Best Motorcycle Suit for Track and Street Riders
Evan Rally
Updated: October 12, 2025
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Riding fast isn’t dangerous — doing it in the wrong gear is. The suit you zip up before a session makes the difference between walking away from a low‑side and facing a long rehab.
Yet many riders still believe the most expensive race suit must be the safest, or that an airbag is just marketing hype. In reality, a budget‑friendly one‑piece in the right size can save your skin better than a poorly fitting premium suit, and an airbag can drastically reduce injuries even when you’re just cruising around. Some riders even claim leather thickness is more important than fit, but as track veterans we know you can buy three different cowhides and still end up with the same crash outcome if they don’t fit properly. Those controversial truths set the stage for this deep dive into today’s best one‑piece race suits and airbag systems.
We built this guide from manufacturer documentation, CE/EN 17092 ratings, independent test data where available, and verified rider reports from track-day communities and retailer reviews. Our goal is simple: help you choose a suit that fits your budget, body type, and riding goals. We highlight pro-level options, mid-range standouts, value picks, and a high-tech standalone airbag that works with most compatible suits.
Which Suit Fits Your Riding Style?
Before we dive into specific models, think about how you ride and what matters most. Are you chasing lap times and need MotoGP‑level materials? You’ll want a suit built from kangaroo leather or advanced textiles that’s compatible with integrated airbags.
Do you ride the occasional track day but commute on the same bike? You might prioritize breathability and a detachable liner over titanium sliders. We also break down textile vs leather strategies in our How to Choose a Motorcycle Jacket checklist — a quick read if you’re weighing comfort versus outright protection.
Riders on their first track day often don’t know if they’ll stick with the hobby, so a value-oriented suit with CE Level 2 armour makes sense. And if you ride a lot of twisty backroads, adding a standalone airbag vest to your existing suit could be the biggest upgrade you make.
Before we get into the full lineup, here are the three suits that impressed us most for performance, comfort, and value.
Best for Track Performance 
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Best for Premium Street & Track Versatility 
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Best Mid-Range Value 
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Built with kangaroo and bovine leather plus MATRYX ventilation, it delivers the lightest feel, strongest abrasion protection, and seamless Tech-Air 10 integration. | Combines AAA-rated Tutu leather, Level 2 armour, and Italian ergonomics—ideal for riders splitting time between spirited street rides and track days. | Offers AAA protection, quality leather, and comfort praised by real riders at a more approachable price point than Italian or Alpinestars rivals. |
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Best for Track Performance
Built with kangaroo and bovine leather plus MATRYX ventilation, it delivers the lightest feel, strongest abrasion protection, and seamless Tech-Air 10 integration.
- Exceptional airflow with MATRYX panels and perforation
- Lightweight flex zones for freer movement
- Built-in slot for Tech-Air 10 airbag integration
- Triple certified and CE-AAA rated for top safety
- Initial stiffness until properly broken in
- Heat retention under high ambient temps
Best for Premium Street & Track Versatility
Combines AAA-rated Tutu leather, Level 2 armour, and Italian ergonomics—ideal for riders splitting time between spirited street rides and track days.
- Excellent ventilation thanks to perforated Tutu leather
- High-level protection with AAA + Level 2 armor
- Stretch and tri-axial panels boost rider mobility
- Washable liner and waterbag-ready aerodynamic hump
- Hips use Level 1 protection, not Level 2
- Some stiffness until leather fully broken in
Best Mid-Range Value
Offers AAA protection, quality leather, and comfort praised by real riders at a more approachable price point than Italian or Alpinestars rivals.
