When planning going to a NASCAR race, something often over looked is what to wear to a NASCAR race. Just as you wouldn’t wear flip-flops to a winter hike, attending a NASCAR race has its specific clothing recommendations. It’s not just about fashion; it’s about blending functionality and showing your support.
Dressing for a NASCAR race balances comfort, protection, and fandom. Wear breathable clothes, closed-toed shoes, and bring ear protection and sunscreen. You can wear team colors or driver numbers to show support. For night races, consider light jackets and visibility gear. Always prioritize safety and comfort.
This guide is your go-to for seamlessly merging comfort with style, ensuring your race day experience is memorable for all the right reasons.
Dress for the Weather, but Plan for all Weathers!
To determine what to wear to a NASCAR race, your first and second thoughts should be to the location and the weather. NASCAR races span the whole country, from the humid atmosphere of Florida’s Daytona International Speedway to the more temperate conditions of Watkins Glen in New York.
Additionally, many NASCAR events are open-air and some of the best seats at NASCAR races are without covers, making them susceptible all the moods of Mother Nature and she can have a lot of moods! Rain showers might give way to blazing sun, or an overcast morning might become a chilly evening.
Always check the forecast for the race day, but be prepared for surprises. Pack a light rain jacket or poncho, even if there’s just a slight chance of rain. A rule of thumb? Dress in layers and just like the drivers, anticipate the unpredictable.
What to Wear at a NASCAR Race?
Clothing at a NASCAR event is more than just a style statement; it’s about safety, comfort, and the overall experience. Choosing what to wear at a NASCAR race should ensure protection against weather elements, from blistering sun to sudden downpours.
Comfortable clothing will help you stay the distance, especially at long 500 mile races, or 600 like the Coca Cola 600. Team colors and clothes will allow you to connect to your favorite team or driver but dressing appropriately is more important – lets make sure you can actually stay and watch and no retreat undercover if you were unprepared.
We have some tips in the list below to make sure what you wear at a NASCAR race is suitable
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Deciding what to wear to a NASCAR race begins right from the ground up, with your choice of footwear. Events often involve getting across huge parking areas, walking between stands, and standing for extended periods – all of which may be wet if there is rain in the area. Don’t start your day with wet feet, its a fun killer!
Prioritize comfortable, closed-toed shoes. Not only do they protect against accidental spills ( or beer flying about) or potential hazards on the ground, but they also prevent any unintended mishaps like someone stepping on your foot in bustling crowds – trust us on this!
Athletic sneakers are ideal. For those wanting a balance between style and comfort, consider cushioned loafers or flat boots. It’s a long day; your feet will thank you for thinking ahead.
Wear Lightweight Clothing
Warm, sunny days are a staple of NASCAR events, they don’t run in the winter! It’s important to choose lightweight, breathable materials like cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics to wear to a NASCAR race – think of a four hour hike but where you are standing instead of walking and it gives you some idea.
These materials allow your skin to breathe, reducing the chances of overheating or discomfort. When selecting colors, light shades are preferred as they reflect the sun’s rays, while dark hues can trap heat.
Additionally, sleeveless tops, shorts, or skirts can be beneficial in keeping cool. However, always be mindful of the sun exposure and balance it with protective measures like sunscreen, especially if you’re prone to sunburns, you might be red in the face from all the cheering, but lets try to keep that, not the sun, as the reason.
Wear a Hat or Cap
A hat or cap is indispensable for all outdoor racing events, and all outdoor events really. Not only does it serve as a shield against the intense sunlight, but it also absorbs sweat, helping to make sure it doesn’t trickle down into your eyes.
For avid fans, hats sporting team logos, driver numbers, or NASCAR insignias serve a dual purpose: sun protection and showcasing your support.
Consider baseball caps with adjustable straps for a snug fit or, our preference, wide-brimmed hats for added coverage just make sure you don’t do a “day at the races” English style hat and block the view of people around you!
Remember, it’s not just about staying cool but also preventing potential sunburn on the face and neck.
