I’m a sim racer and amateur racer with a passion for Motorsport, good racecraft and the technical and setup aspect of sim racing.
If you’ve opted for an F1 cockpit, then at some point, you’ll need to select an F1 sim racing seat.
F1 seats in simulators are meticulously designed to replicate the unique characteristics and requirements of Formula 1 cars, without of course the crippling expense of a custom F1 seat mould. One of the most distinguishing features is of course the seating position. In an F1 seat, the driver adopts a highly reclined posture with their legs elevated and stretched out in front, almost parallel to the ground.
This distinctive position, a departure from standard racing seats, is optimized to fit within the tight confines of an F1 cockpit. The layout not only lowers the car’s centre of gravity but also ensures the driver’s safety and comfort during high-speed races.
What are the Best F1 Seats?On the other hand, standard racing seats, commonly found in touring or GT race cars, offer a more upright seating position. These seats are typically padded and contoured differently to accommodate the different demands of non-F1 racing.
I think that with the growth of F1, particularly in the United States, that F1 simulation is a potentially exciting growth area. Having covered F1 cockpits in some detail it’s now time to look at what’s on offer for sim racers with a passion for Formula One.
The most important point about buying an F1 seat
When ordering a racing seat, one thing to keep in mind is its size. Usually, the most important measurement to get right is the width of the seat from one bolster to another, as this will determine how much support your legs will have while driving. Also, remember that F1 seats differ from other racing seats in the sloped driving position they provide, so here I’ve listed some of the best options for you to drop into your DIY build.
Sparco Formula Racing Seat
The Sparco GP Formula Racing Seat from the industry-leading manufacturer makes an ideal solution for your F1 rig. It features a firm outer shell to ensure a solid connection with your cockpit, while the adjustable cushioning provides enough comfort to let you play for hours.
SF1 Formula Sim Seat
Finally, our top-shelf offering is the SF1 Formula Sim Seat from none other than SIM LAB, one of the most trusted brands in the world of digital motorsport.
This seat ticks all boxes and offers everything you’d expect from a SIM LAB product; high-quality materials throughout, ergonomic design, and maximum rigidity and durability.
TREQ FORMULA Seat
Renowned for its precision design that mirrors the F1-style seating position, the TREQ FORMULA Seat stands as a flagship simulator for F1 fans. Constructed from a fusion of black powder-coated steel and aluminium, its robust build ensures longevity, and critically, strength. So, if you’re on the hunt for a seat that offers resilience and style, this might be your top pick.
Installation is very simple – With the provided 4 lever handles and click-in-nuts, mounting it onto any rig featuring an 8mm T-slot becomes hassle-free.
At £384.00 (Incl. VAT), the TREQ FORMULA Seat offers a blend of durability, comfort, and adaptability. However, potential buyers should note the lack of built-in wheel or pedal mounting solutions and ensure compatibility with their existing setups. Backed by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty and numerous positive Trustpilot reviews, it stands as a worthy investment for those serious about enhancing their F1 sim racing setup.