- Excellent flexibility with stretch panels and articulation
- Strong abrasion protection under EN 17092 AAA
- Good airflow via perforation and ventilation zones
- Tech-Air compatibility allows future airbag upgrade
- Leather is a bit stiff initially — requires break in
- Limited sizes/colors — availability can be inconsistent
Alpinestars GP Tech V4 — MotoGP Materials for Serious Racers
Alpinestars’ GP Tech V4 sits near the top of the company’s hierarchy. The suit uses a blend of kangaroo leather and premium bovine hide reinforced with aramid fibre, which reduces weight and improves abrasion resistance. The shell features MATRYX structural panels and Cool‑iR technology to help reflect heat and improve airflow. Large accordion stretch panels and flexible kangaroo leather in high‑movement zones make the V4 easier to move in compared with earlier GP Tech suits, while aramid reinforcements add burn protection around the lower legs and seat. CE‑rated GP‑DFS sliders on shoulders, elbows and knees, along with Bio‑Flex hip armour, provide impact protection.
This suit is designed to work seamlessly with the Tech‑Air 10 airbag system. A pocket in the torso holds the airbag’s removable LED status panel, and the suit’s internal panels provide the four centimetres of slack necessary for the airbag to inflate. The liner is fully removable for cleaning and there’s a waist hook so you can hang the suit between sessions. Riders in Reddit’s r/Trackdays forum report that the kangaroo panels give the V4 a more compliant feel than the GP Plus V4, and one track‑day regular said he could “crash‑test it and it’s still going strong” after a low‑side, though he noted the older version’s liner wasn’t great but has since been improved. Another commenter who owns both the GP Tech V4 and the GP Plus V4 said the fit is the same, so choose the V4 if you want lighter kangaroo leather.
Alpinestars GP Tech v4 Race Suit
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A MotoGP-grade one-piece suit using kangaroo/leather blend and MATRYX ventilation, engineered for airflow, protection, and Tech-Air 10 compatibility.
Pros:
- Exceptional airflow with MATRYX panels and perforation
- Lightweight flex zones for freer movement
- Built-in slot for Tech-Air 10 airbag integration
- Triple certified and CE-AAA rated for top safety
Cons:
- Initial stiffness until properly broken in
- Heat retention under high ambient temps
Silver lining: the V4’s exotic materials make it expensive and it still weighs more than you might expect, but that heft makes the suit more stable in turbulent air on fast straights.
Downside and alternative: the GP Tech V4’s biggest drawback is price — it costs hundreds more than the GP Plus V4 yet offers similar fit and armour. Some riders also find kangaroo leather less insulating for cooler days. If you want most of the same protection and Tech-Air compatibility in a heavier but more affordable package, the Alpinestars GP Plus V4 is the logical step down.
Alpinestars GP Plus V4 — All‑Rounder With Flex Plus Leather
The GP Plus V4 is Alpinestars’ new mid‑range race suit and the one most riders will buy. The main body uses Flex Plus racing bovine leather, which the company claims is 80 % more adaptive and 10 % lighter than standard cowhide. High Resistant Stretch Fabric (HRSF) panels around the torso and hips enhance mobility, while a low‑profile collar and extended stretch zones reduce fatigue. The suit comes with CE‑rated GP‑DFS armour on shoulders, elbows and knees, and Bioflex hip armour is included.
Alpinestars’ designers thought about ergonomics: there’s a calf expansion system with zippered inserts, internal pockets for optional chest protectors, and a space to fit the Tech‑Air LED panel for riders using the Tech‑Air 5 or 10 airbags. A large perforated hump and localized perforations across the chest and thighs help hot air escape. Several riders on track‑day forums have debated whether the GP Plus V4’s Flex Plus leather makes a noticeable difference compared with the kangaroo panels in the GP Tech V4. One commenter said there’s “no big comfort difference” between the two suits; he wears both and doesn’t have a preference. Another rider noted that he paid significantly less for the GP Tech V4 on sale, so the price gap isn’t always what it seems.
Alpinestars GP Plus v4 Race Suit
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A race-derived one-piece with Flex Plus leather, A-CS™ Plus stretch, and full Tech-Air readiness — built for balance between performance, fit, and airflow.
