One more layer of protection with a Nomex hood means valuable extra time to escape the heat in case of a fire. UPR Racing Supply has SFI and FIA rated Racing Hoods, also known as a “Balaclava” are available from Alpinestars, Sparco Racing and RaceQuip. Racing hoods or Balaclavas come in different styles and are made from a variety of heat resistant fabrics. Also called “Fire Proof Head sock”, “SFI Nomex Racing Hood” and “Nomex Hoods”, they all perform a similar function which is to give you another heat resistant thermal barrier in your racecar. Sparco and Alpinestars both offer very breathable moisture wicking fabrics to help cool your body as the perspiration evaporates from your skin. Wearing a Hood or Balaclava under your racing helmet also preserves the integrity of the helmet liner by absorbing moisture.