Must-have racewear

Here's a list of basic pieces every well-dressed driver should don for a race, and what to look for when buying them:

  • Race suit
    Constructed of several layers of flame-retardant Nomex® fiber material by DuPont, race suits are available in European sizes from 46 to 62.

    The two most important factors to consider when buying a suit are weight and breathability. Try to find a suit that's lightweight and includes air-conditioned fabric at the body's main heat points -the lower back, the neck and under the arms.

    A suit should fit snugly but still be comfortable and allow a good range of motion. The more expensive suits are pre-formed. When you stand up while wearing one, you should feel a slight pull in the suit around your torso and arms to accommodate a seated driving stance - this keeps the material from bunching up during a race.

    If money is no object, a custom-made suit offers the ultimate fit, and an opportunity to incorporate customized colors and designs.

    In the U.S., race suits are regulated by the SFI Foundation or the FIA. Check with the sanctioning body for your series to find out what's required.
  • Personal cooling/heat management apparel
    With temperatures soaring upwards of 130° F inside a racecar, drivers definitely need to keep their cool to function at their utmost ability.

    Personal cooling systems incorporate up to 50 feet of tubing within a shirt worn under the race suit. Chilled water is pumped through the tubing to keep the driver's body temperature at a steady level. Some manufacturers offer an in-helmet air-blower system, perfect for times when cooler heads must prevail.

    Personal cooling systems should fit as close to the body as possible without sacrificing comfort.
  • Underwear
    Don't minimize the importance of the proper skivvies during a race. Whether your personal preference leans toward long sleeves and long johns or short sleeves and boxers, all undergarments worn beneath a race suit should be fire-retardant. Again, check with your series' sanctioning body to see what it requires by way of underwear.
  • Gloves
    Gloves are available in many styles, lengths and padding; choose the ones that fit you best and feel the most comfortable. When trying on a pair of gloves, don't worry too much about flexing your hands. Instead, ask the dealer if you can grip an actual steering wheel to see how they'll feel in action. Some gloves also come pre-formed for optimal fit when driving.
  • Socks
    Like gloves, socks should be lightweight, stretchable and fit snugly.
  • Shoes
    You know what they say — if the shoes fits, wear it. Race shoes come in all shapes, styles and sizes. The highest quality versions offer wafer-thin soles for the most responsive pedal handling.

    Any shoes you choose should be comfortable, lightweight and flame-retardant. Low tops may offer greater freedom of movement, but high tops may offer more ankle support — the choice is yours.

    Keep in mind, racing shoes and boots are designed specifically for use while driving. If you insist on keeping them on while strolling around the paddock, they'll wear out much quicker.

Whatever racewear item you're in the market for, don't skimp on quality. Always buy the best you can afford.