So, maybe you're looking for your first karting helmet or maybe you're just looking for your next… Anything will beat a 'default-skin' helmet from your local track so let's talk about the options.

Most people in rentals (and owners) tend to have an Arai SK6 or a Bell RSK-7 — but what's the difference? How do you pick between the two? Or perhaps — are there others to consider?

Let's talk safety

Some rental tracks will let you run pretty much anything, but here's a list of standards and what they mean in case you're looking to make a quick purchase right now…

• DOT FMVSS 218 – fine for most U-S indoor tracks.

• ECE 22.06 – accepted across European hire circuits.

• Snell M2020 – motorcycle rating many outdoor rentals prefer as a baseline.

• Snell K2020 / FIA 8878-2024 – This is the one to go for if you want a helmet you can kart in anywhere.

Okay so, Bell, Arai or Stilo?

Well really, it comes down to the shape of your head. The general consensus amongst reviews online is…

• A taller, narrower head = Arai

• A wider, rounder head = Bell

• Somewhere in-between = Stilo

This definitely matches my experiences when I bought my Arai SK6 and compared it with a Bell RS7K last year.

But seriously, try before you buy

Helmets aren't cheap — It's worth the trip to your local motorsport store to ensure you get a helmet that…

A) Suits the shape of your head

B) Actually fits your head.

You don't want any pressure spots at all, so it's better to go one size up than one size down — especially if your balaclava has seams or bunches when the lid goes on.

Other factors you may (or may not) care about

• Anti-fog visors? Bell ships one standard; others sell upgrades.

• How old are you? "Childrens" helmets like the Arai CK6 & Bell CK7 CMR are lighter, tiring out your neck less.

• Affordable spares – Zamp acessories costs a fraction of Arai & Bells.

So, here are the top recommendations for adults…

Arai SK-6

• Long-oval / intermediate-oval fit, ultra-light composite shell.

• Huge eye-port = great peripheral vision indoors.

• The lid you’ll spot at league nights and national grids alike.

Bell RS7-K

• Factory double-screen anti-fog visor – no steamy corners.

• Fourteen vents keep you cool; intermediate-to-round fit.

• Premium build (and price) but worth it if it fits.

Stilo ST5 KRT

• The lightest of the bunch.

• Head shape sits between Arai and Bell – a true Goldilocks.

• Stilo's are great for radio system upgrades.

Best helmets for kids (ages 6–14)

Arai CK-6

• CMR-rated, 50–59 cm sizes, ~1 080 g.

• Long-oval shape, excellent airflow.

Bell KC7-CMR

• CMR-rated with double-screen anti-fog visor fitted.

• Slightly heavier than the Arai but vents like a champ.