I'm planning to get into DE after many years off the track. My Snell 1970 helmet obviously need to be replaced. I'm considering the G-Force Proforce 1, The Bell M4, and the HJC AR10. Ddoes anyone have experience with any of these and could you make a recommendation?

I have a Bell S2R. Full face helmet, with wide opening - I use eyeglasses and do not need an enclosing face shield. Receoomended by Bell for AX and track days in closed cockpit cars. Works very well for me.

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The Croc's Nest:
2008 Targa 4S
2006 Cayman S
2006 Cayenne S

I purchased the G Force Pro Force 1 as my first helmet (ever). I sent it back and got the Bell M4. To be sure, it was for no other reason than an error on ordering. However, let me explain. I ordered the correct size G Force from Soloracer.com but the incorrect size was sent. I tried it on upon receipt for about 5 mins. Then went to a DE at VIR and did one session in the helmet. I knew immediately I had the wrong size. I purchased the M4 from the VIR pro shop merely because of need (immediate). I can tell you that I like the Bell m4 much better. Better quality on the interior and also the face shield and visor seemed to be much better made as well. The cost is obviously greater for the M4. I think it was worth it. I paid a premium at the pro shop no doubt. But I really like my helmet.

Let me add that there was really nothing wrong with the G Force helmet. Nothing at all. I think it is a great helmet for the price, especially on a budget. I do not think you can go wrong with either one. Personal preference really.

If you want more analytical information or comparison, I am happy to provide that too, but I am afraid only 15 minutes with the Bell versus a couple of events with the M4 would be a bit biased. Plus the fact, I do not really remember the "amenities" of the G Force very well (air flow vents, fogging...etc.) I am happy to answer any questions about them as best I can and obviously I can discuss the M4 better.

Ask away.

Oh one more thing......

I HIGHLY recommend to purchase from Soloracer. I cannot remember the gentleman's name (the owner) but he was about as hands on with me as any customer service rep could possibly be. He was friendly, prompt, fair and very very helpful during the return. Even though he admitted the mistake, and knew I purchased from VIR, he offered a nice ($50) coupon for future purchases. I will definitely purchase from SoloRacer again. Ken I hope this is not a violation of terms. If so, i will edit or you can. If Solo Racer is not a sponsor, I recommend approaching him! I can find his name if needed.

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Kevin

I have used a Bell M4 since the 2005 rated version came out and like it very much. To me it combines most of the features of more expensive Bell helmets, primaily light weight, at a relatively moderate cost. Less expensive helmets usually are heavier which can become tiresome.

Ideal way to buy, when possible, is after a try on.

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Formerly 914Geezer

I also have a Bell M4 that I bought from "Safe Racer" and am completely satisfied. If you can afford more you might think of one of the lighter weight helmets.

If your going to spend about $550 for a Bell M4 you owe it to yourself to also consider an Arai GP5W for a little more. You can get a 10% discount from a few online stores, PM if you want more info. Yes, it's getting expensive, but they make great hats, lightweight, great quality and it doesn't have to be white.

I ordered a black one with a peak visor and love it, Arai sent a standard clear visor helmet and just included a black peak visor, so it's good either open or closed.

from Arai's EU site, a decent photo...
Arai Helmet (Europe) B.V.

I have a Bell M2 pro series that I like a lot. It's pretty much the same as the M4 - full-face and larger eyeport for wearing glasses. The main differences between the "racer" and "pro" series Bell helmets (besides the price) is that the pro series helmets are much lighter - made from composites instead of fiberglass - and they come in hat sizes as opposed to S, M, L, XL... so they fit much more precisely.

brad

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21-year PCA Member
PCA DE Instructor

+1 on the Arai GP5W. Most comfortable helmet I have owned and ready for HANS device when you are

Tom

Not to muddy the waters, but if you're interested in a light weight helmet, check out the HJC Si12. It's at a higher price point than you were asking about ($640 from soloracer.com), but is the lightest helmet I've found. In a Large it weighs less than 3 pounds. It also has great ventilation and is HANS ready.

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Dan

+2 on the Arai, I have the GP5(ped), it is more expensive, but it very light weight, but has a small eye port. I chose Arai, because they are the only manufacturer that has the attachment points for a HANS device, pre-drilled into the helmet at the factory, and was Snell tested as such. IMO, if you take an existing helmet and drill holes into the shell, you are compromising the structural integrety of the helmet. There is probably much variation in drilling skills and techniques for the HANS holes, but when it is done out of the factory, you don't know how it affects YOUR helmet.

There is an Arai showroom in around either Allentown, or Scranton. I bought my helmet from OG racing (mail order). They told me after I took delivery to wear the helmet around the house, to see if I liked the fit, if I didn't, I could exchange the helmet. Arai helmets, I was told, are a bit smaller than the same size Bell helmet.

Arai Helmets

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FREE SPEECH FOR ALL

2007 Cayman S
2008 Cayenne Turbo
2002 Carrera Cab
1995 993 The track car
1984 944 The former track car

former

2004 Cayenne S

Arai makes good helmets, but it is NOT the only helmet maker to pre-drill holes for a HANS.

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Dan

Trying on a helmet is more important in the purchase than most other things everybody has a differant shaped head and all helmets brands are slightly differant in shape. There are a few places not far from you that you can try them on

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Alex
08 cayman s #207
PCA club race stock "H"

+1 on trying on helmets first. My oblong head doesn't do well with Bell, and Simpson was a better fit. No experience with Arai.

John Cuellar