One thing that really needs to be mentioned is the FITMENT of said brain buckets.
Assuming everyone purchases the correct helmet for the track rules, the best helmet in the world, if it is too large (and therefore actually comfortable) will be WORSE than no helmet at all.
MAKE SURE the helmet fits snug everywhere, actually to the point of being uncomfortable if worn for more than a few minutes. I have seen several injuries that could have been prevented by just having a properly fit helmet and a neck collar.
Driving equipment is something NO ONE should ever cut costs on! It amazes me that people will spend $400 on some pretty, cool looking piece for their machine, but not the same 400 to keep them out of a wheelchair for the rest of their lives.
sorry for the soap box rant, but I have seen people get hurt (particularly in 13.99 to 9.99 cars) too often. NHRA does have strict rules along these lines, but I personally know at least 9 people that are still walking around and racing because of them.
Rant over, carry on.