Pros:
- Outstanding ventilation via perforated leather & mesh zones
- Flexible stretch panels adapt to dynamic riding positions
- Tech-Air compatible for modular airbag upgrade
- High CE AAA rating with race-level protection
Cons:
- Leather feels stiff until broken in
- Vent zones may feel cool on colder days
Silver lining: Thicker cowhide takes more hits before it needs replacement, and many riders find it more confidence-inspiring during long sessions thanks to its rigidity. Once broken in, the Flex Plus leather softens nicely and holds its shape better than lighter materials.
Downside and alternative: the GP Plus V4 is made entirely from cowhide, so it’s heavier and stiffer out of the box than the GP Tech V4. If you want more flex and a lighter feel, step up to the GP Tech V4. Otherwise, the GP Plus V4 remains our top all-round choice for riders who want a serious suit without going full kangaroo.
Dainese Laguna Seca 6 Perforated — Italian Style With Race‑Level Protection
Dainese’s Laguna Seca line has long been the benchmark for Italian race suits, and the sixth generation brings MotoGP-level protection to non-factory racers. The shell uses 1.2 mm Tutu cowhide combined with S1 bi-elastic fabric, letting you move naturally in a full tuck without fighting stiff leather. Perforated leather panels and a 3D bubble mesh liner promote airflow, while the Tri-axial elastic system on the back stretches both laterally and vertically to follow body movement. The D-Tec Racing Core liner is removable and washable, and the suit even includes a pocket for an optional hydration kit for long sessions.
For protection, the Laguna Seca 6 meets the highest EN 17092 AAA certification and includes Level 2 protectors on the elbows, knees, and shoulders, plus Dainese’s Pro-Shape 2.0 hip armour. Aluminum sliders on the shoulders and the company’s RSS 4.0 elbow and knee sliders are replaceable, and the race-inspired collar design reduces pressure at high speeds. Riders on Reddit rave about its materials and fit — one said it made him feel like “a million bikes riding in it,” admitting he thought Dainese gear was overpriced until he tried this suit. Another noted the jump to full AAA certification and Level 2 armour finally gives the Laguna Seca 6 the same protection credentials as top-tier competition suits.
Dainese Laguna Seca 6 Perforated Race Suit
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MotoGP-inspired one-piece with perforated Tutu leather and S1 elastic for airflow, full AAA protection, and compatibility with waterbag hydration.
Pros:
- Excellent ventilation thanks to perforated Tutu leather
- High-level protection with AAA + Level 2 armor
- Stretch and tri-axial panels boost rider mobility
- Washable liner and waterbag-ready aerodynamic hump
Cons:
- Hips use Level 1 protection, not Level 2
- Some stiffness until leather fully broken in
Silver lining: The Laguna Seca 6 blends premium Italian styling with serious race-ready protection. Despite the thicker leather, it remains impressively comfortable thanks to Dainese’s elastic systems and airflow design. It’s one of the few AAA-rated suits you can wear all day without feeling boxed in.
Downside and alternative: Some riders aren’t fans of the new graphics compared with earlier Laguna Seca versions, and its premium price puts it close to airbag-equipped suits. If you want integrated protection right out of the box, the Dainese Misano 3 D-Air adds a built-in airbag system at a higher cost. For most riders, the Laguna Seca 6 hits the perfect balance between performance, comfort, and Italian flair.
REV’IT! Argon 2 — Balanced Protection and Comfort
Dutch brand REV’IT! has quietly become a favourite among track-day regulars, and the Argon 2 demonstrates why. Its shell uses Monaco performance cowhide with perforated panels on the abdomen, back, and upper legs for ventilation. Stretch material and accordion panels at the elbows, knees, and back let you move easily during corner transitions. Ventilation panels on the upper front and along the hump bring fresh air in, and a comfort collar reduces chafing.
