The UK motorcycle scene is as diverse as ourselves as riders. We vary from daily commuters battling city traffic, to weekend adventurers chasing the open road, to track-day enthusiasts trying to shave a few tenths off our lap times. One thing we all need however is reliable & protective gear. This includes your helmet, jacket, trousers, gloves, boots and much more! It can feel a little overwhelming however when it comes finding what is the best motorcycle clothing brands, as we’re now fortunate enough to have so much choice. Don’t worry though, as we’re here to help.
In this guide, we break down what we see as the current top 10 motorcycle clothing brands in the UK, while highlighting what makes each brand stand out. Motorcycle clothing brands have different strengths, and that means that while your partner or friend wears a certain brand and loves it too bits, it may not necessarily be the best pick for you. We break this down for you below.
Why Choosing the Right Brand Matters
There are many reasons why choosing the right gear from the right brand matters, we’ve picked out the most important reasons below:
SAFETY FIRST: The main reason we wear motorbike gear. Trusted motorcycle clothing brands work around the clock to produce motorbike gear which will keep you as safe as possible. Through in-depth research and development they ensure their gear meets or exceeds CE safety standards, and allow you to ride with peace of mind and a smile on your face.
COMFORT COUNTS: Quality riding gear can make a huge difference on long rides, and we should have clothing which can take on all weather conditions. If you’re a daily rider, you need to make sure your gear will last the test of time. Waterproof membranes aren’t all born equal, and you will have a massive variety of success with jackets in the summer based on the ventilation systems and mesh panels. Wearing an all-year jacket is a great starting point, but you should begin to expand your wardrobe overtime to successfully tackle the weather of the day ahead.
STYLE & IDENTITY: This is often times a personal choice, but many brands are known to specialise for a particular class of rider. Certain brands have a niche and will stick to their historical success and excellence, while some others will be able to offer something for everybody. You’ll want to know the values that the motorcycle clothing brand stands for, and ensure that this makes sense to you. Whether you’re looking for a classic leather riding jacket, technical modern textiles or the latest race leathers, your gear should reflect both your riding style and personality.
VALUE FOR MONEY: Certain brands excel where others don’t. If you’re a brand new rider, you most likely won’t be splashing out on the latest and greatest until you’re a more seasoned rider, and know exactly what type of gear and riding you’re likely to want. Alternatively, if you’re a track day enthusiast or touring veteran, you’ll want to ensure you have the best of the best, and there are brands out there which stand out in this cases.
Key Features To Be On The Lookout For
With that said, you should also look at the item itself, not just the clothing brand. We’ve compiled a small list of key features you should be on the lookout for depending on the type of riding you do:
CE-CERTIFIED PROTECTION: A centralised body certifies the safety of all motorcycle jackets, trousers, gloves & boots. As such, you’ll find a CE certification on any genuine motorcycle apparel, and if you don’t see this certification, you should give the gear in question a wide berth! Minimum safety standards apply to all respected clothing brands, and there will be a choice of how safe you want to go (i.e CE A vs CE AAA, Level 1 vs Level 2 protectors etc). You should acquaint yourself with these different ratings and ensure that you’re comfortable with the standard the next motorcycle jacket you buy brings with it.
WEATHERPROOFING: Not all motorbike gear is designed to be worn all-year round, or during warm weather, and as such you should ensure that your gear reflects the time of year and environment you will be riding in. Motorcycle clothing has many technical features that are designed to keep you dry and warm, or dry & cool depending on the weather. You want to check the recommended seasons the motorcycle apparel excels in before you buy. As for waterproofing, you’ll find that Gore-Tex will always sit at the top of the tree due to it’s high breathability without sacrificing it’s waterproofing. We personally always recommend Gore-Tex if you look to ride all-year round without fear or the rain!
COMFORT & FIT: Motorcycle gear is improving every year in this aspect, and you will find that most riding gear has multiple features to keep you comfortable. Many jackets and trousers now have adjustable straps to allow you to easily fit more or less layers underneath your jackets while riding. One personal recommendation for boots is to always find a pair that comes with a zip on the side for easy access. While incredibly simple, if you’re lucky enough to have a full days ride ahead of you, you’ll be more than glad when your motorbike boots slip of with ease!
STYLE: Riding gear is specialist equipment, and has been designed with a set purpose in mind. As such, you want to ensure you select the correct style of gear for the riding you wish to partake in. Race leathers are a superb choice for track days, however if you plan to go on the big European tour you’ve been wishing to go on since you were little, they’re the last thing you’ll want to wear. It’s paramount that you pick the right type of clothing for your riding.
How to Choose the Right Brand for You
While this isn’t going to be perfect for every rider, most of us will fall under a certain style of riding, who all have similar demands for their riding gear. As such, we’ve highlighted the most important aspects to be on the look out for depending on you riding type:
COMMUTER RIDERS: You’re going to ride all year round no matter the weather! As such, we would recommend waterproof, lightweight and durable clothing. Technical textiles excel during these weather conditions, but also are a breeze to wear in the warmer weather. Easily adapt to the ride ahead on the fly and in ample comfort.
TOURING/ADVENTURE RIDERS: Prioritise long-distance comfort and advanced weatherproofing. Similar to commuters, you’re almost definitely going to get caught out while on your long and epic journeys around the world. I’ve lost count how many times we’ll be looking at our next leg of our journey in sunny Spain in the summer, only to be hit what feels like the most severe downpour of my lifetime! If you fail to plan for the worst, you’re planning to fail.
