First DE in a couple of weeks, used Simpsons or wrestling shoes when karting in the past. Was looking at Oakley's 1320 model. Want something suited for DE and able to handle walking around in the pits too.

I know this has been discussed back in 2002 via my search, time for a new thread.

Link below. Soles look good w/o heel being too thick.

http://www.speedwaremotorsports.com/...leyShoes03.asp

 

For your first DE, a pair of sneakers (not running shoes) would be fine. The next step up would be a pair of wrestling shoes, which seems like they'd be a lot cheaper than the Nomex shoes in your link. There's nothing wrong with fire-proof shoes, of course, but unless you're also getting a full race suit for your first DE, it might be overkill.

 

Piloti's wear well although they do not have quite the "feel" of some other brands.

 

These are not nomex and no racesuits for me, already have one and I'm not gonna wear it. These just appear to look more funtional than the usual boot type stuff and most sneakers have too thick of sole that doesn't allow for the feel I want.

Anyone ever seen these or own a pair?

 

Those shoes look kinda thick to me. If you don't want the nomex variety which aren't all that expensive (you'll spend more on gas at a DE) try the Pumas. You can buy them in sports stores and they are a knock off of a racing shoe without the nomex.

 

Why not wear the firesuit? I think it's a very good idea to use all the available safety gear - I've seen more incidents at DE's than races. Besides, the more gear you're used to wearing the less of an imposition it is, in your mind, later on when you've got the racing bug and all the gear is required. As for shoes, if you want driving shoes then get the ones you can try on first or just use the tennies your used to driving in. Good Luck.

 

try speedgear.com they usually have some good specials on driving shows (nomex and non-nomex). I personally use original Simpsons and Sparcos and yes, even at a DE I use my driving suit; you never know......

 

I agree wearing a full racing suit is a good idea at all levels.

But let's face it, when a total newbie comes walking up in a full Pro Sparco racing suit you do snicker at them under your breath.

 

Custom stitching: "I've done this before--really."

 

the page on that site. Bob is right, the sole is too thick and WAY to stiff. I can't wear them to drive at the track because I can't feel the pedals. To bad because they are great looking shoe. I'm thinking of taking them to the garage and putting them on the belt sander for a while!

 

I have the Oakleys and I really liike them. The sole is not too think at all.

 

you might want to look at some "Puma Speed cats"

 

are yours like these? Because these are heavy and very stiff. It is difficult to even bend the sole at all.

 

half the weight, but no where near as pretty as the Oakleys. At least I can feel the pedals, which is what counts.

 

If you want a sneaker type shoe, try Adidas Sambas (soccer style shoe). It fit snugly and has great grip and pedal feel. It also looks cool with jeans.