Fireproof underwear price vs comfort

[Bebbetufs]

Do you have any advice for what to look for when buying my first set of fireproof underwear? There are no racing shops here, so I will need to order online. As such, I'm unable to check out the differences in quality and fit before buying.

I'm wondering what the differences in price and fabric entail. I won't use it much, so looking to save money, but I don't want to sacrifice too much comfort either. Are different fabrics warmer than others? I'm in Norway, so the temperature wont go above 28C/80F, but staying cool is always nice.

I need it to be FIA certified and as such I assume the level of fire protection will be similar across brands and price points. Where should I "level up" and where can I focus more on price? I'm thinking socks and balaclava can be affordable, while spending slightly more on trousers and tops may be worth it.

[The Radium King]

well, some thoughts ...

- make sure what you order has a sewn-in fia/sfi label, otherwise it can fade and not be visible during tech.
- if you get a 3-layer suit then you don't need the nomex underwear (depending on your rules).
- how hot does it get there? you might want to think about a coolshirt.
- i've not used it, but the new carbon-x stuff is supposed to breathe a lot better than standard nomex.

[Bebbetufs]

Thanks. For the tips.
What do you think about flatlock seams? Do you consider it necessary?

- I don't think a coolshirt is needed. Average summer temperature is 24C
- I'll look into the carbon-x stuff.

[MaxD]

You can't go wrong buying Nomex underwear from any of the major brands : Sparco, OMP, Alpenstar, Stand 21, etc. All make FIA approved products. SFI is an American thing separate from FIA.

Optimal is two long sleeve shirts, a single long bottom + a couple pairs of socks and a balaclava or two. If you didn't size you helmet with a balaclava it may be a bit tight. Not running events over a whole weekend, one of each is sufficient.

I always wear some form of Nomex under my suit. It is up to 42C here during Utah summers so I have a few short tops and bottoms. Not FIA but I know the risks. I usually don't run a coolshirt unless it is over 28-30C.

The carbon-x and like finishes help a bit with garment funk over a weekend. Don't think it makes you feel cooler.

Tops and Bottoms can be rather pricey. Look for sales over the holiday.

My sizing - I'm an extra husky 5'7" - 195ish guy. Sparco M/L or OMP L Top/M bottom.

[nickshu]

Agree w/ above. Stick with the name brands/top end. My experience has been the cheaper stuff fits weird.

[Bebbetufs]

Sorry for the late reply and thanks. I got some Sparco bits, but have still not bought the shirt and bottom. Hoping to find some on sale.