What You Need to Start Sim Racing - My Setup & Thoughts

My Moza FSR formula-style sim racing wheel

That’s a big question—and honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Sim racing can be everything from a casual hobby on a console to a full-blown simulator setup that rivals a real car cockpit. So instead of telling you what you need, let me tell you how I got started.

My Sim Racing Journey

I started out on a PlayStation 5 using a Logitech G923. Affordable, accessible, and a solid entry point. I raced from the couch, on a controller at first, then with the Logitech wheel and pedal set. It was a great way to test the waters without going all in.

Fast forward to today, and I’m racing on a PC with a Moza R5 wheelbase and Moza FSR formula-style wheel. It’s a noticeable step up in performance and precision. That said, I still use the budget-friendly Moza SR-P Lite pedals—without the performance kit—and I honestly miss the Logitech pedals. They had more weight and felt more satisfying to use. The SR-P Lites get the job done, but they definitely feel like a weak link in my current setup.

As for my rig, I don’t have the space (or budget) for a full metal cockpit, so I use a Playseat Challenge. It’s surprisingly good. The Moza R5 doesn’t bend or shake it too badly, and when I’m done racing, I can just fold it up and tuck it away. It’s compact, wallet-friendly, and totally does the trick.

Yes, I Have Sim Racing Shoes…

I used to think “gaming shoes” were a bit silly. I laughed when I first heard of them—long before I got into sim racing. I raced for a long time with my old Adidas running shoes. The only downside? I couldn’t use them for running anymore because they became my sim shoes.

Eventually, I started looking into alternatives. A lot of people swear by water shoes for sim racing, but I didn’t love the idea of sweaty neoprene wrapped around my feet. So, I caved and bought a pair of Sparco Hyperdrive sim racing shoes. Yep. Gaming shoes.

And you know what? They’re great. Thin, flexible soles for good pedal feel, stretchy breathable fabric, and they make me feel equal parts ridiculous and awesome. Which, let’s be honest, is kind of perfect for sim racing.

So… What Do You Need?

The truth is: you just need something to race on and something to race with. That could be a PlayStation with a controller. It could be a secondhand wheel. Or it could be a full direct-drive rig with triple monitors and a button box. What matters most is that it’s something you want, and something you can afford.

Start where you are. Upgrade if and when it makes sense for you. There’s no wrong way to race.

Living room before and after the Playseat Challenge has been set up for a session

What was your first sim racing setup? Got any gear you love (or regret)? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you got started!