Racequip Shifter Boot

Transforming Your Ride With Racequip’s Superior Shifter Boot

If you’re a performance driving enthusiast, you know that every component in your vehicle matters when it comes to achieving faster lap times and superior control. One often overlooked area that can make a big difference is your shifter boot. Upgrading to a performance shifter boot like those made by Racequip can transform the shifting feel in your vehicle and give you the edge you need on the track or street.

In this buying guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at Racequip’s shifter boots – from materials and construction to fitment and installation. We’ll cover the key features that make Racequip the gold standard in shifter boots and provide everything you need to know to choose the right one for your vehicle. Whether you drive a race car, muscle car, import tuner or even an off-road rig, Racequip has you covered.

What is a Racequip Shifter Boot?

A shifter boot is a protective cover that goes over the base of your gear shifter and transmission tunnel. It protects this critical area from dust, dirt and debris while enhancing the look of your interior. The factory shifter boots in most vehicles are made from inexpensive rubber or plastic materials. Over time they can become brittle and cracked.

Racequip shifter boots are constructed from high quality materials like leather, suede and synthetic suedes. They are designed for performance driving applications to give your shifter area a more upscale, finished look. The sleek Racequip boot designs also allow quicker, smoother shifting by reducing restriction around the base of the stick.

How Do You Install a Racequip Shifter Boot?

Installing a Racequip shifter boot is straightforward with the right steps. Here’s an overview of the process:

• Remove the factory boot by unscrewing or cutting away any plastic retainers. Thoroughly clean the area beneath.
• Test fit the new Racequip boot and trim away any excess material if needed for a perfect fit.
• Use the provided glue and apply liberally to the underside. This ensures a tight seal around the base of the shifter.
• Secure the top of the boot with the included zip ties and trim off any excess. Make sure they are tight.
• Press firmly all around the boot to adhere it properly while the glue dries. The installation is now complete.

Always refer to Racequip’s detailed installation instructions for your specific boot to ensure proper fitment. Taking your time during installation will guarantee your new Racequip boot looks and performs at its best.

What Materials Are Racequip Shifter Boots Made From?

Racequip uses premium materials in all their shifter boot designs to deliver a better driving experience. Some of the materials found in their boots include:

• Leather – Available in smooth and suede leather, this delivers a soft luxury feel and stylish look. Leather is also heat resistant.
• Synthetic suede – For a leather look at a lower cost, synthetic suede is durable and provides good grip.
• Alcantara – Made from a mix of polyester and polyurethane, this microfiber material looks and feels similar to suede. It’s lightweight and breathable.
• Carbon fiber – Real 3K carbon fiber or graphic prints are used for maximum style points and high-tech looks.

No matter which material you choose, Racequip uses the best materials that will enhance your interior while standing up to the rigors of performance driving.

Where Can I Buy a Racequip Shifter Boot?

Racequip products are available from a wide range of retailers in store and online. Here are some of the best places to shop for Racequip shifter boots:

• Direct from Racequip’s website at racequip.com
• Racing and performance shops like Jegs, Summit Racing and Pegasus Auto Racing Supplies
• Online retailers like Amazon.com and eBay
• Local auto parts stores like AutoZone, O’Reilly’s and Pep Boys may carry a basic selection

For the biggest selection of all Racequip models and materials, shopping directly on their website or through a racing specialty retailer is recommended. This ensures you get the exact boot you want for your vehicle.

How Does a Racequip Shifter Boot Compare to Other Brands?

Racequip is widely considered one of the top brands for shifter boots, especially in racing and enthusiast circles. Here’s how they compare to some other major manufacturers:

• Better materials – Leather, suede and Alcantara are standard, not cheap plastics.
• More precise fitment – Racequip boots are tailored to specific vehicle applications for a perfect fit.
• Superior construction – Handcrafted and stitched for greater durability versus inferior glued seams.
• Designed for performance – Racequip boots allow quicker shifts and are heat resistant.
• More styles and designs – Available in solids, two-tones, and cool graphics to match any build.

While cheaper unbranded boots can be found, Racequip shifter boots are worth the extra investment for their quality construction and materials. They simply outperform other brands while adding style to your ride.

Are Racequip Shifter Boots Heat Resistant?

Yes, Racequip shifter boots are designed to withstand the high temperatures found in performance driving environments. Models made from leather or Alcantara microfiber are inherently heat resistant. Even their synthetic suede boots are treated with a coating to make them withstand temperatures exceeding 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

This heat resistance ensures your Racequip boot won’t crack, melt or suffer damage during aggressive driving. It also means the boot won’t impart any heat to the shifter knob itself, keeping it cooler for the driver. If you drive your car hard at the track or in competitive events, a heat-resistant boot like those made by Racequip is a must.

How Do You Clean a Racequip Shifter Boot?

