For my second cockpit, used for both driving and flight simulation, I wanted a simple, affordable bucket seat. I chose this DriftShop model at around €200, before any delivery charges, particularly because it has no head wings. With a fairly wide Pimax headset, that avoids contact at the sides. Here I cover installation and the comfort I achieve with my own build.
Unboxing and first observations
The seat arrives almost ready to install, with its cushions and mounting bolts. I was surprised to find those bolts included, unlike some Sparco seats I have used. The bucket seat is light to move, which makes positioning it on the cockpit easier.
The fabric and shell are a fairly deep black, although the video lighting can make them look greyer. The presentation is simple. This model has no FIA approval: the use shown here is as a simulator seat.
Fully removable cushions
The cushions detach individually from their fastenings. I show the seat base and separate sections to answer a frequently raised question. Their thickness contributes to comfort and also makes it easier to change the internal arrangement.
This is useful for fitting a haptic device, such as a vibration pad, in place of or underneath certain elements. The video presents that installation possibility; it does not provide a comparative test of those systems. Harness openings remain accessible too.
Reconsidering the bracket angle
The backrest is naturally quite reclined. I therefore used the mountings differently from my usual Sparco arrangement to find a position suited to this setup. Simply copying the same mounting holes from the previous seat would not reproduce the same seated position.
There is still room to tilt the seat further backwards and raise the thighs. I discuss a position closer to a single-seater and the possible addition of foam to supplement support. These are potential arrangements; the position shown remains the one I chose for my multipurpose cockpit.
Available space and support
Once seated, I have plenty of space around my thighs. The sides do not squeeze me, and I can move my legs easily. That impression does not replace measurements for somebody else, but shows that the seat is not particularly narrow in that area for me.
The shoulders are different: I touch both sides, with more pronounced support there. Someone broader in that area should therefore pay attention to it. The head support sits correctly, and my back feels well supported.
I operate the active pedals during the demonstration to show my position under load. The cockpit sits on castors and can move slightly itself, so attributing every visible movement to the seat would be difficult. During this test, I feel comfortably seated and do not experience back pain.
What we liked
- Comfortable seating and easily removable cushions.
- Clear space around a VR headset without side head wings.
- The modest price and included mounting bolts.
What we liked less
- The pronounced recline requires revisiting the usual mounting arrangement.
- Shoulder width is less generous than the space around the thighs.
For my second simulator, the result suits me and leaves budget for the chassis or other equipment. My opinion concerns this installation and my own build, without suggesting that one bucket seat will suit everybody.
Join the discussion on YouTube
