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Women’s Helmet Review

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We all know that when it comes to protective safety wear, being in a male-dominated sport can have its disadvantages as a woman.   These items are typically designed for men, and there isn’t much information out there on how each of them actually fit and function for women.    After the success of our Women’s Fire Suit Review, we decided to continue the series onto the next critical component common to racers:   Women’s Helmet Review.

We again reached out to our network of fellow female racers and women in motorsports for their feedback on Women’s Racing Helmets.   Each woman provided her input on their helmet’s weight, comfort, quality, and overall satisfaction on a scale from 1-5, with 1 being completely dissatisfied and 5 being completely satisfied.

Bell

Renee-Dupuis-helmetHelmet:  Bell RS7 | Snell SA2010 and FIA8858-2010 certified

Reviewed by:  Renee Dupuis |  NASCAR Modifieds Driver

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  5 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 5 star rating

Renee’s Comments:  “Fabulous helmet – Bell fits me better than other brands, so I’ve used them exclusively for years.”

Sara-Price-HelmetHelmet:  Bell Moto 9 | DOT   Snell M2015

Reviewed by:  Sara Price |  Professional Motocross Supercross Racer

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  4 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 5 star rating

Sara’s Comments: “Bell having a long track record with safety on their product, I would never hesitate to choose any of their product! I mainly use the Moto 9 but when I have to use a Auto specific helmet I happily choose the BR1! They are build very well and high end and feel safe with my brain inside one!”

McKenna-Haase-HelmetHelmet:  Bell RS7 Carbon | Snell SA2010 and FIA8858-2010 certified

Reviewed by:  McKenna Haase |  Dirt Sprint Car Driver

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  4 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 5 star rating

McKenna’s Comments:  “When I first received my RS7, I felt it was uncomfortable due to the pressure it applied to my forehead. However, I talked to the employees at Bell, and they had me send it back so they could work on it. Within two days, they had reshaped my helmet perfectly and it has fit great ever since. I recently flipped my sprint car violently five times end over end and walked away without any brain injury.”

G-Force

Tarra-Springstoh-HelmetHelmet:  G-Force Pro Eliminator | Snell SA2010

Reviewed by:  Tarra Springstroh | Asphalt Circle track driver

WEIGHT: 4 star ratingCOMFORT:  5 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 5 star rating

Tarra’s Comments: “Love my gforce helmet! Got a new one for 2016 which is the carbon fiber!”

Krista-Elyse-HelmetHelmet:  G-Force Pro Eliminator | Snell SA2010

Reviewed by:  Krista Elyse | NMRA Drag Racing Driver

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  5 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 5 star rating

Krista’s Comments:  “This helmet saved me from severe head trauma during my crash this season that totaled my race car. I walked away with a minor concussion instead of something worse, due to smacking my head so hard on the front of the 10 point roll cage. I am extremely satisfied and would purchase the helmet again. Proof that you don’t have to buy an $800 helmet to be sufficiently protected.”

Impact

Sunny-Hobbs-HelmetHelmet:  Impact Super Sport | Snell SA2010

Reviewed by:  Sunny Hobbs | Road/Sport/Stockcar Racer

WEIGHT: 3 star ratingCOMFORT:  4 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 4 star rating

Sunny’s Comments: “This helmet fits the bill for me. It’s snug and comfortable, and works well with my Hans. The padding around my face is firm which gives it a good fit, but the fabric is still soft and pliable. My peripheral vision is great. The chin strap rings tend to twist sometimes which is cumbersome,but overall it’s a good quality helmet.”

Simpson

Elaine-Larsen-HelmetHelmet:  Simpson Carbon Drag Bandit | Snell SA2010

Reviewed by:  Elaine Larsen | IHRA Jet Drag Racer

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  5 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star rating

OVERALL: 5 star rating

Elaine’s Comments:  “Simpson is the best when it comes to fitting women in Motor Sports. They go the extra mile to make sure that the fit is perfect as we don’t fit regular sizes. They do this at no extra charge to the customer. I have had extra padding installed in my helmets as my face is thinner than a man and the strap able to be pulled tighter. They make safety and comfort their first priority. They also make sure you look really good wearing their products.”

Janette-Thornley-HelmetHelmet:  Simpson Outlaw Bandit | Snell SA2010

Reviewed by:  Janette Thornley | Nitro Harley Drag Racer

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  5 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 5 star rating

Janette’s Comments:  “In motorcycle drag racing, it’s important to have a larger opening to see through above the eyes. This helmet is sufficient to get the job done but another 1/2″ would be even better. The fit is perfect and feels good when wearing it but again, once on the motorcycle and in the stage position, I have to push the chin part of the helmet up some in order to see the staging tree. At that point, the back of the helmet can pinch my ponytail but once the adjustment is complete I’m set and the helmet is not a distraction and I’ve never had an issue.”

CarlyJoEllingson_HelmetHelmet:  Simpson Bandit| Snell SA2015

Reviewed by:  Carly Jo Ellingson | Super Pro Drag Racer

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  5 star ratingQUALITY:  4 star rating

OVERALL: 5 star rating

Carly Jo’s Comments:  “I love my Simpson Bandit helmet! I feel that it was a very smart choice and I’m happy I made the switch a number of years ago, after making the decision to move up through the ranks of NHRA drag racing! My only complaint would be that after several years of use in the scorching heat of our summer race seasons, I noticed that the padding adhesive was actually seeping through the padding. With that being said, I still recommend the Simpson Bandit to other racers, and I am thankful for its strong build! That helmet saved my life during a rollover accident in 2013, so I will definitely stand by it and represent it as living proof of its excellent quality!

