8 Best Go-Kart Racing Suits in 2022

If you’re starting to take go-karting more seriously, you may want to invest in a proper go-kart racing suit. Generally speaking, racing suits are highly-manufactured pieces of safety equipment that go around your upper and lower body. As the word implies, it’s a 1-piece suit that you wear which keeps you safe and protected on the karting circuit. 

A racing suit is an extremely important piece of safety equipment, especially if you start competing in go-kart racing competitions. Most events even require you to have a CIK FIA homologation standard certified suit. When it comes to safety, you should never compromise. 

You can never go wrong with a certified suit, as you can then rest assured that your go-kart racing suit meets certain manufacturing requirements. For kart racing, most of the suits are of CIK FIA homologation standard. The Commission Internationale de Karting (CIK) is an association of the FIA (Federation de Internationale l’Automobile) that certifies safety equipment and go-kart parts in order to set an adequate level of safety standards in the karting industry. 

When looking for a perfect racing suit, you should make sure that it’s made of high quality materials, and if possible that it’s CIK FIA homologation Level 1 or Level 2 standard certified.

Level 1 is more commonly used for national events, whereby level 2 certified suits are used more often for international events and therefore have a higher safety threshold. Certain indoor racing suits do not have any CIK FIA certification and are fine to use for indoor, casual or recreational racing, but not for FIA regulated races. 

Go-Kart Racing Suit Reviews

I took the time to review the best go-karting suits for you and I have created a list the top 8. I’ve shared my thoughts on why each of them is ranked the way I have listed them and how they measure up in terms of material quality, ventilation, additional features and comfort. 

I hope this can give you the information you need to make an informed decision. I would like to disclose that the links below are affiliated with Amazon and that I earn a commission should you decide to purchase it via the links below. Everything I earn from these commissions helps me keep this website available to the public for free. 

1. Alpinestars KMX-3 V2

Features

  • CIK FIA Level 2 certified
  • Two-layer construction
  • Optimized ventilation
  • Knitted wrist and ankle cuffs

Review Summary

The Aplinestars KMX-3 V2 kart racing suit is our top pick, as it’s an ideal blend of quality and price. This go-kart racing suit is CIK FIA Level 2 certified, which makes it compatible for national and international go-kart races for all levels. This suit features a two-layer main shell that is composed of poly-cotton and poly towelling lining for enhanced comfort and durability.

There are mesh panels located at the leg, waist and arm areas for increased ventilation. This ensures that the suit is properly aerated during a race. You will also be able to find an adjustable collar and waist belt built into the suit, allowing for a flexible fit.

Another great feature of the Alpinestars KMX-3 V2 suit is the anatomical arm, leg and torso paneling, that gives an extra comfortable feeling. This suit is available in 5 different color and size options and is arguably one of the best go-kart racing suits on the market. 

Criteria Rating

Ventilation: 9.5 / 10
Comfort: 10 / 10
Material: 10/ 10
Features: 9.5 / 10

Total Score

95%

2. OMP KS-3


Features

  • CIK FIA Level 2 certified
  • Full Cordura outer layer
  • Strategically placed mesh inserts
  • High performance features

Review Summary

The OMP KS-3 is a premium go-karting suit that is manufactured with extremely high quality. It is also a level 2 homologated CIK FIA certified suit and features a Cordura outer layer, which makes this suit very durable and abrasion-resistant.

It comes in red/white or black/white color variants and is available in 3 different sizes. It also features pre-curved sleeves, floating arms and elastic bellows for easier movements while in your go-kart. There are mesh panels found near the thigh, shoulder and pocket areas that provide excellent ventilation to the driver.

Particularly noteworthy is the freedom of movement that the OMP KS-3 provides, as well as the high-quality materials and finishing of this racing suit. A definitive winner for our premium pick.

Criteria Rating

Ventilation: 9.5 / 10
Comfort: 10 / 10
Material: 10/ 10
Features: 9 / 10

Total Score

96%

3. Sparco Groove KS-3


Features

  • CIK FIA Level 2 certified
  • Full Cordura outer layer
  • Terry-cotton inner fabric
  • Floating arms & stretch panels

Review Summary

The Sparco Groove KS-3 is another great racing suit that is CIK FIA Level 2 rated and great for competitive go-kart racing. The shell is made out of Cordura and is of abrasion-resistant nature. It’s therefore very rugged and durable.

