At Moto Central, we understand the importance of quality and durability in motorcycle gear. Located in Leicestershire, we proudly offer a wide range of protective clothing, helmets, and accessories for motorcyclists across the UK. One standout material in the world of motorcycle apparel is buffalo leather – a rugged, stylish, and highly functional choice for riders.
In this article, we delve deeper into buffalo leather, exploring the motorcycle brands that use it, why it’s favoured, its benefits, drawbacks, and more.
Why Do Motorcycle Brands Use Buffalo Leather?
Buffalo leather’s exceptional properties make it a preferred material for many leading motorcycle brands. Brands such as Richa, RST, and Furygan incorporate buffalo leather into their gear to achieve the perfect blend of strength, flexibility, and timeless style. Here’s why these brands rely on buffalo leather:
- Durability and Protection: Buffalo leather has a dense and thick epidermal layer, making it naturally resistant to abrasions and impacts. For brands that prioritise rider safety, buffalo leather provides outstanding protection during falls or slides.
- Distinctive Look: The natural grain of buffalo leather is more pronounced than cowhide, giving it a rugged, vintage appeal that perfectly complements the aesthetic of motorcycle gear.
- Flexibility and Comfort: Despite its strength, buffalo leather softens over time, creating a personalised fit that enhances rider comfort. Brands that design for long-distance touring or everyday urban riders value this adaptability.
- Sustainability: Many brands that use buffalo leather source it ethically as a by-product of the meat industry, aligning with sustainability goals and eco-conscious production practices.
Key Benefits of Buffalo Leather
- Abrasion Resistance: Thick and durable, buffalo leather is designed to withstand the wear and tear of the road.
- Water Resistance: Naturally resistant to moisture, it can handle light rain or damp conditions with ease, especially when treated.
- Long-Lasting Performance: With proper care, buffalo leather can maintain its functionality and appearance for decades.
- Style: Its textured grain and rugged look make it a statement piece in motorcycle apparel.
Potential Drawbacks of Buffalo Leather
- Weight: Buffalo leather is heavier than synthetic materials or lighter leathers like goat or kangaroo. This may not suit riders who prioritise lightweight gear.
- Maintenance: Buffalo leather requires regular care, including cleaning, conditioning, and waterproofing, to retain its qualities over time.
- Cost: As a premium material, buffalo leather can be more expensive than synthetic alternatives, though its durability and longevity often justify the investment.
- Breaking-In Period: Initially, buffalo leather can feel stiffer than other materials. While it softens with use, some riders may prefer gear that feels immediately flexible.
How Buffalo Leather Excels in Motorcycle Gear
- Jackets: The thick, abrasion-resistant nature of buffalo leather makes it ideal for jackets, offering excellent protection and a timeless look. Jackets crafted from buffalo leather are particularly popular in touring and classic motorcycle styles.
- Gloves: Riders appreciate buffalo leather gloves for their grip and durability. These gloves provide excellent tactile feedback while maintaining strength.
- Boots: Sturdy and resistant to wear, buffalo leather boots are built to endure the rigours of motorcycling.
- Trousers and Chaps: Lower-body gear crafted from buffalo leather offers maximum protection against abrasions while retaining comfort.
Alternatives to Buffalo Leather in Motorcycle Gear
While buffalo leather is a premium choice, other materials are also popular in motorcycle gear for their unique benefits:
- Cowhide: The most widely used leather in motorcycle gear, cowhide offers durability, flexibility, and a smoother finish than buffalo leather.
- Goat Leather: Known for its lightweight feel and fine grain, goat leather is often used in gloves and jackets where flexibility is key.
- Kangaroo Leather: Lightweight yet extremely strong, kangaroo leather is a popular choice for racing gear due to its high tensile strength and resistance to tearing.
- Synthetic Materials (e.g., Cordura, Kevlar): These advanced textiles provide excellent abrasion resistance and are often lighter and easier to maintain than natural leather.
- Waxed Cotton: Favoured in classic and urban styles, waxed cotton offers a stylish, water-resistant alternative to leather, though it lacks the same level of abrasion resistance.