 

Stilo

Cindi Lux HelmetHelmet:  Stilo ST4 GT | Snell SA2010

Reviewed by:  Cindi Lux | Road Racer/Instructor

WEIGHT: 5 star ratingCOMFORT:  5 star ratingQUALITY:  5 star ratingOVERALL: 5 star rating

Cindi’s Comments:  “I have worn many different types of helmets over my career. This Stilo is one of the best in all areas. Comfort, safety and features.”

Do you have Comments/Notes to add to this discussion?  Make sure you comment below and give us your feedback!

SEMA Women’s Events 2015

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SEMA Women's EventsGoing to the SEMA show?  Don’t miss these SEMA Women’s Events geared especially for women in the industry!

Gear Up Girl Networking Event – Powered by SBN

For:  SEMA Attendees, WOMEN ONLY
Date:   November 2, 2015 – 3:30pm – 5:00pm
Location:  Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N264

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is hosting their annual Gear Up Girl Networking event for female automotive professionals.  The event began in 2011 as part of the SEMA education student program to connect female students to leading female industry mentors.  This is a great mixer and a relaxed social setting for women in the industry to connect and learn from several different generations of women in the automotive industry.

The event is FREE to registered SEMA Attendees.

 

Women in Business: Shattering the Glass Ceiling – Powered by SBN & TIA

For:  SEMA Attendees, WOMEN ONLY
Date:  November 4, 2015 – 1:00pm – 2:30pm
Location:  Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N262

A special, female only networking & education event:   This event focuses on insight from a panel of successful women automotive industry leaders on helping to break down the glass ceiling for women in automotive by recognizing the value women bring to the workplace, the impact they make on organizational bottom line, and the contribution to the economy at large.  Industry policy makers and leaders are changing to support women’s engagement in the workforce, and ascension into positions of greater influence, but this on its own is not enough.    Presented by Tire Industry Association President, Freda Pratt-Boyer and Auto Trader Director of Automotive Relations, Michelle Krebs, participants can exchange open dialogue on the qualities it takes to excel in business.

The event is FREE to registered SEMA Attendees.

 

Leveraging Differences to Drive Success: 5 Best Practices for Building a Diverse Workforce, Powered by SBN

For: All SEMA Attendees
Date: November 3, 2015 – 11:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N256

To be profitable in a diverse, globalized marketplace, savvy companies are making efforts to look more like the community around them. If you employ only those who identify with a small portion of the market, you just don’t have access to the insights, experiences and worldviews of the full marketplace.

When planning to expand your staff, make an effort to recruit a diverse set of employees to help your company. Learn five best practices for building a diverse workforce.

Presented by: Michelle Krebs, Director of Automotive Relations, Auto Trader

The event is FREE to registered SEMA Attendees.

Communication Roadmap for Men and Women, Powered by SBN

For: All SEMA Attendees
Date: November 2, 2015 – 10:30am – 11:30am
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N254

Wall Street Journal author Joanne Lipman joins the SEMA Show to discuss the demystifying of women in the workplace and sharing advice for the men who work with them.

The event is FREE to registered SEMA Attendees.

Keynote & Coffee: How Expectations Are Changing the Sales Experience for Millennial Women, Powered by SBN

For: All SEMA Attendees
Date: November 4, 2015 – 8:00am – 9:00am
Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N258

Bridget Brennan, CEO, Female Factor will deliver a special keynote on the most powerful techniques for reaching Millennial women, the influential generation of consumers who were born between 1980 and 2000.  Brennan will be providing insights on this crucial target audience, who are already the newest generation of mothers. Millennial women are a prime target audience for everything from cars to furniture to financial services. As a generation that’s come of age with social media and technology, what’s the best way to reach them? Brennan explores how the Millennial generation’s unique perception of the world (and themselves) impact brand preferences, marketing responses and choice of sales channel. Attendees will learn the cultural forces that have shaped Millennial women, and how to apply this knowledge to marketing and sales efforts. Topics include:

  • How the mass documentation of Millennials’ lives impacts brand choice
  • What kind of parenting style is already being exhibited by the new generation of mothers, and what this means to consumer purchasing
  • Why inspiration is a crucial component for this age group
  • How expectations for the sales experience are changing

The event is FREE to registered SEMA Attendees.

NHRA SEMA Breakfast – Highlighting Women in Drag Racing

For:  All SEMA Attendees
Date:  November 4, 2015 — 7:30 am – 9:30am
Location:  Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino (formerly the Las Vegas Hotel and Casino), Paradise Events Center South

The 2015 NHRA Breakfast at the SEMA Show will celebrate the success of women in drag racing. The event will bring together some of the most successful women in the sport to share their memories and legacies in the world’s most diverse motorsport.    Drivers Erica Enders, Courtney Force, Alexis DeJoria, Leah Pritchett, and legendary Shirley Muldowney will all participate in the panel, moderated by longtime NHRA announcer Bob Frey.

The event is FREE to registered SEMA Attendees, but an advance ticket is required.   To order your event ticket or register for the show, visit www.SEMAShow.com/register and click Add Event Tickets.

