Sparco Nomex calf socks approved to FIA 8856-2018. Part number 01522, available in white and black, in five sizes from XS (EU 38-39) to XL (EU 46-47).
The 8856-2018 is the current FIA underwear standard, updated from the older 8856-2000 and more stringent in its heat and flame protection requirements. If your race series specifies FIA 8856-2018 approved underwear, these meet it. If your series still accepts 8856-2000, these are above that requirement. Worth checking your class regulations before buying if you’re not sure which standard applies.
Nomex at this weight is softer than older fireproof knit materials. These socks feel light and close-fitting rather than bulky, which matters if you run close-fitting race boots. The calf length covers the ankle and lower shin, which is where the gap typically falls between a race shoe and the bottom of a suit leg.
White or black is a personal call. Some drivers prefer white for visibility under scruitneering inspection, others prefer black because it hides the usual paddock grime. Neither has any performance advantage.
One practical note: underwear is non-returnable once the packaging is opened, for hygiene reasons. The size chart is the main thing to get right on the first order. If your race shoes run true to European sizing, the sock size guide should be straightforward. If you’re between sizes, the smaller size is generally the better fit for socks that are designed to sit closely.
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 8856-2018, the current FIA standard, so the label is there when scrutineers ask for it. Our guide on whether fireproof underwear is mandatory covers the rules championship by championship.
What size should I go for?
Sizes run from XS (UK 5-5.5 | EU 38-39) 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.
