A small update, not directly with my car. I got the opportunity to sit in two BRIDE seats.
Bride Euro II:
-This seats is very comfortable, much more so than stock (I commented that I might be able to fall asleep in it). Anyways, the butt portion of the seat is slightly tighter than stock but not much better at 'gripping' or holding the driver in place, but the lower side and shoulder support is 100% the way the stock seat should be. Add in the fact it supports a 4 point harness you have a great daily driving seat plus upgraded support for those canyon runs and minor track days.
Overall I would rank this seat as a solid upgrade over stock for those looking to bring in a 4 point harness, slightly better support, but retain as much comfort as possible. Downside is it does not provide a much upgraded side to side support as the side bolsters are only marginally better than stock.
Bride Stradia II:
-This seat was one I have been waiting to test sit for some time. I knew it was not going to be a daily driver seat, but even after that I do not know if I could ever drive my car with this seat. I am 6'4" around 200lbs with a 35 inch waist and while I can physically fit in this seat with no problems, the issue comes in the lower support constricting my feet movement for me. Back support (upper/lower) were very good and kept me well planted in the seat. This seat also has support for a 5 point harness if needed, sits slightly lower than stock (or Bride Euro) and gives the upgrade lateral support one might need. Down side is you will not want to get in/out of this daily, and it really is built for the smaller frame of the Asian community.
My hope for this seat was to be a solid upgrade for heavy driving but not horrible enough I could not drive it around town if I wanted, but I do not think it will be that. With the feel of this seat I would almost rather jump to a full bucket seat as the ability to recline would be wasted completely.
In the end both seats are solid upgrades over stock but each with its own pluses & minuses. I almost feel the Stradia is a tough choice if you want a track seat (bolt you in and go) as a bucket seat would provide better support as it does not recline. The Euro is a nice upgrade over stock, but could do with a bit more support for my butt.
A couple pictures of the Euro, forgot to snap a few of the Stradia. If anyone wants to test fit either of these seats in Houston let me know.