 

On the Edge with Dina Parise

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DIna Parise, DJ Safety

Former Ice Capades and current IHRA Pro Mod Star Dina Parise sat down on camera for the first Horsepower & Heels VIDEO interview.  She talks about her career, the switch from professional ice figure skater to the world of drag racing, her experience in the racing world, and MUCH more!

One of the most colorful female racers out on the drag racing circuit, Dina Parise is one of our favorites!  She currently is the Crower Pro Mod class points leader in the IHRA Nitro Jam Drag Racing series.

Learn about Dina and her beautiful 3,000 HP 2013 Cadillac CTSV Pro Mod ‘Stella’

 

Write for Horsepower & Heels

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Thank you for your interest in writing for HorsepowerandHeels.com!

write article submission for horsepowerandheels.com
Write for HorsepowerandHeels.com

We’re always looking for freelance writers that have relevant content for female racers, women in motorsports and other ladies racing content.   We’d love to hear your personal experiences, tips and stories, racing news, strategies and advice.

Do you have a story to share or an editorial idea we haven’t covered? Let us know at horsepowerheels AT gmail DOT com.

Woman of Motorsports Features

Are you a woman participating in the motorsports world and would like to be featured in one of our Motorsports Spotlights?   Here’s what to do:

  • If you are involved in the motorsports world in any fashion, be sure to add yourself to our Women in Motorsports Directory.  (Drivers, Crew Members, Public Relations, Business Owners, Entrepeneurs, etc.)
  • Send us an email to let us know you’d like to be featured with some background information about yourself, and we’ll send over some interview questions for you to answer.
  • Gather some original photographs (be sure to obtain permission to post!) to submit with your interview.

Guest Posts/Blogs | Article Submissions

  • Overview: Horsepower & Heels is dedicated to supporting women involved in the motorsports and automotive industry.    Read other Horsepower & Heels posts to get a feel for what we are about. We always welcome input that shares the successes of women in the sport, tips and advice to help ladies in the motorsports world, and other informative, relaxed content that would be enjoyed by Horsepower & Heels readers.

  • Topics:  Prior to submitting your article, search our site (top right) to make sure we haven’t already covered the topic you’re pitching.

  • Post length:  Aim for 900-1,000 words. Write in a relaxed, blog-friendly style that’s fun to read.

  • Expert Help:  We’d love your expert opinion.    Do you have information that could help women in the motorsports field?   Share your experience and advice with focus on. How will your post help readers grow, promote themselves, and achieve their goals? Share detailed instructions to help someone else use your expert advice to succeed.

  • Resources:  Links are encouraged, to support what you’re writing about.  Bonus if they relate back to another post on Horsepower & Heels.

  • Author Biography:  Please also submit a brief, two-sentence bio at the bottom of your post.   Let us know some interesting information about yourself and your experience. Add link to your website, blog or social media profile so readers can find you.

  • Submission:   We prefer your article be submitted via editable Google Doc to horsepowerheels AT gmail.com  (Google Drive Share Instructions).

Frequently Asked Questions

What topics can I write about?
We are all about covering the successes of women in the motorsports industry, and helping them with resources geared to advancing their causes. We love to hear unique stories about women in the industry, tips and suggestions on how they can improve professionally and personally, and fun anecdotes from the field.    Some of our most popular posts are:

Paid Assignments?
Currently, article submissions for paid assignments are only accepted when pre-arranged with our editor.   We do include your bio and links to your website/social sites with your article to direct traffic back to your site.   We also promote each article through all of our social networks for added exposure, and invite you to connect with readers in the comments.  (Paid writers do not get a link in their bio.)

Are posts edited?
We do limited editing for grammar, content and clarity, but try our best to preserve your original work as submitted.

Accompanying photos?
We would love to include your original photos, with use permission from the photographer.  Submit via Google Drive with your article submission.

We look forward to reading your article submissions!

Catching up with Aerospace Component’s Kim Kussy

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Kim Kussy A biology and business degree graduate, pilot and racer who continues excelling to new heights as President and Chief Marketing and Finance Officer of racing industry staple Aerospace Components, the sky is the limit for Kim Kussy.

The daughter of a large family (she has 4 brothers and 2 sisters) raised in the Motor City, Kim Kussy has always loved the automotive industry.  The influence of her brothers and Dearborn, Michigan hometown would be evident in all aspects of her life.  She met her husband Al there, who himself grew up racing at local Milan Dragway.  As the two started their family and moved down to Florida, that love blossomed into a fast-paced life together.

Kim, who graduated from Tampa College with a degree in Biology/Medical Technologist studies and Saint Petersburg College with her degree in Business, had been working in the medical field as a medical technologist for almost 10 years when her and husband Al decided to incorporate Aerospace Components.  Initially, the business was centered around the Department of Defense, machining parts and components for defense systems, guidance systems, and the International Space Station.

Aerospace's Kim and Al KussyThe two spent several years growing the business part time, while still continuing with their full time employers.  Within a few years, the duo found themselves tied-in with the drag racing industry, manufacturing components for racers.   This allowed them to be fully involved in the sport, building the first of many racecars to develop components they created.    It was this first build that would really inspire in Kim the passion for racing, and as the business grew, that love would involve the entire family.