The Argon 2 meets CE AAA certification and comes with Betac protectors on the shoulders, elbows, and knees, plus SEESMART hip armour. Pockets are provided for optional SeeSoft chest and back protectors. Riders who’ve tried this suit praise its off-the-rack comfort. A Sportsbikeshop customer wrote that after trying several RST suits, he chose the Argon 2 because “the fit and feel of the suit was far better” and it “gets better each time I put it on,” adding that the seat slides smoothly when changing body position. On REV’IT! Australia’s site, a reviewer named Johnny said the Argon 2 felt more comfortable than the Quantum 2 and that the materials were very good compared with his Dainese two-piece. Another rider praised REV’IT! leathers for fit and noted that his Tech-Air airbag fit perfectly, emphasizing that proper fit and safety should always come first.
REV'IT! Argon 2 Race Suit
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A race-derived one-piece that balances protection and daily comfort, delivering full AAA-rated abrasion resistance with flexible stretch zones and rider ergonomics.
Pros:
- Excellent flexibility with stretch panels and articulation
- Strong abrasion protection under EN 17092 AAA
- Good airflow via perforation and ventilation zones
- Tech-Air compatibility allows future airbag upgrade
Cons:
- Leather is a bit stiff initially — requires break in
- Limited sizes/colors — availability can be inconsistent
Silver lining: The Argon 2 delivers premium comfort and AAA protection at a mid-range price, making it a standout for riders who want European quality without paying Italian-brand premiums. Its ventilation and ergonomic design make it one of the most comfortable suits you can wear straight off the rack.
Downside and alternative: Availability can be hit-or-miss — popular sizes and colors often sell out quickly. The leather also starts out a bit stiff compared with Alpinestars’ Flex Plus hides but softens with use. If you want a slightly lighter, more flexible feel, consider the Alpinestars GP Plus V4. For riders who prioritize comfort, the Argon 2 remains an outstanding value pick.
Alpinestars Missile V2 — Accessible Race Suit With Tech‑Air Compatibility
The Missile V2 fills the gap between Alpinestars’ entry-level suits and the GP line. Made from premium bovine leather with accordion stretch panels and polyamide stretch fabric, it offers a race fit that’s easier to break in than earlier Missiles. CE-certified GP-R protectors at the shoulders, elbows, and knees team up with external DFS sliders and internal Bio-Flex hip armour. The suit meets the EN 17092 AAA rating and includes localized perforations for airflow and a ventilated hump. A calf expansion system, detachable liner, and pockets for optional chest protectors add everyday practicality.
While this suit is aimed at men, the women’s Stella Missile V2 shares most of the same construction. During a long-term test, Ultimate Motorcycling’s reviewer noted that the Stella version felt thick and slightly warm at first but stretched out quickly after a few laps. She did some “log rolls” and “sumo dances” to break it in and later praised its mobility and comfort. She also pointed out that airflow through the chest and thighs could be better, especially when paired with a Tech-Air vest, but still recommended the suit for its protection and value. Those notes apply equally to the men’s Missile V2: expect a break-in period and limited perforation, but solid protection and full compatibility with the Tech-Air 10 system.
Silver lining: Once broken in, the Missile V2 delivers excellent comfort and freedom of movement for its price class. It shares the same Tech-Air 10 readiness and AAA protection as Alpinestars’ higher-end suits, making it a dependable choice for track-day riders upgrading from two-piece gear.
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A race-ready one-piece crafted from premium bovine leather with stretch zones and built-in Tech-Air readiness—ideal for riders seeking performance without extreme weight. | A women’s one-piece race suit built for high-performance riding—designed to match female fits, offer full protection, and support Tech-Air airbag systems. |
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A race-ready one-piece crafted from premium bovine leather with stretch zones and built-in Tech-Air readiness—ideal for riders seeking performance without extreme weight.
- Strong abrasion protection in key zones
- Flexible stretch panels boost rider mobility
- Tech-Air 10 compatibility for airbag upgrades
- Excellent ventilation via localized perforation
- Feels stiff until leather loosens with use
- Ventilation can lag on very hot days
A women’s one-piece race suit built for high-performance riding—designed to match female fits, offer full protection, and support Tech-Air airbag systems.
