How to Choose the Right Aftermarket Performance Seats for a Subaru BRZ for Track Days?

Looking to pump up the adrenaline and amplify the thrill of riding your Subaru BRZ on track days? The first thing you should consider is upgrading your stock seats to performance racing seats. High-quality aftermarket seats can drastically enhance your driving experience, providing better support and security, especially when you are pushing your car to its limits on the racing track.

But with a plethora of options available, selecting the perfect one might be a daunting task. This guide aims to simplify that process for you. We’ll delve into the various factors you need to consider, discuss popular brands like Sparco, and address common queries that you might have. So buckle up, and let’s get started.

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1. Why You Should Upgrade Your Stock Seats

The decision to swap your Subaru BRZ’s stock seats for performance racing seats is a significant one. It’s not just about changing the look of your car’s interior but also enhancing your driving experience.

Your stock seats are designed for everyday use, emphasizing comfort over high-speed stability. However, performance seats, also known as bucket seats, are designed specifically for racing purposes. They provide better lateral support, holding you firmly in place even during sharp turns and high-speed maneuvering.

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Moreover, they are typically lighter than stock seats, helping reduce your car’s overall weight and potentially improving its performance. Additionally, many performance seats are compatible with racing harnesses for added safety – a feature usually not offered by stock seats.

2. Factors to Consider When Choosing Aftermarket Performance Seats

When selecting aftermarket performance seats for your Subaru BRZ, you need to consider several factors. These include the seat’s fitment, safety features, comfort level, material quality, and compatibility with your car.

Fitment is crucial. You need a seat that will perfectly fit in your car’s location without interfering with the door or center console. Most manufacturers provide detailed dimension information, but it’s always a good idea to double-check.

Safety features such as harness compatibility and seat construction are essential. Look for seats that can accommodate a racing harness and have a sturdy, reliable construction.

Comfort is another important factor. If you plan to use your car on the track and street, you need a seat that can offer comfort for prolonged periods. Memory foam cushioning and adjustable backrests are features to look out for.

Finally, the seat’s material should be durable and easy to clean. Synthetic leather and fabric are popular choices due to their resilience and ease of maintenance.

3. Popular Brands for Aftermarket Performance Seats

When talking about performance seats, the brand Sparco is hard to overlook. Known for their high-quality products, Sparco offers a range of seats catered to different racing needs.

Take the Sparco Circuit II, for instance. This bucket seat offers excellent lateral support, thanks to its wraparound shell design. It also has pre-drilled holes for a harness, making it a safe choice for track day enthusiasts.

However, Sparco is not the only brand worth considering. Brands like Recaro and Corbeau also have a strong reputation in the racing community. They offer a variety of models, each with their own unique features.

4. Installing Your Aftermarket Performance Seats

Once you’ve chosen your perfect seats, the next step is installation. Most aftermarket seats require specific mounting brackets that are sold separately. Ensure that these brackets are compatible with your Subaru BRZ before purchasing.

Next, remove your stock seats by unbolting them from the floor. Be careful not to damage the wiring for your airbags and seatbelt sensors during this process.

Now, attach the brackets to your new seats. Once this is done, the seats are ready to be bolted into your car. Make sure to securely fasten them and double-check your work before hitting the track.

5. How Much Should You Expect to Spend?

The cost of aftermarket performance seats can vary considerably based on the brand, model, and features. A Sparco seat, for example, can cost anywhere between $800 to $2000.

However, don’t forget to factor in the cost of additional items like brackets and racing harnesses. These can add several hundred dollars to your overall expense.

While it might seem like a hefty investment, remember that good racing seats can drastically enhance your safety and driving experience on the track. Consider it an investment towards making your track days more thrilling and secure.

6. Importance of Research and Customer Reviews

Before you finalize your decision on which bucket seat to purchase, it is crucial to do adequate research. A commendable method to start is by reading a comprehensive seat guide that focuses on Subaru BRZ cars. This guide will provide you with valuable information about the specifications, features, and the fit of various seats.

Dedicate some time to read through the reviews by other customers. The feedback from people who have originally posted their experiences and thoughts can be incredibly insightful. Look for reviews that discuss the very aspects you are interested in – comfort, fitment, safety features, and ease of installation.

You might come across a quote originally mentioned in a review that resonates with your needs, or a post in a forum where a member joined the discussion about the durability or the quality of the material. Evaluating the likes received on these posts can be an indicator of the popularity and trustworthiness of the said product.

Do not forget the saying, “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.” A racing seat with a good number of posts likes is more likely to provide you with a satisfactory performance than a lesser-known brand with fewer likes posts.

7. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

In conclusion, choosing the right aftermarket performance seats for your Subaru BRZ is a significant step towards enhancing your track day experiences. While factors like fitment, safety features, comfort, and material quality are critical, it’s also essential to consider your budget.

Remember, the price tag of the performance seat does not always reflect its quality. A thorough comparison of the costs (both excl VAT and incl VAT) along with the features is recommended. It is also worth considering brands that are not as widely known as Sparco or Recaro, but have received good customer reviews.

The process of selecting the ideal racing seat might seem challenging at first. However, by adhering to this guide, doing proper research, and paying attention to the little details, you are sure to find a seat that fits your Subaru BRZ perfectly and meets all your track day requirements.

In the end, the choice you make should not only reflect your personal preferences but also prove to be a practical decision in terms of safety and performance. After all, as a track day enthusiast, you desire a seat that will allow you to push your limits while ensuring you remain secure and comfortable.

So, whether you fancy a fixed seat or an adjustable one, whether you joined in Jan or Dec, or whether you’re reading this in July, the right seat is out there waiting for you. Remember, every great track day begins with the right performance seat. Happy racing!