When Al was building his first car at Aerospace, I caught the racing bug too. Having started himself racing at age 16, he taught me how to drive the race car.  It seem like a natural passion since we owned the company that manufacture the racing parts .  Just about all of our employees race so we basically lived at the local tracks in the first 15 years of business.”

Aerospace RacingTaking those years of knowledge and experience, Kim was able to apply them to building a dragster with her daughters Breanna and Bethany, passing on this experience during their high school years as a family project.

I wanted them to know what we made and did for a living. Both girls got in the dragster and did some burn outs.”

Aerospace Components Excellence in EngineeringKim has raced the dragster herself at local tracks in the region, adding that the entire Aerospace family has been a staple in the local racing scene for over 15 years.    They have owned dozens of racecars, and are now involved in the national racing scene, sponsoring the NHRA Wally program, with the special Aerospace Components Excellence in Engineering Award.  The award, voted on by NHRA’s Technical Department, is given at 12 NHRA Nationals events to individuals or teams demonstrating a unique edge in craftsmanship or technology.    They are major sponsors for the National Mustang Racing Association (NMRA) and the National Muscle Car Association (NMCA) with the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle sponsorships and contingency programs.

Aerospace Components is approaching nearly 30 years in business, with no signs of slowing.   The process has been a rewarding one for Kussy, who loves the people she gets the opportunity to work with in the industry.  The road wasn’t always an easy one — the couple started the business at a young age, and have worked hard to build and grow over the years with a group of loyal and hard-working employees that share in the passion.  For Kim, the added struggle of proving herself as an intelligent business woman in a male-dominated industry and not just the stereotyped friendly, pretty face were ongoing in the formative years.    She credits hard work and tenacity for her success in overcoming these obstacles and mounting a successful career that defies the stereotypes.

Both industries that I am involved in are basically a men’s world — racing and aviation. Many of people don’t believe women can race or fly or run companies as the entrepreneur, sometimes women are still being stereotyped in certain areas. But I believe as a woman, if you are competent at what you do that intelligence and passion shows forth. Now that I have been in the industry for 28 years, I believe men and women respect me for how hard I work, for who I am and what I have contributed to both industries.”

General Aviator Kim KussyWith her duties at Aerospace and at the racetrack taking her all across the country, Kim does a fair amount of traveling.    But she doesn’t leave this up to commercial airlines.  Kim and Al also own their own aircraft, and Kim earned her private/instrument pilot’s license in 2000.   She is one of an elite group of women – only 6% of general aviators in the United States are women, and intends to advance her ratings as time permits.

I am very privileged and honored to be able to be among these women. It takes, a passion for flight, intelligence, courage, time and money to fly and own planes.”

With so many accomplishments to her name, it’s hard to imagine Kim having much downtime.  Yet she still finds time to support charity organizations in her community such as Women of Compassion (a non-profit that assists orphans in the state of Florida) and Shepard’s Village, a Christian organization dedicated to supporting single mothers.

I’ve been so blessed by God with my life with all that I am able to accomplish that I want to give back and help encourage the children and single moms that they can make it. I did it with God’s help and love of other who invested in my life!  …I was raised in a single parent home after 11 years old. My father died of cancer when I was in 6th grade. so my mom raised the 3  youngest by herself. I know how these kids feel in single parent homes, love and support of family and friends really matters.”

Kussy FamilyKim shared that mastering the balance between her full plate of duties for Aerospace, home life with family and raising her children, along with all of the other ventures she has pursued has been the most instrumental to her success.

DREAM BIG and don’t give up! The beginning years are some of the hardest, especially if you are married and or raising children.  Work hard and Play Hard!  Take time to rest and enjoy family and friends. Surround yourself with others you can trust, those who love you and who will encourage you during the hard times. Set goals, short term for your racing career as well as long term. Don’t be afraid to seek wise counsel from a few key leaders you trust in your industry who have walked the path you’ve walked. Attend conferences, read alot and never stop learning on how to grow stronger in your racing career.”

Kim continues to set new goals for herself and the business, whether its researching new product development, learning new marketing strategies to reach, connect and communicate with customers, or hitting the dragstrip for some racing competition.    Her latest project, Kimmy’s Garage, features educational videos on Aerospace products and installations.

AerospaceComponents-logo

Whether in the skies, at a race track near you, or in the office growing Aerospace Components, one thing is sure, the sky is hardly the limit for Kim Kussy.

Racing after Motherhood

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There is one saying in life that couldn’t be any more profoundly true:  Life changes after Parenthood.

A thousand people will tell you this leading up to the birth of your first, but there is no way to prepare yourself for just HOW much better life is as a parent.   It’s as if there is a magical switch that is forever flipped the instant you hold that new life in your arms.  Nothing else remotely compares…. something 20-something racing me- who lived life just a quarter-mile at a time could never have fathomed.

Erica Ortiz and Beni ZI always knew I wanted my own family.  It was something I had figured would happen after I had accomplished what I set out to do in the racing world, pausing my career long enough to put a play-pen in a toterhome someday and live out the racing family lifestyle.   But life never goes as planned, and I nearly lost all of that with some health issues during the onset of the recession, around the time that the racing project also came to a screeching halt.

By grace of God, I was able to overcome all of that, and was blessed with a beautiful son in January 2013.   The past two and a half years have been some of the most amazing and rewarding of my life, watching him grow and prosper.   The most intrinsic of virtues, the maternal instinct, is a powerful force that completely changes your entire life, your thought process, and your entire being.    My son is the center of my universe, and the most important thing on the planet to me.