- Tailored fit for female riders improves comfort and safety
- Strong abrasion resistance and CE-rated armor coverage
- Compatible with Tech-Air 5 for integrated airbag protection
- Good stretchability—breaks in quickly for better movement
- Thicker bovine leather can feel warm on hot days
- Perforation in chest/thighs could use more coverage
Downside and alternative: Airflow and flexibility are limited compared with kangaroo-leather or MATRYX-panel suits, and the heavier bovine leather can feel warm during summer sessions. If you want a lighter, more ventilated option with the same Tech-Air integration, move up to the GP Plus V4. For riders seeking serious protection on a budget, the Missile V2 remains a proven and accessible starting point.
Sedici Chicane 2 — Budget‑Friendly Starter Suit
Not everyone wants to drop four figures on their first track suit. The Sedici Chicane 2 delivers surprising quality at a price beginners can stomach. Built from 1.2–1.3 mm race-grade cowhide with double layers over the seat, hips, thighs, and knees, it offers abrasion protection that exceeds expectations for its price point. CE Level 2 AX2 armour on the elbows, shoulders, and knees comes standard, and there are pockets for optional chest and back protectors. Replaceable knee sliders and reflective accents complete the package.
Four-way stretch inserts along the arms and inner legs plus accordion panels make the Chicane 2 more comfortable than you’d expect at this price. A neoprene collar and cuffs reduce chafing, and a removable antibacterial liner helps with hygiene. Riders appreciate that this suit fits larger body types and feels less aggressive than Alpinestars’ racing cut. One Reddit user who bought a used Chicane suit for $200 said he was “surprised how decent the suit quality is” and that it fit nicely with room for a back protector. He weighed the suit at 13 pounds and noted it felt heavy off the bike but not while riding. Other commenters called it a “quality suit” and said they planned to choose Sedici over pricier options for their first track days.
Sedici Chicane 2 One-Piece Race Suit
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An entry-level race suit with double-layer cowhide protection, stretch panels for mobility, and CE Level 2 armor—built to get new riders on track with confidence.
Pros:
- Surprising abrasion protection from reinforced cowhide
- Comfortable stretch inserts ease movement on bends
- Pockets for optional chest/back protectors
- Replaceable sliders and reflective accents boost usability
Cons:
- Hefty weight can feel bulky off-bike
- Ventilation is limited on hot days
Silver lining: The Chicane 2’s extra heft gives it a planted, stable feel at speed and provides confidence for new riders still adjusting to track posture. Its relaxed fit and forgiving cut make it one of the easiest suits to live with for beginners or occasional track riders.
Downside and alternative: The same heavy cowhide that makes it durable also traps heat, and airflow is limited compared with perforated or kangaroo-leather suits. If you’re riding in hotter conditions or want a lighter suit with similar pricing, the REV’IT! Argon 2 offers better ventilation and slightly higher-end materials. For budget-conscious riders just starting out, the Chicane 2 remains one of the best entry-level suits available.
Dainese Misano 3 D‑Air — High‑End Suit With Integrated Airbag
For riders who want the convenience of a built-in airbag, Dainese’s Misano 3 D-Air brings MotoGP-grade technology to everyday enthusiasts. The suit uses D-Skin 2.0 full-grain cowhide and features a pentaxial elasticity system — an evolution of the company’s tri-axial stretch — allowing the back to extend in five directions for greater flexibility. Titanium plates on the knees, shoulders, and elbows reduce friction if you slide, and the suit includes replaceable elbow and knee sliders. The integrated D-Air Racing Shield 3X system offers three deployments before needing a refill, covering the neck, collarbones, and shoulders. Unlike standalone vests, the airbag bladder is fully built into the suit and links directly to Dainese’s onboard electronics.
