Are you a motorcycle rider already feeling frustrated because you find it challenging to find the right size that fits you snugly and not too tight? Do you have an irregular body size that makes you give up on purchasing a standard tracksuit? Or are you a special breed who wants something different from the ordinary? If you fall into any of these categories, getting custom made leather racing suits is your perfect solution.
To create a custom-fit motorcycle racing suit, there are a bunch of factors to consider and a step-by-step ordering process to follow. In this detailed article, I will walk you through all the important things you need to know to get the best customized racing leather.
Features of Custom Made Leather Racing Suits
While it is true that you want a bespoke motorcycle suit that is tailored specifically to your style and preferences, there are key features you should consider when creating your suit. Below are the features:
1. Protective Elements
When ordering custom made leather racing suits, your number one priority is getting a suit that offers maximum safety in the event of crashes. Under protective elements, we shall consider four key things: quality of leather, CE-certified armor, impact zone reinforcements, and airbag systems.
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High-Quality Leather
Leathers and textiles are the two common materials used for racing suits. However, leather tends to take the lead because it is more flexible and is naturally abrasion resistant. The toughness and comfort of leathers make them the most preferred for race suits.
There are different types of leather: cowhide, kangaroo, goat, and sheep. However, cowhide and kangaroo are the two most popular due to their unique properties. Choosing between cowhide and kangaroo boils down to your needs and preferences.
For leathers made from cowhide, they are usually about 1.3 mm thick and have a minimum tear strength of 50N. If you are an average or casual rider, cowhide will be perfect for you.
Kangaroo is usually about 1 mm thick, making it thinner, softer, and lighter than cowhide. This leather is perfect for riders looking for the best comfort and flexibility during races. Even though it is thinner than cowhide, kangaroo has tear strength as good as cowhide.
Finally, high-quality leather is one that is treated to resist fire and has abrasion-resistant properties.
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CE Certified Armor
Another protective feature of custom made to measure race suits is CE-certified body armor. CE certification shows that the armor integrated into your custom suit meets safety standards set out by the European Union. This armor is placed in key impact zones such as the elbows, shoulders, and knees. These are delicate parts of the body that are at high risk of severe injuries in the event of crashes.
With CE certified armor, you have the assurance that it will absorb and dissipate the force of impacts, thereby reducing the transmission of energy to the rider’s body.
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Impact Zones Reinforcement
In addition to using CE-certified armor in key impact zones, extra layers of leather or special materials should be strategically placed in areas such as the hips, elbows, shoulders, knees, and forearms. The reason for reinforcing these key areas is to allow the race suit to provide optimal protection and improve the overall durability of the suit.
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Airbag Systems
Having airbags in your leather custom race suit provides advanced protection during high-speed racing. Integrated into vital areas like the chest and shoulders, the airbag system deploys rapidly upon impact, thereby reducing injury risk. Smart technology can tell the difference between normal movements and potential crashes to ensure effective deployment. The airbag systems are customizable and reusable, and they enhance rider safety and confidence on the track, offering peace of mind and mitigating injury severity in critical situations.
Apart from the four key safety features listed above, other additional safety features to consider in your custom made-to-measure racing suit include:
- Reflective Elements: This enhances visibility during low light conditions.
- Zippers: Always remind your manufacturer to use high-quality zippers that lock in place.
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2. Comfort and Mobility
After considering the safety and protective features of leather racing suits, the next feature to consider is comfort and mobility. standard or custom made leather racing suits are designed to provide maximum comfort and mobility to riders, in addition to safety. Below are the elements that make up a comfortable and flexible suit.
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Stretch Panels
Maneuverability is a key feature every rider must consider when ordering bespoke leather race suits or standard suits. Stretch panels are made from flexible materials that are strategically placed in suits. The reason for this is to allow free movement in specific areas such as the elbows, back, and knees. With stretch panels, your race suit can accommodate the flexing and extension of your body, thereby enhancing comfort and mobility.
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Ventilation Systems
Truth be told, as a motorcycle rider, you will agree that riding or racing with a motorcycle is physically demanding and generates lots of body heat. However, with ventilation systems in racing leathers, the heat can be managed through proper airflow. These systems are set up via perforations of the suit in high-heat regions such as the back, underarms, and chest. Therefore, whether you are just a casual rider or involved in intense racing, the ventilation system is designed to keep you cool and comfortable.
