WATCH: The incredible history of F1 helmets and driver protection

2018-09-21 12:48

Robin Classen

Image: AFP / Gerard Julien

Helmets and head protection are critical for any motorsport discipline, drastically reducing the risk of serious head injury in a crash.

Since rudimentary head protectors used in the early 1920, helmets have evolved immeasurably over the years.

Why it is so important

Nomex material for example features a very good insulator and does not burn readily so the driver's head remains cool even though temperatures outside might be increasing. Padding on the inside means that drivers can withstand strong forces experienced during a crash.

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Besides it being an important piece of head protection, it also aids with aerodynamics as the driver reaches blistering speeds.

Check out the video below: