What seat do I need for sim racing?: Buying guide
Choosing the right sim racing seat goes far beyond comfort: it directly influences your performance, immersion, and postural health. A good seat improves cockpit stability, reduces fatigue, and allows you to fully concentrate on driving.
At Simufy, we help you find the perfect seat for your riding style, space, and equipment. In this guide, you'll discover the key differences between bucket and semi-bucket seats , what aspects to consider before purchasing, and an updated selection of the best models for demanding sim racers.
The seat: key to performance and immersion in sim racing
In sim racing, the seat isn't just a support: it's the foundation of your entire setup. An inadequate seat can ruin the experience, make you lose precision, and even cause physical discomfort after just a few laps.
Choosing a seat specifically designed for sim racing means gaining in ergonomics, stability, and realism . It allows you to maintain a firm posture, with your lower back well supported , which reduces fatigue and prevents unnecessary tension during long sessions. Additionally, if you use a wheel with powerful force feedback, having a solid structure is essential to properly absorb forces without your body having to compensate.
A well-chosen seat improves your performance, protects your back, and helps you fully concentrate . It's not just about comfort: it's about riding confidently and without distractions.
Differences between a bucket seat and a semi-bucket seat: which one best suits your style?
One of the most common questions when setting up a cockpit is whether to choose a bucket seat or a semi-bucket seat. The decision depends on your driving style, how you use the simulator, and even your physical build.
The bucket seat is the closest thing to a racing car seat. It offers complete, uncompromising support: a one-piece design, fixed backrest, closed base, and lateral anchor points. It's designed to maintain a fixed posture, ideal if you use Direct Drive steering wheels or compete in disciplines like Formula or rally. However, it doesn't recline or allow wide leg spread, something to keep in mind with side handbrakes or wide pedals.
On the other hand, the semi-bucket seat is more versatile. Its design is similar to that of a street car seat: reclining backrest, open base, and greater freedom of movement. It's perfect if you share the simulator, use sliding rails, or are looking for a comfortable setup for work or watching races. Although it offers less support than a closed bucket seat, it's ideal for endurance racing or prolonged use without fatigue.
A bucket seat is ideal for total immersion and pure performance; a semi-bucket seat is for those who prioritize comfort and flexibility . Is your cockpit just for racing or also for everyday enjoyment? That's the key.
Top 5 bucket seats for sim racing
BAQUET SIMUFY SIM07 LIMITED EDITION
The Simufy SIM07 Limited Edition is a sturdy and comfortable bucket seat, specifically designed for sim racing. Its fiberglass shell, high-density padding, and closed design provide great support, even during long sessions. It also stands out for its exclusive orange finish and details designed for lumbar comfort.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Limited edition with orange casing
✅ Made of fiberglass with a gel-coat finish
✅ Lateral fixing with 4 M8x20 screws (included)
✅ Removable cushions and side pocket
✅ Breathable fabric with high resistance (220 g/m²)
✅ 30 kg/m³ foam (bench) and 25 kg/m³ foam (sides)
✅ Compatible with 5-point harness
✅ Designed for medium/strong build riders
📦 Measurements: 60 × 59 × 98 cm
SABELT SRS-1 BUCKET
The Sabelt SRS-1 is a bucket seat that combines ergonomics, durability, and professional style. Its fiberglass frame and high-density foam cushions are designed to provide firm support and lumbar comfort, even during extended sessions. Ideal for setups that require performance without sacrificing style.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Ultralight fiberglass structure
✅ Ergonomic high-density foam cushions (20 mm)
✅ Standard side fixing compatible with multiple structures
✅ Racing aesthetics with a wraparound design
✅ Lumbar support without pressure points
✅ Harness compatible (requires side supports, not included)
✅ Inspired by real racing seats
📦 Approximate weight: 8 kg
BAQUET SABELT SRP-1
The Sabelt SRP-1 is a Formula seat designed for sim racers seeking maximum precision and control. It offers a reclined, contoured position, ideal for setups with raised pedals. Its reinforced fiberglass structure and ergonomic padding ensure firm support and comfort during long sessions. All this with a professional aesthetic and high-quality finishes.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Formula-style driving position, ideal for F1 or LMP simulators
✅ Fiberglass reinforced housing with great structural rigidity
