Race day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has its own dress code. You'll see retro Wing & Wheel tees from 1965, brand-new 110th Running merchandise from this year's collection, and a thousand creative interpretations in between. The Indy 500 is one of the only major sporting events where the crowd's outfit choices are part of the show.
Whether you're attending the 110th Running on Sunday, May 24, or shopping for a race fan in your life, here's a guide to what to wear and where to buy. Most of what follows comes from local Indianapolis-area brands, with the official IMS shop and a few national options mixed in for the deep cuts.
What to actually wear to the race
A few practical truths shape what works at IMS in late May.
The temperature swings hard. The day usually starts in the high 50s or low 60s and climbs into the high 70s or low 80s by the green flag. A light layer in the morning becomes a tied-around-the-waist accessory by 11 AM.
The sun is direct. Most non-Penthouse seats are uncovered. A hat does more for you than sunscreen alone, especially if you're spending eight or more hours on aluminum bleachers.
The walk is long. Plan for at least a mile to and from your car or shuttle, plus more between the gates and your seat. Wear closed-toe shoes you don't mind getting dusty.
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Pack a flannel, jean jacket, or zip-up to tie around your waist by midday. A small backpack makes layering easier without losing anything.
The classic Indy 500 race day uniform tends to look something like this: a vintage racing tee, a baseball cap or trucker hat with the IMS Wing & Wheel logo, light denim or shorts, and clean white sneakers. Add sunglasses and a small day bag. You'll look like you belong.
Local Indianapolis brands worth shopping
Three Indiana-based brands lead our list for race day apparel. All officially licensed by IMS. All run by Hoosiers. All worth the trip to a brick-and-mortar location during Month of May.
United State of Indiana is an Indianapolis-based brand making officially licensed Indy 500 merchandise with a retro design sensibility. Their 2026 collection includes the 500 Mile Classic Tee, vintage Wing & Wheel art prints, "Back Home Again" celebration tees, and the Indy 500 Milk Tradition poster. Tees run around $28. Posters and stickers are smaller-budget gifts that ship anywhere. Their Indianapolis flagship is worth a stop on race week, and their full catalog is online at