WRR’s 5 Best Auto Racing Shoes Under $250

We recently published a piece about our favorite budget-friendly racing suits, and received a few requests from our readers to list what we think are the best auto racing shoes under $250.  This was very difficult as we have a lot of favorites for many reasons.  However, Mark was able to pin down not only a selection of our favorites, but also Winding Road Racing’s customers top-5 picks.  We even included a wild card!

5.  Alpinestars SP V2

Coming in under $180, the Alpinestars SP V2 are the least-expensive shoe on this list, however don’t let the price fool you.  This is a fantastic shoe with excellent fit & finish.  The design is very attractive, and holds up well.  The flexile upper-heel make articulating the foot nice and easy, with a surprisingly thin & springy sole – thanks to the FIA Homologation.

4. OMP First

The OMP First is a great mid-entry level shoe.  It’s high-rise with full sueded leather, including a Velcro strap top with classic laces which make it an easy shoe to get on and off.  This shoe has multiple, bright color choices, and a wide toe box to fit any driver.

3. Sparco Slalom+

If you don’t want a high-rise, this is our customer’s favorite shoe.  It has great stretch and breathability, especially for a sueded shoe.  Anti slip, static and oil/fuel resistant sole makes it the perfect shoe for the driver who does his own wrenching.  This is also dual-certified by both the FIA & SFI.

2. OMP Tecnica

The OMP Tecnica approach the higher-end 0f our $250 limit, but offers unmatched heat management, packaged into a super-lightweight shoe for the price point.  The hybrid design with smooth grain leather on the inner offers a nicely designed and colored touch compared to the sueded leather on the outer making it a very attractive option.  The sueded toe is a nice feature to not have to worry about scuffs in the pedal box, and there some great color choices!

1. Chicane GT2*

We put a * next to this shoe as it barely eclipses our $250 budget, however why not spend just $40 more for a shoe that does it all?  Chicane racing shoes are newer to the market, and are unbeatable for the price.  The GT2 is specifically designed for club racers, TT, and HPDE drivers seeking premium quality and top performance in a durable, lightweight shoe that also provides excellent comfort, breathability, and pedal sensitivity.  Checks all the boxes, and more!