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Dainese (pronounced dye-ee-neh-zeh; Italian: [daiˈneze]) is an Italian manufacturer of protective equipment and technical gear for dynamic sports, including motorcycling, mountain biking, winter sports and horseriding. Founded in 1972 by Lino Dainese, it has expanded through organic growth and acquisitions, including Italian helmet manufacturer AGV in 2007.[1]

Key Information

Headquartered in Bahrain, Investcorp acquired a controlling interest in the company in 2014, keeping its founder as a minority shareholder.[2][3] The company has been led by CEO Cristiano Silei since 2015.[4]

In 2022, The Carlyle Group acquired the stake held by Investcorp and became a majority shareholder in Dainese.[5][6][7]

In 2025 Dainese has been sold to the creditors from Carlyle Group for 1€ after it has gained 300 millions in debt.[8]

History

[edit]
Lino Dainese, founder

Lino Dainese started the company in 1972 when he was 20, making protective motorcycle apparel in Molvena, Vicenza, Italy.[9] The first article of clothing was a pair of motocross pants.[10] The company has been closely associated with motorcycle racing since its foundation, which has informed its product development, focused on safety, performance and ergonomics.[11]

After buying the Italian helmet manufacturer AGV in July 2007,[12] the Dainese Group was acquired for €130 million by Investcorp in 2014, keeping its founder as a minority shareholder and president.[13] Lino Dainese then founded D Airlab, a research center for applying D-air technology for non-sports users, such as construction workers and the elderly.[14]

Since its acquisition in 2014, the group has reported annual revenue growth from €117 million in 2013 to €184.7 million in 2017, during which period the number of employees increased from 609 to 757, as of March 2018.[15][16] Currently, it maintains its headquarters and its Research and Development and Design Centers in Italy, as well as two regional offices: one in California, USA and one in Hong Kong.[17]

In 2022, The Carlyle Group acquired the stake held by Investcorp and became a majority shareholder in Dainese.

Products

[edit]
Dainese woman's suit

Dainese Group helmets are branded AGV, while the suits, jackets, shock-absorbing armors and back protectors, pants, boots, gloves and accessories are branded Dainese. These products are made with materials including traditional cowhide, kangaroo skin, aramid, carbon fiber and titanium, and are sold off-the-rack, made-to-measure, or custom made.[18] In 2017 Dainese added the motorcycling fashion clothing brand "Settantadue" ("seventy-two" in Italian).[19][20][21]

Dainese has diversified its product range over the years to cover mountain biking, skiing and horse riding, often using the technologies developed for motorcycle racing.[22][23][24]

Research

[edit]

The Dainese Technology Center (D-Tec) develops protection and apparel-related technologies for the group companies and other applications. The company has registered 118 patents.[25] In MotoCAP's independent safety research, various Dainese products – such as the Avro 4, Prima72 and Fighter jackets – have achieved high test scores.[26]

Dainese D-air

[edit]

Dainese D-air is an electronically actuated airbag system developed for motorcyclists. Development began in 1995 and the first working prototype was tested on a race track in 2000. Dainese D-air activated for the first time in an official race when the Italian rider Simone Grotkyj crashed during a 2007 MotoGP practice session at the Valencia circuit.[27][28] The first Dainese D-air system launched on the market was the racing version in 2011. In 2015, Dainese began selling the Misano 1000, the first standalone jacket for road use incorporating its Dainese D-air Street system, and a version for skiing.[29] There have been significant legal proceedings – widely reported in the press – between Alpinestars and Dainese regarding aspects of their competing motorcycle airbags.

Aerospace

[edit]

D-Tec hired MIT professor and former NASA Deputy Administrator Dana Newman and space architect Guillermo Trotti to develop the BioSuit, a space suit that uses lines of non-extension on the human body to improve freedom of movement for astronauts during extravehicular activities while maintaining constant pressure. In September 2015, European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen was the first to test the Dainese SkinSuit in space during his iriss mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This skin-tight garment is designed to be worn inside the ISS, providing head-to-foot loading to counter the lack of gravity and reduce the risk of post-flight injuries to the spinal intervertebral discs. The SkinSuit was worn on the ISS a second time in November 2016, by the French astronaut Thomas Pesquet during the Proxima Mission.[30][better source needed]

Worker safety garments

[edit]

In 2017, working in partnership with the Italian multinational energy company ENEL and occupational health professors and doctors at Bologna University and Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, D Airlab developed the Safety Jacket, an airbag system for protecting workers at risk of accidents from impacts or falling when working at height.[31][better source needed][32]

Emirates Team New Zealand

[edit]

In 2017, Dainese collaborated with Emirates Team New Zealand crew members to design Sea-Guard, the first safety garment developed for yacht races to integrate impact protection and flotation tasks in a single solution.[33][better source needed]

Dainese Advanced Research Program

[edit]

Dainese has been working with the Trauma Team at the Niguarda Ca'Granda Hospital, Milan, since 2013 as part of its Dainese Advanced Research Program, which analyzes the effects of motorbike accidents on the human body to improve the design of protective equipment and general rider safety.[34]

Design awards

[edit]

Dainese has employed designers including Yohji Yamamoto, Adriano Goldschmied, Marc Sadler, Renato Montagner, and Aldo Drudi.[citation needed] The company has won the following design awards.