Take Sunglasses
NASCAR races mean prolonged exposure to sunlight, making sunglasses more of a necessity than an accessory. When choosing sunglasses, ensure they offer UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays. We actually have an article on What sunglasses NASCAR drivers wear – though they are more pricey.
Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces, enhancing your view of the track. Beyond functionality, sunglasses can be a style statement. Whether you’re into aviators, wayfarers, or sporty frames, choose a design that complements your outfit.
Always carry a protective case to store them during cloudy intervals or if the race extends into the evening, don’t do what we did and put them in your back pocket either – they didn’t last very long when we sat down.
Layering: What to wear to a NASCAR Race
Layering is a strategic approach to dressing for NASCAR races. Early mornings might be cooler, warming up significantly as the race progresses.
Begin with a base layer like a T-shirt or tank top, followed by a lightweight long-sleeve shirt or hoodie. This allows you to add or remove layers, adapting to the day’s temperature variations.
If rain is in the forecast, a thin, water-resistant jacket can be a lifesaver.
Choose jackets or sweaters that are compact enough to fit in a day bag or can be tied around your waist, ensuring you’re always prepared.
Show Your Support with what you Wear to a NASCAR Race
One of the most thrilling parts of attending a NASCAR race isn’t just the roaring engines or nail-biting finishes—it’s the sea of color and passion displayed by fans in the stands. When considering what to wear to a NASCAR race, showcasing team spirit is high on the list.
Wearing team colors or driver numbers is a tradition ages old. From t-shirts with your favorite driver’s face to hats embroidered with their number, it’s a way for fans to feel connected to the action.
While there will be plenty of places you can buy these items at the track you can go prepared, and possibly save a few dollars ( ok a lot of dollars) by buying before hand.
Items can include the following.
Types of NASCAR-Themed Clothing:
- Jerseys: Often made of breathable materials and emblazoned with a driver’s name and number.
- Jackets: Featuring embroidered patches of sponsors, team logos, and more.
- Polo shirts: For those seeking a more understated look, still showcasing team spirit.
- Hats & Caps: Protect against the sun while showcasing your favorite driver.
- Bandanas: Versatile and can be worn in numerous ways, they’re perfect for hot race days.
- Socks & Shoes: Some fans even opt for NASCAR-themed footwear and socks to complete the look.
Fans often create personalized signs, wear elaborate costumes, or even paint their faces, taking fandom to the next level. These cost you nothing but time!
Families or groups of friends sometimes coordinate their attire, turning their support into a group affair, making race day an even more memorable experience.
Protective Gear for a NASCAR Race
When attending a NASCAR race, excitement is guaranteed, but it’s equally essential to prioritize safety and comfort. Races can be thunderously loud, and with day-long exposure to sun or even unexpected rain, being prepared with the right protective gear is a must.
Ear Protection: The roar of the engines can exceed 130 decibels—louder than a concert. To protect your hearing, opt for earplugs or noise-reducing earmuffs. Many venues even sell NASCAR-themed ear protection for both adults and children. We have loads of solutions for this on our Best Ear protection For NASCAR Races page.
Sunscreen: A day at the tracks means prolonged sun exposure. A high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen should be applied regularly to prevent painful sunburns and long-term skin damage.
Rain Gear: Weather can be unpredictable. Stash a lightweight poncho or raincoat in your bag. Some fans also bring waterproof shoe covers to ensure they remain dry and comfortable no matter the weather.
What Not to Wear to a NASCAR Race
Equally as important as knowing what to wear to a NASCAR race is understanding what to avoid. Making wise clothing choices ensures your safety and enjoyment throughout the event.
Heavy Materials: Tracks can get hot, especially during summer races. Heavy fabrics like denim or thick synthetic materials can trap heat, making you uncomfortable. Choose breathable, lightweight materials instead.
Open-Toed Shoes or Heels: Race tracks are not the place for sandals or high heels. They can leave your feet vulnerable to being stepped on in crowded areas or to debris. Heels can be problematic on terrains typical of racetracks. Stick to comfortable sneakers or boots.
