Ultimate Racing Suit Guide

There’s a great selection on the market when it comes to choosing the perfect racing suit, so we’ve put the best contenders head-to-head to help you select the ultimate suit for your needs.

• AlpineStars GP Tech
• AlpineStars Supertech
• Sparco Jade 2
• RaceQuip 110 Series
• RaceQuip 120 Series
• RaceQuip Patriot-5
• BridgeMoto Pro-Am Classic
• BridgeMoto Pro Classic
• BridgeMoto Maverick
• BridgeMoto Dori Dori
• MOMO XL One
• MOMO Corsa Evo
• Jump to winners

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In a hurry? Here’s our Best Racing Suit summary

We’ve recently been diving deep on our hunt for the best racing gear on the market, from racing helmets right the way through to racing gloves, racing shoes and racing seats to get you competition (or track day) ready. This time, we’ve put the ultimate race suits head-to-head to see which is perfect for your needs.

Whether you’re a newcomer to the world of motorsport, or already competing, you’ll no doubt know that racing suits play an essential part in the required safety gear. Oh, and they also have the added bonus for wearing around the paddock to impress the ladies, of course! (Who said safety equipment was all doom and gloom, huh?!)

Race suits are often a requirement even at some of the most basic forms of motorsport, but they can also become a necessity for passengers, pit crew members, safety workers and even reporters and photographers in the more serious levels of competition.

While their main purpose is of course for safety, they can also become useful for promoting sponsors further up the ladder. Some drivers opt to get their suits printed, whilst others go with patches. If you’re opting for patches, you’ll want to ensure that they’re fire protected.

Despite race suits typically being classed as being ‘fireproof’, they’re technically just fire-retardant, given that your typical suit can only last 20-30 seconds in a fire, which should hopefully provide enough time to exit the vehicle.

Some of the higher-priced options can offer up to 30-40 seconds, which are often a requirement in high-risk situations like drag racing, where nitromethane and alcohol cars are often used.

It’s worth noting that some of the cheaper suits can lose their fire-retardant properties over time, particularly when being frequently washed, so it’s worth paying that extra few bucks and ensuring that you correctly following the maintenance instructions to get the most out of them.

You may notice that there are different levels of SFI and FIA ratings, with the cheaper suits typically offering less protection. There are also Thermal Protective Performance (TPP) ratings – the higher the rating, the better the fire resistance.

Race suits are also required to feature epaulets or ‘yokes’ on the shoulders to act as handles in order for emergency services to lift a driver out of a vehicle in the worst-case scenarios.

Some suits on the market don’t offer fire-retardant properties, such as those used for karting or motorcycle racing. We’ve not covered those in this guide, as we’ve opted to focus on those that apply more for the drifting and grip racing sector.

Once you’ve found the perfect suit for your needs, you’ll need to check out the sizing from that specific manufacturer and then measure yourself to guarantee a perfect fit. Try not to get a suit that is either too loose or too small, if you’re reading this right before Thanksgiving or Christmas, you’ll want to account for those extra pounds!

As always with safety gear, we cannot stress enough how important it is to buy genuine products over fakes. Sadly, even suits aren’t immune to ‘replica’ products, and given the importance of protection in the worst-case scenarios, we cannot stress enough how important genuine products are.

Our main considerations when choosing the perfect suit for you are going to be budget, style and safety standards. If you plan to compete internationally then we highly advise opting for one of the FIA-approved options in our selection.

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Best racing suit lineup

Now that you’re clued up on what to look for with your next racing suit, let’s take a look at our Best Racing Suit selection. To find out more about any of these products just click on the product name or photo.

AlpineStars GP Tech

Updated 25th March 2021: This product has now been discontinued.

Our comment: AlpineStars has arguably become the most recognizable racing suits in the professional drift scene. Their GP Tech Suit is an excellent choice, especially if you’re planning to compete outside of the US, given its FIA homologation.

With an ultra-lightweight three-layer Nomex construction and highly breathable fabric inserts, this regulates body temperature and provides enhanced moisture-wicking abilities.

AlpineStars have a patented central back stretch panel which greatly enhances the freedom of movement and helps maintain the suit’s fitment whilst driving. Fabric coverage on the shoulders allows for comfortable placement of a HANS device and ensures minimal material bunching.

These are typically ‘slimmer’ fitting race suits, so that should definitely be considered for larger body types.

Overall, this is a fantastic choice whether you’re a beginner or an international pro, but if you’re looking for the ultimate AlpineStars suit then you’ll also want to check out the SuperTech below.