✅ Ergonomic high-density foam padding (20 mm)
✅ Lateral fixation compatible with multiple structures
✅ Available in three colors: Deep Black, Racing Black, Racing Red
✅ Compatible with Sabelt and third-party cockpits
✅ Designed for high-level setups with a reclined posture
SPARCO EVO L QRT BUCKET
The Sparco EVO L QRT is a professional simracing seat with racing DNA. Made of fiberglass with QRT technology, it achieves an ultra-light structure without sacrificing rigidity. It offers a realistic riding position, split padding, and non-slip materials to ensure support and ergonomics even during long sessions. An ideal choice for advanced setups seeking realism and comfort.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Lightweight fiberglass structure with QRT technology
✅ Technical upholstery with non-slip zones (shoulders and base)
✅ Divided cushions: greater ergonomics in legs and base
✅ Standard side fixing (M8 – 290 mm between axes)
✅ Size L (EVO II): for riders with a medium to large build
✅ Compatible with metal, aluminum or GT cockpits
✅ Exclusive use for simracing (without FIA homologation)
📦 Weight: ultralight
C1 COLD FUSION O-ROUGE COOLED SEAT
The O-ROUGE Cold Fusion C1 is a touring seat that stands out for its active ventilation and ergonomic design. It features four air vents in the base and lumbar area, a fiberglass-reinforced polyester shell, and technical velour upholstery. It's ideal for long sessions, offering a deep posture, firm support, and thermal comfort. It's also 100% customizable using a vector template.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Active ventilation: 4 air vents + breathable 3D fabric
✅ Polyester housing with fiberglass reinforcement
✅ Upholstered in black velour with a soft touch
✅ Removable and configurable lumbar and base cushions
✅ Compatible with 4-point harnesses
✅ Customizable via template (Adobe Illustrator)
✅ Sporty look with embroidered logo
✅ Deep posture and firm lateral support
Top 5 semi-bucket seats for simracing
ERS1 NEXT LEVEL RACING SEAT
The Next Level Racing ERS1 Elite is a premium semi-bucket seat, created for sim racers seeking comfort, support, and rigidity during extended sessions. Its high-strength steel internal structure, breathable suede upholstery, and dual-lock reclining system ensure ergonomics and adaptability. Ideal for professional setups with aluminum cockpits, this seat combines comfort and competitive precision.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Reclinable up to 180° with travel of up to 170 mm
✅ High-strength steel internal structure
✅ High-density cold-molded foam
✅ Breathable racing chamois for greater ventilation
✅ Compatible with Next Level Elite, GTtrack and other aluminum-based chassis cockpits
✅ Double-lock design (recline and slide)
✅ Ideal for simracers of medium or large build
✅ Ergonomic support validated in real competitions
📦 Compatible with bottom mounting on professional structures
NEXT LEVEL RACING ERS2 ELITE SEAT
The Next Level Racing ERS2 Elite is a professional-grade, semi-reclining bucket seat, ideal for advanced setups. Its ergonomic motorsport-inspired design, reinforced steel internal frame, and breathable PU leather upholstery guarantee outstanding comfort even during marathon sessions. It includes a dual locking system for reclining and sliding, ensuring a precise fit. It also stands out for its firm lumbar support and universal compatibility with aluminum frames.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Ergonomic motorsport design with firm lumbar support
✅ Upholstered in breathable suede + high-end PU leather
✅ Reinforced internal steel structure
✅ Reclinable up to 180° with double safety lock
✅ Double-locking sliders with adjustment up to 170 mm
✅ Compatible with bottom-mounted cockpits (Elite, GTtrack, and Universal)
✅ Sporty and immersive aesthetics
📦 Backrest height: ergonomic motorsport standard
NEXT LEVEL RACING ERS3 ELITE SEAT
The Next Level Racing ERS3 Elite is a premium reclining seat designed for sim racers seeking performance, comfort, and professional aesthetics. Featuring an open, adaptable design, this semi-bucket combines a robust structure with cold-molded foam, ideal for long, demanding sessions. It's also officially FIA licensed and available in three finishes to suit your style and needs.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Double reclining mechanism, reinforced for intensive use
✅ High-density foam with ergonomic lumbar support
✅ Upholstery available in three versions:
– Leather & Suede: Elegance and grip with PU leather and suede
– Fabric & Mesh: Maximum breathability with SIMAERO fabric
– Standard: Rugged, premium-feel finish
✅ Compatible with standard cockpits and Next Level Racing frames
✅ Adapted for GT, truck and agricultural simulation
✅ Open feel for greater freedom and comfort
📦 Ideal for sim racers looking for an immersive experience without sacrificing comfort, even during marathon sessions.