Jewelry: While a piece or two can be fine, avoid wearing excessive jewelry. It can easily get lost, snag on something, or cause discomfort over a long day.
Accessories for a NASCAR Race
Beyond your clothing choices, some accessories can improve your NASCAR race experience. These not only add to your comfort but can also help you become more engaged with the live action we covered ear protection above, so here are three more accessories to get the most out of your day.
Coolers:
If you’re planning to spend the entire day at the track, a cooler is invaluable. It can store drinks, snacks, and even meals. However, check the event’s guidelines, as there might be size restrictions or prohibited items – truthfully there is no might – they all have guidelines.
Opt for a lightweight cooler that’s easy to carry and also provides insulation to keep items chilled we have more information here on What Coolers Can You Take To A NASCAR Track.
Seat Cushions or Portable Chairs:
Given that some NASCAR venues have bleacher seating or general admission grassy areas, a portable seat cushion or chair can offer added comfort during the long hours of a race. Those seats do get hard!
This ensures you’re not sitting directly on potentially hot or cold surfaces or that you don’t get to numb! We have an article on some of the best stadium portable seats, including NASCAR tracks to look at here on the site.
Binoculars:
If you’re seated far from the track or wish to focus on specific race details, a good pair of binoculars can be a game-changer. it is even possible to get some that the spotters on the roof of the stadium use as well.
we have an article on some of the better binoculars suitable for NASCAR races here to. They enable you to catch distant action and keep up with your favorite drivers more closely.
Special Considerations on what to wear for Night Races
Night races in NASCAR have a distinct set of challenges. They’re not just about the shimmer of car lights and the atmosphere; they require a bit of additional planning when deciding what to wear to a NASCAR race. (though Bristol night race is one of our all time favorites).
Temperature Drop: Even during summer months, temperatures can dip significantly after sunset. Bringing a light jacket or sweater can make your experience more comfortable as the night progresses. Layering is essential so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
Visibility: While the tracks are well-lit, moving around the stands or the parking areas might not be. Consider wearing light-up gear or packing a small flashlight, though most phones have them now. Fans also love glow sticks or even light-up clothing which adds a festive touch to the event.
Safety: Since nighttime can cause reduced visibility, wearing reflective gear can be beneficial, especially when navigating crowded areas or crossing roads.
What to Wear to a NASCAR Race for Kids
Bringing children to a NASCAR event can be a thrilling experience, introducing them to the world of motorsport. But, ensuring their comfort and safety is important if you want them to want to come again.
Child-friendly Earmuffs: The noise level at races can be overwhelming for little ears. Invest in child-specific earmuffs, we have some on the link, to provide substantial noise protection, allowing them to enjoy without discomfort.
Comfortable Attire: Much like adults, kids should wear breathable materials. Consider outfits that are easy to move in and change if necessary. A bonus would be NASCAR-themed children’s clothing, making them feel part of the event. an example, there are hundreds, we linked below.
Hats and Sunscreen: Young skin is sensitive. A kid-friendly hat can shield them from the sun, while a high-SPF sunscreen, reapplied frequently, will prevent sunburns.
Engaging Activities: Keeping kids occupied during lulls is key and NASCAR races can be long! Think about packing NASCAR-themed toys, coloring books, or games. This not only entertains them but also keeps them on theme for the day.
If you have your wardrobe all sorted out and know what to wear to a NASCAR race then you can start to plan what to take to the race now. We have an article that covers all of that linked here and below.
Conclusion
Dressing appropriately for a NASCAR race is crucial. It ensures comfort throughout the event and allows fans to show support for their favorite teams or drivers.
Wearing the right clothes and accessories not only provides protection from various weather conditions but also enhances the overall experience.
Whether it’s a daytime race under the scorching sun or a nighttime event with cooler temperatures, being prepared makes all the difference.
Remember, it’s not just about fitting in with the crowd, but also about personal safety and maximizing enjoyment.
In essence, knowing what to wear to a NASCAR race ensures a better and more memorable race day.