SPORT/TRACK-DAY RIDERS: Focus on protection, performance & fit. For those of us lucky enough to experience track days semi regularly, you’ll reach speeds much higher than what you’ll experience on the roads. As such, you want to ensure that you gear is ready for such an eventuality. You’ll also most likely be wanting to attribute a certain level of performance in your gear through aerodynamics and cooling technology to ensure that you ride as quickly, but most importantly as safely as you’re able too. Leather suits, track helmets, boots and gloves are a must-have within this category.
CASUAL/URBAN RIDERS: We’re seeing a rise in this type of rider over the last few years, and we can certainly see why! As the safety of gear has evolved, so too as they comfort and aesthetics of your gear. As such, you’re able to match a hoodie and a pair of riding jeans that wouldn’t look out of place on the high street together and ride without the need to feel like Mr or Mrs biker. Style, comfort and practicality matter most.
So who makes the cut? We’ve been as unbiased as we possibly can, as we don’t stock every motorcycle clothing brand below. They all have their own strengths and unique approach to our favourite past time. To see which is the perfect brand for you, simply read on:
10. RICHA
With 70 years of experience, the Belgian juggernaut that is Richa has grown from their original motorcycle glove offering, to now encompass everything a rider may wear on their journeys. A name that goes hand in hand with quality and comfort.
9. KLIM
Specialists in adventure and off-road gear, Klim are known for rugged durability and advanced technical materials. Their jackets and trousers are built for extreme conditions, making them a top pick for explorers and adventure riders. They also pioneer in rider safety, and some of the safest textile jackets and trousers are manufactured by Klim. Premium quality and rider comfort is all but a guarantee.
8. MERLIN
A British brand with a strong focus on heritage-inspired design, Merlin blends classic looks with modern safety features. Merlin has evolved into a globally respected name, proudly designing and developing all of their motorcycle gear and helmets in-house. Today, Merlin stands at the forefront of the industry, offering a premium range that serves riders not only across the UK but also around the world. Merlin’s three signature collections are tailored to distinct riding styles, reflecting their understanding that each rider’s needs are unique. Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on long touring adventures, or seeking the thrill of the open road, you’ll find gear that is engineered for your ride which delivers exceptional value for money.
Merlin will be available from ourselves shortly, watch this space!
7. LS2
LS2 is certainly a new name in motorcycle clothing, but with 30 years of experience in the world of helmets, they’ve made it abundantly clear they’re here to stay. LS2 designs with their five brand pillars: Safety, Quality, Innovation, Design & Passion For Racing. One of the fastest growing brands in the industry, they deliver know-how and quality without breaking the bank. A wide range covers most riders, and their passion is clear for all to be seen. A superb choice for commuters and touring riders looking for true quality.
To see the full range of LS2 motorcycle clothing click here.
6. DAINESE
Italian craftsmanship meets advanced technology with Dainese. Known for premium leathers, stylish designs and innovations like D-air airbag systems. Dainese is the go-to choice for riders seeking top-level performance and Italian flair.
5. OXFORD
Oxford is one of the UK’s most established motorcycle brands, known for practical & dependable gear. Boasting a rich history spanning decades, as well as a state of the art R&D centre, there’s something for every rider labelled Oxford. Their clothing range offers great value and durability, as can be seen through their no quibble two year warranty for all of their gear. Perfect for commuters and riders looking for reliable everyday protection.
To see the full range of Oxford motorcycle clothing click here.
4. SPADA
Celebrating over 30 years in the market, Spada is a UK-based brand that has been known to focus on affordable and functional motorcycle gear. A new design team shook Spada up a few years ago, and ever since they’ve gone from strength to strength. Spada have successfully created riding gear which you want to wear both on and off of your bike. With many new innovations and modern designs, you wouldn’t look out of place on the high-street in their latest gear! Their clothing is rider-tested in real conditions, making it a smart pick for those on a budget riding in the ever-reliable British weather who don’t want to compromise on safety or style.
To see the full Spada motorcycle clothing range click here.
3. Rukka
Finnish brand Rukka is renowned for its premium adventure and touring gear. You can rest easy knowing that with Rukka, you’re almost certainly riding with the most technically advanced gear on the market. While this does bring a high-end price tag, you can feel the difference while riding. With Gore-Tex membranes, advanced armour and top-notch build quality, it’s the ultimate choice for riders who tackle all-weather, long-distance journeys.
2. RST
Born in the UK, RST has built a reputation for high-quality yet affordable gear that doesn’t compromise on safety. They too are synonymous with motorsport, being the key sponsor at the most infamous road racing event in the world, the Isle Of Man TT. With everything from leather racing suits, advanced textile touring jackets and Airbag technology. RST is a favourite among British riders as they certainly know our weather, and as such you can rest assured that your gear won’t let you down during a downpour.
To see the full RST motorcycle clothing range click here.
1. ALPINESTARS
The Italian giant is a global powerhouse in motorsports & motorcycle gear. Alpinestars are the biggest brand in the world for motorcycle gear with a rich history within all disciplines of motorsport. From young kids on their first track day up to current and past world champions, their gear has been worn by everybody at some point. They blend cutting-edge protection with race-inspired style and technical prowess. With a huge range, varying from leather race suits to some of the most technical adventure textile jackets and casual riding gear, it’s a brand trusted by professionals and everyday riders alike.
To see the full Alpinestars motorcycle clothing range click here.
From heritage British brands to global innovators, the UK market is packed with motorcycle clothing designed to keep you safe and comfortable. The right choice depends on your riding style, budget, and personal taste, but any of these top 10 brands will give you a solid foundation for your motorcycle wardrobe.
Whether you’re starting out or upgrading your kit, please remember that safety and comfort should always come first. Style should follow close behind. Always try on gear if possible in store, as sizing can vary between brands. If you’re not able to pop into our Nottingham motorbike store, we offer a no quibble return policy, and we’re always on hand for specialist advice to ensure you ride with a smile on your face.
