Racing Suits
Heading out on track for rally, circuit racing or karting, and do the race regulations require a specific approval? This category contains fire-retardant racing suits from OMP, Sparco and RaceQuip – both one-piece suits and two-piece sets with jacket and pants – for drivers who need to be properly kitted out for races and track days.
FIA, SFI or karting – which approval do you need?
What matters is what the regulations for your class or event require. For racing under FIA rules, the suit typically needs a valid FIA homologation, and we have collected those suits under FIA-approved racing suits. Several of RaceQuip's suits and jackets are labelled SFI-1 or SFI-5, which are different protection levels under the SFI standard. Karting suits are typically made with a focus on abrasion resistance rather than fire protection. The approval depends on the specific suit, so check the labelling for the individual part number.
How to choose fit and model
Try the suit on in a seated position with your arms forward, as when holding the steering wheel. It should neither be tight across the shoulders and knees nor hang loosely. Sparco, for example, lists sizes such as 48, 50 and 52, while RaceQuip uses Small to 3XL, so compare with the manufacturer's size chart. Also consider:
- One-piece or two-piece: RaceQuip is available, for example, as a separate SFI-5 jacket and pants, which can be easier to fit.
- Ankle finish: models with boot cuffs, such as Sparco Competition and Sprint, have a cuff that can close more tightly around the shoe.
Your gear needs to work together
Protection also depends on what you wear under and around the suit. Combine it with fire-retardant racing underwear, fire-retardant gloves and racing shoes, as the regulations often set requirements for the entire outfit. Wash the suit according to the manufacturer's instructions, and typically avoid fabric softener and bleach, which can affect the material's properties.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a karting suit in a race car?
Typically not. Karting suits are primarily made to withstand abrasion in a crash and usually do not offer the same fire protection as a racing suit. Always check what the regulations for your class require.
What do SFI-1 and SFI-5 mean on a suit?
They are protection levels under the SFI standard, where a higher number typically means longer protection against heat. Whether SFI approval is accepted depends on the organiser and the regulations – racing under FIA rules typically requires FIA homologation.
Do I need fire-retardant underwear under the suit?
It is typically recommended, and often required by the regulations, that you wear fire-retardant underwear, a balaclava and socks under the suit. The layers provide extra insulation, and ordinary synthetic clothing can melt at high heat.