ERS4 NEXT LEVEL RACING SEAT
The Next Level Racing ERS4 Elite is a premium FIA-licensed reclining seat designed for sim racers who demand the utmost in comfort, stability, and durability. Its ergonomic design, combined with materials like PU leather and suede, offers optimal posture even during long sessions. The dual-reclining system, robust structure, and cockpit compatibility make it ideal for both advanced setups and users seeking professional performance.
Highlighted Features:
✅ FIA license and collaboration with motorsport experts
✅ High-end materials: Premium PU leather and suede
✅ Optimized lumbar support and ergonomic posture
✅ Reinforced double-point reclining system
✅ Compatible with cockpits and load cell pedals
✅ Includes sliders and mounting kit
✅ Supports up to 150 kg of weight
✅ Suitable for users between 120 and 210 cm tall
📦 Measurements: 63 × 58 × 98.6 cm | Weight: 15.6kg
ERS5 NEXT LEVEL RACING SEAT
The Next Level Racing ERS5 Elite Reclining Seat is much more than a semi-bucket: it's a near-exact replica of a real racing seat, designed in collaboration with the FIA to offer a professional experience to demanding sim racers. Its wraparound design, PU leather and suede upholstery, and reclining backrest make it the ideal choice if you're looking for a precise, comfortable, and fully immersive position for long sessions.
Highlighted Features:
✅ Official FIA license and authentic racing design
✅ Heavy-duty double reclining backrest
✅ Reinforced structure, ideal for load cell pedals
✅ Cold-molded foam for comfort and durability
✅ Premium PU leather and suede finish
✅ Compatible with multiple cockpits and configurations
✅ Sliding guides and hardware included for easy installation
✅ Ideal for riders from 1.20 m to 2.10 m (supports up to 150 kg)
📦 Measurements: 62 × 58 × 93 cm
What to consider when choosing a simracing seat
Once you've decided whether you prefer a bucket seat or a semi-bucket seat, it's time to consider the aspects that will truly make a difference in your driving experience. It's not just about aesthetics or materials, but how you'll feel after several hours behind the wheel.
Start with ergonomics : Make sure the seat promotes a natural posture, with good lumbar support, especially if you're doing long runs. A seat that doesn't support you properly or is uncomfortable can ruin any session.
Another key point is adjustability . Some models allow you to adjust the backrest angle or incorporate sliding rails, which is ideal if you share the cockpit with others or if you're looking to customize your posture down to the last detail.
It's also essential to check compatibility with your cockpit, your height, and the space available. Some models require specific anchors or, due to their size, don't fit well in more compact structures.
And, of course, choose a seat that motivates you. In the end, it's not just about being comfortable; it's about enjoying the experience every time you sit down to compete.
Choosing the right sim racing seat isn't just a matter of design or budget: it's a direct investment in your comfort, performance, and driving experience. Whether you're looking for a more immersive experience with a closed bucket seat or prefer the versatility of a semi-reclining bucket seat, the important thing is that the seat adapts to you, not the other way around.
At Simufy , we know how important every detail is. That's why we work with the best brands in the industry and offer personalized advice to help you find the ideal seat. If you have questions or need guidance, we'd be happy to help.