But somewhere buried deep, beyond the dirty diapers, the first words (it was Dah-Dah, darn it) the first steps and all of the memories I will cherish forever, a part of my heart was in there wondering where the rest of me disappeared to, and longed to row through some gears and pull that chute lever again.   I felt conflicted, guilty and ashamed.   Because suddenly  MOM-Erica had completely replaced cool Racing/Driven/Adventurous Erica without a trace, and despite the joy my son brings me, I felt the void where that a part of me was lost.

Then, I read an article on CNN written by another mother that suddenly made me aware of what I was going through inside.   The piece was titled “I am more than a Mom”, and it was an honest and candid confession of some of the very feelings that I was experiencing, only for me they were about racing.

Racing after Motherhood: Racing Mom

Before my son arrived, racing after motherhood wasn’t a question of IF, it was a matter of WHEN.  I naively believed that life could carry on much as it was; only there would be an awesome future crew chief around to train and share my racing love with.   I envisioned my son being the future generation of my own racing dynasty, and I was eager for him to be proud of his way-fast racing Mama.    I never really understood why racing mom’s would disappear suddenly- and sometimes completely- from the driver’s seat after childbirth.    Of course, until that fateful day.

Once he arrived, I realized that my racing family dream was much easier in theory than my no-sleep having, 8-weeks recovery to walk, clueless new-motherhood self would have imagined.  During those first few months, I had a hard time thinking about what day of the week it was, much less the depth of the dish on the pistons I needed to order for the racecar.     Really, the first year and half were:  ‘What Racecar?’

But, eventually that part of my heart that stayed lost in the shadows would begin to rev its little engine again.   At first, it was just a short blip of the throttle.   But by the time my son was getting old enough to start really taking an interest in cars (he could point out a Mustang on any road before he was two- and often by just the exhaust sound) that revving had become more of a sustained redline BRAP- sitting on the limiter waiting to launch.

But You’re a MOM Now

Beni Z first nitro
Beni Z’s first Nitro!

I will never forget the first time I mentioned to family that I wanted to start putting the Horsepower & Heels Racecar back together.   They looked at me with shock and a bit of disgust, telling me “But Erica, you are a MOM now.  What about Beni?”   I instantly felt very ashamed.   I love my son more than anything, but I felt like I shouldn’t have to abandon everything about who I was in order to be his Mom.   I know a lot of people will think it’s selfish, but after reading that article and really thinking about it, I want my son to know his fearless, strong and capable Racing Mom.

I know that racing is dangerous.  Believe me, before my son, I would have driven ANYTHING- on fire, sideways, and at 300+mph if you’d let me.    The very difficult realization you have when another life depends on you for their survival, is that the danger becomes very real.    Suddenly, the thought of jumping into a 230+mph Pro Mod has some difficult depth to it- if something were to happen, it’s not just me I’m hurting.

And just like that I understood… I finally saw the reasoning, whether spoken or not, why some women disappeared from the racing world after motherhood.   In all that I do to advocate Women in Racing, one subject I never could predict would be how differently parenthood affects women.   It’s a subject that I’ve just started to scratch the surface on recently (ladies, send me your comments!).   I’ve watched with interest how it affects women in our sport, and the impact to their careers.   Ashley Force, at the height of her career, announced her pregnancy and has remained semi-retired since.   Other ladies seem to balance their motherly duties and racing with no issues.   NHRA Funny Car driver, Alexis DeJoria, summed it up well:

There are a lot of female racers out there that are moms. Shirley was a mom when she started; Shelly Payne has kids, and she raced for a long time. I think it really depends on the team you’re with and the lifestyle you live. The Kalitta organization is very welcoming. They all have kids and I felt really comfortable bringing my daughter over. As long as you can find the balance, it’s not an issue. When you’re home, you’re with your children, and when you’re at the track it’s all about racing and focusing on getting down the track safely and successfully. It’s not easy, but as long as you can find that balance, it’s definitely doable.”

More than Just a Mom

All of this led me to question the core of the issue mentioned in the article.   For women, parenthood changes their priorities, their presence in the workforce, their identity.     A book I read discussed in depth about how women’s paths in the corporate world are often dictated by their choices in procreation, and how much futher behind in the corporate ladder a mother lags behind her non-child bearing coworkers or more simply- her male counterparts.

This led me to think about my racing counterparts.   Many of my racing competitors are fathers as well.   But when their children are born, does the same guilt and shame get assigned for wanting to continue in their passions?  I am sure they too view racing a little differently once they first hold their offspring in their arms, but where is the judgement for their decisions?

I weighed heavily on the pros and cons of returning to racing.   Tears would come to my eyes thinking of my son’s life if anything were to happen to me.   But then, this EXACT feeling would surface when crossing the Sunshine Skyway bridge in the rain, or in a close-call while riding my bike, and I realized, I can’t predict or protect him from LIFE happening.

Post-Partum Racing Mom

If anything, racing for me post-partum has been a more mature, more deliberate approach.  My reckless youth aside, I am much more mindful of the balance of life now more than ever.   Where I would cast aside so much of life to pursue racing before- at all costs, I understand now the value and importance of family first, and feel more grounded and steady than ever before.   It’s a slower process, but it is also one that is safer, more humbled, and definitely more appreciated than before.