The inner fabric is a Sparco signature-style terry-cotton that feels extremely comfortable. In addition, it also helps to absorb sweat very well and keeps the interior very dry. Strategically located mesh vents near the underarm and thigh area help to keep the inner suit ventilated. Lastly, the Sparco Groove KS-3 also features stretch panels in the lower-back region and full-floating arms making the suit more comfortable and ergonomic. Ensure that you pick the correct size, as the link will direct you to the large size variant.

Criteria Rating

Ventilation: 9.5 / 10
Comfort: 10 / 10
Material: 9.5 / 10
Features: 9 / 10

Total Score

95%

4. K1 Race Gear GK2


Features

  • CIK FIA Level 2 certified
  • Made of durable Cordura fabric
  • Lightweight racing suit
  • Elastic components for ergonomic fit

Review Summary

The K1 Race Gear GK2 is an indoor and outdoor go-kart racing suit that is CIK FIA level 2 approved. It comes in an astonishing 15 different sizes and 5 different colors. It’s a great entry level suit that that features a double-layer Cordura fabric on the exterior, making it abrasion-resistant and extremely durable.

Additionally, the suit features elastic inner ankle & wrist cuffs, as well as elastic underarms to ensure a great ergonomic fit. You really get great movement in the suit and the lightweight inner linings keep the interior dry and breathable. There are also lower back and crotch panels that are noticeable and enable you to lean in all directions comfortably.

Criteria Rating

Comfort: 9 / 10
Material: 9.5 / 10
Features: 9.5 / 10

Total Score

93%

5. OMP Summer-K


Features

  • Ideal for indoor karting
  • Elastic fabrics for easy movement
  • Single layer shell
  • Lightweight material

Review Summary

The OMP Summer-K is an ideal racing suit for indoor go-karting. It does not have any CIK FIA homologation and is made of a single layer poly-cotton that is extremely lightweight. It’s a perfect suit for beginners. It has elastic components near the joint areas to increase freedom of movement during races.

The OMP summer-K suit comes in 5 different sizes and 3 different colors and features a waist strap to ensure a tight fit around your body. It also features traditional shoulder epaulets, giving the suit a great look. All-in-all, it’s a great entry level suit that is meant primarily for indoor, recreational or casual go-kart racing. 

Criteria Rating

Comfort: 9 / 10
Material: 9 / 10
Features: 9 / 10

Total Score

90%

6. jxhracing RB-C06032


Features

  • Great entry-level suit
  • Stylish design
  • Velcro collar & belt
  • Ergonomic elastic areas

Review Summary

The jxhracing RB-C06032 is another great entry-level suit that is made of a double-layer nylon fabric material that is of sturdy build quality. The suit features a stylish design with flame strips around the wrist and ankle areas. It comes in red/white color. Ensure that you get the correct size, as the one above is linked to the medium size-variant. 

Another great feature is the mesh lining that gives the suit high strength and abrasion-resistant properties. You can easily adjust your suit by using the double-ended zipper and the Velcro collar & belt. Overall the jxhracing RB-C06032 is a great entry-level go-kart racing suit with a stylish design. 

Criteria Rating

Comfort: 9 / 10
Material: 8.5 / 10
Features: 8.5 / 10

Total Score

87%

7. RaceQuip SFI Suit


Features

  • Great entry-level suit
  • Stylish design
  • Velcro collar & belt
  • Ergonomic elastic areas

Review Summary

The RaceQuip SFI Suit is great all-round suit that is SFI 3.2A/1 certified. It functions as a multi-purpose suit that can be used for go-kart racing and is easy on the wallet. It’s made of a single-layer Pyrovatex material, which is known for its durable and flame retardant properties. 

This racing suit comes in 3 different colors and 7 different sizes. It also features black shoulder epaulets, an adjustable belt and a high back collar. There are also two internal pockets that can come in useful if you want to store some things. The back of the suit is pleated, giving you more flexibility when leaning. Overall, it’s a great all-round and lightweight go-kart racing suit.

Criteria Rating

Comfort: 8 / 10
Material: 9 / 10
Features: 8.5 / 10

Total Score

85%

8. Alpinestars Indoor Kart Suit


Features

  • Meant for recreational racing
  • Neck padding for comfort
  • Single-layer twill design
  • Inner suit pocket for storage

The Alpinestars Indoor Kart Suit is meant for recreational and casual go-karting, primarily to be used for indoor racing. It comes in 2 different color styles and 7 different sizes to choose from. The shell is made out of a single-layer poly-cotton twill design, which makes this suit very durable. There is also an adjustable belt located around the waist area, allowing the suit to wrap around your body perfectly. 