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Ergonomic Design
The last feature to consider under comfort and mobility is the design of your custom leather suit. The ergonomic design means getting a suit that fits your needs and capabilities. While there are standard racing suits that fit riders’ bodies perfectly, it can’t be compared to ordering a bespoke race suit that is unique and specifically made to fit a rider. Having a perfect race suit design not only enhances comfort and mobility but also reduces rider fatigue, thus giving you optimal performance throughout the racing event.
3. Customization Options
Customization is a key feature to look out for because you want to personalize your leather tracksuit as much as you can to make it unique. Below are the options you have when it comes to custom made leather racing suits:
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Perforation Patterns
As a motorcycle rider or racer going for custom made leather racing suits, you can choose the perforation patterns that will offer the best ventilation and airflow to enhance comfort during long races. Different patterns cater to different airflow needs, thus allowing racers to balance ventilation with protection.
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Embroidery and Patches
Racers can personalize embroidery and patches by integrating team logos, sponsor logos, and personal branding on their racing suits. This standout feature offers a level of professionalism and enhances recognition.
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Color Combinations
There is versatility in color combinations, enabling racers and riders to customize their suits based on personal preferences. Depending on the manufacturer you choose to use for the customization process, you can choose colors for each leather panel, colors for the elbow, shoulder and knee plates, and colors for the sliders. The reason for color options is to give racers the opportunity to express their unique style and preferences while maintaining visibility on the track.
Having known the key features of custom made leather racing suits, the next step is to go through the process of making your custom-made leather suit. Regardless of the manufacturer you choose to use for your suit, there are key steps you need to follow to get your suit ready.
The Process of Ordering Custom-Fit Motorcycle Leathers
Ordering custom made leather racing suits involves a step-by-step process. Below is a breakdown of how to go about ordering your bespoke motorcycle suit:
1. Initial Consultation
An initial consultation is the first step taken in the process of creating a custom made to measure motorcycle racing suit. There are dozens of reputable manufacturers you can choose to use for your suit. You need to consult for the following:
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Measurement Guide
Accurate measurement is the basics of a well-fitted motorcycle suit. During the initial consultation, you will be guided by experts via online measurement sessions to ensure precise fitting that matches your unique body proportions. All these are done from the comfort of your home. Key areas that need measurements include the chest, hips, torso length, arms, waist, and inseam.
In most cases, you will get a video and measurement-by-measurement instructions from the manufacturer. You will need the assistance of someone at home for the measurements, and you will also need a measuring tape in cm.
This process needs careful consideration and review because it is what determines whether or not the suit will fit snugly and comfortably. Ask questions if you need clarification, and experts are always available to walk you through.
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Fabric Selection
Once measurements are taken, the next step is fabric selection. Leathers are predominantly used for crafting racing suits because of their durability, protective qualities, and abrasion resistance. Nevertheless, you still have to choose the particular leather you prefer for your suits.
During the consultation, you will be presented with different types of leathers such as cowhide, kangaroo, sheep, and goat. Each of these leathers has its own unique properties in terms of thickness, flexibility, and finish. Don’t worry about this step because experts will explain to you what you need to know and will guide you through the benefits of each type of leather.
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Styling Preferences
Now that you have taken your measurements and selected the right fabric, the next big thing is the customization process. This is when you need to let the producer know what you want. You should have the specific design elements, color schemes, and aesthetic preferences you wish to incorporate into your suit.
Initial consultation is still ongoing at this stage because you need to discuss style preferences, including overall design, placement of seams, use of graphics or logos, and additional features such as ventilation systems or perforation patterns. Your provider will work closely with you to understand your vision and translate it into a design concept that reflects your needs while meeting functional requirements.
2. Design Phase
This is the stage where your vision and preferences are transformed into tangible design concepts. This stage involves three processes:
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Collaborative Design Process
At the collaboration design stage, you, as a rider, will still be very much involved in the process of making custom made leather racing suits. You will have the opportunity to provide feedback and make adjustments to the initial concepts. The designer you are working with may present sketches, digital renderings, or 3D models to help you visualize the proposed design and solicit input from you.