Although the days of me taking that one-way ticket, on-fire, sideways and at over 300+mph are over, there is much to be said for the new me: a Multi-tasking, patient, deliberate, able to go through 26 hours of labor, compassionate, protective, FIERCE RACING MOM.

Beni's HarleyMy son asked just a few weeks after his second birthday if he could have a racecar of his own.   When I announced my return, he can spot his Mama’s racecar rendering online.   He races die-cast Mustangs all across the living room.   He rides a strider Harley Davidson just like his Mama and Daddy.   The apple doesn’t ever fall far from the tree.   Proof positive, you can leave the racing, but the racing never really leaves YOU.   It’s in your blood, and in your heart, (and apparently in the genes now).   I’m just picking up where I left off, and preparing for the day when it’s HIS turn to show Mom what he’s learned.

To all my racing parents, past and present competitors…. how has parenthood changed YOU?    Let’s hear it below in the comments!

Speed Scene Live TV- Erica Ortiz returns

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Speed Scene Live Episode 577Erica Ortiz returns to Pro Mod

Horsepower and Heels Racing driver Erica Ortiz joins Scott “Lucky” Hudson, Diana-mite, Bruce Barker, Bob Beck and the rest of the Speed Scene Live TV crew on air to discuss her history in drag racing, the struggles that took her away for several years, her triumph over health issues, and her return to Pro Modified Racing and current rebuild efforts.

Listen to the archive of the show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPwr_0B1Ifo&feature=youtu.be    (segment begins around 15:00 mark)

On Air:   April 21, 2015  Episode # 577speed scene

Return to Racing

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Erica Ortiz and her Horsepower & Heels Racing team have recently resumed work for a return to racing competition after a 9-year hiatus.

Car_HorsepowerHeelsThe all-female Pro Modified team was last seen in competition in 2006, just off a successful transition into the Fun Ford Weekend Pro 5.0 class.   Ortiz was at the top of her game in her rookie Pro 5.0 season, finishing as the series runner-up for the season championship, and breaking several records in the process.  The following season, she began a rebuild process, eager to advance her career into the NHRA ranks and build on the momentum of her previous success.

Midway through the new car rebuild, economic hardship took hold of our country.   Sponsorship became scarce, and the new Mustang race car was forced to the back burner, as Erica shifted her attention to her professional career and personal life.   A cancer scare had a very profound effect on Erica as she disappeared from the racing world in a very private struggle and fight.  Though she wanted to return,  her energies were focused on health and family.  But she made it through the challenging times, established a new career, fell in love and started the family she almost lost the opportunity of ever having in 2013.

With private affairs in order, the team is ready for a different kind of homecoming, a comeback to racing.

“The racing never leaves you,” says Erica.  “You can leave the sport, you can fall out of the loop, you can even lose track of the friends you’ve made in the pits over the course of so many years.   But the RACING, it never truly leaves your blood.  It’s always there, yearning to make its way back out again.”

Comeback Campaign

Erica has been working behind the scenes getting the ball rolling.   She attended a few races, making new connections, learning about the changes in racing classes, and reassessing where the car stands on the build.    She recruited the help of Rod Burke at Hot Rods by Burke to design a new look for the car.   The rendering displays a pink ribbon motif, to honor the Horsepower & Heels charity partnership with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.   The Horsepower & Heels website was also recently updated to ramp up efforts for a full-racing return.

Sponsors

The team is actively seeking marketing partnerships, and will be carrying the torch still for the original sponsors on board in 2007 – Brisk USA Racing Spark Plugs, Trick Flow Specialties, and Harland Sharp.    Recent additions  Excessive Motorsports and RJS Racing have come on board to support the team in their comeback quest.

A ClutchFunded crowd source campaign is also kicking off to allow fans, friends and supporters to raise some monetary support for the team.

 

 

Women’s Fire Suit Review

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Women's Fire Suits

If there is one thing that shopping for my next fire suit has taught me, all suits are NOT created equally.   Unfortunately, as the minority in the sport,  suits are not tailored well to the female shape, leaving  Women’s Fire Suits anything but flattering on the female physique.    Even among the custom fitted suits, my experience wasn’t great getting a suit that was presentable and well-functioning.    But as it comes time to order a new suit, I struggled to find any good feedback from women on what suites they had and liked, and which they didn’t.   So, I decided to ask for feedback on Women’s Fire Suits from my network of fellow female racers and share it with all of you.

Women’s Fire Suits Review

To help compare and standardize the review process, I created a few categories that mattered to most all women in shopping for suits.   First off, to be fair in comparing, the type of suit being reviewed:  Custom/Pre-Sized and SFI Rating.   Then, for each, I asked for feedback based on their experiences with form, fit, wear, mobility, and comfort.

DIna Parise, DJ Safety
Dina Parise, DJ Safety

DJ Safety

FIRESUIT:  DJ Safety Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/20  
REVIEWED BY:  Dina Parise  | NHRA/PDRA Pro Modified Racer  

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   YES!  Chest:  YES!   Waistline:   YES!

MOBILITY:   Very good. Comfortable sitting, standing etc….