While the sleeves are pre-curved and the cuffs are knitted, the suit doesn’t feel stiff. It feels like it controls the movement fairly nicely, giving you enough flexibility when leaning into corners. The suit even features an inner pocket that you can store some things. The neck area is fitted with neck padding so that your helmet can comfortable rest of your neck, and you don’t feel much discomfort. 

Criteria Rating

Comfort: 8 / 10
Material: 8.5 / 10
Features: 8.5 / 10

Total Score

83%

How to Choose Go-Kart Racing Suits – Buying Guide

There are plenty of go-kart racing suits on the market and it can be tough finding the perfect one for you. There are several aspects of a suit that you should take into account. 

The main aspects that I have identified in this review are type, material, size, design, safety and price. There are certain things for each of these aspects that are important to know and will be highlighted below. Generally speaking, you should know that there is no single best suit for all. At the end of the day, it’s finding what go-kart racing suit is the best for your own preferences. I hope this list can enable you to make an informed decision.

Go-Kart Racing Suit Types

The first thing you should consider is what type of go-kart racing suit you are looking for. For example, if you are a professional racer that competes on an international level you may want to opt for a premium CIK FIA Level 2 certified suit, whereas if you ride go-karts leisurely and mostly indoors, you may want to opt for a cotton-based single-layer indoor go-kart racing suit. 

Go-kart racing suits will vary depending on the type of suit you are looking for. On the one hand, there are suits that are meant for professionals (national & international racing events). On the other hand, there are non-certified racing suits for hobbyists, which are more commonly used for indoor go-kart racing or light outdoor go-karting.

Go-Kart Racing Suit Materials

You will notice that the material used for go-kart racing suits may differ slightly from auto racing suits. While traditional auto racing suits are usually make of a material called NOMEX, go-kart racing suits are usually made of Cordura, poly-cotton or Pyrovatex. 

Cordura is a fabric that is made of nylon but is often blended with cotton or other fibers. It’s usually found in more premium and high-quality go-kart racing suits. One of its biggest benefits is that it has great abrasion-resistant properties. This means that you are extremely well protected if you get into an accident on the track or get flung out of your go-kart. 

There are also kart racing suits that are made of poly-cotton. Poly-cotton is mainly used for indoor racing suits, as they are extremely comfortable and have good strength and abrasive properties. It’s more often used for entry-level racing suits. Pyrovatex fabrics are also found on some go-kart racing suits, as they have flame-retardant properties and are also very durable.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common go-kart racing suit fabrics below:

Cordura Suits

Used for professional suits
Patented material by DuPont
Highly abrasive-resistant
Mostly used for CIK FIA suits

Poly-Cotton Suits

Used for indoor suits
Comfortable & ergonomic
Lightweight & durable
Usually in twill-design

Pyrovatex Suits

Used for all-round suits
Patented by Huntsman
Flame-retardant material
used for non-certified suits

Go-Kart Racing Suit Sizes

It’s extremely important to get your go-kart racing suits in the correct size. Regardless if you are getting a CIK FIA Level 2 certified suit for professional karting or an indoor recreational karting suit, you must ensure that it fits you perfectly. It’s therefore recommended that you ensure that you select the correct size of suit when purchasing. 

Many go-kart racing suit manufacturers provide an extensive sizing guide. If you can’t find any in the online stores where you intend to purchase from, you can always go to the manufacturer’s website and look up the correct size that fits you. Usually, sizing guides will include the following measurements.

Sizing Guide Measurements:

  • A: Chest (Around your chest, under the armpits)
  • B: Waist (Inline with navel)
  • C: Hip (Around fullest part of hips)
  • D: Thigh (Just below the crotch area)
  • E: Inseam (Crotch to bottom leg)
  • F: Outer Arm (Shoulder to wrist)
  • G: Height (Floor to head)

Go-Kart Racing Suit Designs

The design of your go-kart racing suit should always be your personal choice. Each suit usually has a few color variants to choose from and different stylistic designs. The design of each suit does not affect the performance in any way and you can freely choose anything that suits your preference. 

Go-Kart Racing Suit Features

Different racing suits have different features. Generally speaking, professional go-kart racing suits have more sophisticated features compared to entry-level or indoor racing suits. You will find that premium racing suits are often double-layered or even triple-layered compared to a single-layer shell design that entry-level racing suits have. A double-layer or triple-layer will ensure a higher degree of abrasion resistance and comfort, as they are more padded. 

Another important feature to look out for is mesh ventilation areas, which provide the interior of the suit with adequate aeration. This is a feature that is most commonly found in professional and certified suits. Below are several other additional racing suit features that you can look out for. 