Comfort features include the Veloce Racing Neck, soft edges on cuffs, localized perforation for ventilation, and a removable washable liner. The suit carries EN 17092 AAA certification and includes Pro-Armor protectors and soft inserts at the hips. While rider reviews are limited, the Misano line has long been praised for premium construction, fit, and protection. The built-in D-Air system eliminates the need for external airbag vests or LED panels, offering true plug-and-play safety straight out of the box.
Dainese Misano 3 Perforated D-Air 1-Piece Leather Suit
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The Dainese Misano 3 Perforated D‑Air® suit delivers full-track protection with integrated airbags and ventilated leather, offering unmatched safety without sacrificing mobility.
Pros:
- Advanced D‑Air® inflation covers shoulders, back, chest, and hips for top-tier protection
- Perforated cowhide leather promotes airflow to keep you cool on hot track days
- Elasticated zones enhance flexibility and comfort in aggressive riding positions
- One-piece design eliminates zipper separation, improving aerodynamics and safety
Cons:
- Exclusive track sizing—limited for everyday street wear
- High-maintenance leather care required to preserve perforation and integrity
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Silver lining: the Misano 3 D-Air is one of the most advanced one-piece suits available today, combining premium leather, titanium sliders, and factory-integrated airbag technology in a single, seamless package. It’s designed for riders who value ultimate protection and simplicity — no setup, no vest, just zip up and ride.
Downside and alternative: servicing the built-in D-Air system requires sending the entire suit back to Dainese, and its nearly $4,000 price tag puts it beyond most riders’ budgets. If you prefer a more flexible setup, pair the Dainese Laguna Seca 6 with an Alpinestars Tech-Air 10 vest for similar protection and easier maintenance. For those who want MotoGP-level safety without compromise, the Misano 3 D-Air stands in a class of its own.
Alpinestars Tech‑Air 10 Airbag System — Standalone MotoGP‑Level Protection
Airbags have fundamentally changed rider protection, and the Tech-Air 10 is the most advanced standalone system available. Worn under compatible suits, it extends protection beyond the chest and back to include the hips and upper thighs. Twelve sensors — three tri-axial accelerometers and a tri-axial gyroscope — feed an algorithm that inflates the airbags in just 40 milliseconds when a crash is detected. Both argon canisters fire simultaneously during deployment, and replacements cost about $199; the bladders can be serviced up to three times before requiring a rebuild.
A removable wireless LED display attaches to the waistband, dash, or triple clamp so you can monitor the system without a tether. The built-in CE-certified back protector extends down to the tailbone for extra coverage. Roadracing World’s evaluation found that the Tech-Air 10 feels nearly invisible once underway — the tester didn’t feel restricted even during aggressive knee-down corners. The biggest drawback is heat: the chest bladder slightly restricts airflow and can create a warm spot during hot days. The medium unit weighs around 5.2 pounds, provides up to 24 hours of use per charge, and automatically arms when you exceed 37 mph for 10 seconds.
Alpinestars Tech-Air 10 Race Airbag System
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Premium protection for upper and lower body (hips and thighs). Built for those who require the best in protection: track racers and spirited street riders.
UPDATE: This model was plagued with firmware-related battery issues at launch, but as of early 2024 these are now fixed.
Pros:
- Covers hips plus upper body for extended protection
- Deploys in ~40 ms using 12 integrated sensors
- Modular system works under multiple suits
- Fully washable base layer (remove electronics)
Cons:
- Bladder volume may reduce airflow in chest area
- Service and canister replacement required after deployment
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Silver lining: the Tech-Air 10 offers MotoGP-level coverage in a modular package you can wear under multiple suits. Its lower-body protection — including hips and upper thighs — goes beyond what most airbag vests provide, giving serious riders unmatched safety without being tied to a single brand or jacket.
