Sparco X-Light vs. OMP One Evo X vs. Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2
When you’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel, chasing down tenths of a second, you quickly learn that the right gear can make or break your performance. Your connection to the car starts with your feet, and the shoes you wear are more than just footwear—they're a key component of car control and driver comfort.
After years of racing, I’ve worn just about every brand of racing shoe out there, and three stand out as the best mid to upper level shoes: the Sparco X-Light, OMP One Evo X, and Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2. Each of these racing shoes brings something different to the table, but all of them are top-tier options. The choice of which one is right depends a lot on your needs and your style.
High Quality Materials And Expert Craftsmanship
The first thing to consider is material and construction. When you’re racing, you need shoes that are not only comfortable but also durable and fire-resistant. Sparco’s X-Light, constructed with ultra-soft calfskin leather and featuring a Jacquard stretch fabric, feels incredibly comfortable right out of the box. It’s flexible and lightweight with reinforcement in the high wear areas. This shoe is built for those who prioritize weight and breathability, but it still holds up to the rigors of racing.
The OMP One Evo X steps it up with a combination of perforated leather and Nomex fire-retardant fabric, which means you’re getting excellent comfort and top-level fire protection. It feels like the toughest of the shoes and the one that will hold up best over time.
Alpinestars’ Tech-1 Z v2 is crafted from premium bovine leather and also includes Nomex, but it sets itself apart with a unique “sock” construction. This design wraps snugly around your foot, providing both flexibility and protection, which makes it feel as though the shoe was custom-built for you. This shoe is probably the toughest to get on with the built in sock but has the best lacing system of the three and feels the softest out of the box. This shoe is ready to go out of the box but does lack the reinforcement that the other two offer in the heel and toe areas.
In terms of ankle support, all three shoes perform well, but with slight differences. The Sparco X-Light provides solid mid-cut ankle support without restricting movement. The OMP One Evo X’s high-cut design offers great protection and flexibility, while the Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2 incorporates a fireproof elastic collar that gives you both a secure fit and added fire protection.
Racing Shoes Are Safety Equipment
Fire-resistance ratings are critical, especially when you’re competing at the highest levels where safety is non-negotiable. Sparco’s X-Light is FIA 8856-2018 certified, meaning it meets the standard safety regulations for motorsport and will meet regulations internationally as well as in pro level racing.
The OMP One Evo X FIA 8856-2018 homologation gives you peace of mind knowing that it also meets the latest safety standards and is on par with the Sparco shoe.
The Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2< is the only shoe of the three that is SFI 3.3/5 compliant, offering protection similar to the other two shoes, but with a different homologation standard. For serious racers who need the highest level of fire safety, the OMP and Sparco options are clear winners if you are driving internationally or on a pro level, and the Alpinestars is a great option for club racers and U.S.-only drivers.
Comfort Is King
Comfort and fit are critical. If your shoes don’t fit right, you’ll feel it after the first few laps, and that discomfort can distract you from the race. The Sparco X-Light excels in comfort with a pre-formed insole and flexible, mid-cut design. The Jacquard fabric lets your feet breathe, making this shoe a strong choice for endurance racing. OMP’s One Evo X is built for comfort too, with perforated leather that conforms to your foot fast. The rear bellows allow natural foot movement, making the shoe feel like an extension of your body. However, if you want the most precise fit, the Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2’s sock-like design is unbeatable. It wraps around your foot in a way that feels snug but not tight, and the ergonomic footbed ensures that your feet stay comfortable even during long stints behind the wheel.
Fast Feet Require Feel And Control
Pedal feel and grip are crucial for any racing shoe. You need to be able to feel every nuance of the throttle, brake, and clutch. The Sparco X-Light’s lightweight rubber sole offers excellent pedal sensitivity and grip, and its durability against fuel, oil, and static makes it a reliable option. The OMP One Evo X, with its injected sole, offers maximum grip and smooth pedal transitions thanks to its pivot-like heel. The standout here, though, is the Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2 with its F1-derived thin rubber compound sole, this shoe provides unmatched pedal sensitivity. Every input feels precise, making it perfect for drivers who rely on split-second reactions.
Airflow Equals Comfort (Equals Low Lap Times)
Breathability is another factor that can’t be overlooked, especially during hot races. The Sparco X-Light does a fantastic job with its perforated vents and breathable Jacquard fabric. You won’t find your feet overheating, which is crucial when the cockpit temperatures start to rise. The OMP One Evo X also offers solid ventilation with its perforated leather, while still providing fire protection through its Nomex fabric. However, the Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2 takes ventilation to another level with extensive perforation zones strategically placed for maximum airflow. Even during the most intense races, the Alpinestars keeps your feet cool and dry, helping you stay focused on the track.
In terms of ankle support, all three shoes perform well, but with slight differences. The Sparco X-Light provides solid mid-cut ankle support without restricting movement. The OMP One Evo X’s high-cut design offers great protection and flexibility, while the Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2 incorporates a fireproof elastic collar that gives you both a secure fit and added fire protection.
Cut To The Chase
At the end of the day, choosing between these shoes comes down to your specific needs as a driver. If you’re focused on comfort and fit for long races, the Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2 is the best option. For those who need top-level fire protection without compromising on grip, the OMP One Evo X is the clear choice. And for racers who want an all-around great shoe that balances comfort, flexibility, and durability, the Sparco X-Light offers fantastic performance at a competitive price. Regardless of which shoe you choose, each of these options is built to help you perform at your best and stay safe on the track.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Sparco X-Light vs. OMP One Evo X vs. Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2
Where to Buy These Racing Shoes
If you're ready to take your racing performance to the next level with a pair of top-tier racing shoes, head over to Competition Motorsport, Get what you need, when you need it from Competition Motorsport. Where the professionals buy their safety equipment.
- Get the Sparco X-Light Racing Shoes here!
- Get the OMP One Evo X Racing Shoes here!
- Get the Alpinestars Tech-1 Z v2 Racing Shoes here!
Starting at only $249.95, the links above will take you directly to the specific shoe's page where you can learn more and make your purchase at the lowest prices on the planet.