Karting Suit with Velcro Belt
Karting Suit with Shoulder Epaulets

Additional Suit Features

  • Internal/external pockets
  • Elastic wrist & ankle cuffs
  • Single, double or triple-layer shell
  • Velcro collar/belt
  • Pre-curved sleeves
  • Neck padding
  • Padded areas

Go-Kart Racing Suit Safety

As you may have encountered with all the other product review pages on GoKartGuide, safety is taken with utmost priority. There is just no excuse for neglecting safety, especially for a motor sport such as go-karting. This is due to the fact that you are directly exposed to the asphalt, as most go-karts don’t have roll cages and safety belts. 

That being said, you should take into account how serious you are about go-karting. If you are a hobbyist or a recreational driver, an indoor karting suit may suffice for you. In this case, ensure that it’s made of high quality material and is durable. 

If you plan to race professionally, semi-professionally or on a asphalt track, you may want to consider a double or triple-layered racing suit with highly durable and abrasion-resistant properties, such as Cordura. Additionally, you should ensure that your suit also meets the necessary safety requirements that the events you participate in stipulate. A CIK FIA Level 1 or Level 2 racing suit could be your best option.

Go-Kart Racing Suit Prices

The price range between professional go-kart racing suits and entry-level or indoor suits can vary immensely. It’s quite common that professional karting suits are 3-4 times the price of an indoor suit, due to the additional features it offers and the higher-quality materials it’s made of. 

As with design, the pricing of your suit is entirely up to how much your budget is and how involved you are with go-karting. 

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve compiled a list of questions that came in through emails or that I’ve been asked in person. I’ve also provided some answers there that you can refer to and I hope that these answers help to make your decision easier. If you have a question and you don’t see it below, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and I will add it into this list.

Are Go-Kart Racing Suits Really Necessary?

It really depends. Recreational go-karting tracks allow you to wear normal clothes. This is still acceptable if you are out to have a fun time with friends. If you plan to take go-karting even a little more seriously, you should consider getting an indoor racing suit or entry-level racing suit if you are just starting out. They are usually more affordable and will take you a long way. 

If you want to compete in events, you must definitely wear a certified go-kart racing suit, as it’s usually part of the rules. Here, a CIK FIA Level 1 or Level 2 suit would suffice, and it will protect you from accidents and collisions.

Is There a Difference Between Go-Kart Racing Suits and Auto Racing Suits?

It’s actually perfectly fine to use an auto racing suit for go-karting, but it may be a little too thick and uncomfortable. I would always suggest getting an actual go-kart racing suit, as they are made specifically for go-kart racing. Go-Karting suits, in comparison to auto racing suits are also made of Cordura, poly-cotton or Pyrovatex instead of Nomex, which is considerable more expensive. You’ll also find go-kart racing suits more flexible and ergonomic, which is crucial for leaning into corners during a race.

How Do I Wash My Racing Suit?

You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing your racing suit. However, here is a general guideline on how to wash your suit. Use a mild detergent on a low speed setting in your normal washing machine. Subsequently, you can hang your suit indoors to dry (avoid hanging it outside with direct sunlight). Alternatively, you can send your racing suit to a dry cleaner. This option is considerably more expensive and won’t be much of a difference, unless the washing instructions advise against machine washing. 

How Do I Know What My Racing Suit Size is?

It’s important to get an exact fitting size racing suit. Always refer to the manufacturer’s sizing guide that you can find either on the online shop or on their website. I can’t stress this enough, as I have bought many karting suits that didn’t fit me because I was a little too lazy to get my measurements. 

The good thing is that you’ll only really need to take your measurements once and keep those details stored. Also, take note on the sizing measurements that were outlined above and you’re good to go! If you ordered a suit and it’s not the right fit, return it and get the right size.

I’ve created a Go-Kart Suit Size Chart that you can use for reference. However, please keep in mind to always check the exact measurements on the product page of the kart racing suit.

Conclusion

I hope that this buying guide and review list has helped you make your buying decision easier. Always remember what type of suit you are getting and how seriously you treat go-kart racing. This list features a wide variety of different suits, each with its own qualities. Never forget the importance of safety and check what safety certification the racing suit you want to buy has and if it’s required for your type of go-kart racing! Be safe and have fun on the track!


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About Gerrit

Owner, Researcher, Writer & Editor at GoKartGuide.com

Hi, I'm Gerrit. I have been racing go-karts competitively and recreationally for the past 20 years. Apart from actively growing local karting communities, I run GoKartGuide and write comprehensive articles, guides & reviews about go-kart racing. I race, build, mod, & discuss go-karts whenever I find the time. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy the read!

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