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Custom Graphics and Logos
Designers work closely with riders to integrate graphics and logos seamlessly into the suit’s design. They advise on placement, size, and color schemes to ensure that the branding elements complement the overall aesthetic of the racing suit while maintaining visibility and clarity.
Advanced printing and embroidery techniques may be employed to achieve intricate designs and vibrant colors that withstand the rigors of racing and prolonged use.
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Approval Process
This is the last and most critical stage where the final design is presented to you as a rider. You need to pay attention to every detail and ensure the design meets your expectations before production begins.
During this stage, you have the opportunity to scrutinize every aspect of the design, including logos, graphics, placement of elements, and color choices. Once everything is agreed upon and you are satisfied, the manufacturer can commence with the production of your custom-made race suit.
The producer and the rider will be in touch throughout the production phase to address any concerns or questions promptly.
3. Production Timeline
The time it takes to produce tailor-made race suits largely depends on two factors: lead time and rush options.
- Lead Time: Normally, it takes 4-6 weeks to get custom made leather racing suits delivered to you. The time starts counting from when you place an order. Factors that can affect delivery time include design complexity, material availability, and production capacity.
- Rush Options: This is a premium service that expedites the production and shipping processes. If you decide to go with rush options, it will potentially halve the lead time. However, you will have to pay more for the express services.
Note: Riders should never sacrifice quality for speed. Except you need your customized race leathers urgently, 6 weeks isn’t too long to wait. Always communicate with the manufacturer about timelines and let them know your concerns.
Before Choosing a Manufacturer for Custom Made Leather Racing Suits
There are dozens of top manufacturers of custom made leather racing suits in the US, Europe, Australia, and other parts of the world. The following factors below will guide you in choosing the best producer for your motorcycle racing leathers:
- Experience and Reputation: Look for a manufacturer with a proven track record of producing tailor-made racing leathers. Check for reviews and testimonials to gauge their reputation.
- Customization Options: While all manufacturers offer customization options, some offer a wide range of customization options to cater to your specific needs. Look for a producer that allows you to express your style and preferences.
- Customer Service: No matter how good a manufacturer is, having poor customer service can frustrate the whole process of production. You want a manufacturer that is responsive and willing to answer any questions or concerns you have.
- Warranty and Aftercare Services: A good manufacturer should be willing to make adjustments to ensure the suit fits perfectly. Therefore, you should always check the manufacturer’s policies on returns and alterations.
- Price: While it is a good thing to get motorcycle custom made leather racing suits that fit your budget, don’t compromise on quality. It is more economical to invest in high-quality suits that will offer better protection and last longer.
- Lead Time and Rush Options: Consider the lead time required to produce and deliver your custom-made racing leathers. If you have urgent deadlines, always inquire about rush options or expedited services.
- Technology and Materials: You should also pay attention to the technology and materials used by the manufacturer in producing their suits. Your preference should be high-quality materials such as premium leather and CE-certified armor for the durability, safety, and performance of the suit. Advanced manufacturing techniques and equipment can also enhance the precision and quality of the finished product.
Michael’s Summary and Conclusion
Custom-fit motorcycle leathers offer unparalleled comfort, protection, and style designed to meet individual preferences. Nevertheless, there are key things to pay attention to before and when ordering custom made leather racing suits.
Always prioritize quality craftsmanship, commitment to safety, and reliable customer service. Invest in well-crafted bespoke leather suits to enjoy all the benefits that come with them!
 I've diligently categorized my motorcycle gear recommendations into all available categories, with the aim of providing you with a comprehensive analysis that showcases the absolute best options for all your needs. These items are the culmination of in-depth research, extensive testing, and personal use throughout my vast experience of 50+ years in the world of motorcycling. Besides being a passionate rider, I've held leadership positions and offered consultancy services to reputable companies in over 25 countries worldwide. To See Our Top Picks and the Best Prices & Places to Buy: Click Here! |
Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government, educational, corporate, and non-profit organizations:
- CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute
- Leather Research Institute at Texas Tech University
- Leather Research Laboratory
- Leather Technologies
- Leather World Technologies
- Vitro Labs, Inc.
M/JO