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   4 months

Dina’s Comments:      Not only do I have a DJ Firesuit, but I have been outfitted by them from suit to shoes… as well as from Belts to Chutes! They are a pleasure to deal with ! If you call…ask for Ben and feel free to tell him Dina Parise Racing sent ya! We love their safety equipment so much, we will be carrying it at our shop Andi-Con Performance located in New Freedom, Pa.

FORM AND FIT:  starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

 Check out more from Dina Parise on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or YouTube

Sunny Hobbs G-Force
Sunny Hobbs, G-FORCE

G-Force

FIRESUIT:  G-Force Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/5  
REVIEWED BY:  Sunny Hobbs  |  NASCAR Sanctioned Modified Racer 

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   Fine  Chest:  Snug   Waistline:   Snug

MOBILITY:   It’s always ‘fit like a glove’ which is likely due to the measurements I sent in to have it custom made, which is great standing up, but it’s always been a bit tight in a sitting position. I think perhaps the static measurements should allow more flexibility when sitting in a racing seat. Or perhaps I should have added onto the measurements I took, because like I said, although it looked and fit great in the standing position when I first got it, it’s not as generous or comfortable when sitting.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   more than 5 years, It has worn great. I have had no issues with seams or fading AT ALL.

Sunny’s Comments:      The G Force suit has been my best fitting women’s fire suit thus far, likely because it was a custom fit. I’ve had a Simpson suit in the past, and had a horrible time getting it to fit right, because the general sizes are really for men, not for women’s fire suits fit at all, much like racing seats. The Simpson suit had to be altered in the crotch, which was too large and long, and the waist which was way too big, and shoulders which were huge which made the arm length too long.

FORM AND FIT:  starstarstarstar (4 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstar (4 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstarstarstar (4 STAR)

Check out more from Sunny Hobbs on Facebook or Twitter

Jennifer Jo Cobb, Simpson
Jennifer Jo Cobb, Simpson

Simpson

FIRESUIT:  Simpson Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/5  
REVIEWED BY:  Jennifer Jo Cobb  |  NASCAR Nationwide and Camping World Truck Series

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   Usually too big, but they work with me  Chest:  Same   Waistline:   Same

MOBILITY:   By time I have them take it in, the crotch is usually too tight.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   I have 3 new ones this year – usually get one or two new each year but use the old ones as well (3 suit changes per weekend between practice, qualifying and race).   It wears great – I wash in washing machine and it gets softer.

Jennifer Jo’s Comments:      I ask for my belt to be lower as it makes for a far more comfortable and flattering fit. This really spins out the makers and messes with the measurements. I usually have to go through at least 2 rounds of fitting after the suit is received but my latest suit came perfect! Still a bit large but much better. Simpson has done all of my suits this year and I appreciate the way they are willing to work with me to get just the fit that I want. They understand that we are photographed so much in these uniforms so fit does matter tremendously. Common mistakes are: shoulders too broad; no “hourglass” shape to contour to the body for a more flattering fit – they aren’t used to a larger chest measurement with such a small waist measurement; baggy bottoms. Trying to be photo ready for sponsors, safe for racing and comfortable all at the same time is challenging!.

FORM AND FIT:  starstarstarstar (4 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstarstarstar (4 STAR)

Check out more from Jennifer Jo Cobb on Facebook or Twitter

Kathy Fisher, Simpson
Kathy Fisher, Simpson

FIRESUIT:  Simpson Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/15  
REVIEWED BY:  Kathy Fisher  |  NHRA/IHRA Drag Racing – TD/SC/QR

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   Good  Chest:  Good   Waistline:   Good

MOBILITY:   Great…but the arms are a little long/TIGHT!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   One Season.  I have been extremely happy with the quality of the fabric and the embroidery.   Diamond Fabric is 10x better than the last custom SFI 15 suit I had (from another company).  So much lighter! I’m much cooler than I had been and it still seems to be warm enough on the chilly/breezy days.

Kathy’s Comments:     Best overall custom suit I’ve had so far (Out of 4 total).  When getting measured….it’s not a bad idea to have someone do it at say, a bridal shop, a tailor, etc.

FORM AND FIT:  starstarstarstar (4 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstarstarstar (4 STAR)

Check out more from Kathy Fisher on Facebook

Editors Note:  Of the reviewed manufacturers, Simpson was the only company that advertised women’s fire suits sizing available.
ShannonMudro, Hinchman
Shannon Mudro, Hinchman

Hinchman Racewear

FIRESUIT:  Hinchman Racewear Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/5  
REVIEWED BY:  Shannon Mudro  |  UMP Dirt Modified

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   Perfect  Chest:  Perfect   Waistline:   Changed my waistline to rest where it should on a woman, fits perfect

MOBILITY:   Have full mobility, the suit is snug in all the right places, but not too snug.  They are cool in the summer and warm in the spring/fall.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   I have two suits from Hinchman that I wear, one is 4 years old and another is a year old.  Mild pilling on my older suit, but I wash my suits just about every week.

Shannon’s Comments:      For women it’s hard to find a suit that fits in all the right places. Heck, we can’t even find jeans that fit right! The struggles of finding a suit that fits well in a male dominated sport is challenging, and Hinchman’s custom suits helped me to look more professional and feel more comfortable. Highly recommend them to anyone!

