Why It’s the Premium Choice for Riders:MotoGP Gear and the Use of Kangaroo Leather

Author: moto January 21, 2025

When it comes to MotoGP gear, safety, comfort, and durability are paramount. Leather has long been the material of choice for motorcycle suits, gloves, and jackets, offering unparalleled protection and performance. Among the various types of leather used in the sport, kangaroo leather stands out as one of the most premium options. Known for its unique combination of strength, lightness, and flexibility, kangaroo leather is a key component in the highest-quality MotoGP gear. But what exactly makes it such a sought-after material for professional riders? Let’s dive deeper into the qualities and benefits of kangaroo leather in MotoGP gear.

Why Kangaroo Leather?

Kangaroo leather is revered for its exceptional properties that enhance both rider safety and comfort. Here’s why it’s often used in high-end MotoGP gear:

1. Lightweight but Extremely Strong

One of the standout features of kangaroo leather is its lightweight nature. It is thinner than cowhide, yet stronger and more durable. In MotoGP leather apparel, where every fraction of a second counts, reducing weight without sacrificing strength is crucial. Kangaroo leather offers excellent abrasion resistance while allowing riders to maintain flexibility and agility. This makes it a perfect material for race suits, gloves, and jackets that require a balance of protection and performance.

2. Exceptional Flexibility and Comfort

Kangaroo leather is also known for its superior flexibility. It has a natural softness that allows it to mold to the rider’s body over time, creating a personalized, comfortable fit. For MotoGP riders who are spending hours in intense conditions, comfort is essential. The material provides the right amount of stretch, preventing discomfort or restriction of movement during high-speed cornering or racing maneuvers.

This flexibility doesn’t compromise the gear’s protective qualities. In fact, it allows for better mobility, which is a key factor in a racer’s performance. It’s particularly beneficial in racing gloves, where the leather needs to bend and flex with the rider’s hand while maintaining maximum control of the bike.

3. Durability and Abrasion Resistance

When it comes to MotoGP, protection from abrasions is non-negotiable. In the event of a crash, a rider’s gear must be able to withstand friction with the pavement. Kangaroo leather offers excellent abrasion resistance, even though it’s thinner than cowhide. In fact, it’s often described as having a higher abrasion resistance per unit of thickness compared to other types of leather, such as cowhide or goatskin.

This characteristic makes kangaroo leather an ideal choice for areas of MotoGP gear that are most likely to face abrasions, such as the elbows, knees, and palms of gloves. Gear made from kangaroo leather can help reduce the likelihood of serious skin damage in the event of a fall.

4. Breathability and Moisture Regulation

Kangaroo leather is naturally breathable, which contributes to better moisture regulation. In the intense heat of a MotoGP race, riders can sweat heavily inside their suits. The breathability of kangaroo leather helps to wick away sweat, keeping the rider cooler and more comfortable. This is a significant advantage over other leathers that might trap moisture and heat, leading to discomfort during long races.

5. Environmental and Ethical Considerations

While kangaroo leather offers exceptional qualities for MotoGP gear, it’s important to acknowledge the environmental and ethical concerns surrounding its use. Kangaroo leather is often sourced from animals that are managed through regulated wildlife harvesting programs, and it is known for being a sustainable material. However, it’s essential for manufacturers to be transparent about their sourcing practices to ensure that the leather is ethically obtained.

In response to increasing awareness around ethical sourcing, some MotoGP gear manufacturers focus on using kangaroo leather from certified and sustainable farms, ensuring that the leather meets environmental standards while offering riders the benefits of this premium material.

Kangaroo Leather in MotoGP Gear: Where It’s Used

Thanks to its impressive attributes, kangaroo leather is found in various parts of high-end MotoGP gear. Here’s where it’s commonly used:

• Racing Suits: Kangaroo leather is frequently used in the construction of racing suits, especially in areas that need flexibility, such as the shoulders, elbows, and knees. The lightweight nature of kangaroo leather allows for a tight yet comfortable fit, which is essential for high-speed racing.
• Gloves: In racing gloves, kangaroo leather’s thinness, flexibility, and strength are ideal for providing a close fit and tactile control. These gloves also offer superior protection while still allowing riders to have precise control over their throttle, brake, and clutch.
• Jackets and Boots: Some premium MotoGP jackets and boots incorporate kangaroo leather for added durability and comfort. Its flexibility makes it easier for riders to move, whether they’re on the track or on the road.

The Cost of Kangaroo Leather Gear

While kangaroo leather offers excellent performance benefits, it comes with a higher price tag compared to other types of leather. The process of sourcing, tanning, and crafting products from kangaroo leather is more labor-intensive and costly, which is why gear made from this material is generally positioned in the high-end market. However, for professional riders or enthusiasts who prioritize the best possible performance, the investment in kangaroo leather gear is often seen as worthwhile.

Conclusion

Kangaroo leather represents the pinnacle of quality and performance in MotoGP gear. Its lightweight yet strong nature, combined with its flexibility, comfort, and breathability, makes it an ideal material for riders who need the best protection without compromising on agility or comfort. While it comes at a premium, the benefits of kangaroo leather gear make it a worthy investment for those serious about their safety and performance on the track.

Whether you’re a professional MotoGP rider or an enthusiast looking to upgrade your gear, choosing products made from kangaroo leather can elevate your riding experience. From race suits to gloves, this extraordinary material ensures that you have the protection and flexibility needed to perform at your best.