Greg Smith

I'm looking at the Top 5 suit on closeout for $700, it was originally $1200. Anyone have this suit? I'm wondering if I should get the $700 closeout suit that's 4 years old or pay full price for a new $700-$900 suit.

Circuit Motorsports

You can't beat the price on closeouts.

Did you have a chance to try it on. When I was shopping for suits a while ago I looked hard at the mid level Sparco suits and I felt they were all fairly heavy and bulky compared to other suits of the same price.

I ended up going with an Alpinestars GP2 instead of the equivalently priced Sparco. It is FIA rated, was a lot lighter and breathed much better. To be honest I can't remember if I tried on the Top 5. It was in the price range of what I was looking at.

However you can overcome any issue with heat and bulky layers by getting a coolshirt which could be a required item down there in Texas.

Greg Smith

Yes I tried it on but I haven't tried on the newer Sparco suits. Also, I want a 3 layer suit so that eliminates the Alpinestars GP2. And yes, I will be getting a cool shirt/F.A.S.T..

David 23

Greg,
I got the Sparco X-light. Costs a bit more, but the difference in keeping cooler in this very lightweight suit for all the times you will be using it is more than worth it. (particularly where we drive!) Try one on at PST back to back with a Top 5, you will be amazed at the difference. The Puma top of the line is nearly as light weight also.

Racerrob

I have a top 5 and I have been very pleased with it. It is much cooler and softer than the old Simpson that proceeded it. The shiny nomex has also held up very well. Remember, it is more important to look fast than be fast and the top 5 looks very fast

Mark in Baltimore

I, too, have the Top 5 and like it a lot. I was told by two Sparco dealers that the X-Lites have very fragile inner liners and do not tolerate being tied around the waist.

Sean F

I heard that about the x lites as well, but mine has held up really well and I haven't been easy on it

David 23

I also heard that, but mine has held up fine, without any special handling or care.
I see more X lites around MSR than any other suit, I think most people feel keeping cool is the biggest concern.

Mark in Baltimore

Just out of curiousity, how may days do you guys have on your X-Lites?

Circuit Motorsports

I have heard lots of people worried about the durability of the X-lite but I have yet to see people having any more problems than you see with the cheaper/thicker/heavier.

There have been a number of good deals on some of the x-lites that are a couple of years old as well floating around out there.

Sean F

i had about 20 days on mine last year. All my race days and the cold DE days in the fall.

Mark in Baltimore

Thanks, guys.

schwank

If any of you guys know where those deals are at right now, it would save me a lot of time if you could link them here....

Going to be taking my comp school in about a month and have to get a ton of gear quickly, including suit and undergarments. Already near broke on the racecar budget from winter expenditures. Stupid summer wedding.

Anyone have a hot tip on a good value? Thanks.... figured I'd piggy back on this thread rather than starting yet another thread here in the racing forum.

Sean F

got mine NIB on ebay

Circuit Motorsports

Shoot me a PM with what you are looking for. We can set you up with a good deal.

-Joe