Electric Vehicles
Karting Suit Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know
When purchasing a karting suit, you need to consider not only the style and fit but also safety standards, homologation, materials, and how to care for the suit. This guide covers everything you need to make an informed decision, focusing on popular brands like OMP, Sparco, and Alpinestars. Let’s dive in.
Â
1. Homologation Standards for Karting Suits
Safety is the number one priority in karting, and the homologation of your suit ensures that it meets strict safety standards. Homologation is the process where a karting suit is certified to meet certain regulatory requirements. The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) is the global motorsport governing body, and their certification is crucial for karting suits.
FIA-CIK Homologation
- FIA-CIK 8876-2018: The most current standard, required for competitive karting at all levels. It offers enhanced protection, particularly for abrasion resistance and heat management.
- FIA-CIK 2001-1 or 2008-1: These are older homologation standards and may still be accepted in some local karting events, but it’s recommended to go for the 2018 standard for the most up-to-date protection.
Why Homologation Matters:
- A homologated suit guarantees protection against abrasions, fire, and high temperatures.
- It’s mandatory for most competitions and events.
Tip: Always check with your karting federation or track what homologation is required for your events.
2. Top Brands and Their Karting Suits
Three of the leading brands in karting are OMP, Sparco, and Alpinestars. Each offers a wide range of suits catering to different needs—whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional racer.
OMP Karting Suits
OMP is known for high-quality, lightweight, and breathable suits that are designed for maximum comfort and performance.
- OMP KS-3: A budget-friendly, entry-level suit with CIK-FIA Level 2 homologation. It has an ergonomic fit and good ventilation, making it ideal for amateur racers.
- OMP KS-4: Slightly higher in the range with additional stretch panels and more breathability, suited for both entry-level and intermediate racers.
- OMP KS-X: A premium option, this suit offers the best combination of lightweight materials, breathability, and flexibility. Designed for professional kart racers.
Sparco Karting Suits
Sparco is a well-known brand in motorsports, and their karting suits reflect their commitment to innovation and safety.
- Sparco Rookie Suit: A basic CIK-FIA Level 2 suit aimed at young and beginner kart racers. It’s lightweight and comfortable.
- Sparco X-Light K45: A mid-range suit with excellent comfort and breathability. Its lightweight fabric makes it suitable for longer races.
- Sparco Prime K: Sparco’s top-tier karting suit, made with ultra-lightweight materials. It offers superior ventilation, flexibility, and protection. Ideal for pro racers.
Alpinestars Karting Suits
Alpinestars focuses on performance and innovation with suits that offer exceptional comfort, fit, and protection.
- Alpinestars KMX-9 V2: A versatile suit available in both adult and youth sizes. It is designed for entry-level to intermediate racers with CIK-FIA homologation.
- Alpinestars KMX-5: A lightweight, breathable, and flexible suit made for intermediate to advanced racers. It has strategically placed mesh panels for optimal ventilation.
- Alpinestars KMX-9 Graphite: One of the higher-end suits from Alpinestars with enhanced protection, breathability, and lightweight materials for professional-level racers.
3. Suit Fittings and Measurements
Ensuring the proper fit for your karting suit is crucial for both comfort and safety. A suit that is too tight can restrict movement, while one that’s too loose can lead to safety risks or discomfort.
How to Measure:
- Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest while standing up straight.
- Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waistline.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, typically 20 cm below your waist.
- Inseam: Measure from your crotch to the bottom of your leg (inside the leg).
- Height: Measure your full body height from head to toe.
Fitting Tips:
- Ensure there’s enough room in the suit to wear a rib protector or other karting gear underneath.
- The suit should not be too tight, as karting involves a lot of body movement, particularly around the arms and legs.
- The cuffs should sit just above your wrist and ankles to avoid excess fabric interfering with movement or becoming a safety hazard.
Custom Wear:
If you find standard sizing does not fit you perfectly, most brands offer custom-made suits for a tailored fit. This option is often used by professional drivers to maximize comfort and minimize aerodynamic drag.
4. Materials and Construction
Karting suits are typically made from multi-layer fabrics for safety, comfort, and durability. Modern suits balance these qualities to create lightweight yet protective gear.
- Cordura and Polyamide: Common materials used in karting suits for their abrasion resistance and durability.
- Breathability: Many suits incorporate mesh panels or breathable fabrics in strategic locations like the armpits, sides, and legs to improve airflow and keep the driver cool.
- Stretch Panels: Elasticized or stretch panels around the shoulders, lower back, and knees enhance mobility and allow the driver to move freely during a race.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance of Karting Suits
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your karting suit will prolong its life and maintain its performance.
Washing Instructions:
- Hand Wash: It’s preferable to hand wash your suit in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach, as it can damage the fire-resistant properties.
- Machine Wash: If machine washing is allowed (check the label), use a gentle cycle and cold water. Turn the suit inside out to prevent damage to the outer layers.
- Drying: Do not tumble dry. Hang the suit in a shaded, well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays can weaken the fabric over time.
- Ironing: Never iron your karting suit, as the high heat can damage its materials.
Stain Removal:
- If the suit gets stained by oil or other fluids, spot-clean as soon as possible using a mild detergent or stain remover.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like solvents or petroleum-based cleaners.
6. Storage of Your Karting Suit
Storing your karting suit properly will help maintain its shape and performance over time.
Storage Tips:
- Hang It Up: Always store your suit on a wide hanger to avoid creases. Avoid folding the suit, as this can cause permanent wrinkles.
- Avoid Damp Environments: Store your suit in a dry, cool place to prevent mold or mildew from forming.
- Transport: When transporting your suit, consider using a suit bag to protect it from dirt, moisture, and other environmental elements.
7. Additional Considerations
Budget: Karting suits can range from around £160 for entry-level models to over £500 for premium suits. It’s essential to find a suit that offers the best balance between safety, comfort, and affordability for your needs.
Safety Gear Compatibility: Ensure your suit works well with other essential karting gear like gloves, boots, helmets, and rib protectors. Some suits offer specific design features like stretch panels that work better with other protective gear.
Ventilation and Comfort: Especially important for long races, consider how breathable the suit is and whether it includes moisture-wicking materials to keep you comfortable during intense sessions.
Buying a karting suit involves more than just choosing one that looks good. You need to consider homologation standards, proper fit, materials, and how to maintain and store the suit for longevity. Brands like OMP, Sparco, and Alpinestars offer a range of suits that cater to everyone from beginners to professionals, with the right mix of safety, comfort, and performance. By following this guide, you’ll be better equipped to choose the perfect karting suit that meets your needs and ensures safety on the track.
Kart Wear at Grand Prix Racewear
GPR does not claim the copyright to all images used in this blog. When copyright is unknown, we have not been able to seek permission for image use and will remove immediately any infringing content upon request.
Related buying guides
