Taking Proper Care of Your Racing Helmet

Your helmet is your most critical piece of safety gear—here’s how to look after it.

When you're travelling at high speeds, safety is non-negotiable. A quality helmet protects your head, face, and neck from serious injury—but only if it’s properly maintained.

Here at 1st Race, we believe a helmet is an investment in your life. To ensure your helmet performs when you need it most, here’s our guide to keeping it in peak condition:

1. Clean it correctly—inside and out

Outer shell: Use only a soft cloth and warm water to clean the exterior. Avoid harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can degrade the helmet’s protective coating and structure.

Visor: Use a microfiber cloth and water or a mild helmet visor cleaner. Avoid paper towels or abrasive sponges that can scratch.

Interior: If your helmet has removable pads or liners, take them out and hand wash them with gentle soap. Let them air-dry completely before putting them back.

2. Store it properly

Avoid tossing your helmet in the boot of your car, especially on hot days. Excessive heat can weaken the helmet’s inner EPS foam.

✅ Store it in a breathable helmet bag
✅ Keep it in a cool, dry place
✅ Avoid direct sunlight and damp areas

3. Avoid contact with petrol, oils, and cleaning sprays

Even a little exposure to petrol, brake fluid, or harsh chemicals can compromise the integrity of the helmet shell. If your helmet comes into contact with any such substances, clean it immediately with water and inspect it for damage.

4. Replace damaged parts and check fasteners

Check your D-rings, visor mechanisms, and chin strap regularly. If anything is worn out, bent, or cracked—replace it immediately. Don’t ride with compromised parts.

5. Know when to replace your helmet

Even the best helmets don’t last forever. Most manufacturers recommend replacement every 5 years—sooner if it's been dropped, crashed, or damaged.

➡️ Not sure if yours needs replacing? Bring it to the 1st Race showroom and let one of our experts assess it for you.

A well-maintained helmet is a reliable helmet. With just a little care, you can extend the life of your gear—and ensure it protects you at every corner.

Looking for a new helmet or accessories?
Visit our showroom at Zwartkops Raceway or call us on 010 786 0321