Downside and alternative: the system can feel warm during summer rides, and replacement canisters and servicing add long-term cost. If your riding is mostly street-focused or you’re on a tighter budget, the Tech-Air 5 provides similar protection minus the hip airbags. Dainese riders may prefer the Misano 3 D-Air for fully integrated convenience. For racers or multi-suit owners, though, the Tech-Air 10 is the most versatile and comprehensive airbag system you can buy.
Comparison Table
| Suit | Approx. Price (USD) | Leather Type | CE Rating | Airbag Compatibility | Unique Features | Best For |
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| Alpinestars GP Tech V4 | $1,800+ | Kangaroo & bovine with MATRYX | AAA | Tech‑Air 10 ready | Cool‑iR heat‑reflective panels, aramid reinforcements, removable liner | Pro racers & serious track riders |
| Alpinestars GP Plus V4 | $1,200–$1,400 | Flex Plus bovine leather | AAA | Tech‑Air 5/10 ready | HRSF stretch, calf expansion, numerous perforations | Everyday track riders & spirited street riders |
| Dainese Laguna Seca 6 | $1,300–$1,600 | Tutu cowhide | AAA | Optional Tech‑Air 10 (not built‑in) | Tri‑axial stretch, hydration pocket, Level 2 armour | Riders who want Italian style without an airbag |
| REV’IT! Argon 2 | $1,000–$1,200 | Monaco cowhide | AAA | Prepared for SEESOFT back & chest protector; Tech‑Air compatible with room | Betac protectors, ventilated hump | Riders seeking comfort & mid‑range pricing |
| Alpinestars Missile V2 | ~$999 | Bovine leather | AAA | Tech‑Air 10 ready | Detachable liner, calf expansion, DFS sliders | Riders who want a value‑packed Alpinestars suit |
| Sedici Chicane 2 | ~$600 | Cowhide | Not officially rated (uses CE Level 2 armour) | Airbag hump fits Tech‑Air 5/10 | Budget‑friendly, four‑way stretch, reflective accents | New track riders & budget shoppers |
| Dainese Misano 3 D‑Air | ~$3,500 | D‑Skin 2.0 cowhide | AAA | Built‑in D‑Air system (3 activations) | Pentaxial stretch, titanium plates, Veloce neck | Riders wanting integrated airbag convenience |
| Tech‑Air 10 Airbag | $999 | n/a | n/a | Standalone system; fits Tech‑Air ready suits | Hip airbags, wireless LED, 24‑hour battery | Riders upgrading existing suits with MotoGP‑level protection |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on sales or regional availability.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Suit
Fit Comes First
No amount of armour or kangaroo leather matters if your suit doesn’t fit. A race suit should feel snug but not constricting. When you’re standing upright it might feel tight in the crotch and shoulders — that’s normal. Once you crouch into a riding position, the suit should relax. You need enough room for an airbag system if you plan to use one: Alpinestars recommends at least 4 cm of space around the chest and 2 cm around the hips. For women, consider suits like the Stella Missile V2 or a custom‑tailored option; off‑the‑rack suits often have short torsos or narrow hips. Always try the suit with the base layers and back/chest protectors you plan to wear.
Know Your Certifications
European CE ratings indicate how a suit performs in abrasion and impact tests. AAA is the highest level for street gear under the EN 17092 standard, indicating the suit survived high‑speed abrasion and impact tests. All the Alpinestars and Dainese suits above carry AAA ratings. The Sedici Chicane 2 uses CE Level 2 armour but doesn’t have a full garment rating; it’s still protective but you trade some abrasion performance for cost. Always look for Level 2 armour at the shoulders, elbows and knees; hip armour is often Level 1. Consider adding a chest protector even if it’s optional — your ribcage will thank you.
