In this article, we’ll explore what aramid fibre is, why it is so widely used in motorcycle helmets and clothing, the brands that incorporate it into their designs, and the pros and cons of this remarkable material.
What is Aramid Fibre?
Aramid fibre is a type of synthetic fibre derived from aromatic polyamides, a class of heat-resistant and incredibly strong materials. Its molecular structure gives it exceptional tensile strength, meaning it can withstand significant stress without breaking. Aramid is lightweight, resistant to high temperatures, and has excellent abrasion resistance—all features that make it perfect for motorcycle safety gear.
The most famous brand of aramid fibre is Kevlar®, developed by DuPont in the 1960s. Kevlar® has become synonymous with aramid fibres due to its groundbreaking use in bulletproof vests, aerospace components, and, of course, motorcycle protective equipment.
How is Aramid Fibre Used in Motorcycle Clothing?
In motorcycle clothing, aramid fibres are typically woven into fabrics or used as reinforcement layers to enhance the protective qualities of garments. Here’s how it is applied:
- Abrasion Resistance: Aramid fibres are integrated into high-risk areas of jackets, trousers, and gloves—such as elbows, shoulders, knees, and hips—to provide exceptional resistance to tearing and abrasion.
- Heat Resistance: Friction during a slide generates intense heat. Aramid fibres can withstand high temperatures without melting, offering a significant advantage over materials like polyester or nylon.
- Lightweight Comfort: Despite its strength, aramid fibre is incredibly lightweight, allowing for protective but comfortable gear.
- Stretch and Flexibility: Aramid fibres can be woven into fabrics that offer stretch, ensuring riders have freedom of movement while staying protected.
How is Aramid Fibre Used in Motorcycle Helmets?
Aramid fibre is also a crucial component in many high-performance motorcycle helmets. Its strength and lightweight properties make it ideal for enhancing helmet shells. Here’s how it’s used:
- Structural Reinforcement: Aramid is often combined with materials like carbon fibre and fibreglass to create composite shells. These hybrid designs maximise strength while minimising weight.
- Impact Dissipation: The tensile strength of aramid fibre helps disperse energy across the helmet shell, reducing the likelihood of penetration or cracking.
- Heat and Flame Resistance: Helmets incorporating aramid fibres handle extreme temperatures, ensuring the helmet retains its integrity.
Brands That Use Aramid Fibre
Many leading motorcycle brands utilise aramid fibre in their helmets and clothing to deliver superior safety and comfort:
- Dainese: Incorporates aramid fibre into jackets, trousers, and gloves for enhanced abrasion resistance.
- RST: Offers riding jeans with aramid fibre linings for a blend of style and protection.
- Alpinestars: Uses aramid in gear such as hoodies and gloves to ensure durability and comfort.
- AGV: Utilises aramid fibre in composite helmet shells for lightweight but strong designs.
- Shoei and Arai: Integrate aramid fibre in premium helmets for enhanced safety and stability.
Why is Kevlar® the Most Well-Known Aramid Fibre?
Kevlar® is the most recognised brand of aramid fibre due to its pioneering role in protective applications. Developed by DuPont, it was initially used in bulletproof vests, proving its effectiveness in high-stakes environments. Its reputation for reliability made it a natural choice for motorcycle gear manufacturers, and today, it is seen as a benchmark for quality and durability in the industry.
Pros and Cons of Aramid Fibre
Pros:
- Exceptional tensile strength, offering superior resistance to tearing and impact.
- High heat resistance, protecting riders during slides.
- Lightweight construction, ensuring comfort without sacrificing safety.
- Long-lasting durability, maintaining protective qualities over time.
Cons:
- Sensitivity to UV light, which can degrade the fibres over time.
- Higher cost compared to standard materials.
- Non-breathable, requiring careful design for comfort.
Why Riders Should Consider Aramid Fibre Gear
Motorcycle gear reinforced with aramid fibre offers a superior level of protection that can make a critical difference in an accident. Whether you’re a commuter, a long-distance tourer, or a track-day enthusiast, gear incorporating this advanced material provides peace of mind, knowing you’re equipped with some of the most reliable protective technology available.
Explore Aramid Fibre Gear at Moto Central
At Moto Central, we stock a wide range of helmets and clothing from leading brands that use aramid fibres, including Kevlar®. From reinforced riding jeans and jackets to advanced helmets with composite shells, our collection is designed to meet the needs of every rider. Visit our Leicestershire showroom, where hundreds of products are on display, or browse our online store to find the perfect gear for your next ride.
