Arai GP-7SRC 8860-2018 Carbon Helmet
The Arai GP-7SRC Carbon Racing Helmet is Arai's elite closed-cockpit auto racing helmet, engineered for drivers who demand an exceptionally lightweight carbon shell, advanced impact management, excellent airflow, and FIA 8860-level protection.
Built around Arai's proprietary racing carbon fiber construction, the GP-7SRC combines high strength with controlled flexibility to help manage impact energy while keeping helmet size and weight to a minimum. Arai specifically developed the GP-7SRC for the demands of high-level closed-cockpit motorsport, and the helmet meets or exceeds the FIA 8860-2018 standard.
FIA 8860-2018 Homologated
The GP-7SRC is homologated to FIA 8860-2018, one of the highest-level helmet standards used in professional motorsport. This version is the standard GP-7SRC and should not be confused with the separate GP-7SRC ABP model, which adds Advanced Ballistic Protection certification. :contentReference
Proprietary Racing Carbon Fiber Shell
The defining feature of the GP-7SRC is its proprietary Arai carbon fiber shell. Rather than relying only on stiffness, Arai engineers the material and weave to provide exceptional strength along with a degree of flexibility intended to help manage impact energy.
Multiple reinforcing materials are incorporated into the shell to increase performance while minimizing unnecessary weight and bulk. The result is a premium racing helmet designed specifically for drivers competing at the highest levels of closed-cockpit racing. :contentReference
Arai Glancing-Off Shell Philosophy
Arai's helmet design philosophy emphasizes a smooth, rounded shell that can help redirect energy by allowing the helmet to glance away from an obstacle rather than unnecessarily catching against it.
On the GP-7SRC, the shield pivot hardware has been repositioned lower on the shell, increasing the smooth shell area above the eyeport. The pivot system uses a one-piece track slider with T20 Torx adjustment hardware. :contentReference
Advanced GP-7 Ventilation
The GP-7SRC uses three large closeable intake vents, larger 10mm ventilation openings, and two additional center exhaust vents to move more air through the helmet.
A redesigned rear exhaust cowling helps hot air escape while also improving aerodynamic performance. This increased airflow is especially valuable during long sessions in enclosed race cars where cockpit temperatures can climb quickly. :contentReference
Positive Shield Latch
Arai's positive shield latch provides secure visor closure while still allowing normal shield operation. Rather than functioning as a separate add-on, the latch is engineered as an integrated component of the GP-7 shield system. :contentReference
FCS Cheek Pads for a Secure Racing Fit
The GP-7SRC uses sculpted FCS cheek pads designed to grip the driver's lower jaw more securely. This gives the helmet a more encapsulated feel and can help reduce unwanted movement and outside wind noise at speed.
Replacement GP-7 cheek pads are also available in multiple thicknesses, allowing the interior fit to be fine-tuned when appropriate. :contentReferenceFHR and HANS Compatible
The GP-7SRC incorporates factory-installed M6 threaded mounting provisions designed to accommodate compatible Head and Neck Restraint anchor systems.
A flat mounting surface around each threaded location allows compatible anchor bases to sit flush against the helmet shell, simplifying installation of many HANS and other FHR systems. :contentReference
Eject System Ready
A pre-cut pocket beneath the crown pad allows the optional Eject helmet removal system to be installed without extensive modification to the interior.Drink Tube Compatible
The GP-7SRC's center chin liner can be removed to simplify installation of a hydration tube. Arai provides four possible drink-hose placement locations, allowing the setup to be tailored to the driver's cockpit and preference. :contentReference
Arai GP-7SRC Features
- FIA 8860-2018 homologation
- Arai proprietary racing carbon fiber shell
- Designed for high-level closed-cockpit motorsport
- Strong yet flexible carbon construction for impact-energy management
- Multiple shell reinforcing materials
- Three large closeable intake vents
- Larger 10mm ventilation openings
- Two additional center exhaust vents
- Redesigned aerodynamic exhaust cowling
- Arai positive shield latch
- Lower-position shield pivot system
- T20 Torx shield adjustment hardware
- Sculpted FCS cheek pads
- Integrated M6 FHR mounting provisions
- Eject system-ready crown pad
- Drink tube compatible
- Intermediate Oval interior fit
- Available in sizes X-Small through Large
GP-7SRC vs. GP-7SRC ABP
The GP-7SRC meets FIA 8860-2018 and is engineered primarily for elite closed-cockpit racing. The GP-7SRC ABP is a separate version that meets the FIA 8860-2018 ABP specification and adds the additional forehead intrusion protection associated with Advanced Ballistic Protection.
If your series specifically requires ABP certification, choose the GP-7SRC ABP rather than the standard GP-7SRC.
GP-7 Shield Compatibility
The GP-7SRC uses the Arai GP-7 shield family. Replacement shields are available in multiple configurations, including clear, tinted, mirrored, and anti-fog options. :contentReference
Getting the Proper GP-7SRC Fit
Arai lists the GP-7SRC in X-Small, Small, Medium, and Large with an Intermediate Oval interior fit. Proper helmet fit is critical to comfort and performance, and head circumference should be measured around the widest portion of the head before selecting a size.
A new helmet should fit firmly and evenly around the head without concentrated pressure points. Because head shape matters in addition to circumference, trying the helmet on is the best way to confirm proper fit.
Arai GP-7SRC 8860-2018 Sizing Chart
Questions & Answers
What certification does the Arai GP-7SRC have?
The Arai GP-7SRC meets or exceeds the FIA 8860-2018 homologation standard.
Is the GP-7SRC the same as the GP-7SRC ABP?
No. The GP-7SRC meets FIA 8860-2018, while the GP-7SRC ABP is a separate helmet that meets the enhanced FIA 8860-2018 ABP standard.
Is the GP-7SRC intended for closed-cockpit racing?
Yes. Arai specifically describes the GP-7SRC as being engineered for the demands of high-end closed-cockpit racing.
Is the Arai GP-7SRC carbon fiber?
Yes. It uses Arai's proprietary racing carbon fiber material and weave combined with additional reinforcing materials to provide high strength while controlling weight and shell size.
Does the GP-7SRC support HANS or other FHR systems?
Yes. The helmet includes factory-installed M6 threaded mounting provisions designed for compatible Head and Neck Restraint anchor systems.
Can I install an Eject system?
Yes. A pre-cut pocket under the crown pad allows installation of an optional Eject helmet removal system.
Can a drink tube be installed?
Yes. The removable chin liner is designed to simplify drink-tube installation and provides four potential hose-routing positions. :contentReference
Can I change the cheek pads to adjust fit?
Yes. Arai offers replacement GP-7 cheek pads in multiple thicknesses, allowing the cheek fit to be adjusted when needed.
Can the GP-7SRC be custom painted?
Yes, but Arai warns that the helmet trims should not be removed during painting because removing them can void the FIA certification.
What sizes does the GP-7SRC come in?
Arai currently lists X-Small, Small, Medium, and Large.
Does this helmet require a signature for delivery?
Yes. This helmet ships with signature required for delivery.