Manufacturer description: “Featuring a revised performance fit construction Alpinestars’ GP Tech Suit continues to set the industry standard, incorporating the latest technological advances from Alpinestars F1, WEC and NASCAR race programs.“

“Ultra-lightweight and comfortable with innovative elbow and lower arm stretch panels, this FIA and SFI homologated racing suit offers unsurpassed performance, ergonomic fit and movement in the tight constraints of the cockpit.“

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AlpineStars Supertech

Our comment: The Supertech is the big daddy of the AlpineStars brand and every detail on this FIA-approved suit has been designed to reduce weight and minimize driver fatigue, which is ideal for those of you that like to get in maximum seat time.

This torso-shaping suit is the lightest in the range and features an innovative three-layer construction of aramidic and Nomex fibers and their exclusive elasticated lower back and side panels for the ultimate fit and flexibility.

With their finest materials being integrated throughout, they’ve even gone as far as to print instead of stitch their logos on for valuable weight-saving abilities. It also includes all of the benefits of the GP Tech suit which we checked out above.

This suit is aimed at the F1 market, so you can certainly count on this being the perfect suit for those of you that don’t mind spending a little extra cash on the ultimate safety gear.

Manufacturer description: “With every detail on this auto racing suit designed to reduce weight and minimize driver fatigue, the Super Tech Suit features a fully floating arm construction and an extensive stretch panel on the back for excellent, anatomical performance fit.“

“Light, close-fitting and featuring an innovative three-layer construction of aramidic and Nomex® fibres this suit fully complies with the latest FIA homologation standards.“

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Sparco Jade 2

Our comment: Sparco is one of the biggest names in motorsport, and their Jade 2 is undoubtedly one of the most popular choices on the market for those of you that are on the hunt for a bargain.

Although it won’t meet FIA standards which is now a requirement for most international competitions, it does have a higher SFI 3.2a/5 rating which would make it eligible for most US competitions.

With a three-layer construction and soft, durable FPF fabric, you can count on this keeping you comfortable and will undoubtedly take a beating, even with frequent use.

If you’re after something simple yet effective, then you’re certainly going to struggle to beat this suit for the money.

Manufacturer description: “The Jade 2 is the newest version of the original Jade racing suit, which has been improved with lighter fabric. The Jade 2 racing suit is perfect for budget minded racers.“

“Its three-layer construction is made from a soft and durable FPF fabric that surpasses the SFI 3.2A/5 standards. The Jade 2 is a single-color suit with tone-on-tone stitching and boot cuffs for greater style and comfort.“

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RaceQuip 110 Series

Our comment: RaceQuip enters our list with the lowest-price offering in our guide and a seriously impressive price tag.

There’s no question that this suit is incredibly cheap, but given its single-layer construction and lower SFI 3.2a/1 rating along with a TPP rating of 11, this wouldn’t be our personal recommendation for those of you that are looking to get into competitive motorsports.

It does come with some useful features, such as FRC materials to retain the softness and breathability of cotton, which will also wick away moisture from the skin. It also features a pleated back panel for improved flexibility and internal bag pockets.

For those of you that need a basic suit, particularly event marshals, pit crew or photographers, then providing this meets the standards, it could well be an ideal choice for you.

Manufacturer description: “The Safe-Quip 110 series single-layer suit is made from Pyrovatex® FRC material. Pyrovatex® offers the maximum combination of overall flame and heat protection, durability and comfort for the price.“

“This FRC material retains the softness and breathability of cotton and will wick away moisture from the skin. Pyrovatex® fabric is gentle and non-irritating to even the most sensitive skin. The treatment process leaves the exterior surface shiny and supple. Since the Pyrovatex® treatment is absorbed into the cotton fibers, with proper care; the garment will retain its flame retardant properties beyond the useful life of the garment.“

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RaceQuip 120 Series

Our comment: The 120 Series is RaceQuip’s mid-range offering, and this time it comes with the higher SFI 3.2a/5 rating and a TPP rating of 25.

Unlike the single layer 110, this is a multi-layer suit made up of an outer Pyrovatex FRC, backed by a layer of Nomex, and then an additional layer of Pyrovatex. This offers the maximum combination of flame and heat protection along with durability and comfort.

Although it’s a similar design to the 110 Series and once again features the same bonus points, this is a more ideal budget option for those of you looking to get into motorsports.

