Track days are an excellent way to hone your skills and get away from the office; they’re low pressure and fun, so grab your buddies and go!
A good helmet – You only have one brain so don’t skimp. Sparco and Racequip are excellent brands: https://www.trackreadyproducts.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=886_899
A driving suit – They used to be like wearing an oven mitt, however modern suits are thin and really comfortable; Sparco and Racequip have a good selection: https://www.trackreadyproducts.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=886_904
Gloves – they absorb the moisture, make high speed driving more comfortable and increase the visibility of your hands as you enter pit lane: https://www.trackreadyproducts.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=886_898
Belts (harnesses) – For some track day organizations, belts are required. In addition to protecting your carcass, one of the biggest advantages of a 6-point harness is they keep you firmly planted in the seat. As everyone knows, that is key to feeling what the car is doing: https://www.trackreadyproducts.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=886_887
A driving seat – With a conventional seat, your body moves around during cornering, so there’s nothing better than a seat with side bolsters as it increases your sense of what the car is doing. Some models are true competition seats whereas others have a good blend of street & track features to impress your dates: https://www.trackreadyproducts.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=886_900
A good tire pressure gauge – check out Autometer: https://www.trackreadyproducts.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=722_723&products_id=24564 or Longacre: https://www.longacreracing.com/products.aspx?itemid=1640&pagetitle=Tire-Pressure-Gauges
A 12v tire compressor – really useful for adjusting your tire pressures during the day, Amazon has several: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=12v+air+compressor&sprefix=12v+%2Caps%2C167&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_8_4
A torque wrench – multiple tests and reviews have shown that there are differences between the various brands, however many are good so just buy one and stick with it
A basic tool set – if you don’t want to lug your entire roll cab, consider Sparco’s excellent trackside tool roll; not only does it contain tools with a lifetime warranty but you’ll appreciate everything in one spot: https://www.trackreadyproducts.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=760_842&products_id=22055
Consumables – zip ties, safety wire, duct tape, 409, Windex, Tub O’ Towels hand wipes, brake cleaner (great for wasps), paper towels, snacks with salt
Personal Care – sunscreen, a First Aid kit, Advil if you’re over 40
Fluids – a hydrated driver is a fast driver! Water and Gatorade are always good, stay away from the sugary drinks as they make you thirsty
Before you hit the track:
- Empty your bladder
- Check the water & oil
- Torque your wheels
- Adjust your tire pressures to suit the weather