2001 T-Age suit – ADI Compasso d'Oro International Award[35][circular reference]

2017 Mugello R suit – RedDot Design Award[36]

2017 Mugello R suit – Good Design Award[37]

2017 Mugello R suit – International Design Excellence Award[38]

2017 Pro Armor protector – RedDot Design Award[36]

2017 Pro Armor protector – Good Design Award[39]

2017 Pro Armor protector – ADI Compasso d'Oro International Award[40]

2018 AWA M1 ski jacket – Red Dot Design Award[41]

2018 AWA M1 ski jacket – Good Design Award[42]

2018 Pro Armor protector – ISPO Award[43]

2018 HP1 RC ski jacket – ISPO Award[43]

Dainese is a member of Altagamma, a trade group of Italian automotive, fashion, recreation, travel, and design companies formed in 1992 to advertise and promote high end luxury goods.[44]

Dainese Archivio

[edit]

The Dainese Archivio (DAR) is a permanent multimedia exhibition in Vicenza opposite the Dainese Headquarters which presents the ideas, people and projects that marked the company's advancements in the fields of safety, sports performance, and design. The collection includes historic Dainese leather racing. Dainese Archivio has educational activities for schools and universities at its DAR Lab.[45][46]

Racing sponsorship

[edit]

Dainese has sponsored racing from its earliest years. One of the first was 15-time World Champion Giacomo Agostini, who began racing in Dainese leathers in 1975.[47] Multiple World Championship winner Valentino Rossi is currently among the best-known racers to wear the brand colors.[48][49] Dainese has sponsored greats like Italian riders Francesco Bagnaia, Stefano Manzi, Andrea Migno and Nicolo Bulega in the Moto2 and Moto3 Championships.[50]

Current

[edit]

Motorcycling

[edit]
Valentino Rossi suiting up at the 2009 United States Grand Prix
Rossi at the 2014 Grand Prix of the Americas
Giacomo Agostini (2003)

Winter sports

[edit]

Cycling

[edit]

Worldwide Stores and Experience Project

[edit]

Dainese has a network of 70 single-brand protective equipment specialist stores for motorcycling and dynamic sports across Europe, North America, and Asia, and also sells direct to the public online through its official e-commerce website dainese.com. A new store concept designed by the Italian architect, Renato Montagner, was launched in 2017 and conceived to also provide a meeting place for dynamic sports enthusiasts to meet and participate in special events and activities.[51]

In 2019, Dainese launched the Dainese Experience project, a series of masterclasses, lessons, long journeys, and weekends where customers can learn how to improve their sports performance.[52]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Dainese

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Dainese is an Italian manufacturer of protective and technical apparel, specializing in gear for dynamic sports such as , , , and equestrian activities. Founded in 1972 by Lino Dainese in Italy's region, the company emerged from the local traditions of hide-tanning in and clothing production in and Molvena, initially focusing on innovative motorcycle suits to enhance rider safety and visibility. Headquartered in , , Dainese has grown into a global leader in , , and solutions as of 2025, emphasizing values like courage in , trustworthiness in product reliability, in safety advancements, and style through . Key milestones include the development of the world's first back protector in 1978, knee sliders in 1980, and the D-Air® airbag system in 2000, which provides ultrarapid deployment for and road use without relying on vehicle sensors. The company has collaborated with renowned athletes, including motorcycle champions and , as well as teams in sailing like Emirates Team New Zealand, extending its innovations to marine performance suits and even space applications such as gravity-load simulation suits for the . Today, Dainese continues to pioneer protective technologies across multiple disciplines, producing items like leather suits, jackets, gloves, and helmets that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, while prioritizing athlete protection in high-risk environments.