Regular cleaning keeps your Racequip shifter boot looking fresh. The materials used make cleaning simple:

• Leather – Wipe down with a dedicated leather cleaner and gentle brush. Condition occasionally with leather treatment.
• Suede/Alcantara – Use a suede brush or cloth to lightly brush away dirt. Spot clean stains with mild soap and water.
• Synthetic suede – Wipe with a damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, use an interior cleaner and nylon brush.

Always allow the boot to completely dry after cleaning. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on any boot materials. With light regular cleaning, your Racequip boot will continue to look great for years.

What Sizes Are Available for Racequip Shifter Boots?

One benefit of Racequip’s large product lineup is that they offer shifter boots to fit all popular American muscle cars and imports. Sizes range from 5″ boots for tight clearance applications up to 8″ boots used on automatic transmission shifters. Some models are even adjustable for further customization.

Typical Racequip boot sizes include:

• 5-inch for tight manual transmission fits
• 6-inch manual transmission standard size
• 6.5-inch adjustable length manual boots
• 7-inch for automatic transmission shifters
• 8-inch for full size automatic transmission shifters

With exact measurements, you can determine what size boot you need during the ordering process. Racequip’s sizing charts take the guesswork out of getting the right fit. Contact them directly if you need help choosing the perfect size.

How Much Does a Racequip Shifter Boot Cost?

Racequip shifter boots range in price from $50 to $150 depending on the model. Their boots are considered a mid-priced product – more than cheap unbranded boots but less costly than high end brands.

Factors that affect the price include:

• Materials used – Leather is generally the most expensive with suede second. Vinyl and synthetic suede are the most affordable.
• Boot size – Larger 7 and 8-inch boots typically cost a bit more.
• Graphics – Boots with decorative stitching, logos or carbon fiber accents add to the cost.

While not the cheapest option, Racequip boots are fairly priced for the quality. And they will vastly improve the look and feel of your interior over a worn factory boot. Considering you see and use the shifter every time you drive, it’s worth investing in a Racequip.

What Colors Do Racequip Shifter Boots Come In?

Whether you’re looking for classic black leather or want bold colors to match exterior paint, Racequip offers a rainbow of shifter boot color options. Popular choices include:

• Black, gray and tan for a neutral contrasting look
• Bright red, blue and yellow for eye-popping style
• Popular car colors like Grabber Blue, Competition Orange and TorRed
• Two-tone designs that combine black with colored accents
• Real carbon fiber or graphic prints for exotic flair
• Color-stitching and contrasting accents on classics like black leather

With the ability to customize colors even on leather models, Racequip makes it easy to perfectly match your interior theme. Adding a colorful boot is an easy way to spice up a basic black interior.

How Do You Replace a Racequip Shifter Boot?

Over time, the flexing motion of shifting can cause shifter boots to wear out. Luckily, Racequip boots are designed for easy replacement when needed:

• Carefully unclip the top retaining zip ties and pry away the boot from the shifter base. Thoroughly clean the area once removed.
• Install the new Racequip boot using ample adhesive glue on the underside and secure with fresh zip ties.
• Press firmly around the edges of the new boot as the glue dries to ensure a complete seal.
• Let the glue cure fully overnight before driving to allow maximum strength.

With Racequip’s precision fitment and sturdy construction, their boots will provide years of lasting performance. But when the time comes for replacement, swapping on a new Racequip boot takes just minutes compared to cheaper boots.

Are Racequip Shifter Boots Universal Fit?

Racequip engineers each of their shifter boots for a specific vehicle make and model to guarantee a perfect OEM-quality fit. While they aren’t a direct universal fit, many of their boots are designed to fit multiple similar models.

For example, their 6-inch manual transmission boots will fit a wide range of muscle cars like Mustangs, Camaros and Challengers across many model years. Just verify your exact shifter size during ordering. This ensures you receive the ideal boot for your car without extra trimming needed.

Some boots like their suede automatic shifter models do have universal applications for generalized fits. Overall, Racequip boots are tailored for specific vehicles but with some flexibility to work across similar models.

Can Racequip Shifter Boots Be Used in All Vehicles?

The close tolerances and precision design of Racequip boots make them ideal for American muscle cars and import tuner models. They focus on applications like:

• Ford Mustang
• Chevrolet Camaro & Corvette
• Dodge Challenger & Charger
• Subaru WRX & BRZ
• Scion FR-S
• Mazda Miata
• Nissan 350Z & 370Z
• Honda Civic & Accord

Plus they offer boots for racing buckets like Tremec T-5 and T-56 transmissions. As long as you match the boot to your exact shifter, Racequip products will work great in any enthusiast vehicle. Their quality boots really complete the interior.

What Makes Racequip Shifter Boots Unique?

Here are some of the stand-out features that make Racequip boots so popular:

• Hand-crafted construction from master artisans for unbeatable quality. Every boot is individually made, not mass produced.
• Innovative design with center stitching that allows the boot to smoothly follow the shifter motion without binding.
• Precision fitment specifically engineered for each vehicle application. No extra trimming needed for a perfect OEM-grade fit.
• Premium materials from rich leathers to luxurious Alcantara suede. Not cheap vinyl like lesser brands.
• Sleek low-profile shape provides shorter throws and quicker shifts.
• Heat resistant to over 400 degrees for protection during aggressive driving.

