If you’ve ever watched a sim racing video, you may have noticed that many simracers wear gloves. But why is this? What benefits do gloves have for simracers?
Simracers have a secret to keeping their steering wheels in perfect condition!
First and foremost, one of the main reasons simracers use gloves is to protect their expensive steering wheels. Many high-end steering wheels are covered in Alcantara, a synthetic fabric that resembles suede and provides excellent grip, but is not designed to be used with bare hands. Oils and sweat from hands can damage the Alcantara over time, so many simracers use gloves to protect their steering wheels from damage.
However, the use of gloves can also enhance the sim racing experience itself. Racing gloves are designed to provide better grip and allow simracers to better feel the feedback from the steering wheel. With direct drive steering wheels, which can produce forces greater than many real car steering systems, it is more difficult to hold the steering wheel without gloves. Racing gloves provide a firmer grip and help simracers better feel the feedback from the steering wheel.
Inmersion & Better Experience
In addition, the use of gloves can improve immersion in the simulator. By feeling the texture and grip of the steering wheel through gloves, it is easier to feel a connection with the virtual car and track. Also, with a firmer grip on the steering wheel, it is easier to control the car and feel its movements and reactions. Gloves can also provide a more realistic feeling when driving a simulator, which can help improve immersion and make the simulation experience more exciting.
In summary, simracers use gloves for a combination of protection and enhancement of the sim racing experience.”
See you on the track!
Exactly the same reason we wear them in real race cars as well, sweaty hands, and grip….