Materials: Cowhide vs Kangaroo vs Tech Fabrics
Traditional cowhide is durable and cost-effective. Premium suits like the Laguna Seca 6 and GP Plus V4 use specially treated bovine leather that’s more supple than generic cowhide. Kangaroo leather, used on the GP Tech V4, is lighter and more supple but adds cost. For a broader look at how leather performs across motorcycle gear (especially jackets and sport use), check my Best Leather Motorcycle Jackets article — it dives into leather grades, protection, and comfort trade-offs. High-tech fabrics like MATRYX (Alpinestars) and PWR|Shell (REV’IT!) improve breathability and reduce weight without sacrificing strength.
Consider your climate: if you ride in hot conditions, perforations and mesh inserts are crucial. If you’re riding through summer heat, check out our Best Summer Motorcycle Gear for 2025 guide for proven ways to stay cool without sacrificing protection. A suit with limited ventilation (Missile V2) can feel hot when paired with an airbag vest.
Airbag Decision
Airbags drastically reduce impact forces by up to 93 % according to some manufacturers. You can choose between integrated systems like Dainese’s D‑Air suits and standalone vests like the Tech‑Air 10. Integrated systems are sleek and require no extra set‑up but the suit must be serviced by the manufacturer after deployments. Standalone vests can be worn under any compatible suit and moved between multiple suits; you just swap the vest or buy additional LED displays.
Consider service costs: the Tech‑Air 10 requires new canisters after each deployment (about $199) and the bladders can be serviced for roughly $399 every three activations. The D‑Air system has a similar service schedule but you’re also paying for the suit itself. For occasional track days, adding a Tech‑Air vest to a mid‑range suit might make more sense than buying a fully integrated system.
Features That Make Life Easier
- Removable Liners: They make cleaning your suit after a sweaty session simple. Suits like the GP Plus V4, Argon 2 and Misano 3 have washable liners.
- Stretch and Accordion Panels: More panels equal more comfort. The pentaxial system on the Misano 3 offers unprecedented flexibility. Rev’it’s Argon 2 uses PWR|Shell stretch and 3D Air Mesh for freedom of movement.
- Hydration and Tech Pockets: The Laguna Seca 6 offers a pocket for a hydration bladder. Tech‑Air ready suits have pockets for LED displays and chest/back protectors.
- Expansion Zips and Cuff Design: Calf expansion panels on the GP Plus V4 and Missile V2 make it easier to fit boots. Soft edges on the Misano 3’s collar and cuffs increase comfort.
- Replaceable Sliders: Replaceable knee and elbow sliders extend suit life. Dainese’s RSS 4.0 system and Alpinestars’ GP‑DFS sliders are quick to swap.
Budget vs. Premium
Premium suits offer lighter leather, better ventilation and sometimes integrated airbag tech. They’re also more expensive to repair or replace. Budget suits may be heavier and less breathable, but they still provide essential protection if they include CE Level 2 armour and quality stitching. For your first couple of track days, a budget suit like the Sedici Chicane 2 might be the smart choice. Once you commit to the hobby, upgrade to a mid‑range suit and invest in an airbag vest. Remember: a properly fitted budget suit will protect you better than an oversized premium suit.
Maintenance and Longevity
After each ride, hang your suit to air out. Remove the liner if possible and wash it following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use leather cleaner and conditioner sparingly on cowhide to maintain suppleness. Inspect stitching and sliders after every crash; replace any damaged armour immediately. Airbag systems should be checked according to the manufacturer’s schedule. The Tech‑Air 10 battery charges in four hours and provides up to 24 hours of riding; store it partially charged if you’ll be off the bike for a while.
Final Thoughts
The right race suit does more than protect you — it boosts your confidence, letting you focus on improving lap times instead of worrying about skin grafts.
Whether you’re a seasoned racer eyeing the Alpinestars GP Tech V4, a track‑day warrior looking at the Laguna Seca 6 or Argon 2, or a novice grabbing the Sedici Chicane 2, remember that fit and preparation matter more than logos. Add a quality airbag like the Tech‑Air 10, and you’re approaching MotoGP‑level safety without needing a factory ride.
Spend wisely, care for your gear and ride hard. We’ll see you at the track.
