WHAT TO WEAR

Helmet

Helmets ​come in many different configurations and price ranges. The helmet you will need for the event can vary according to the group that is hosting the event. 

Generally, there will be several key factors from their side.

  • Virtually all will require a Snell approved helmet. The manufacturer places a sticker inside the helmet showing the year rated and that it has Snell approval for either automotive(SA) or motorcycle applications(M). 

  • We only allow Snell approved helmets for automotive use(SA)

  • Almost all will require that the helmet is approved to a certain year, like 2010 or 2015. That will be on the sticker inside the helmet. we require 2015 or newer.

  • FOR SURE, you are going to need a helmet

  • We sell approved helmets for just $199. Call and we can bring your size to the track for purchase.

There are lots of excellent companies manufacturing helmets. Keep in mind that if an inexpensive helmet is Snell approved and an expensive one has the same approval, they will probably be very similar in the way they protect you. Much of the difference in price between helmets is due to fit and finish elements. Also, you may find that the more expensive helmets offer better sizing options for a more comfortable fit. 

When you are trying on a helmet, remember that it will never feel as tight as the first time you put it on. It should be a bit snug. 

HelmetCheck.org has some excellent information about helmets with regard to standards and fit. They are motorcycle oriented, but much of information on how to tell if the helmet fits is valid for auto helmets, as well. 

Gloves

Gloves are not required for most track days, but a proper pair of driving gloves is very nice to have. As you advance, you will generally start adding driving gear and gloves should be an early addition. Naturally, it is good to be able to try them on. Be sure to get gloves that have a "grippy" palm and fingers. The Sparco Tide RG-9 gloves are a favorite of ours! They have what are almost like little Gecko feet in the palms. Solid leather gloves are not recommended.

Driving Shoes 

Driving shoes for track days, in our opinion, are not critical at first. In general, any sort of running or athletic shoe will work fine, with one area of caution. Many of those types of shoes can be very wide and that is usually a problem, especially in cars with small footwells. Something like an old style sneaker or tennis shoe is better as they tend to be narrower. 

The key reason many of us don't wear dedicated driving shoes is that over the course of a typical track day weekend, you are on your feet a LOT and most good driving shoes have fairly thin soles so that you get a better feel of the pedals in a full-on race car. We accept a little less pedal feedback in return for a little more comfort. 

Street Clothing

Very few will show up for their first track day in a full Nomex driving suit. But, you will still need to use a little care in what you wear. In general, it is pretty simple. The following will be accepted by virtually any track day company and I would consider this to be the minimum from a safety standpoint. 

  • No open toed shoes

  • A long sleeved cotton tee is recommended or button style shirt is fine. 

  • No synthetic fabrics. They burn MUCH more readily than cotton or wool. 

  • Long pants. Jeans are fine. Shorts are really tempting, but not allowed. 

  • Cotton socks

Fire Retardant Driving Suit

If you keep doing this, you should consider getting a driving suit. Track days are pretty casual, but there is a reason you are wearing a helmet and taking other precautions. If you do have a bad accident and the car catches fire, the fire burns just as hot in a production car as it does in any full-bore racecar. Besides, they look really cool and give a sense of purpose and focus that is good to have. Fortunately, today's suits are MUCH lighter and more comfortable than those of past years.