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Racing Suit recommendations

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Old 12-06-2010, 09:08 AM
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gmccreary
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Default Racing Suit recommendations

Only 18 more shopping days till Christmas and I'm working on my list. I'm looking for some recommendations on racing suits. I don't want to break the bank but I don't want to go real cheap either. Ideas?
Old 12-06-2010, 10:55 AM
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J.R.
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Greg,

Take a look at Sparco Sprint 6 (SFI 5). Saferacer usually sells this this from $499-$549 and free shipping.

J.R.
Old 12-06-2010, 11:42 AM
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gmccreary
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Thanks J.R. That's about what I want to spend. Now I just have to figure out the crazy European sizing.
Old 12-06-2010, 11:53 AM
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63Corvette
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Check Racerwholesale.com, they also have specials.
Also check here on the (For Sale) Froum, because there are occasionally "really good" deals on fire suits.......if you find one that fits you;-)

Last edited by 63Corvette; 12-06-2010 at 11:56 AM.
Old 12-06-2010, 12:00 PM
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drivinhard
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stick with the flight suit cracker
Old 12-06-2010, 01:06 PM
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RX-Ben
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I got a really fancy ex-nascar suit (Puma) in that price range. Fits wonderfully, very high quality. From raceimage.com
Old 12-06-2010, 01:12 PM
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John Shiels
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my Sparco has been very durable and still looks like new. Stiching has held up real well. It was 990 8 years ago. I think the quality is still in all their suits even the less expensive.
Old 12-06-2010, 01:16 PM
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RacePro Engineering
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Default Body type and build

Our experience is that suits vary greatly from manufacture to manufacture - quality, durability, and FIT! As of a few years ago, it seemed that, if one was broad in the shoulders, and he got a Sparco (for example) that fit his chest, it was like a clown suit for his waist, and butt, and legs. In contrast, something like the OMP models were much "trimmer" in the lower body, while fitting the upper.

This characterization may have changed recently. The point is, it is ideal to visit a racer supply where you can try various models and brands before purchasing. If this is not practical for you, then at least purchase your "best guess" with the understanding that you may return if the fit is not satisfactory.

And one final thought - Nomex suits, properly cared for, last forever. It pays to get it right.

Ed LoPresti
Old 12-06-2010, 01:20 PM
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AU N EGL
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if in doubt get a size bigger.
Old 12-06-2010, 02:29 PM
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gmccreary
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Originally Posted by drivinhard
stick with the flight suit cracker
I would wear one but I'd out rank Scott. I don't want to hurt his feelings and besides he would have to salute all the time
Old 12-06-2010, 03:31 PM
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ScaryFast
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The online guys always have closeouts and discontinues that you can get for 1/2 price.

Ed is right, though. You need to try some on if you're tall, short, skinny, or wide.
Old 12-06-2010, 05:05 PM
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varkwso
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Originally Posted by AU N EGL
if in doubt get a size bigger.
Old 12-06-2010, 05:51 PM
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gkmccready
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Originally Posted by AU N EGL
if in doubt get a size bigger.
Definitely! My size 56 Momo is a bit of a nutcracker when standing, but fits great when I'm sitting [in the car]... wish I had a size 58... that Momo is now several years old but never been worn... maybe I'll lose the weight or shrink 1/2" in height? (Momo Torino if anybody needs a size 56...)
Old 12-06-2010, 08:51 PM
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Joe_Knesek
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Originally Posted by drivinhard
stick with the flight suit cracker


Only way to Fly
Old 12-06-2010, 09:21 PM
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Painrace
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Many many years ago in a galaxy far far away I complained to Bill Simpson about a helmet that cracked. He convinced me that if the helmet had not cracked my head would have! I started using Simpson products and I still have many suits (Those that did not get badly burned or were not cut off me) and they still work today. Get a good one that fits you well and is comfortable.

Jim
Old 12-06-2010, 09:36 PM
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WBHighwind
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I wish I could wear a one piece pickle suit when I fly!
Old 12-07-2010, 01:40 AM
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sperkins
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Originally Posted by drivinhard
stick with the flight suit cracker

Originally Posted by gmccreary
I would wear one but I'd out rank Scott. I don't want to hurt his feelings and besides he would have to salute all the time
No problem!

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Old 12-07-2010, 10:01 AM
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CHJ In Virginia
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Check your local outlets for end of year closeout deals. If at all possible, try the suit on before purchasing. Same size fit can vary widely between manufacturers. If you purchase a 3 layer SFI 5 suit, be sure to get it a little larger as you will want to use a "Cool Shirt" system with it. In your southern location, a 3 layer suit in the summer will "bake" you during a 30 minute session.
Old 12-07-2010, 09:37 PM
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I think its only a 52 tho.........am trying to double check.
Old 12-08-2010, 03:24 PM
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MYRX
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We met for the first time this weekend. (You have my business card). I use a Sparco suit, I think it is now about three years old, but still in great shape. We were about the same height. I wear a size 60. I bet you would take a 58 since you are a few pounds lighter than me.

Hope to see you at RA early next year.


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