The Alpinestars ZX Evo V3 Balaclava, SKU 475-0126, is an eye-hole balaclava carrying FIA 8856-2018 and SFI 3.3 dual homologation, making it suitable for FIA-licensed motorsport events and American-series championships that use SFI 3.3 as the certification standard. At £60, it is the current generation of the ZX Evo balaclava line and is approved for use in car racing, karting, and by mechanics requiring fire-certified head protection.
The eye-hole design covers the nose, cheeks, and chin rather than leaving them open as an open-face balaclava does. This provides additional heat protection for the lower face, which is relevant in higher-temperature cockpit environments and for drivers who want maximum coverage within the limits of visor clearance. The helmet fits over the top of the balaclava as normal, with the eye cutout aligning with the visor aperture.
Construction uses Lenzing FR fibres in a blend that regulates temperature by wicking moisture away from the face and scalp. The stretch characteristic of the fabric distributes the compression evenly across the skull rather than creating a pressure point at the crown where a less elastic material would bunch. Flat seams at the face opening, ear zones, and neckline keep all contact points smooth under a helmet with a chin strap.
Available in black, white, red, and fluorescent yellow. The FIA 8856-2018 and SFI 3.3 dual approval extends the ZX Evo V3 to a broader range of championships than most single-standard balaclavas. Drivers who prefer the open-face style should consider the ZX Evo V2 Balaclava 2025 at £65. We carry the ZX Evo V3 across all four colour options 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. They also carry SFI 3.3 approval for events run to American SFI rules. 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 eye-hole design, which gives maximum coverage with just the eyes exposed, the style most drivers pair with a full face helmet. 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.
