Monday, July 14, 2008

Race Suits, Gloves and Shoes

I have been contemplating the purchase of a new go kart racing suit and proper shoes for sometime now. My red "off the rack" ones from queensway are quite purpose built.


Looking through some of the offerings, i have decided that a high cut pair with "suede upper with lining" is important; providing good ankle support and comfort. A double velcro strap keeps the shoe in place and tight around the lower calf. The sole has to be well attached to the shoe proper with no glue oozing from the seams and extending up and around the heel. There are so many similar shoes purportedly for racing these days however construction of these shoes seem only to have fashion as a priority. A big complaint i have with these shoes are the thickness of the soles in some cases. A proper racing shoe should have a thin, soft sole to enable the racer to feel the pedal.


A good racing suit should make you feel more confident and push you as a driver. It gives you peace of mind that you are adaquately protected in the event of an accident, allowing you to walk away to race another day. With this assurance, you gain the confidence to test your limits.

BUT, which race suit should i buy? Do i need CIK approval? I currently have a basic suit bought off the internet. It looks nice, and it makes me sweat like a pig. Perhaps this warrents further investigation.....



Gloves; what am i really looking for in a pair? Knowing that life would be extremely inconvenienced if these appendages were to cease full functioning capabilities, it is no doubt important that protection in the form of go karting gloves be worn. Preferably, it should be made of suede or similar kinds of leather. This makes it tough yet light and durable. Cloth tends to weaken and eventually tear with repeated rubbing against the steering wheel. Gloves that extend over the cuffs of your sleeve are also recommended. Above all, comfort. The glove has to fit properly and be able to breathe. You wouldn't want sweaty palms to be the first impression when you top the go kart race and claim the race queen as your prize....

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