ultra-lightweight carbon fiber helmets for professionals.
- Full face, open face, and fresh-air equipped variants available.
- Sizing options for both adults and youth.
Comfort and User-Focused Features
- Removable, washable interiors for easy cleaning.
- Multiple sizes and cheek pad options for a custom fit.
- Excellent ventilation reduces heat and sweat buildup during long sessions.
- Anti-fog, anti-scratch shields; tear-off posts for racing conditions.
Longevity
- The SA2020 certification is current until at least 2025, ensuring multi-season use before new standards are required by most organizations.
How to Choose the Right Snell SA2020 Helmet
Selecting the best helmet is a personal process, but following these steps will help ensure safety, comfort, and value.
1. Determine Your Application
- Racing Discipline: Road racing, drag, rally, and autocross may have specific needs (e.g., fresh-air for endurance, open face for vintage).
- Sanctioning Body Rules: Always verify that the chosen helmet is approved for your events.
2. Select the Appropriate Type
- Full-Face: Maximum protection, suited for most high-speed and open-cockpit racing.
- Open-Face: Good for vintage racing or lower-speed events, but with less face protection.
- Fresh-Air: For cars with enclosed cockpits or endurance racing in warm climates.
3. Choose the Right Shell Material
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Polycarbonate | Lowest cost | Heavier, less advanced |
| Fiberglass | Good mix of lightness/cost | Slightly heavier than carbon |
| Carbon Fiber | Lightest, best impact/flex | Expensive |
4. Find Your Size and Fit
- Measure Head Circumference: Use a soft tape, just above the eyebrows and around the largest part of the head.
- Look for Custom Fit Options: Adjustable cheek pads, interchangeable liners, or models offering a wide size range (XS-XXXL).
- Try It On: The fit should be snug with no pressure points, and the helmet should not move if you shift your head.
5. Consider Extra Features
- Removable/Washable Liner: For easy cleaning.
- Intercom Ready: Slots/cutouts for comms equipment.
- Shield Options: Anti-fog, tinted, mirror, or tear-off-compatible.
- Venting: Essential for driver comfort, especially in warm climates.
- Fresh Air Adapter: For endurance or closed cars.
6. Budget Planning
- Top-tier features (carbon fiber shells, advanced ventilation) come at a premium, but many entry helmets adequately meet safety standards.
Tips, Best Practices, and Expert Advice
- Never Buy Used Helmets: The integrity of a used helmet is unknown, and internal damage may not be visible.
- Replace After Any Serious Impact: A crash, drop, or visible damage requires immediate replacement, even if it looks intact.
- Winter vs. Summer Use: Opt for more vented helmets for hot climates; for cold weather, select models with adjustable/closable vents or breath deflectors.
- Helmet Bag: Always store your helmet in a protective bag away from direct sunlight and chemicals.
- Keep Clean: Sweat and dirt can degrade liners; removable liners or helmet socks (balaclavas) improve comfort and hygiene.
- Check for Events Compliance: Some racing series are strict about the date code; never bring an expired-certified helmet to tech inspection.
- Practice Wear: Use the helmet for short periods at home to get accustomed to the fit before race day.
- Check Your HNR Compatibility: Make sure your head & neck restraint system matches the M6 anchor setup.
- Label Readily Accessible: Event tech inspectors will check the Snell certification label, usually inside the liner.
- Don’t Delay Replacement: SA2020-certified helmets will need replacement for future standards (like SA2025) around 2026–2027 for most series. Plan ahead.
