Thirty-five years ago at the 1991 Daytona 500, Mechanix Wear revolutionized motorsports when the No. 3 GM Goodwrench Chevrolet pit crew for Richard Childress Racing debuted the Mechanix Wear Original.
Marking the first time purpose-built hand protection was used in elite racing, these gloves provided the speed, durability, and control necessary for Dale Earnhardt’s team when milliseconds mattered most.
This historic debut sparked a long-standing connection with professional crews, leading Mechanix Wear to continually develop specialized, high-dexterity, and heat-resistant styles designed to withstand the extreme conditions of pit road today.
From that first moment over the wall to today’s high-performance pit stops, the mission has stayed the same:
protect the hands that make race day and all work possible.
Choreographed Chaos
NASCAR pit stops are choreographed sprints. Every position has a job and every second matters. Here is a quick breakdown of the core positions and roles on a modern pit crew as well as the gloves each position wears.
Tire Changer
There are two changers on each pit crew, front changer and rear changer. The changers are responsible for removing and installing a single, center locking lug nut on each side of the car. Their work demands grip, dexterity and protection from heat and impact. Gloves Worn: Race Only FR Original, CarbonX Level 1
Tire Carrier
The tire carrier hauls fresh tires over the wall, and positions them precisely on the right rear and left front for the tire changers to tighten the lug nut. Spent tires are then carried back to pit wall. Grip and abrasion resistance are critical.
Gloves Worn: Race Only FR Boxcutter, CarbonX Level 1, Race Only FR Short Cuff
Jackman
The jackman lifts the car using a lightweight, fast-acting jack and controls the height of the car while the tires are changed. First the right side, then the left. The jackman also places the front right tire and left rear tire on the car. This role requires strength, control, and grip.
Gloves Worn: Race Only FR Boxcutter, Race Only FR Original, CarbonX Level 1
Fueler
The fueler connects the fuel can and delivers fuel quickly and safely. A full can of fuel weighs a hefty 95 pounds. Heat resistance and secure grip are essential due to fuel exposure. Gloves Worn: Carbon X Level 10, Carbon X Level 5
Pit Support
During the race, additional crew members will assist with tires, fuel, and other tasks during a pit stop. Their job requires dexterity, grip and protection from heat and chemicals.
Gloves Worn: Race Only FR Original, Race Only FR Short Cuff, The Original, FastFit
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