Manufacturer description: “The Safe-Quip 120 series multi-layer suit is made up of an outer layer of durable Pyrovatex(R) FRC, backed by a layer of Nomex, then lined by another layer of Pyrovatex®. Pyrovatex offers the maximum combination of overall flame and heat protection, durability and comfort for the price.“

“This FRC material retains the softness and breathability of cotton and will wick away moisture from the skin. Pyrovatex fabric is gentle and non-irritating to even the most sensitive skin. The treatment process leaves the exterior surface shiny and supple. Since the Pyrovatex® treatment is absorbed into the cotton fibers, with proper care; the garment will retain its flame retardant properties beyond the useful life of the garment.“

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RaceQuip Patriot-5

Our comment: The Patriot-5 is the premium suit in the RaceQuip range, yet still comes in at excellent value for money.

This lightweight suit features a Nomex IIIA outer layer with a Therm-X liner, which will keep you cool on those long days at the track.

With a slightly higher TPP rating of 26 over the 120 Series, it features the same SFI 3.2a/5 rating.

This is still fantastically priced, but unless you’re particularly concerned about materials, we would personally rather save the bucks for car mods or seat time and opt for the 120 Series or the Sparco Jade 2, which we personally feel offers superior value for money.

Manufacturer description: “The Patriot-5™ is exactly what many racers are looking for; a US Made lightweight SFI-5 Nomex® racing suit that’s stylish and reasonably priced.“

“Quality is built into each Patriot-5™ by using only heavy-duty Nomex® thread as well as two-way Nomex® backed Brass YKK zippers to ensure long life. All RaceQuip suits are made in the USA and assembled with heavy-duty, multi-needle, over-lock safety stitch machines to provide exceptional seam strength.“

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BridgeMoto Pro-Am Classic

Our comment: BridgeMoto has released this budget suit with an SFI 3.2a/1 Certified single-layer fire resistant Proban material.

Although it comes at a great price, it’s not one that we would be recommending for serious motorsports, and we would personally go for the cheaper RaceQuip 110 if you’re looking for a cheap single layer with SFI 3.2a/1 certification.

Although it’s lightweight, and the single-layer design could well be useful for those super-hot days at the track, we would personally opt for a superior safety rating if participating in motorsport.

Manufacturer description: “SFI Certified 3.2A/1 Single Later Fire Resistant Proban. Lightweight in design for hot track days. Single Layer Protection for Pro-Am and weekend warriors. Hidden cell phone pocket inside chest of suit. Cuffed wrists and ankles for proper glove and shoe fitment.“

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BridgeMoto Pro Classic

Our comment: Unlike the previous ProAm suit that we checked out, the BridgeMoto Pro suit still features a good price, and this time also comes with the higher 3.2a/5 SFI certification.

Made from double-layer competition-grade DuPont Nomex fiber, this could be an ideal bargain choice for those of you that are getting started, or not looking to venture into ‘serious’ competition anytime soon.

A basic suit which brings good value for money and could well be an ideal choice for your needs. Depending on your styling preferences, you may also want to check out the Sparco Jade 2 which we took a look at previously.

Manufacturer description: “ SFI Certified 3.2A/5 Single Later Fire Resistant Proban. Double Layered with Competition Grade DuPont Nomex Fiber. Hidden cell phone pocket inside chest of suit. Cuffed wrists and ankles for proper glove and shoe fitment. All stitching, zippers, and logo embroidery are manufactured with DuPont Nomex flame-retardant materials.“

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BridgeMoto Maverick

Our comment: The final choice in our BridgeMoto selection brings a more unique design and is also the lightest option of the three.

This features the same SFI 3.2a/5 certification as the previous ‘Pro Classic’ suit and is again crafted from double-layer competition-grade DuPont Nomex fiber.

If you’re interested in the look of this suit and think that you’ll benefit from the weight saving, it could well be an ideal choice. Otherwise, you may as well save yourself some bucks with the Pro Classic, or save even more by going with the Sparco Jade 2.

Manufacturer description: “SFI Certified 3.2A/5 Professional Featherweight Driver Suit. Double Layered with Competition Grade DuPont Nomex Fiber. Hidden cell phone pocket inside chest of suit. Cuffed wrists and ankles for proper glove and shoe fitment. All stitching, zippers, and logo embroidery are manufactured with DuPont Nomex flame retardant materials.“

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BridgeMoto Dori Dori

Our comment: Although we’ve not been hugely impressed with the BridgeMoto offerings when stacked up against their rivals so far, they’ve targeted our weak spot with this unique 90s-style drift offering!

Not only can you pretend to be the next Drift King, but this suit is by far the cheapest FIA-approved offering on our list.

Featuring an extreme featherweight 3-layer design made from 100% Nomex, this also has the ability to stretch in the back and arms, which makes it an incredible alternative to the more expensive offerings.

BridgeMoto took us by surprise with this drift-inspired alternative, and the lightweight triple-layer design and FIA approval make it outstanding value for money.

