Racing Helmets for Track Days and Motorsports Under $500
Heading to an HPDE, autocross, or club racing event?
Your helmet is the most critical piece of safety gear. At Shifted Motorsports, we offer high-performance helmets, without sacrificing quality or breaking the bank. With the price of racing gear being so costly, we've made it easy by giving you a quick breakdown with multiple budget friendly options.
Here are our staff recommendations for Snell SA2020 certified helmets under $500:
G‑Force Rift SA2020 Helmet
$249
One of the best budget entry options on the market!
Shell: Lightweight fiberglass (~3.5 lb)
Comfort: Deep-fit liner, removable cheek pads
Ventilation: Multiple ports + downforce chin splitter
Safety: M6 threaded HANS-ready anchor
G‑Force Rift Air SA2020 Helmet
Price: $349
The same helmet as the previous option but this is the Air version which included a Forced-Air system.
All Rift features plus:
Forced-air system: Tri-flow inlets and adjustable airflow
Best for: Hot, long sessions—keeps you cool under pressure
Another great option just above $500
G-Force Rift Carbon SA2020 Helmet
Price: $549
Who doesn't love carbon? Just over $500, this one checks all of the boxes of the other Rift series helmets but in a Carbon finish.
All Rift features plus:
Forced-air system: Tri-flow inlets and adjustable airflow
Best for: Hot, long sessions—keeps you cool under pressure
What to look for in a track day helmet
|
Features |
Why It Matters |
|
Snell SA2020 |
Meets requirements for most HPDE, autocross, and club racing events |
|
Lightweight Shell |
Reduces neck fatigue - essential for long sessions |
|
Removable Liner |
Easy to keep clean and fresh after sweaty track days |
|
Ventilation/Fan |
Critical for endurance and hot-weather driving |
|
HANS-Ready |
Enables future upgrades with head-and-neck restraint systems |
Why we recommend the Rift Series:
- Performance & Safety: Fully Snell SA2020 certified, offering top-tier protection.
- Comfort First: Deep-fit liners and ventilation prioritize driver focus.
- Variety Within Budget: Fiberglass or forced-air versions—both under $500.
Ready to Gear Up? Still not sure which helmet to purchase?
Reach out to us if you have any other questions or if you would like recommendations that better suit your needs?