The combination of flawless fit, stylish design and durable construction makes Racequip boots the top choice for upgrading your shifter area.

How Do Racequip Shifter Boots Improve Performance?

Upgrading to a Racequip performance shifter boot offers some key benefits:

• Smoother, shorter shifts – The boot’s slick materials and contours reduce friction and resistance around the base of the shifter. This allows quicker, more precise gear changes.
• Cooler shifter knob – Heat resistant materials won’t transfer excessive engine bay heat to the knob like rubber boots. This helps avoid hot, uncomfortable shifts.
• Protects transmission tunnel – Durable leather and suede protects your paint and interior trim from boot scuffs and wear.
• Enhances interior style – Sleek boot designs with beautiful stitching and materials completely transform your shifter area.
• Perfect fit OEM replacement – Fixes cracked or torn factory boots with an direct fit OEM-quality Racequip replacement.

Any enthusiast looking for faster shifts, cooler interior temps and upgraded style will see real performance benefits with a Racequip boot. Their precision engineering makes shifting a pleasure.

Are There Reviews for Racequip Shifter Boots?

With a long history in racing and reputation for quality, Racequip shifter boots have hundreds of great reviews at online retailers. Here’s what drivers are saying:

• “Perfect fitment, looks incredible with the decorative stitching.”
• “Transformed the look of my interior for a very reasonable price.”
• “The Alcantara boot is worth every penny. Luxurious feel.”
• “Sturdy construction and heat resistance held up on track days.”
• “Shifts are noticeably shorter and smoother with the Racequip boot.”
• “High quality materials and construction. This will last for years.”

The overwhelming positive reviews prove that Racequip delivers on producing the absolute best aftermarket shifter boots. They consistently receive 4+ star ratings from enthusiasts who have upgraded their interiors.

Do Racequip Shifter Boots Come With Installation Instructions?

Every Racequip shifter boot includes detailed printed instructions walking you through the proper installation process step-by-step. Their instructions cover:

• Recommended tools and materials needed
• Removal of the factory boot
• Preparing the tunnel area
• Applying the adhesive
• Positioning and adhering the new boot
• Securing the retaining zip ties
• Allowing proper cure time before driving

With photos accompanying each step, Racequip’s instructions make installing your new boot quick and hassle-free. If you ever have questions, their customer support team is also available to provide installation assistance via phone or email.

How Durable Are Racequip Shifter Boots?

Thanks to premium materials and hand-crafted quality, Racequip shifter boots will provide years of lasting performance. Here are some of the reasons they go the distance:

• Leather hides undergo an 8-stage cooking process to permanently set their shape. This prevents warping or shrinkage over time.
• Reinforced thumb grooves prevent tearing and structural weak spots.
• Metal grommets support the pivot point for smooth motion and reduced stress.
• Interlocking seams create a super strong bond that won’t separate over thousands of shifts.
• Suede and synthetic models feature additional protective clearcoat layering for enhanced durability.

Given proper care and cleaning, a Racequip boot will likely outlast your car’s transmission – they are that robust. Plus you can easily replace with another Racequip when you want to change styles down the road.

What is the Warranty on Racequip Shifter Boots?

Racequip provides a limited 1-year manufacturer’s warranty on all their shifter boots. This protects against any defects in materials and craftsmanship. Simply contact Racequip customer support if any issue arises with your boot during this period.

Given their stringent quality control and construction, issues are extremely rare with Racequip boots. But the included warranty provides extra peace of mind that your investment is protected. Between their durable design and the warranty coverage, you can confidently choose Racequip.

Are Racequip Shifter Boots Easy to Install?

Thanks to the precision engineering and fitment, Racequip shifter boots go on without hassles. Here’s an overview of the easy process:

• Lightly sand the tunnel area to remove any grime and ensure a clean bond with the adhesive glue.
• Test fit the boot and trim if needed before final install.
• Apply a generous amount of glue to the underside flange.
• Press the boot firmly in place all the way around as the glue dries.
• Zip tie the upper retaining tabs and trim off excess.

The whole installation takes less than 30 minutes with common hand tools. Racequip includes detailed instructions to walk you through each step. Just take your time and follow the guide. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying your new Racequip boot!

Transform Your Interior With Racequip’s Shifter Boots

A worn out or cracked factory shifter boot ruins the look of any interior. With Racequip’s precision engineered boots, you can restore and upgrade your shifter area for quicker shifts, cooler comfort and amazing style. Their hand-crafted boots are simply a cut above the rest in quality.

Use this definitive buyer’s guide to pick the perfect Racequip shifter boot for your ride. In no time you’ll be rowing through the gears with pride thanks to Racequip’s craftsmanship. Whether tackling the track or cruising the streets, Racequip boots deliver unmatched performance and style.