Stilo FAQ and Helmet Fit

Stilo Helmet FAQ & Fit Guide

Answered by Aaron Harris — Barcelona 24 Hour class winner, Bathurst competitor, MSNZ licence examiner, and motorsport race engineer. Harris Race Radios has been supplying motorsport safety equipment to NZ and AU competitors since 1975.

📖 Part of the Harris Race Radios Helmet Knowledge Centre | Which Stilo model do I need? →

Homologation

1. How are Stilo helmets rated?

Stilo helmets are certified to FIA 8860-2018, FIA 8859-2024, FIA 8859-2024 ABP, FIA 8860-2018 ABP, Snell SA2025, Snell K2020, and Snell CMR2016. The current Snell rating for car racing is SA2025. SA stands for Special Application — SA-rated helmets are used in competitive automobile racing and require a fire-retardant lining. K2020 and CMR2016 are karting standards and do not require fire-retardant linings. For a full explanation of all current standards, see our FIA & Snell Standards guide.

2. Where can I find the FIA or Snell homologation on my helmet?

The homologation labels are located under the helmet padding, usually in the nape area, or on the outside of the helmet in the nape area. Removing the label will void the homologation — never remove it.

3. Which helmet homologations are no longer valid for FIA competitions?

From the end of 2023, the following homologations are no longer valid for FIA competitions: all helmets bearing FIA 8858-2002, all helmets bearing FIA 8858-2010, and all helmets bearing any Snell label without an FIA label. Check your helmet homologation before registering for each race or championship. If in doubt, contact us — Aaron is an MSNZ licence examiner and can confirm compliance.

4. What is the difference between FIA 8859-2024 and FIA 8860-2018?

FIA 8859-2024 is the current premium standard for most club and national motorsport in NZ and AU. FIA 8860-2018 is the highest FIA standard — mandatory carbon shell, stricter impact testing, required for Supercars, WEC, WRC, and top-tier professional series. See our full standards guide for detail.

Fitting

5. How do I choose the right size for my Stilo helmet?

Measure the circumference of your head at its widest part, above the eyebrows and ears. If you will be wearing a balaclava, measure while wearing it. The helmet must fit snugly without putting pressure on the head. When you shake your head the helmet must remain firmly in place and must not rotate. When the throat strap is fastened it must be impossible to take off the helmet — if this is possible, the size is incorrect.

Size Head Circumference
XXS 54cm
XS 55cm
S 57cm
M 58–59cm
L 59–60cm
XL 61cm
XXL 63cm
XXXL 64cm

6. How should my Stilo helmet fit?

Your helmet should fit tightly to your head without being uncomfortable. It should be well-seated at the crown with even pressure around your head. Cheek and ear areas can be custom fitted with different pad thicknesses.

7. How do I wear my Stilo helmet correctly?

Grasp the helmet by the two edges of the strap keeping the strap wide apart. If the helmet is equipped with ear cups, check their correct positioning. Slide the helmet over your head and check that the strap cover is positioned correctly.

8. Where can I find the size of my Stilo helmet?

There is a size label inside the back of the helmet’s interior fit pad. Lift the interior padding at the back of the helmet and look on the foam side of the fit pad.

9. Why must my Stilo helmet fit perfectly?

A correctly fitted helmet is not only more comfortable — it works better by protecting your head more effectively in an impact. Fit plays a critical role in both safety and performance. An ill-fitting helmet can move under load, reducing its protective capacity.

HANS and FHR Devices

10. Does Stilo install head restraint anchors on its helmets?

Yes. Stilo installs M6 head restraint anchors on full-face helmets. Please specify at time of purchase. An installation fee may apply if retrofitting.

11. Does my Stilo helmet work with HANS and FHR devices?

Stilo full-face helmets homologated to FIA 8859-2024 or FIA 8860-2018 are produced with M6 terminal hardware incorporated into the helmet shell and certified for use with approved head and neck restraint devices. Karting models do not include M6 terminals and are not appropriate for head and neck devices. See our Stilo Helmet & FHR Packages for bundled options.

12. Can I modify my Stilo helmet?

No. Modifying a helmet from its manufactured specifications is highly risky and will void FIA homologation. Do not puncture, press, or cut the cushioning layer. Use only original Stilo spare parts to replace helmet components.

Maintenance

13. How do I clean my Stilo helmet?

The internal lining can be cleaned by rubbing gently with a damp microfibre cloth, using a delicate neutral soap and warm water. Leave the helmet to dry at room temperature — do not use a hairdryer or heat source. Do not use petrol, paint, or chemical cleaning materials. See our Stilo Helmet Dryer for efficient drying between events.

14. How do I clean the removable liner covers?

Hand wash, dampen with a towel, then air dry at room temperature.

15. How do I clean my Stilo visor?

For visors with Antifog coating, only use the appropriate Stilo cleaner (YA0640). Do not use water-based products on the internal surface of the visor. Using other products may damage the antifog coating. See our Stilo Visors & Peaks collection for genuine replacement visors.

16. How should I store my Stilo helmet?

Clean with water and mild soap, thoroughly air dry, then store in the original helmet bag in a well-ventilated, dry environment away from strong chemicals and fuel.

Still Have Questions?

Contact Aaron or Rex Harris directly — we’re happy to help with any Stilo helmet question.

  • 📞 Aaron Harris: +64 27 449 9654 — MSNZ Licence Examiner & Race Engineer
  • 📞 Rex Harris: +64 21 682 912 — RSM Certified Radio Engineer
  • 📧 Contact us online — free advice, fast response

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Harris Race Radios — NZ and AU motorsport communications and safety equipment specialists since 1975. Answered by Aaron Harris (MSNZ licence examiner, motorsport race engineer), reviewed and updated June 2026.