How To Care For A Leather Trimmed Motorcycle Helmet

Sun and heat are the two things to watch for. Leaving a helmet on a dashboard or in direct sun for long periods will dull and eventually crack leather trim, so a helmet bag or a shaded spot makes a real difference over the life of the helmet.

Once the shell is formed and cured, it moves through finishing: sanding, painting or leather trimming, and fitting the internal padding and retention system. Every stage is checked before the next begins, since a fault caught early is far cheaper to fix than one found at the end.

A jacket built for riding, rather than a fashion jacket that merely looks the part, adds abrasion resistance across the shoulders and elbows, Heroine Racer and many include pockets for armour inserts. Boots that cover the ankle protect a joint that takes real force in an off, and trousers or riding jeans extend that same protection down the leg.

A leather trimmed helmet needs a little more attention than a plain shell, but the upkeep is straightforward. Dust and light dirt can be wiped away with a soft, dry cloth, and any marks are best treated with a product made for leather rather than general household cleaners, which can dry the material out over time.

The liner deserves the same care. A removable, washable liner keeps the inside fresh, and following the maker's washing instructions protects both the padding and the stitching around it.

The result takes longer to arrive than an off the shelf helmet, and that is by design. A made to order piece is fitted, finished and checked individually before it ships.