Boy's dream: A custom helmet
A helmet is more than protection. For many kart drivers, it is an extension of who you are on the track. That is certainly true for Jeroen van Kesteren, one of the founders of KartKings. His new custom helmet is not just a striking design, but a personal story at full speed.
For the past year and a half, Jeroen has been racing with the KartKings team in the ProKart championship. A boyhood dream, as he calls it himself. Because how cool is it not only to be involved in karting every day through KartKings, but also to actively compete in the sport you love so much?
Except: with a standard white helmet, something was still missing.
A helmet with a story
Anyone who karts knows that a helmet is one of the most recognizable parts of your equipment. Of course, safety, fit, and comfort are the primary focus. But beyond that, a helmet is also something personal. It is the part by which people recognize you when you are driving on the track.
For Jeroen, therefore, it had to be something special. Not a standard design, but a helmet with meaning. Following in the footsteps of co-founder Charrel Jalving, he is having his own helmet fully custom designed and painted.
The result? A design that brings together motorsport, emotion, and art.
Inspired by Kintsugi
The idea behind The design comes from the Japanese art form KintsugiIn this process, broken vases or bowls are repaired with gold-colored glue. The fracture lines are not hidden, but rather emphasized. As a result, what was once broken acquires a new beauty.
For Jeroen, there is a powerful message in that; he explains: “No matter how broken you sometimes are in life, you can come out of it stronger and more beautiful. The scars are not weakness, but rather a sign of strength.”
That idea is reflected in the helmet design. The lines, breaks, and gold details tell a story of recovery, growth, and character. Just like in karting: falling, getting back up, improving, and going full throttle again.
Delft Blue at full speed
In addition to the Kintsugi inspiration, the helmet also features a clear Dutch nod: Delft BlueA style you would normally expect on pottery rather than a racing helmet, but that is precisely why the design stands out.
The combination of Delft Blue, gold fracture lines, and a modern racing look makes the helmet unique. Classic and tough at the same time. Dutch, personal, and striking. A helmet that not only stands out in the paddock but also perfectly matches the distinctive energy of KartKings.
From webshop to starter grid
At KartKings, it’s not just about selling karting gear. We are enthusiasts ourselves. We know what it feels like to be ready on the grid, snapping shut your visor, and waiting to hit the track.
You see that passion reflected in everything we do. From advice about karting clothing and components to sharing practical experiences. Because whether you are just starting out in karting or have been driving for years: good equipment makes the difference, but the story behind it makes the sport even better.
Jeroen's new helmet shows that perfectly. It is not an accessory. It is a piece of identity.
Coming soon to the track
For now, Jeroen has to make do with the images from the designer. The helmet is currently in Spain to be painted and is expected in the summer. In any case, we can't wait to see it in real life.
One thing is certain: as soon as this helmet appears on the track, it is hard to miss.
Helmet on. Visor down. Full throttle!
