Choosing the Correct Stilo Helmet (Australia & NZ)

Written by Aaron Harris — Barcelona 24 Hour class winner, Bathurst competitor, and MSNZ licence examiner for helmets and racewear.

Choosing the right Stilo helmet is more than picking a colour or price point. The wrong helmet can leave you non-compliant for your race series, uncomfortable over a long stint, or poorly integrated with your radio system. This guide is designed to help you make the right decision before you buy — and if you're still unsure, contact us for free expert advice.

Step 1 — What Does Your Race Series Require?

Always check the current regulations for your specific series before purchasing. Requirements change between seasons. Here's a general guide for Australian and NZ competitors:

FIA 8859-2024

The current minimum standard for most circuit racing, rally, and club-level events in Australia and New Zealand, including Motorsport Australia (CAMS) club and state championship events, MSNZ club and national championship events, ARC, NZRC, TCR Australia, S5000, and Australian GT (most categories).

Recommended helmets: Stilo ST6 FN Composite, ST6 FN Carbon, ST6 GT Carbon, Venti4 WRC Composite, WRX Venti Dirt/Raid Carbon

FIA 8860-2018

The highest FIA standard, required for Supercars Championship, WEC, WRC, IMSA, and Australian GT Pro class.

Recommended helmets: Stilo Venti WRC 8860 Carbon, Stilo ST6 FN Carbon ABP

FIA 8860-2018 ABP

Required for open-wheel formula racing: Formula Ford, Formula 4, Formula 3 and above.

Recommended helmet: Stilo ST6 FN Carbon ABP

FIA CMR / KRT

Required for junior and senior karting competitors in sanctioned events.

Recommended helmet: Stilo ST6 KRT Composite Kart Helmet

Step 2 — What Type of Racing Do You Do?

Circuit Racing (closed cockpit)

Choose a full-face helmet with integrated sideports if you use a radio or intercom system. The Stilo ST6 GT series is specifically designed for closed-cockpit GT and touring car racing.

Best options: ST6 GT Carbon, ST6 FN Carbon, ST6 F Carbon

Circuit Racing (open-wheel / formula)

Best options: ST6 FN Carbon, ST6 FN Carbon ABP

Rally

Best options: Stilo Venti WRC 8860 Carbon (professional), Stilo Venti4 WRC Composite (club level), Stilo Trophy Plus (entry level)

Offroad / Rallycross / Drift

Best options: Stilo WRX Venti Dirt Carbon (full visor), Stilo WRX Venti Raid Carbon (goggle-compatible)

Karting

Best option: Stilo ST6 KRT Composite

Offshore / Powerboat

Best option: Stilo Venti4 WRC Offshore

Step 3 — Carbon or Composite?

	Carbon	Composite
Weight	Lighter (typically 200–300g less)	Heavier
Strength	Higher strength-to-weight ratio	Strong but heavier
Price	Higher	More affordable
Best for	Professional & endurance racing, long stints	Club racing, occasional use

For endurance racing or any event over 2 hours, carbon is strongly recommended — neck fatigue from a heavier helmet compounds significantly over a long stint.

Step 4 — Does Your Helmet Need to Work with a Radio or Intercom?

Stilo helmets come in two configurations: with electronics (built-in microphone, speakers, and wiring) or without electronics (shell only). Harris Race Radios® specialises in matching Stilo helmets to the correct radio and intercom system. Learn more about our Stilo communications integration service.

Step 5 — Getting the Right Fit

Stilo helmets are available in multiple shell sizes. Measure your head circumference at the widest point (just above the eyebrows) and contact us if you're between sizes.

• XXS — 54cm
• XS — 55cm
• S — 57cm
• M — 58–59cm
• L — 59–60cm
• XL — 61cm
• XXL — 63cm
• XXXL — 64cm

Still Not Sure? Ask Us.

• 📞 Rex Harris: +64 21 682 912 — Radio Communications Engineer, ARE127
• 📞 Aaron Harris: +64 27 449 9654 — Race & Data Engineer
• 📧 Contact us online — free quotes, 24/7

Browse our full Stilo helmet range | Stilo Helmets Australia | CAMS Approved Helmets Australia | Stilo Communications Integration