Helmet Fit & Sizing Guide
Harris Race Radios TeamA properly fitted motorsport helmet is the single most important factor in driver safety and comfort. A $2,000 helmet that fits poorly is less safe than a $500 helmet that fits correctly. As professional race, comms, and data engineers, we've fitted thousands of helmets across circuit racing, rally, endurance, off‑road, Speedway, and Lemons racing. This guide explains how to get the perfect fit for brands like Stilo, Bell, Schuberth, Roux, Xron, MRC, Impact, and Pyrotect.
Harris Race Radios holds NZ stock for fast local dispatch and ships to Australia — so you can get the right helmet quickly, with expert fitting advice included.
1. Why Helmet Fit Matters
- Safety — A loose helmet can rotate or lift in an impact.
- Comfort — Pressure points cause headaches and fatigue.
- Noise — Gaps increase wind and engine noise.
- Comms clarity — Padding density affects microphone performance.
- Fatigue — A well‑fitted helmet reduces neck strain.
Motorsport helmets are designed to fit snugly. If you're used to motorcycle helmets, motorsport helmets will feel tighter — this is normal and necessary.
2. How to Measure Your Head Correctly
- Above the eyebrows
- Around the widest part of the head
- Level around the back of the skull
Record the measurement in centimetres. This is your starting point for sizing.
Important: Different brands fit differently even at the same size. Always try the helmet on or consult our expert team.
3. How a Properly Fitted Helmet Should Feel
- The helmet should feel snug but not painful.
- Your cheeks should be pushed in firmly — like pressing on your gums.
- You should not be able to rotate the helmet independently of your head.
- No hot spots or sharp pressure points after 5–10 minutes.
- The crown (top) should make full contact with your head.
If you can shake your head and the helmet moves separately, it is too big.
4. Common Fit Mistakes We See Every Week
- Buying too big — the #1 mistake.
- Choosing by hat size — completely inaccurate.
- Not wearing the helmet long enough — pressure points appear after 5–10 minutes.
- Ignoring head shape — round vs oval matters.
- Assuming all brands fit the same — they don't.
5. Brand‑to‑Brand Fit Differences
- Stilo: Neutral‑oval fit. Works for most drivers.
- Bell: Round‑oval. Great for wider heads.
- Schuberth: Intermediate‑oval. Very stable at speed.
- Roux: Slightly narrow. Good for slim head shapes.
- Impact: Round‑oval. Popular in Speedway and off‑road.
- Pyrotect: Neutral‑oval. Good value and versatile fit.
- Xron: Neutral entry‑level fit for Speedway and Lemons.
6. Cheek Pads, Crown Pads & Custom Fit Options
- Thicker or thinner cheek pads for comfort and stability.
- Crown pad adjustments for height and pressure.
- Stilo and Bell offer the widest range of fit tuning options.
We can supply and install all fit‑adjustment components.
7. Fit Testing Procedure (Used by Race Teams)
- Put the helmet on by pulling the straps apart and rolling it over your head.
- Fasten the chin strap firmly.
- Shake your head side‑to‑side and up‑and‑down.
- Try to rotate the helmet — it should not move independently.
- Wear it for 5–10 minutes to check for pressure points.
- Simulate race posture — seated, looking forward, hands on wheel.
If you feel pain or pressure after 10 minutes, the helmet is the wrong size or shape.
8. When to Replace Your Helmet
- Every 5–10 years depending on FIA/Snell standard expiry.
- After any significant impact — even if no cracks are visible.
- If the liner has compressed and the helmet feels loose.
- If scrutineers reject it due to age or condition.
All helmets we stock meet the relevant FIA standards (FIA 8859-2015, FIA 8860-2018 ABP, or SNELL SA2020 as applicable) and are accepted under both MSNZ and Motorsport Australia regulations. Aaron Harris is an MSNZ Licence Examiner and can advise on which standard your series requires.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a motorsport helmet fits correctly?
The helmet should feel snug but not painful. Your cheeks should be pushed in firmly, you should not be able to rotate the helmet independently of your head, and there should be no pressure points after 5–10 minutes of wear. If the helmet moves when you shake your head, it is too big.
What head measurement do I need for a motorsport helmet?
Measure around your head above the eyebrows, around the widest part, and level around the back of the skull. Record in centimetres. This is your starting size — but oval shape (round, neutral, or intermediate) matters just as much as circumference. Call Aaron on +64 27 449 9654 for a personal recommendation.
Do Stilo, Bell, and Schuberth helmets fit the same?
No. Stilo is neutral-oval, Bell is round-oval (suits wider NZ and AU heads), and Schuberth is intermediate-oval. Getting the right oval shape is as important as getting the right size. Our team can advise based on your head shape and racing discipline.
Are your helmets MSNZ and Motorsport Australia approved?
Yes. All helmets we stock meet FIA 8859-2015, FIA 8860-2018 ABP, or SNELL SA2020 standards as applicable, and are accepted under MSNZ and Motorsport Australia regulations. Aaron Harris is an MSNZ Licence Examiner for helmets, racewear, and FHR/HANS devices.
How often should I replace my motorsport helmet?
Every 5–10 years depending on the FIA or Snell standard, or immediately after any significant impact — even if there are no visible cracks. If the liner has compressed and the helmet feels loose, replace it. Scrutineers at MSNZ and Motorsport Australia events will reject helmets that are out of date.
Why Buy From Harris Race Radios?
Harris Race Radios is NZ and AU's most experienced motorsport helmet specialist. Our team brings unmatched depth of knowledge across every brand we stock:
- Rex Harris — Qualified Radio Telecommunications Engineer and Approved Radio Certifier for both NZ RSM and AU ACMA, with motorsport radio and equipment experience dating back to 1975 at the Marlboro Series Grand Prix.
- Aaron Harris — Active racing driver and race engineer. Barcelona 24 Hour 1st in class (2013), Bathurst 1000 and 12 Hour competitor, BMW Race Driver Series Champion (2011). Race engineer for Earl Bamber Motorsport, TekworkX, Matt Stone Racing, and Porsche Carrera Cup Australia, Asia-Pacific, and NZ. MSNZ Licence Examiner for helmets, racewear, FHR, and HANS. Contact Aaron: +64 27 449 9654 or aaron@harriscomms.co.nz.
We hold NZ stock for fast local dispatch and ship to Australia. Genuine factory stock, expert fitting advice, and a team that races in the same helmets they sell. Read more about us →
Need Help Finding the Right Fit?
Tell us your head measurement, racing type, and preferred brands — we'll match you to the perfect helmet. Call Aaron on +64 27 449 9654 or Rex on +64 21 682 912, or contact us online for a free fitting recommendation.