Balaclavas

A balaclava is the layer between head and helmet. It takes up sweat, keeps the helmet lining clean and, in a fire-resistant version, closes the gap at the neck between helmet and suit. Listed here are disposable balaclavas for motorsport and karting, in packs of 25, each one individually wrapped.

Disposable balaclavas are made for shared helmets: arrive-and-drive karting, track experiences, driver coaching and spare team helmets. A fresh one for each driver keeps hair, sweat and skin oils off the lining, which is better hygiene and helps the lining last. These are made from an anti-allergic material, which suits wearers with sensitive skin.

Points to keep in mind:

• Fire protection: unless a balaclava’s label shows an FIA homologation, treat it as a hygiene layer only. Where your series asks for fire-resistant underwear, wear a homologated balaclava under the helmet.
• Fit: the face opening should frame the eyes without covering them, and the fabric should lie flat under the cheek pads so it does not change the helmet’s fit.
• Storage: keep unopened packs clean and dry, and use each balaclava once.

Put the balaclava on before the helmet, smooth any folds over the ears and cheeks, and tuck the lower edge into the suit collar where it is long enough. Discard it after the session. The helmet’s own lining still needs regular cleaning, as its maker describes.