When sim racers talk about “upgrades”, they usually mean wheelbases and pedals. But if you race longer than 30 minutes at a time, the most underrated performance upgrade is often the seat. A seat that fits you prevents fatigue, improves breathing, and makes your braking more consistent.
That’s why searches like “Next Level Racing ERS3 reclining seat” are common. The ERS3 is positioned as an endurance-friendly reclining seat with a wide fit range (commonly quoted around 120–210 cm height support and up to 150 kg max weight, depending on version).
On the SIMGASM side, the Core recline seat is built for drivers who want comfort without the “office chair feeling”, often using premium upholstery choices (like leather and Alcantara-style surfaces) while staying price-competitive.
Bucket seat vs recline seat: what changes when you drive?
A bucket seat locks you in. That’s great for high-force driving and aggressive steering, but it can feel restrictive for some body types and for long sessions.
A recline seat gives you:
- Adjustable backrest angle (useful for GT, touring, endurance)
- Easier entry and exit
- Comfort for mixed use (sim racing + workstation)
The trade-off is that some recliners introduce movement. The solution is simple: choose a recliner designed for sim racing, mount it properly, and keep the slider/rail hardware tight.
Fit checklist: choose the seat before you choose the cockpit
Use this simple checklist:
- Hip width: you should not be squeezed, but you shouldn’t slide side-to-side.
- Shoulder support: enough support to relax your upper body.
- Lumbar support: either built-in or adjustable via cushions.
- Breathing: if you feel compressed, you’ll fatigue quickly.
If you’re unsure, read Seat selection and fitting guide first. A seat that doesn’t fit becomes a “setup problem” you can never tune out.
Mounting matters more than the seat logo
Many “seat problems” are actually mounting problems:
- Seat rails that are not fully tightened create micro-movement you feel under braking.
- Misaligned sliders cause rattles and make you sit slightly twisted.
- Wrong pedal angle makes your lower back work too hard, even in a good seat.
A simple habit: after your first week of driving, do a quick re‑torque check. Aluminium rigs settle. Seats settle. Hardware settles. That is normal, and it’s fixable. Use Sim rig maintenance: retorque and silence.
Where the SIMGASM Core Recline makes sense
The Core recline seat is a great match if you want:
- Comfort for long sessions
- A sporty posture that still feels relaxed
- A clean look and a seat that matches a premium aluminium rig build
It’s also a practical choice if you share your simulator or change positions often. Recline adjustment + sliders can make a shared rig feel “custom” for multiple drivers.
When a bucket seat is still the better pick
If you want maximum lateral support and a locked-in feel, buckets still win. On SIMGASM that usually means:
- Atlas GT seat for classic GT seating
- Atlas Formula seat if you prefer a more reclined hypercar/open cockpit posture
Recommended SIMGASM pairing
- Seat: Core recline seat
- Rig: SIMGASM Club simulator for universal compatibility, or SIMGASM Sport simulator for extra adjustability
- Workstation comfort: Keyboard swivel mount to keep your hands relaxed between sessions
FAQ
Will a recliner make me slower?
Not if it’s mounted securely and your posture is correct. Most “slower” feelings come from a seat that lets your hips move under braking.
What is the best seating angle for GT style driving?
Most GT drivers prefer a moderate recline where your shoulders stay supported and your brake leg can push without lifting your hips. Use SIMGASM rig setup for tall drivers for practical positioning tips.
Continue reading
- Seat mounting guide: brackets and sliders
- GT Omega seats vs SIMGASM seats
- Shared rig setup for multiple drivers
