At Moto Central, located in Leicestershire, we pride ourselves on offering motorcyclists the latest advancements in gear technology. One standout innovation is laminated motorcycle gear, a construction method that has been embraced by many leading brands for its unrivalled performance in all-weather riding. But why have these brands chosen laminated technology, and what makes it so appealing to motorcyclists across the UK and beyond? Let’s delve deeper into this game-changing gear.
Why Do Motorcycle Brands Use Laminated Technology?
Laminated technology is used by premium motorcycle brands because it combines exceptional waterproofing, durability, and comfort in one streamlined design. By bonding the waterproof membrane directly to the outer fabric, manufacturers eliminate the need for bulky internal liners, offering a sleek, lightweight solution that doesn’t compromise on protection. This is especially important for brands catering to riders who demand high performance in challenging conditions.
For brands like Alpinestars, Revit, Klim, and Rukka, laminated gear represents the pinnacle of functional design. These manufacturers aim to provide gear that meets the rigorous demands of touring, adventure, and daily commuting. Additionally, brands such as Dainese and Held have developed proprietary laminates, such as D-Dry XT and Rainblock, to offer their customers tailored solutions with the same core advantages.
The Benefits of Laminated Motorcycle Gear
The benefits of laminated gear are numerous and well-suited to the unpredictable British weather. Key advantages include:
- Waterproofing Excellence: Laminated gear ensures rain doesn’t penetrate the fabric, keeping riders dry even in torrential downpours.
- Breathability: The bonded design allows perspiration to escape, making it ideal for long rides and varied climates.
- Lightweight and Streamlined: Without an additional liner, laminated gear feels less bulky, offering enhanced freedom of movement.
- Faster Drying Times: The outer shell resists water absorption, meaning your gear dries quickly after a wet ride.
- Durability: Laminated gear is built to last, with fewer layers to wear out and withstand rugged conditions.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Laminated Gear?
While laminated gear offers incredible benefits, it’s not without its downsides:
- Higher Cost: Laminated gear is often more expensive due to the advanced manufacturing process and premium materials.
- Stiffer Feel: The bonded layers can reduce flexibility, which might take some getting used to for riders accustomed to traditional gear.
- Limited Ventilation: Although breathable, laminated gear may not offer as much airflow as gear with large ventilation panels or mesh inserts.
Despite these considerations, the long-term value, performance, and reliability of laminated gear make it a worthwhile investment for serious motorcyclists.
Top Brands and Their Laminated Offerings
Many leading motorcycle brands incorporate laminated technology into their premium collections. Here are some highlights:
- Rukka: Known for its rugged touring gear, Rukka uses GORE-TEX laminates to deliver unmatched waterproofing and durability.
- Alpinestars: The brand blends laminated construction with advanced protective features, catering to both adventure and sport-touring riders.
- Revit: With options like Hydratex® laminates, Revit provides high-performance solutions for a range of riding styles.
- Dainese: Their D-Dry XT laminate offers a lightweight, waterproof, and breathable alternative for urban and touring riders.
- Klim: Specialising in adventure gear, Klim utilises GORE-TEX Pro laminates for extreme conditions.
- Held: Renowned for durability and performance, Held’s laminated gear features advanced weatherproofing technologies.
Why Laminated Gear Is Perfect for British Riders
The unpredictable nature of British weather makes laminated motorcycle gear a must-have for many riders. Whether you’re navigating city streets on your daily commute or exploring scenic countryside roads, laminated gear provides the confidence to tackle any conditions. Its lightweight design, combined with unbeatable waterproofing, is particularly suited to the varied demands of UK motorcycling.
Alternatives to Laminated Motorcycle Gear
While laminated gear is an excellent choice, there are a few alternatives that also provide reliable performance:
- Drop Liners: Traditional waterproof liners that sit between the outer shell and inner layers. While effective, they can be bulky and slow to dry.
- Waxed Cotton: Popular for urban and classic styles, waxed cotton offers water resistance with a retro aesthetic, though it requires regular maintenance.
- Mesh Panels: Designed for maximum ventilation in summer, mesh gear can be paired with separate waterproof oversuits for wet conditions.
- Softshell Gear: Lightweight and flexible, softshell jackets often incorporate windproof membranes and water resistance but lack full waterproofing.
Each alternative has its own strengths and weaknesses, making it important to choose the right gear for your riding style and typical conditions.
Experience Laminated Gear at Moto Central
At Moto Central, we stock a wide range of laminated motorcycle gear from industry-leading brands. Located in the Midlands, our Leicestershire showroom offers a dedicated space for exploring jackets, trousers, and gloves designed with laminated technology. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to motorcycling, our team can help you find the perfect gear to meet your needs.
Explore laminated motorcycle gear at Moto Central and enjoy free UK delivery on orders over £25 with a 365-day return policy for complete satisfaction.
