Every week, we process returns from customers who ordered the wrong size F1 race suit. Almost every single one made the same avoidable mistakes. After fitting hundreds of customers into replica race suits, we've put together the definitive guide to getting your size right the first time.

Mistake #1: Ordering Your Normal Clothing Size

This is the most common error by far. F1 race suits are not cut like everyday clothing. They're engineered for a seated, forward-leaning driving position — which means the torso is longer, the shoulders are narrower, and the legs are cut differently to a standard pair of trousers.

The result? Most people need to go one to two sizes up from their usual clothing size. If you wear a medium T-shirt, start by trying a large in an F1 suit. If you're between sizes, always go up — F1 suits do not stretch.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Your Height

Chest size alone doesn't determine your suit size. A 190 cm person with a 92 cm chest needs a completely different suit to a 170 cm person with the same chest measurement. Height determines the overall length of the suit — get this wrong and you'll either have a suit that rides up constantly or one that bunches at the ankles.

Always cross-reference your chest measurement and your height against the size chart before ordering.

Mistake #3: Measuring Over Thick Clothing

Always measure in fitted clothing or underwear. Measuring over a hoodie or winter jacket adds 3–5 cm to your chest measurement and will result in a suit that's too large. Use a soft fabric tape measure, not a metal ruler, and keep it snug but not tight.

Mistake #4: Forgetting the Inseam

The inside leg measurement is one of the most overlooked dimensions when ordering a race suit. F1 suits have longer legs than standard clothing because drivers sit in a reclined position. If the inseam is too short, the suit will pull uncomfortably at the crotch every time you sit down. Measure from your crotch to the floor along the inside of your leg and compare it to our size chart.

Mistake #5: Assuming All Brands Size the Same

A size Large from one manufacturer is not the same as a size Large from another. Always check the specific size chart for the suit you're ordering — don't assume your size from a previous purchase carries over. At Dash Racegear, every suit listing includes a detailed size chart specific to that product.

The 6 Measurements You Need Before You Order

To get your F1 race suit size right, you need six measurements:

1. Chest — around the fullest part, under the armpits
2. Waist — at the natural waist, above the belly button
3. Hips — around the fullest part of the seat, ~20 cm below the waist
4. Height — barefoot, floor to top of head
5. Inseam — crotch to floor, inside leg
6. Sleeve length — centre back of neck, over shoulder, to wrist

Take all six, compare them to our size chart, and if any measurement puts you in a larger size — go with the larger size.

What Size Do Real F1 Drivers Wear?

People often ask us what size their favourite driver wears. Here's a rough guide based on publicly available driver stats:

• Lewis Hamilton (174 cm, slim) — S/M
• Max Verstappen (181 cm, athletic) — M/L
• Lando Norris (170 cm, slim) — S
• George Russell (185 cm, tall/slim) — L
• Charles Leclerc (180 cm, athletic) — M
• Carlos Sainz (178 cm, medium) — M
• Fernando Alonso (171 cm, compact) — S/M
• Oscar Piastri (178 cm, slim) — M

Keep in mind that real drivers have their suits custom-tailored — these are approximate replica equivalents, not exact matches.

Still Unsure? Ask Us Before You Order

If you have an unusual build — very tall with a slim chest, broad shoulders with a narrow waist, or anything that puts you between sizes — contact our team before ordering. We'd rather spend five minutes helping you get the right size than process a return.

For the full measurement guide and size chart, visit our dedicated F1 Race Suit Size Guide.

Shop F1 Race Suits at Dash Racegear →