Manufacturer description: “Extreme Featherweight 3 Layer Design. 100% Nomex. Stretch Back and Stretch Arm. Tsuchiya Green Neck, Back, and Legs, White Chest, Silver Cuffs.“

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MOMO XL One

Our comment: We return to the higher end of the price range for our final two offerings from the highly-respected MOMO brand.

Designed with maximum driver protection in mind, this triple-layer lightweight Nomex suit keeps the driver cool by extracting the warm air to the outside using advanced technology.

Much like the AlpineStars suits we reviewed earlier, this features HANS compatible shoulder pieces and has FIA and SFI homologation, meeting the highest safety standards.

The main appeal with this suit over the AlpineStars choices is that it’s built for larger figures, where the AlpineStars suits are generally a slim fit.

If you don’t think that a slim suit would be the ideal choice, this could well tick all the right boxes for your needs.

Manufacturer description: “The XL ONE is constructed with premium quality triple-layer fireproof Nomex. When the race gets heated, the lightweight (300 gr/mq) MOMO XL ONE suit keeps drivers cool, by pulling warm air from the inside to the outside.“

“The MOMO XL ONE racing suit features HANS® compatible shoulder pieces; it is FIA and SFI homologated to meet the highest safety standards.“

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MOMO Corsa Evo

Our comment: The final choice in our list is MOMO’s Corsa Evo race suit. Designed with elite drivers in mind, this top-of-the-range offering incorporates the latest safety and performance technology.

Constructed with featherweight Nomex material, this also offers superior breathability and meets the highest safety standards with its FIA and SFI approval.

This suit is a more ergonomic, slimline fit than the XL One above and has special consideration taken into providing the ultimate comfort in the key stress areas that drivers are likely to encounter after extended seat time.

There’s no doubt that this is a fantastic suit for the serious racer, but we personally prefer the styling of the AlpineStars options if you’re looking for a slimline premium suit.

Manufacturer description: “MOMO’s Corsa Evo race suit is the first in our new leading-edge motorsports safety product line. Designed with elite racing drivers in mind, the Corsa Evo incorporates the latest safety and performance technology. Constructed of 280gr/m Nomex material for an ultra-lightweight and breathable feel, this suit is approved by FIA 8856-2000 and SFI 3.2A/5 standards for use at even the highest level of competition.“

“The uniquely Italian design offers an ergonomic fit while maximizing driver comfort. Proprietary parabolic lumbar and knee gusseting provide relief in the key stress areas drivers might encounter after extended periods behind the wheel. Floating arm gussets provide fuller range of motion while the anatomical sleeve patterning helps minimize material twist and bunching.“

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Our winners

Here are our winners from this racing suit lineup, we have selected an overall Drifted winner, a premium winner and a budget winner.

Our Drifted Racing Suit Choice

Our Drifted Racing Suit winner is the BridgeMoto Dori Dori Suit.

BridgeMoto knocked it out the park with this one. This is by far the cheapest FIA-approved suit we could find, and it even comes with some epic 90’s DK vibes!

With an extreme featherweight 3-layer design and stretch materials featured in the back and arms for superior movement, this really does represent incredible value for money.

If the 90’s vibes are a little too much, and you’re looking at something a little more serious, you’ll certainly like our Premium winner.

BridgeMoto Dori Dori

Our Premium Racing Suit Choice

Our Premium Racing Suit winner is the AlpineStars Supertech.

For those of you that don’t mind spending a little extra cash on the finest gear on the market, you’re going to struggle to find a better option than the AlpineStars Supertech suit.

This torso-hugging suit not only looks the part but also provides the ultimate fit and flexibility. Since it’s also targeted towards F1 drivers, this suit has been designed to be as lightweight as possible to manage driver fatigue. An impressive, and highly recommended choice.

AlpineStars Supertech

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Our Budget Racing Suit Choice

Our Budget Racing Suit winner is the Sparco Jade 2.

We had to double-take when we saw the price of this suit, as it almost seemed too good to be true! It may only provide the basic needs, but for those of you starting out, you’re really not going to get more for your money than the Jade 2.

Sparco isre one of the highest-regarded brands in motorsport, and it’s easy to see why this is one of the best selling racing suits of all time. If you’re looking for the ultimate choice on a budget, then look no further!

Sparco Jade 2

Thank you for reading our Best Racing Suits guide!

We hope that you’re now confident in choosing the perfect suit for your needs whether you’re looking to shred some tires down at the local track, or compete at an international FIA event!

Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for the use of their images:

• Enjuku Racing

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