The design of racing safety equipment and suits have evolved dramatically since the inception of racing sanctioning bodies. Top tier racing leagues, such as Formula One, have seen its fair share of deadly accidents involving a range of causes. During the early(er) days, racing was not considered very safe, although this fact did form mass appeal from fans worldwide. Precautions were needed and, season after season, safety measures evolved and improved. Due to the high risk of fire after a crash, a flame and heat resistant suit was highly desired and eventually mandatory. A popular material containing these qualities is a polymer called Nomex. Now a standard in many series, the driving suit holds a special place in racing history.
Nomex is a material not only common in racing suits, but in fire fighting equipment, as well. This material is also used in gloves, long underwear, balaclavas (head socks), socks, helmet lining, and shoes. Sanctioning bodies, such as the FIA and SFI adhere to certain specifications of suit design and material layout. Suits can range from single layer to thicker “multi-layer” SFI-15 suits, the latter required by bodies such as the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association). Military and air personnel also wear flight suits in case of cockpit fire, which can be made of over 92% Nomex material.
Nomex was originally trademarked in the 1960s as a flame-resistant meta-aramid material related to nylon. With aromatic backbones, it is more rigid and durable than many other resistant materials. It has excellent thermal, chemical, and radiation resistance for a polymer material. It is even used for electrical insulation. Produced in both fiber and sheet forms, it is used as a fabric wherever resistance from heat and flame is required.
In order to win a race (and many more to come), the driver must not only be cool, calm, and collected, but also confident that he or she will be safe in the event of an accident. With this in mind, one can push toward their personal limits and grow as a driver. The fear of a crash equipped with sub-standard safety equipment can weigh heavily on the mind of the racer, crew, and family, so do plenty of research as to what fire suits and equipment suit your preferences and requirements. Feel free to browse our showroom in Garfield, NJ or give us a call at (973) 773-4870 and we will be glad to assist you with any questions you may have. Drive safe!