The Short Answer
For your first HPDE (High Performance Driving Education), most organizations require a Snell-rated helmet. Some allow you to rent one at the track. Beyond that, wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes.
As you progress to time trials and wheel-to-wheel racing, you'll need a HANS device, fire-resistant suit, gloves, and shoes. Here's what to buy at every level.
First HPDE — ~$400
Your first track day. Most HPDE organizations (NASA, SCCA, PCA) require a Snell SA2015 or SA2020 helmet. Everything else is about comfort and preparation.
Bell Sport II SA2020
Snell SA2020 rated, lightweight polycarbonate shell, great ventilation. The most popular entry-level auto racing helmet. Fits most head shapes out of the box.
Shop on AmazonClosed-Toe Shoes
Thin-soled sneakers or driving shoes work best. You need to feel the pedals. Avoid boots, sandals, or anything with a thick sole.
From your closetLong Pants + Long Sleeves
Required by most HPDE orgs. Cotton is preferred over synthetics (doesn't melt). Jeans and a long-sleeve cotton shirt are ideal.
From your closetTrack Day Prep Kit
Blue painter's tape for numbers, tire pressure gauge, torque wrench, water, sunscreen. Don't forget to remove floor mats and empty the car.
Shop on AmazonMany tracks rent helmets for $30-50/day. Try a rental first, then invest in your own if you're hooked.
Regular Track Driver — ~$1,200
You're doing 4+ track days per year and progressing into advanced groups or time trials. A HANS device and proper driving shoes transform the experience.
Bell RS7 SA2020
Lightweight composite shell, wide eye port, HANS-ready clips installed. The sweet-spot helmet that lasts from HPDE through club racing.
Shop on AmazonNecksGen REV2 Lite
Head and neck restraint (alternative to HANS). SFI 38.1 certified, lighter than traditional HANS, works with any SA-rated helmet with HANS clips.
Shop on AmazonSparco Land RG-3.1 Gloves
SFI 3.3/1 rated, pre-curved fingers, suede palm. Fire-resistant and thin enough for real steering feel. External stitching for comfort.
Shop on AmazonSparco Slalom RB-3 Shoes
SFI 3.3/5 rated, ultra-thin sole for maximum pedal feel. The difference between driving shoes and sneakers is instantly noticeable on track.
Shop on AmazonPyrotect DX1 Racing Suit
SFI 3.2A/1 single-layer Nomex suit. Lightweight, breathable, and meets minimum requirements for most time trial and club racing events.
Shop on AmazonThe HANS device is non-negotiable once you're in advanced groups. Many orgs require it. Buy it early.
Competition / Wheel-to-Wheel — $2,500+
You're racing door-to-door. Sanctioning bodies (SCCA, NASA, IMSA) have strict requirements. Multi-layer suits, FIA-rated helmets, and proper restraints are mandatory.
Arai GP-7 FRP
Snell SA2020 + FIA 8859-2015 dual-rated. Peripheral vision optimized, forced air ducting compatible. The helmet pro and amateur racers trust at every level.
Shop on AmazonHANS Pro Ultra Lite
The original head and neck restraint. FIA 8858-2010 homologated, carbon fiber construction. Required for virtually all wheel-to-wheel racing.
Shop on AmazonSparco Victory 2-Layer Suit
SFI 3.2A/5 and FIA 8856-2018 dual-rated. Two-layer Nomex with stretch panels. 11+ seconds of fire protection. The standard for club racing.
Shop on AmazonAlpinestars Tech-1 Race V3 Gloves
FIA 8856-2018 homologated. Pre-curved, silicone grip, Nomex construction. Used by professional drivers across GT, prototype, and open-wheel racing.
Shop on AmazonAlpinestars SP V2 Shoes
FIA 8856-2018 homologated, mid-cut ankle support, ultra-thin sole. Lightweight with excellent pedal feel. The shoe you'll find in most pro paddocks.
Shop on AmazonNomex Balaclava + Socks
Fire-resistant head sock and socks. Required in most sanctioned racing. Extends your fire protection to cover exposed skin areas.
Shop on AmazonCheck your sanctioning body's specific requirements. Some classes allow SFI-only; others require FIA homologation.
Pro Tips
Helmet fit is everything: A properly fitted helmet shouldn't move when you shake your head. Visit a motorsport retailer or measure your head carefully. Too-loose helmets compromise safety.
Get the HANS early: Don't wait until it's required. A head and neck restraint is the single most important piece of safety gear after the helmet. Many HPDE drivers now use them voluntarily.
Cotton over synthetics: If you're not wearing a fire suit yet, wear cotton. Synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon) can melt in a fire. Jeans and a cotton long-sleeve shirt are the best non-fire-suit option.
Certification dates matter: Snell SA ratings expire after 10 years. SA2015 helmets are accepted most places through 2025, but SA2020 is the current standard. Plan ahead when buying.
Find a Track Near You
Gear sorted? Now find a track day. We list road courses, ovals, and drag strips across the US with real details on each venue.
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