Racing Shoes & Boots

Do you feel the pedals too vaguely through the sole, or does the event organiser require approved footwear? Racing shoes and low boots made from fire-retardant materials typically give you a thin, sensitive sole and protect your feet and ankles. This category is for you if you drive track days or compete in a car.

What makes racing shoes different from regular shoes?

Racing shoes typically have a narrow, thin sole so you can feel the pedals better and modulate throttle and brake precisely. The upper is usually made of fire-retardant material, and the footwear is part of the same protection as your racing suit, your fire-retardant gloves and your racing underwear. You can choose between shoes such as the OMP KS-2 and Sparco K-Pole and low boots such as the OMP Carrera Low Boots.

How to choose racing shoes

• Approval: Several models have FIA 8856-2018 in the product name, e.g. OMP Tecnica and OMP One Evo X, while the RaceQuip shoe is SFI-rated. Which standard you need depends on the regulations for your class, and the rating must be checked for the specific part number.
• Size: The models from OMP are listed in European sizes, while e.g. the Sparco Pit Stop 2 and the RaceQuip shoe use a different sizing system. So check the size information for that particular model.
• Fit and sole: The shoe should fit snugly without pinching, and the sole should be narrow enough for the pedal spacing in your car.
• Colour: With e.g. OMP and Sparco you can match the colour to your suit, from black to blue/cyan, fluo yellow and white.

Maintenance

Clean the shoes according to the manufacturer's instructions and avoid solvents that can affect the fire-retardant properties. Oil and fuel should be removed quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Do racing shoes have to be FIA-approved?

That depends on the regulations for your class and the specific event. Some regulations require footwear to FIA 8856-2018, others accept e.g. SFI. Check the requirement and check the rating on the specific part number.

How tight should a racing shoe fit?

It should fit snugly so your foot doesn't slide in the shoe when you brake or move between the pedals. However, it must not pinch at the toes, as this can cause discomfort and reduced feel during longer driving.

When should racing shoes be replaced?

Typically when the sole is worn thin or smooth, seams come apart, or the material is damaged by e.g. oil or fuel. Wear can weaken grip, pedal feel and protection, and the shoe may be rejected at scrutineering.