Hey everyone! I'm looking to buy a pair of driving shoes and/or driving sneakers. I'm curious if any of you have a pair that you like and would recommend. And I'm also curious if there are any retailers in the north jersey area for driving sneakers (since driving shoes can be purchased at any retailer or department store).
Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

 

If by driving sneakers you mean dedicated driving shoes, then I couldn't help you. But if you're referring to regular sneakers that facilitate the driving experience, then I suggest Onitsuka Tigers, particularly the Ultimate 81 models. They are my go to sneakers when I drive the S, so comfortable and you get to feel the pedals so it makes the response and feedback much better. I have like 10 pairs of them, very comfortable sneakers and by far the best every day sneaker to drive in.

 

I keep re-visiting this myself. But so far, I have gotten so used to autocrossing in my regular shoes it isnt high on the list. I normally wear Globe or some similar brand skate shoe (skated all through my high school years and some after ... so I just got used to those type shoes!) and they suit my needs just fine

 

Try any of the minimalist shoes out there. Light, less material, more feel. But again I'm sure it's totally preference. I like to drive barefoot from time to time when I get into my car w flip flops on...no issues.

 

If you're a size 11.5 I have a bunch of brand new Diadora racing shoes. They are all Formula S.L.'s with one pair of lows. Each is part of the Heritage Collection.

 

I have no issues passing people at the track with my Reebok classics so ill stick to those, LOL

 

I can't give you recommendations for local purchase, but Puma Speed Cat SuperLT, Puma Speed Cat SD, and Gola Chase are good choices for dedicated driving shoes that won't break the bank. Adidas Sambas will work as well if you want something that can be a dual purpose shoe. Walking long distances or running in driving shoes sucks.

Surprisingly enough, many of the athletic shoe oriented stores around my neck of the woods carry driving shoes in stock, so you might check around Foot Locker, etc.

 

Converse have been the best racing shoes I owned

 

I don't know why but I drive much better with flat bottom dress shoes rather than any of my sneakers. As mentioned above I guess the less rubber on the bottom the better to get the most feel.. As boa said the converse are probably ideal or something like them.. Those racing shoes blackfire has makes me want to go bowling though lol

 

Most casual sneakers have a relatively thick sole and extra cushioning, which is why the dress shoes work better. Try a real driving shoe for even better feel/sensitivity.