Motor Racing Suits: How are They Designed

Shoulder epaulette

The shoulder epaulette construction provides an easy extraction system in the event of a crash.

Head and neck support (HANS)

The HANS device is integral while racing. It is used to protect the neck while driving, being held in place by the shoulder belts of his car. The tethers link the sides of the helmet to collar anchor points. When G-loads build during a forward impact, the HANS device ensures that the helmeted head moves with the torso, so vulnerable neck and skull bones are protected. The collar is hollow, which substantially minimises weight and ensures maximum comfort, while engineered reinforcements ensure an exceptionally strong structure.

Race suit

Race suits are an oxymoron in a sense. They have to be breathable so that he is comfortable enough to be able to perform at his best. They must also possess heat- and flame-resistant properties to provide him with enough protection against a potential fire hazard. Special Nomex fibre technology ensures a highly breathable mid-layer for effective regulation of body temperature while ensuring the outer shell has exceptional heat- and flame-resistant properties.

Cuff Closures

Ribbed wrist and foot cuff closures ensure a close fit, preventing unwanted movement of the suit that could have an impact on controlling the car.

Stretch Panels

Anatomical stretch panels in the lower back, sides, crotch, and knees provide increased flexibility.  

Helmet

Without a doubt, the helmet is his most important piece of race equipment. The Arai GP-6 RC helmet he uses meets all the high-end obligatory FIA standards. It is made from a proprietary weave of carbon fibre. This not only makes it incredibly strong, but also flexible and incredibly light at just 1,540 grams. All of this ensures that in the event of a collision it does not shatter. It also includes an emergency release system with special tabs for easy removal should an accident occur.

Racing Boots

Made from lightweight kangaroo leather, race boots provide the highest levels of comfort and abrasion resistance. The Nomex lining offers excellent heat resistance while the PU heel improves comfort and is fireproof. One of the most critical aspects for racing drivers is to be able to adequately control and feel the car. In order to aid this the heel and insole of the boots are equipped with microporous padding. This is coupled with a lightweight rubber sole, which has a special textured grip for a better feel.

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