FORM AND FIT:  starstarstarstarstar(5 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR)

Check out more from Shannon Mudro on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter

Nancy Matter, Deist
Nancy Matter, Deist Safety

Deist Safety

FIRESUIT:  Deist Safety Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/20  
REVIEWED BY:  Nancy Matter  |  NHRA – TAFC

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   Fine  Chest:  Fine   Waistline:   Fine

MOBILITY:   Comfortable

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   Since 2005

Nancy’s Comments:       My suit is a little thicker, but I can control my body heat with my mind so it doesn’t bother me.  The main thing about my suit is that if we have a catastrophic failure and fire, I have the utmost confidence in the craftsmanship of my suit that ensures my protection during the stopping process and quick exit from the hatch.

FORM AND FIT:  starstarstarstar(4 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR)

Check out more from Nancy Matter on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter

Erica Ortiz, Impact
Erica Ortiz, Impact

IMPACT

FIRESUIT:  IMPACT Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/20  
REVIEWED BY:  Erica Ortiz  |  Pro Street/Pro Modified

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   Wide  Chest:  Fine   Waistline:   Snug

MOBILITY:   It fits okay standing, but its pretty snug and restrictive getting in and out of the car.   I was fitted for the suit by an Impact employee at the PRI show, and when I initially received it, it bared no resemblance of fitting in any area.  It was oversized in shoulders, arm length, torso length, waistline girth, basically I thought they sent me a 6′ tall male’s suit by accident.   They had me ship it back, and they reworked the suit, which helped some, but never did fully correct the issues.  The resulting suit is still a bit boxy in the shoulders and chest, then narrows down in the male v-shape and is straight cut through the legs from there.   This makes it a little too snug in my hip/rear area.  And the belt line is really high.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   8 years, though it only saw about 6 months of use.   The fabric and condition, seams, etc. are holding up well though.

Erica’s Comments:     I really thought that a custom ordered suit would be better fitted to the female body, but if my experience here is any indication, measurements aren’t able to alter the design of the pattern enough to compensate for a feminine figure.  To be fair, that was 8 years ago.   I’m sure they’ve had time to improve this for women.

FORM AND FIT:  starstar (2 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstar (4 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstarstar (3 STAR)

 Check out more from Erica Ortiz on Facebook or Twitter

Cassie Gannis, Axcel
Cassie Gannis, Axcel

Axcel Sports

FIRESUIT:  Axcel Sports Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/5  
REVIEWED BY:  Cassie Gannis  |  NASCAR Super Late Model Series/K&N Pro Series West

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   HUGE  Chest:  HUGE   Waistline:   HUGE

MOBILITY:   Didn’t allow for much movement

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   6 months, wearing good. No fraying tearing, pilling.

Cassie’s Comments:     For a male driver, definitely a great suit! But for a women, no. Even though the suit was custom the first firesuit came in way too big. I had a tailor take the measurements to be sure I made no mistakes. They company was great about sending me a new one. Again I had the measurements done by a seamstress. This time the suit came in way too small. The problem seemed to be that the suit was just not fitted for a woman’s body. The waist and hips of the larger and smaller one were just off. I eventually took both firesuits to a local well known seamstress, Kristen Gilbert, who measured me and literally took both suits apart and pieced them back together along with alterations. She even was able to borrow fire retardant thread from a local company. She went above and beyond to make the firesuit fit! I was so grateful!

FORM AND FIT:  star (1 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:  starstar (2 STAR)

 Check out more from Cassie Gannis on Facebook Instagram or Twitter

Rebecca Starkey, Stroud
Rebecca Starkey, Stroud

Stroud

FIRESUIT:  Stroud Athena Custom Fit  SFI3-2A/5  
REVIEWED BY:  Rebecca Starkey  |  NMRA True Street

FORM/FIT:   Shoulders:   Great    Chest:  Great   Waistline:   Great

MOBILITY:   Great.  I can get in and out of the car easily in the suit.  Full range of motion.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SUIT?   I have only had it a couple of months so I cannot comment as to wear.

Rebecca’s Comments:     Stroud instructs not add to the measurements, as they will make the suit fit appropriately for movement.  I am very happy with it.    I’m very petite and have had 4 babies in the past 7 years, so I’ve experienced lots of size changes.  Finding a women’s fire suit that fits has been a thorn in my side.  Having a suit that fits has made me look more professional and feel more confident.  Additionally, having room to “grow” is nice, as we plan to have more children in the future.

FORM AND FIT:  starstarstarstarstar  (5 STAR) 

WEAR/MATERIAL:   starstarstarstarstar (5 STAR) 

OVERALL RATING:   starstarstarstarstar  (5 STAR)

 Check out more from Rebecca Starkey on Facebook

Do you have Comments/Notes to add to this discussion?  Make sure you comment below and give us your feedback!

NEW! Pin-up Style Design

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Horsepower & Heels pinupCheck out the latest new pin-up style design in the Horsepower & Heels E-Store!

The newest apparel design was commissioned by Hot Rods by Kristina.   It features pin-up style art on the Horsepower & Heels Mustang.

Pre-orders are currently being taken as only a limited run will be available.   The shirts will be available in both Men’s and Women’s styled shirts as well as in black/white colors.

Reserve your shirt today!

To reserve your Horsepower & Heels pin-up style design shirt, simply visit the Horsepower & Heels Store and select your options.    The first run of the shirts will be $25 each, including shipping via USPS.    Presale orders estimated date of delivery will be in early November.

Funds will help Horsepower & Heels get the racecar finished and back to the track!

Pin-up style Design Sale