At Academy Sim Racing, we approach every training tool and technique with a question: Does this actually make you a better driver? As a company founded by a former Special Operations veteran, our training philosophy mirrors one of the most important mottos from that world: “Train like you fight.” In other words, your preparation should replicate your real-world conditions as closely as possible.
That’s why we’re here to challenge a common assumption in the sim racing world — that triple-screen setups are essential for “immersion” or better lap times. The truth is, triple screens might actually be doing more harm than good, especially if your goal is real-world driver improvement.
In the real world, race car drivers don’t enjoy panoramic views. A proper racing helmet, especially one that’s FIA-certified like a Stilo or Bell, limits your horizontal field of view (FOV) to about 80–100 degrees — often even less when you factor in head restraints, window nets, and tight cockpit designs.
In contrast, most triple screen setups are pushing FOVs in the 160–180 degree range. That may feel cool or immersive, but it doesn’t replicate reality. You’re training your peripheral vision to rely on views that won’t be there in a real car.
We’ve seen it firsthand: drivers who rely on triple screens often struggle when they jump into a real cockpit. They overcompensate in corners, look too wide, and can’t adapt to the restricted tunnel vision that comes with racing gear.
When training for real-world missions, Special Operations doesn’t waste time with flashy gear or tech gimmicks. You train with what you fight with. That means you run light, fast, and with intention.
The same applies here. Instead of spending $800–$1,500 on extra screens and mounts, you should be investing in:
Track days (real seat time > virtual distractions)
Driver coaching (even one session can fix months of bad habits)
One well-configured single-screen or VR setup with proper FOV and seat position will train your eyes and reflexes in a way that translates to real-world driving. It’s more focused. Less distraction. More discipline.
We’ve built hundreds of simulators and coached drivers of all experience levels. What separates the good from the great isn’t how many screens they have — it’s how intentional they are in their training.
We recommend a single 32"–49" ultra-wide monitor or a solid VR headset, set to match your real-world FOV (around 90°–100°). Add a dash cam or virtual cockpit that mimics your real car. Keep your environment distraction-free.
Why? Because it forces you to rely on muscle memory, proper vision techniques, and feel — the same tools you'll use on track.
We get it — sim racing gear is fun. But if your goal is to be a better driver, not just a flashier one, take it from someone who trained for the real thing:
“Train like you fight.” Don’t build a cockpit you’ll never race in. Build one that makes you dangerous on track.”
If you're serious about getting faster, smarter, and more composed behind the wheel — both virtual and real — come visit us at Academy Sim Racing. Let’s get rid of the fluff and build skills that stick.
AcademySIM.com
Real training. Real speed. Real results.
Powered by experience. Driven by mission.
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