Understanding Racing Safety Gear: What You Need To Know

Understanding Racing Safety Gear: What You Need To Know

Whether you are new to racing or an experienced competitor, one of the most important things to consider is safety. The right safety gear can mean the difference between a safe race and a potentially dangerous accident. So what safety gear do you need for your race? This blog post will provide an overview of the types of safety gear available, from thermal protective performance ratings to single-layer and multi-layer suits. Additionally, it will discuss some important considerations when choosing appropriate racing safety equipment.

Thermal Protective Performance Ratings

When selecting a suit for racing, it is important to understand thermal protective performance (TPP) ratings. TPP is the measure of protection provided by a suit material against fire and heat exposure. If a suit passes the testing requirements, it can be certified by SFI (the Specialty Equipment Market Association). It is crucial to choose a suit that has been certified with an appropriate TPP rating—not just any suit!

Types of Suits Available

The type of suit you select should depend on your budget as well as the kind of racing you are participating in. Single-layer suits are generally less expensive than multi-layer suits and offer basic protection from fire and heat exposure. However, if you plan on competing in more extreme conditions, such as drag racing or drifting, then you may want to invest in a multi-layer suit for greater protection. Additionally, there are custom design suits available from certain manufacturers that may provide additional features such as reinforced stitching or abrasion resistance for an additional cost.

Single layer fire-retardant suits are a good choice for those wanting to stick to the basics and remain within budget when it comes to safety. However, many experienced racers recognize that multi-layer suits provide far and away the most protection. The Safety Foundation International (SFI) conducted tests of both single layer and multi-layer driver suits, focusing on the number of Thermal Protection Points (TPPs) which is a measure of burn resistance. The test results showed that multi-layer fire suits provided between three and four times more TPP ratings then single layer suits, making them the superior choice when it comes to keeping yourself safe in the event of a racing accident. Some popular budget friendly brands for single layer suits include Racequip, Crow, and more.

Custom Suits

Custom design suits can be a great way to make a statement, whether it be for a special occasion or just because. Taking that extra step of having something tailored specifically for you can be an incredibly satisfying feeling and it often leads to higher quality apparel as well. However, custom design suits do come at an additional cost when compared with more standard designs. It's important to consider this cost and whether you really need custom designed clothing before investing in it; however, if the opportunity arises and budget allows, they are definitely worth considering. A great brand for customized driving suits is Pyrotect. 

Important Considerations for Choosing Appropriate Safety Gear for Racing

Before investing in any safety gear for racing, it's important to take into account the rules required by the organization where you will compete. Different organizations may have different regulations regarding what type of material is allowed in each class so make sure you familiarize yourself with these rules before making any purchases. Additionally, consider researching different material options available for each type of suit—some may be more breathable while others may provide extra insulation depending on your needs.

Racing can be thrilling but also dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken into consideration before competing. Ensuring that you have adequate safety gear is essential whether you’re new to racing or an experienced driver—it could save your life! It’s important to research different types of suits available and understand TPP ratings in order to make an informed decision about which one best fits your needs and budget. Investing in quality racing safety equipment is key to having peace of mind that maximum protection will be provided on race day!