The Alpinestars ZX Evo V2 Balaclava 2025, SKU 475-4920, is the updated version of the ZX Evo V2 open-face balaclava, carrying FIA 8856-2018 homologation. The 2025 update adds fluorescent yellow to the existing black and white colour options, which brings the balaclava in line with the fluorescent colourways available across the current ZX Evo underwear and the wider Alpinestars FIA range for the season.
The construction uses the ZX Evo fibre blend developed to regulate core temperature alongside providing fire resistance. The fibre composition draws perspiration away from the scalp during a session, routing moisture to ventilation zones at the back of the head rather than allowing it to pool against the lining of a closed helmet. The open-face design leaves the nose and mouth unobstructed for helmet ventilation and visor fogging management. Flat seams at the face opening and neckline eliminate the hard ridges against the jaw and neck that cause discomfort under a tight-fitting helmet during the later stages of a race.
The ZX Evo V2 Balaclava 2025 fits as a single size across the normal adult head size range. At £65 it sits just above the original ZX Evo V2 at £60, with the fluorescent yellow option as the primary difference for drivers running yellow-accented liveries. For the eye-hole balaclava version with dual FIA 8856-2018 and SFI 3.3 approval, the ZX Evo V3 at £60 is the current generation model. We stock the 2025 model including the fluorescent yellow option from our Nottingham warehouse; lead time is 2 to 3 working days.
Have you written anything about this exact product?
Yes, we have covered this exact product: Alpinestars Radar V2 Shoes And ZX Evo V3 Balaclava: Same Approval, Different Jobs. That is first-hand coverage from our own builds and showroom, not brochure copy.
Do I actually need FIA underwear?
If your championship requires it, this is the layer scrutineers ask about, and it is strongly recommended under any suit regardless. These balaclavas are homologated to FIA 8856-2018, the current FIA standard, so the label is there when scrutineers ask for it. Our guide on whether fireproof underwear is mandatory covers the rules championship by championship.
What size should I go for?
This is a one-size-fits-most piece, cut to sit close to the skin without pinching, so it stays smooth under the suit.
Will it fit under my helmet?
Yes, it is cut thin specifically so your helmet still fits as it should. This one is an open-face design, which leaves the face opening clear and works under any helmet, full face or open face. If your helmet is already a snug fit, a thin single-layer balaclava like this changes nothing about the sizing.
How do I wash it?
Underwear layers are the one bit of racewear you should wash after every use: cool and gentle, no bleach or fabric softener, air dry. That keeps the suit itself needing far fewer washes. Full routine in our racewear care guide.
At GSM Performance, our priority is to maintain the utmost hygiene and quality standards for the benefit of our customers. To that end, we have instituted a policy that all purchases of long johns, balaclavas, tops, and underwear are final and non-returnable. This policy is necessary due to the personal nature of these items, which are worn in close contact with the body. This protocol is intended to guarantee the health and safety of all our customers.
This policy adheres to the best industry practices and safeguards both our customers and our staff. It's important to clarify that this policy does not affect your statutory rights as a consumer. This policy does not apply if you receive damaged or defective products. In such cases, our customer service team is available to promptly address your concerns and arrange a replacement or refund. We greatly appreciate your understanding and adherence to our hygiene policy and thank you for your continued confidence in GSM Performance. For further information please see our terms and conditions which are agreed on checkout.
