Is it time to replace your race suit? Let’s get you track-ready. OMP GP-R vs Sparco Stealth Closed Face Helmet Guide
Choosing the right closed-face FIA helmet can make a big difference to your comfort, safety, and performance on track. For 2025, two of the most popular mid-range FIA-approved helmets in our range are the OMP GP-R and the Sparco Stealth RF. Both are fantastic options for racers looking for a full-face helmet that balances value, protection, and style.
These two helmets sit in a similar price category but take slightly different approaches to design and performance. The OMP GP-R keeps things simple with a proven fibreglass shell and a clean, functional finish, making it one of the best-value FIA 8859-2015 helmets on the market. The Sparco Stealth RF, on the other hand, adds a modern twist with a lightweight fibreglass and Kevlar composite shell, refined interior comfort, and a sleek aerodynamic design. For drivers who want something more premium, the Stealth range also includes carbon fibre options that push weight savings and performance even further.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at both helmets, comparing their key features, materials, and fit. We’ll highlight how they perform in different racing environments, explain what sets them apart, and help you decide which one is the best choice for your driving needs. Whether you’re upgrading from an older helmet or buying your first FIA-approved model, understanding the differences between these two designs will help you make an informed choice that suits your budget and racing style.
OMP GP-R Helmet
The OMP GP-R is OMP’s flagship entry-level closed face helmet designed for FIA-approved motorsport use. It’s built to meet the FIA 8859-2015 and Snell SA2020 standards, ensuring that it’s suitable for a wide range of racing disciplines, from club-level track days to national competition.
This helmet features a lightweight fibreglass shell with a sleek aerodynamic shape designed to reduce drag and buffeting at higher speeds. The outer shell is finished in gloss white, giving it a clean, professional look that pairs well with any race suit or HANS setup.
Inside, the GP-R features a soft fire-retardant lining that provides comfort while meeting FIA fire safety regulations. The interior is removable and washable, making it easy to keep the helmet fresh over time. The design also incorporates multiple air vents at the chin and forehead to improve airflow and keep you cool during long stints.
Key Features:
- FIA 8859-2015 and Snell SA2020 approved.
- Lightweight fibreglass shell.
- Fire-retardant inner lining for comfort and safety.
- Aerodynamic design with front and top ventilation.
- Prepared for HANS posts and FHR use.
- Supplied in gloss white finish.
- Sizes available from XS to XL.
The GP-R sits in the sweet spot for drivers who want a strong, FIA-approved helmet without jumping to carbon pricing. It’s well suited for track days, circuit racing, and club-level competition, providing all the features you’d expect from a professional helmet at a more accessible price point.
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From £338.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Sparco Stealth RF Helmet
The Sparco Stealth RF is one of the most advanced closed-face helmets in Sparco’s range, offering a blend of cutting-edge design, comfort, and FIA 8859-2015 safety approval. It sits above Sparco’s entry-level helmets in terms of performance and build quality, giving drivers a more refined experience without stepping into ultra-premium pricing.
The Stealth RF is constructed from a lightweight fibreglass and Kevlar composite shell, designed to provide maximum protection while keeping overall weight low. Its sleek aerodynamic profile helps reduce drag and maintain stability in high-speed racing conditions.
Inside, the helmet features a removable, washable fireproof lining that combines softness with breathability. The interior padding has been shaped for a more contoured fit, improving comfort and reducing movement at speed. Ventilation channels at the chin and crown allow cool air to circulate, helping drivers stay focused in warm cockpit environments.
Sparco’s Stealth range is also known for its variety. While the RF model is the fibreglass version, the Stealth lineup also includes carbon fibre variants, offering even lighter weight and enhanced performance for higher-level drivers. This gives customers flexibility to choose between different shell constructions and finishes depending on their racing requirements and budget.
Key Features:
- FIA 8859-2015 approved.
- Lightweight fibreglass and Kevlar composite shell.
- Aerodynamic design for improved stability.
- Fireproof and washable interior lining.
- Advanced ventilation system for airflow and comfort.
- Prepared for HANS posts.
- Available in white and carbon fibre versions.
- Sizes available from XS to XL.
The Sparco Stealth RF delivers a more refined fit and finish than most helmets in its price category. It’s ideal for drivers who want a helmet that combines a lightweight shell, premium construction, and a modern aesthetic. For those looking to go lighter still, the carbon fibre versions of the Stealth range offer even more performance advantages while retaining the same ergonomic design.
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From £598.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
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From £337.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Design and Material Comparison
When comparing the OMP GP-R and Sparco Stealth RF, the main difference lies in the shell construction and design variety.
The OMP GP-R uses a traditional fibreglass shell, offering strength, durability, and excellent protection at a competitive price. It’s available in a single white gloss finish, keeping things simple for drivers who want a no-fuss helmet that gets the job done.
The Sparco Stealth RF, on the other hand, is built using a fibreglass and Kevlar composite, making it slightly lighter and more rigid than standard fibreglass. Sparco’s extended range of Stealth Carbon helmets also allows drivers to upgrade to lighter, higher-end materials within the same design family. This gives the Sparco lineup a broader appeal to both entry-level and professional racers.
Both helmets feature HANS compatibility, fire-retardant linings, and ventilation systems, though the Sparco’s additional composite layering and internal padding give it a more premium feel overall.
Which Helmet Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for a reliable, cost-effective FIA helmet for your first season or occasional track use, the OMP GP-R is an excellent choice. It’s simple, functional, and fully compliant with FIA and Snell safety standards. The white finish also makes it ideal for team branding or adding personal graphics.
If you’re after a more advanced option with improved construction and comfort, the Sparco Stealth RF stands out as the next step up. The composite shell offers a better strength-to-weight ratio, while the interior comfort and multiple finish options give it a more refined edge. The carbon fibre versions available in the Stealth range further expand that choice for drivers chasing the lightest possible setup.
In short:
- OMP GP-R: Best for club racers or drivers looking for FIA safety at a great price.
- Sparco Stealth RF: Best for racers who want a lightweight, premium feel with future upgrade potential.
Choosing Between the Two
Both helmets deliver excellent safety and performance, but your decision will likely come down to budget, materials, and personal preference.
The OMP GP-R is unbeatable for affordability and simplicity. It’s an ideal all-rounder for anyone starting their motorsport journey.
The Sparco Stealth RF, meanwhile, is for those who want a helmet that goes beyond the basics. Its composite build, improved comfort, and upgrade options make it more versatile and future-proof, particularly if you plan to progress to higher levels of competition.
At GSM Performance, we stock and display both the OMP GP-R and Sparco Stealth helmet ranges, allowing you to compare the feel, fit, and finish side by side. Whether you value simplicity or advanced materials, we can help you find the perfect helmet for your racing needs.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Next Closed Face Helmet
Both the OMP GP-R and Sparco Stealth RF helmets deliver outstanding safety and value for their respective price points. The GP-R offers a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to FIA protection, while the Stealth range brings a touch of premium refinement with its composite shell and optional carbon fibre upgrades.
No matter which you choose, both helmets are fully FIA-approved and ready for serious competition. If you’re still unsure which one is right for you, visit us in-store at GSM Performance, where our team can help you try on both models, explain the differences in detail, and make sure you get the right fit for your next race weekend.