Getting the perfect fit for your race suit isn't just about comfort: it's about safety, performance, and confidence on the track. Yet countless racers make the same measurement mistakes that lead to suits that are too tight, too loose, or just plain wrong for their body type.
After years of creating custom race suits for speedway, grasstrack, and flat track racers, we've seen every measurement mishap in the book. The good news? These mistakes are completely avoidable once you know what to look for.
Let's dive into the seven most common measurement errors that could be sabotaging your race suit fit: and exactly how to fix them.
Mistake #1: Assuming Your "Regular" Size Will Work
Here's the harsh truth: your size 42 jacket doesn't mean you need a size 42 race suit. Race suit sizing varies dramatically between manufacturers, and what fits perfectly from one brand might be completely wrong from another.
Many racers order based on their street clothes size, only to end up with a suit that restricts movement or hangs loose in critical areas. This happens because race suits are designed to fit much closer to the body than everyday clothing, and different brands use completely different sizing standards.
The Fix: Forget everything you think you know about your size. Start fresh with accurate body measurements and consult each manufacturer's specific sizing chart. At Dstar, we've seen racers who wear medium street clothes need anywhere from small to extra-large in our suits, depending on their build and racing discipline.
Mistake #2: Taking Measurements Over Thick Clothing
We get it: measuring in your underwear feels awkward. But taking measurements over thick jeans, sweaters, or multiple layers will throw off your numbers by inches, not just fractions.
Thick clothing adds bulk that isn't actually part of your body, leading to a race suit that's far too large. Remember, your race suit will be worn over thin base layers, not your winter wardrobe.
The Fix: Measure over thin, form-fitting clothing or undergarments only. If you're uncomfortable measuring yourself, have a trusted friend or family member help. The few minutes of awkwardness will save you from months of racing in an ill-fitting suit.
For the most accurate results, wear the same type of base layers you'll use while racing. This gives you measurements that reflect your actual racing conditions.
Mistake #3: Measuring at the Wrong Points on Your Body
Your waist isn't where your belt sits. Your chest isn't the widest part of your ribcage. And your inseam definitely isn't where most people think it is.
Measuring at the wrong anatomical points is incredibly common and throws off the entire fit of your suit. We see racers measuring their "waist" at their hip bones or their "chest" at their armpits, then wondering why their custom suit doesn't fit properly.
The Fix: Learn the proper measurement points:
- Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, typically just under your armpits
- Waist: Measure at your natural waistline, usually about an inch above your belly button
- Hip: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks
- Inseam: Measure from your crotch straight down to where you want the suit leg to end
Take your time with each measurement and double-check them. If you're unsure about proper measurement techniques, check out our detailed measurement guide for step-by-step instructions.
Mistake #4: Not Accounting for Your Racing Position
Your body changes shape when you're in racing position. Your arms extend forward, your back curves, your legs bend: and a suit that fits perfectly while standing upright might be restrictive or uncomfortable on the bike.
Many racers measure themselves standing straight up with their arms at their sides, then find their suit pulls across the shoulders or restricts arm movement when they're actually racing.
The Fix: Consider your racing position during measurements. When measuring arm length, extend your arm forward as if you're gripping handlebars. For chest measurements, take a slightly deeper breath than normal to account for your expanded ribcage during racing.
If possible, have someone measure you while you're in a simulated racing crouch. This ensures your suit will fit properly when it matters most.
Mistake #5: Ignoring the Importance of Inseam Length
Getting your inseam wrong affects everything from comfort to safety. Too short, and your suit will ride up, creating gaps between your boots and suit legs. Too long, and you'll have excess fabric bunching in your boots or catching on footpegs.
Many racers either don't measure their inseam at all or measure to the wrong point, typically measuring to their ankle instead of where they actually want the suit to end.
The Fix: Decide exactly where you want your race suit legs to end before measuring. For most racers, this is about mid-ankle or just above the top of racing boots.
Measure from your crotch straight down to this point while wearing the boots you'll race in. This ensures the suit length works with your specific footwear and riding style.
Mistake #6: Taking Solo Measurements That Require Help
Some measurements are nearly impossible to take accurately by yourself. Trying to measure your own back length, shoulder width, or arm length while maintaining proper posture leads to wildly inaccurate numbers.
We've seen measurement errors of 4-6 inches when racers attempt complex measurements alone, particularly for back length and shoulder measurements that require specific positioning.
The Fix: Get help for measurements that require it. You need another person for:
- Back length (from neck to waist)
- Shoulder width (across your back from shoulder to shoulder)
- Arm length (from shoulder to wrist while extended)
- Any measurement where you can't easily see or reach the tape measure
Having a helper ensures the tape measure stays level, you maintain proper posture, and the measurements are taken at the correct points.
Mistake #7: Not Understanding Fit Preferences for Your Racing Discipline
Speedway racers need different fit characteristics than grasstrack or flat track riders. The demands of each discipline affect how your suit should fit, but many racers don't consider this when measuring or ordering.
Speedway racing requires maximum freedom of movement for the aggressive body positions and quick direction changes. Grasstrack racing needs durability and protection from debris. Flat track racing demands a balance of both, with particular attention to slide protection.
The Fix: Consider your racing discipline when taking measurements and discussing fit preferences:
- Speedway racers typically prefer a slightly looser fit through the torso and arms for maximum mobility
- Grasstrack racers often choose a closer fit for better aerodynamics and debris protection
- Flat track racers usually want a compromise: close enough for protection but loose enough for comfort during longer races
Communicate your racing discipline and fit preferences clearly when ordering. At Dstar, we adjust our fit recommendations based on your specific racing needs and can guide you through the measurement process for optimal results.
Getting It Right the First Time
Avoiding these measurement mistakes isn't just about getting a better-fitting suit: it's about maximizing your safety and performance on the track. A properly fitted race suit moves with your body, provides consistent protection, and lets you focus on racing instead of adjusting your gear.
Remember, taking measurements is a skill that improves with practice. Don't rush the process, and don't hesitate to re-measure if something doesn't seem right. The extra time invested upfront will pay dividends in comfort and confidence every time you hit the track.
If you're unsure about any aspect of the measurement process, reach out to professionals who can guide you through it. A properly measured, custom-fitted race suit is one of the best investments you can make in your racing career.
Ready to get your measurements right? Visit our measurement page for detailed guides, or contact us to discuss your specific needs with our fitting experts.