Snell SA2020 Helmet Technical Comparison Table
| Model Example | Shell Material | Weight | Sizes | HNR Compatible | Ventilation | Notable Features | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zamp RZ-59 | Composite | ~3.6 lbs | XS-XXL | Yes (M6) | Multi-port | Affordable, removable/washable liner | $199-$220 |
| RaceQuip PRO20 Series | Composite Blend | ~3.5-3.8 lbs | XS-2XL | Yes (M6) | Yes | HANS-ready, larger chin bar | $270-$320 |
| Bell K1 PRO | Carbon/Kevlar | ~3.3 lbs | XS-XXXL | Yes (M6) | Adjustable | Professional, advanced venting | $500-$700 |
| G-Force Rift | Composite | ~3.6 lbs | 2XS-2XL | Yes (M6) | Multiple vents | Youth/Adult sizing, washable liner | $249 |
| Conquer 350-FF-SA20 | Fiberglass | ~3.5 lbs | S-XL | Yes (M6) | Vented | Tear-off posts, Nomex lining | $235 |
| Speedway Motors SA2020 | Carbon/Fiberglass | ~3.5 lbs | S-XXL | Yes (M6) | Multi-port | Low/intermediate budget model | $220-$300 |
| Bell RS7 | Carbon/Kevlar | ~3.1 lbs | 54–61+ (cm) | Yes (M6) | Advanced vents | Top-tier, pro-level, ultra-light | $800-$1200 |
How to Get the Best from Your Snell SA2020 Helmet
Sizing
- Always follow the manufacturer’s size chart.
- Measure more than once—accuracy is key to performance and safety.
- When in doubt, a slightly snug fit is better than one that’s too loose.
Maintenance
- Let the helmet air-dry after use.
- Remove/wash inner lining regularly.
- Store away from direct heat and sunlight.
Tech Upgrades
- If using in long races or hot climates, consider retrofitting with a helmet air system, compatible shields, or communication equipment, ensuring manufacturer compatibility with the base helmet.
Inspection Routine
- Before each event, check for cracks, liner compression, or compromised hardware.
- Ensure shield latches, vent covers, and chin straps function perfectly.
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Conclusion
Choosing a Snell SA2020 helmet means you’re equipping yourself with one of the most up-to-date, rigorously tested head protection systems in motorsports. These helmets are trusted by professional and amateur racers alike for their blend of advanced safety, comfort, and compatibility with modern racing requirements. Carefully selecting the right model for your needs—and maintaining it properly—will keep you safe, compliant, and confident every time you hit the track.
FAQ
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What does the ‘SA2020’ designation mean on a helmet?
SA2020 refers to the Snell Memorial Foundation’s Special Application (SA) helmet standard introduced in 2020. It’s designed for automotive racing, requiring helmets to pass impact, puncture, and fire resistance tests, and to have threaded inserts for head and neck restraint systems. -
Can I use a Snell SA2020 helmet for motorcycle riding?
No. SA2020 helmets are developed for auto racing and have different criteria than motorcycle (M) helmets. For motorcycles, look for Snell M2020 or DOT/ECE certifications.
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How do I know if my helmet is compatible with a HANS device or head-and-neck restraint?
All Snell SA2020 helmets have M6 threaded inserts installed, ensuring compatibility with HANS and most other head-and-neck restraint systems. -
Are Snell SA2020 helmets accepted at racing events?
Yes, SA2020 is the current required standard for sanctioned events by organizations such as SCCA, NASA, NHRA, and many club/track day organizers. -
What’s the difference between SA2015 and SA2020?
SA2020 features stricter impact testing on the shell, improved fire protection, and continued HNR compatibility versus SA2015. It reflects the latest safety research for automotive racing. -
How should a Snell SA2020 helmet fit?
It should fit snugly but not painfully. The helmet should not shift independently when you turn or shake your head. Refer to brand-specific size charts for best results. -
How long can I use a Snell SA2020 helmet before it expires?
Typically, most organizations will allow SA2020 helmets until the release and adoption of the next standard (expected: SA2025), with a grace period. This is usually around 5–7 years from manufacture. -
What’s the difference between full-face and open-face SA2020 helmets?
Full-face helmets offer more protection, especially for chin, face, and jaw. Open-face helmets are lighter, cooler, and often used in vintage racing or low-risk disciplines. -
Should I choose a carbon fiber helmet over a composite helmet?
Carbon fiber shells are lighter and often stronger but more expensive. Composite helmets (fiberglass/resin blends) offer adequate safety and are more budget-friendly. -
Are there special SA2020 helmets for youth or smaller heads?
Yes. Some brands offer SA2020 helmets starting at 2XS or XS sizes, suitable for youth drivers or adults with small heads. Always refer to the size range and fit guides.
Equipped with this guide, you can confidently select, use, and care for your Snell SA2020 helmet, ensuring maximum safety and value every time you strap in.