The OMP First balaclava, homologated to FIA 8856-2018. Part number OMPIE0-0770-A01.
Double layer soft knit Nomex in the natural ecru fabric, with flat seams. The flat seams are the part you notice: a balaclava with a raised seam across your forehead becomes the only thing you can think about after twenty minutes under a helmet.
This is the open face cut, which leaves an eye opening and covers everything else. That is the usual choice for car competition and it is more comfortable than a full face cut. Karting regulations tend to ask for the full face version, so check your class.
Why wear one even when you do not have to
Two reasons. In a fire it adds a protective layer between your head and the helmet lining, which is what the homologation is about. Day to day it keeps sweat and hair oil out of the helmet, and that is what stops a lining going hard and smelling after a couple of seasons. The second reason is why people who are not required to wear one still do.
The First range
OMP’s entry level line, aimed at clubman racers wanting current FIA standards without professional prices. It runs across suit, gloves, boots, top, bottoms and socks, all to 8856-2018, so you can put a fully approved set together from one range.
Black or white, in XS to S and M. Take the size that fits close without pulling.
Have you written anything about this exact product?
Yes, we have covered this exact product: The OMP First Set: Suit, Boots And Gloves, And Which Colours Actually Go Together. 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?
Sizes run from XS-S to M. Underwear layers should sit close to the skin without pinching, as loose fabric wrinkles under the suit and gets uncomfortable fast. Between sizes, take the smaller one for a base layer.
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.
