Here at Murray Motorsport, we understand that when you start your motorsport journey, selecting the right racing suit is crucial for safety and comfort. We have put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the best racing suit for your needs and get you out on track hassle free! 

 

1. Understanding a racing suits purpose:

  • Safety: This is a bit of a no-brainer, but racing suits are designed to protect you from fire and heat. They are typically made from flame-resistant materials such as Nomex. 
  • Comfort: A good suit allows for freedom of movement and breathability, keeping you comfortable during races, and even for downtime in the paddock. 

 

2. Types of Suits:

  • Single-Layer: Lightweight and breathable, these suits are suitable for lower-risk activities such as track days or mechanic pit stops. Our Sparco One suit is a perfect choice for an affordable single layer suit:  
  • Multi-Layer FIA approved suits: These suits offer better thermal protection, consisting of multiple layers of fire-resistant materials. All of our Multi-layer suits are FIA homologated and our best sellers for any competitive Motorsport. Our Sparco Sprint suit is our top seller when it comes to a multi-layer homologated suit, but there are many choices available when starting out

 

3. Material:

  • Nomex: The most common material used, known for its fire-resistant properties. 
  • Other Materials: Some suits use materials like Kevlar or cotton blends, but ensure they meet safety standards. 

 

4. Safety Standards:

  • FIA and SFI Ratings: Look for suits that are certified by the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) or SFI (SFI Foundation). These certifications indicate that the suit meets industry safety standards. All of our suits at Murray Motorsport comply with the latest FIA 8856-2018 homologation. 
  • Specific Requirements: Check the regulations of the series you plan to race in, as they may have specific requirements for suits ie: competitive motorsport events will require an FIA homologated suit or an SFI suit for some US based events, whereas a local track day event will likely not require one. 

 

5. Fit and Comfort:

  • Size and Fit: Choose a suit that fits well but isn’t too tight. You should be able to move freely without restriction. If you are unsure of sizing, we have size charts available on each suit on our website for you to measure. 
  • Try Before You Buy: If you have time, try on our different brands and styles to find the best fit for your body type. 

OMP suits generally have a little more room in them compared to a Sparco and Alpinestars suit, so it is important to give them all a go and see what best suits you! If you are able to visit our showroom try on a suit, have a seat in one of our many competition racing seats to gauge your fit, and feel of the suit as well when seated. 

 

6. Features to Consider:

  • Ventilation: Look for suits with built-in ventilation to help regulate temperature. Sparco’s X-Cool technology is a perfect example of this! 
  • Weight: This is a common question we get asked but is sometimes overlooked when deciding on a suit. Generally, a suit will be lighter the more expensive it is. Our Mid-range suits are a nice starting point in terms of weight such as the Sparco Competition, or OMP’s First-Evo suit. 
  • Pockets: Some suits come with pockets, which can be convenient but should not compromise safety. 
  • Reinforced Areas: Check for reinforced stitching in high-wear areas for added durability. 

 

7. Price Range:

  • Entry-Level: Expect to pay between €200 to €300 for a basic suit that meets safety standards and is FIA homogated. 
  • Mid-Range: These suits are between €350 to €550. They are made with better materials and additional features. 
  • High-End: €1,000 and above for professional-grade suits, offering advanced materials. They are also very light in weight and a great choice for high level competition here in Ireland or abroad. 

 

8. Aftercare of your Suit:

  • Care Instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain the integrity of the fire-resistant materials. Do not dry suits in direct sunlight it can fade the materials. 
  • Regular Checks: Inspect your suit for any wear and tear, especially after multiple races or trackdays. 

 

9. Additional Gear and Underwear.

  • Don’t forget to consider our range of complementary safety gear, such as fireproof underwear, gloves, boots, and of course a racing helmet, which are also crucial for your overall protection when starting out! The are available from Sparco, OMP and Alpinestars

 

Conclusion 

Choosing the right racing suit is a vital step for any beginner in motorsport. Prioritize safety, fit, and comfort, and make sure your suit complies with the regulations of your chosen racing series. Give us a call or get in touch online and we would be happy to help you in your Motorsport journey. Happy racing! 

 

Written by Tiernan Fahy