The MOMO Pro carries FIA 8856-2018 homologation, which is the current active standard for driver protective clothing. Part code is MBALAPRO0.
Construction is 180-gram soft-knit aramid fabric. Aramid fibres provide resistance to heat, fire and the transmission of thermal energy without the bulk of heavier materials. The soft-knit construction allows the balaclava to conform to the shape of the head and neck under a helmet without creating pressure points. Flat-seam stitching minimises the hard ridges that cause discomfort over a long stint.
The design uses a single eye opening. For drivers who want a full-face seal rather than the two-eye cut common on some balaclava styles, the single aperture reduces the amount of face exposed to heat and gases in a fire event while maintaining adequate vision.
One size fits most adult heads. Available in black or white. The white version is more commonly specified in endurance racing where external temperature marking is useful. Neither colour carries a regulatory advantage; the choice is personal.
FIA 8856-2018 is the updated version of the previous 8856-2000 designation and has more stringent flammability and thermal resistance requirements. A balaclava homologated only to FIA 8856-2000 does not meet current requirements in series that have adopted the 2018 standard; check with your series clerk before substituting.
Have you written anything about this exact product?
Yes, we have covered this exact product: New MOMO Pro Nomex Balaclava Now Available. 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.
