MotoGP is one of the fastest and most dangerous motorsport disciplines, where riders routinely push their machines beyond 200 miles per hour. At these incredible speeds, a crash could prove catastrophic without the right protection. MotoGP leather racing suits are engineered, armor designed to shield riders from life-threatening injuries.
The outer shell of MotoGP suits is constructed from top-grade kangaroo and cowhide leather, prized for its exceptional abrasion resistance and durability. This leather can withstand intense friction generated when a rider slides across asphalt at high speed, protecting against severe road rash and skin trauma.
Beneath the leather layer, suits incorporate panels made from ultra-strong Kevlar and aramid fibers. These provide additional tear resistance, especially in high-flex areas like the knees, elbows, and crotch. Accordion-style stretch panels ensure flexibility and mobility without compromising rider safety.
Critical body parts such as shoulders, elbows, knees, shins, back, and coccyx are protected by armour made from carbon fibre and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). These protectors absorb and disperse impact forces during crashes, preventing fractures and other severe injuries.
A revolutionary feature in modern MotoGP suits is the integrated airbag system. Prefixed to the suit, these airbags use sensors including accelerometers and gyroscopes to detect crashes within milliseconds. Upon activation, the airbags inflate rapidly protecting vital areas such as the chest, ribs, collarbones, and shoulders areas most prone to serious injury at high speed.
Far from being bulky, MotoGP leathers are precision tailored to fit each rider’s body perfectly, following the aggressive “tucked-in” riding position. This optimised fit helps keep protective elements aligned exactly where needed while minimizing aerodynamic drag.
Riders benefit from ventilation zones and breathable leather to maintain comfort over race distances. Perforated sections help airflow, while replaceable sliders on knees and elbows enable riders to execute lean angles safely, allowing these parts to glide on the asphalt during aggressive cornering.
The suit works in harmony with Michelin-approved helmets featuring carbon-fibre shells and multi-density liner foam, gloves with reinforced knuckles, and boots that protect ankles and heels. Together, this gear forms a comprehensive protective system.