I don't have my SCCA GCR yet, but I am trying to shop around for a driving suit, gloves, etc.

What ratings do I need to look for to comply with the current GCR? I understand that you can get a less expensive suit if you also have SFI underwear?

Can someone give a brief explanation of what to look for?

Thanks.

 

first I will start the response by stating driver safety equipment is not the place to try and save money. SFI 3.2/5 suit is most popular it is either two or three layer Nomex and for SCCA and similair clubs you do not need nomex underwear with this type suit. SFI 3.2/3 is a single layer suit or nomex or sometimes a treated cotton Proban and you are required to wear nomex underwear with these suits. cost savings will be low but the life expectancy of a proban suit is limitted (remember this is a treated fabric, so washing and wear and tear deteriorates the treatment). recently we experienced a fuel fire during a testing day and I know for a fact the driver was quickly engulfed in flames. drivers patches sewn on to the front of the suit with normal thread fell off the front of the suit(thread was melted) and several spots on the suit were melted. this just goes to show that on the track things happen that are completely unexpected. I would also recommend a full face helmet, nomex gloves and shoes. I would make sure you have an operating fire extinguisher and a remote release system would be preferred. these are items I would buy before even starting work on a race car. there are deals to be had on all this stuff but cutting it to the bone with less than optimal materials is not the way to go. check with the guys from Bell Motorsports and Pyrotect for current recomendations and some of the best products on the market, prices are great and they are great supporters of grassroots type racing. they have always treated us well and are great resource for safety information. tell them the guys from Realride Racing sent you.

 

Thanks for the info. I'm not really looking to skimp on the safety equipment. I just wanted to make sure that I understand what I need.

Neil

 

I know what your getting at. I did the same thing I bought the least expensive gear I could find, but I did make sure it was all nomex and from a known manufacturer. I do wish I would have spent the extra money for a fitted suit though. if your lucky the off the shelf suits will fit well.