The Alpinestars Race V4 Socks, part number 470-4021, are the entry point into FIA-certified racing socks and one of the most practical upgrades a driver can make to their fire protection setup. Approved to FIA 8856-2018, they extend to the knee, which matters once you factor in the gap between boot and race suit that shorter socks leave exposed. Lightweight and low bulk, they sit inside a racing boot without adding noticeable pressure anywhere.
Construction uses an Aramidic fibre blend with an interlocking wave structure and flat seams. The wave pattern follows the foot rather than running across it, which reduces pressure points and distributes contact more evenly over a long stint. Kevlar threads are woven through the material to soften the feel against the skin without reducing the flame-resistant properties of the outer fabric. Elastane in the mix gives enough stretch for the sock to follow foot movement without riding down, which is a persistent problem with stiffer Nomex socks.
The Race V4 comes in black or white and runs in four sock sizes covering UK 5 through 12. Most drivers find their normal shoe size works, though anyone between sizes should lean up rather than down for comfort in a tight-fitting boot. The sizes map to EU 38 through 47.
At £26 these are the least expensive FIA 8856-2018 approved socks in our range. If you run a lot of endurance sessions where foot temperature is a bigger concern, or you want compression support to reduce fatigue on longer stints, the Alpinestars ZX Evo V4 Socks at £39 add a compression-fit construction specifically designed to support the lower leg muscles over time. The Race V4 is the sensible baseline: correctly rated, comfortable, and priced so replacing worn pairs does not sting. We hold this in our Nottingham warehouse; the standard lead time is 2 to 3 working days for most sizes.
Do I actually need FIA underwear?
If your championship requires it, this is the layer scrutineers ask about, and it is strongly recommended under any suit regardless. These socks are homologated to FIA 8856-2000, the previous FIA standard. Many championships still accept it, but check your regulations before buying for competition. Our guide on whether fireproof underwear is mandatory covers the rules championship by championship.
What size should I go for?
Sizes run from S (UK 5-6 | EU 38-40) to XL (UK 11-12 | EU 46-47). Underwear layers should sit close to the skin without pinching, as loose fabric wrinkles under the suit and gets uncomfortable fast. Between sizes, take the smaller one for a base layer.
How do I wash it?
Underwear layers are the one bit of racewear you should wash after every use: cool and gentle, no bleach or fabric softener, air dry. That keeps the suit itself needing far fewer washes. Full routine in our racewear care guide.
At GSM Performance, our priority is to maintain the utmost hygiene and quality standards for the benefit of our customers. To that end, we have instituted a policy that all purchases of long johns, balaclavas, tops, and underwear are final and non-returnable. This policy is necessary due to the personal nature of these items, which are worn in close contact with the body. This protocol is intended to guarantee the health and safety of all our customers.
This policy adheres to the best industry practices and safeguards both our customers and our staff. It's important to clarify that this policy does not affect your statutory rights as a consumer. This policy does not apply if you receive damaged or defective products. In such cases, our customer service team is available to promptly address your concerns and arrange a replacement or refund. We greatly appreciate your understanding and adherence to our hygiene policy and thank you for your continued confidence in GSM Performance. For further information please see our terms and conditions which are agreed on checkout.
