SNELL SA2020 HELMETS

The Snell SA2020 Standard for Auto Racing Helmets Took Effect on October 1, 2020.

SA2020 was published in its final form in May 2019. SA2020 is more compatible with the requirements of FIA 8859-2015 than SA2015 had been. The impact test requirements are now generally more demanding in terms of either severity or attenuation. The differences with SA2015, however, are slight. Snell will continue to recommend SA2015 headgear in good condition to drivers and to racing officials and safety inspectors for years to come.

What Does SA2020 Mean? 

The Snell Foundation sets the standard for motorsports protective headgear. The SA2020 Standard requires a fire-retardant lining and must meat testing that simulates a roll bar impact. These standards are represented in a two part rating. In the SA2020 Standard, the SA standard for Special Applications. The 4 numbers after SA reflect the year the standard applies to, in this case the SA2020 is the most up to date standards (as standard are revised every 5 years). 

The Snell Foundation SA2020 rating only applies to adult competitive automotive sports. CM2016 is a special designation for Children's Motorsports. K2015 is for Kart Racing. M2020 is for motorcycling. EA2016 is for Elite Automotive Sports. Be safe and find the appropriate helmet for your usage. 

What Does this Mean for your SA2015 Helmets?

Don't go throwing out your SA2015 helmets just yet. The Snell Foundation updates their standards every 5 years. The standards are viable for 10 years. While your SA2010 helmet will most likely not be accepted at most racing events, your SA2015 will hold you through till SA2020.

Please note, this applies to helmets that are in mint condition and can pass tech inspections. If your helmet is damaged in anyway you should replace it for your own safety. 

The Snell M2020 Standard has been officially becomes effective today October 1, 2019

Source: https://smf.org/docs/update