Which Stilo Helmet Do I Need?
Written by Aaron Harris — Barcelona 24 Hour class winner, Bathurst competitor and MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner. His licence-examiner role does not certify helmets or racewear. Rex Harris is a qualified radio engineer and NZ RSM/AU ACMA Approved Radio Certifier; that radio role is separate from helmet approval. Harris Race Radios has supplied motorsport helmets and communications equipment to NZ and AU competitors since 1975.
Use this quick guide to compare Stilo helmets by discipline. Check the homologation label and current event rules before choosing. For more detail see the Stilo Motorsport Helmet Guide — NZ & AU and the Helmet Knowledge Centre.
Quick Answer by Discipline
| Discipline | Stilo models to compare | Standard to check on the actual helmet |
|---|---|---|
| Closed-cockpit club circuit and endurance; integrated communications | ST6 F Carbon or Composite | FIA 8859-2024, subject to category rules |
| Closed-cockpit club circuit and endurance; flexible communications fitment | ST6 FN Carbon or Composite | FIA 8859-2024, subject to category rules |
| Open wheel or formula | ST6 FN Carbon ABP models | Applicable FIA ABP homologation and series rules |
| Higher-level circuit categories | Stilo FIA 8860 models | Required FIA homologation and event rules |
| Rally | Venti4 WRC Composite or Venti WRC Carbon | Model's FIA homologation and rally regulations |
| Off-road, rallycross or drift | WRX Venti Dirt or Raid | Helmet homologation and discipline rules |
| Junior karting | ST6 CMR Lite Carbon | Snell CMR2016 and karting rules |
| Adult karting | ST6 KRT Composite | Applicable karting homologation and series rules |
| Offshore or powerboat | ST6 F Offshore | Governing body's requirements |
ST6 F vs ST6 FN: ST6 F has built-in electronics for a compatible radio or intercom; ST6 FN can accommodate a separately specified communications setup. Confirm fitment and connector compatibility before ordering. Helmet homologation, not an employee's qualifications, determines which standards the helmet carries.
Common Questions
- Can I use a Stilo helmet for both rally and circuit?
- A compatible ST6 model may suit both; check the actual helmet's homologation and both series' rules. Venti WRC models are rally-oriented.
- Do I need a carbon helmet?
- Not necessarily. Carbon can reduce helmet weight; composite may be more affordable. Compare fit and homologation in our ST6 Composite vs Carbon guide.
- What's the difference between ST5 and ST6?
- The ST5 is no longer manufactured; ST6 is the current range. See our ST5 vs ST6 guide.
- ST6 F or ST6 FN?
- Choose based on the communications setup you actually use. See the Stilo communications guide or contact us with your connector and radio details.
- Are the Stilo helmets from Harris Race Radios genuine?
- Yes. We supply genuine Stilo products. Read our Stilo supply guide.
Not Sure? Ask Us.
Tell us your discipline, category, cockpit type and radio system. Check your event rules for the final helmet and FHR requirements.
- Rex Harris: 021 682912 — radio engineer and NZ/AU approved radio certifier
- Aaron Harris: +64 27 449 9654 — racing driver, race engineer and MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner
- Contact us online
Related Guides
- Full Stilo NZ & AU Helmet Guide
- Choosing the Correct Stilo Helmet
- ST5 vs ST6
- ST6 Composite vs Carbon
- FIA & Snell Standards Explained
- Motorsport Australia Helmet Guide
Shop Stilo Helmets
Maintained by Harris Race Radios for NZ and AU motorsport competitors. Aaron Harris is a MotorSport NZ Licence Examiner only, not a helmet or FHR certifier. Verify current series regulations with your organiser before purchasing.