History

Founding and Early Development

Dainese was founded in 1972 in , by Lino Dainese, a 24-year-old enthusiast whose passion for the sport stemmed from a 1968 trip to , where he witnessed riders using early leather suits on high-speed bikes. Drawing on his background in the local hide-tanning industry of and clothing production in and Molvena, Lino established the company to address the need for better protective gear in , blending artisanal craftsmanship with innovative design principles. The company's inaugural product was a pair of trousers launched in 1972, marking Dainese's entry into by utilizing durable tailored for off-road demands. This was followed in 1974 by the introduction of colorful gear at the Showroom, which emphasized visibility on the road while maintaining high standards of Italian workmanship. By experimenting with treatments, Dainese enhanced both aesthetic appeal and practical , setting the foundation for its reputation in protective apparel. In 1975, Dainese launched its first technical racing suit, custom-designed for 15-time world champion , featuring improved through elastic inserts and thicker for superior impact resistance and mobility. This innovation represented a significant advancement in protection, prioritizing rider comfort without compromising durability. The early focus remained squarely on motorcycle gear, with ongoing refinements in leather processing to balance flexibility, strength, and visibility. A pivotal development came in 1978 with the introduction of the first back protector, initially worn on the track by British racer , which revolutionized spinal protection in high-speed sports by incorporating segmented, energy-absorbing materials inspired by natural designs. This product underscored Dainese's commitment to pioneering safety solutions through collaboration with elite athletes and rigorous testing, solidifying its role as an innovator in the field during its formative decade.

Key Milestones and Expansions

In the 1990s, Dainese began diversifying beyond by entering the and markets. In 1994, the company introduced back protectors for skiers, which were adopted by World Cup athletes including Kristian Ghedina, , and the Valanga Azzurra team, marking its initial foray into protection. By 1999, Dainese had formed the No Impact division to apply its expertise to , , and , providing gear to downhill champions such as , Anne-Caroline Chausson, Cedric Gracia, and Nicolas Vouilloz, who secured his seventh World Downhill Championship that year. The same year, Dainese launched the T-Age leather suit, the first of its kind to win the ADI design award, revolutionizing motorcyclist gear with enhanced comfort through features like expansion panels while maintaining high protection levels. The early 2000s saw Dainese initiate research into advanced safety technologies, including the origins of its . In 2000, in collaboration with Israeli firm Merhav App, Dainese developed and unveiled the first for at the Motor Show, focusing on wearable airbag suits without vehicle-mounted sensors. This laid the groundwork for subsequent airbag innovations in protection. Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, strategic acquisitions bolstered Dainese's product ecosystem and expanded its reach into complementary sports. In 2007, Dainese acquired Italian helmet manufacturer AGV, repatriating the brand and enabling comprehensive head-to-toe protection offerings for motorcyclists, as evidenced by their support for Valentino Rossi's ninth world title in 2009. The company further diversified in the 2010s by launching equestrian gear around 2011, with its 2012 collection debuting at the London Olympics where three riders in equestrian disciplines wore Dainese apparel for the first time; the line earned a safety award from Beta International. In 2016, Dainese entered competitive sailing through a partnership with Emirates Team New Zealand for the America's Cup, introducing the Sea-Guard jacket that combined flotation, impact protection, and communication features. This era culminated in the 2020 acquisition of TCX, a leading Italian bootmaker, strengthening Dainese's footwear category and overall dynamic sports portfolio. Corporate growth accelerated in the with significant ownership changes. In March 2022, global firm Carlyle acquired Dainese from for an enterprise value of €630 million, encompassing all brands (Dainese, AGV, and TCX), production facilities, and properties to support further innovation and expansion. However, facing financial pressures including €310 million in debt, primarily from the 2022 , Carlyle entered talks in July 2025 to transfer ownership to creditors and Arcmont Asset Management via a debt-for-equity swap for a nominal €1, which included an injection of €25 million in fresh funding to reduce liabilities; the deal was finalized in October 2025, granting the creditors a majority stake to facilitate restructuring and operational stability. Amid this transition, Dainese continued product development, launching its Fall 2025 ADV Touring collection in October, featuring updated jackets, pants, and boots with all-season protection, emergency release systems, and ECE 22.06 certification tailored for adventure riding.

Company Profile

Ownership and Financial History

Dainese was founded in 1972 by Lino Dainese and remained under his private ownership until January 2015, when it was acquired by , a Bahrain-based firm. Under 's stewardship, the company experienced significant growth, more than doubling its sales to €250 million and achieving double-digit compounded EBITDA increases. In March 2022, , a global investment firm, acquired Dainese from in a transaction valued at €630 million, marking a shift to ownership. The deal was largely debt-financed, with €285 million raised through privately placed senior secured notes due in 2028 from lenders including and Arcmont Asset Management, which supported Carlyle's strategy for global expansion but also elevated the company's leverage. This acquisition facilitated investments in product lines and international markets, contributing to broader operational scaling. By 2025, Dainese faced a mounting , with total obligations reaching €300-310 million amid operational losses and market pressures, prompting Carlyle to pursue an exit. Discussions to transfer control to primary creditors and Arcmont Asset Management began in July 2025. In July 2025, the creditors provided €25 million ($29 million) in emergency funding through additional senior notes to maintain liquidity during the ongoing debt-for-equity talks. On October 24, 2025, HPS and Arcmont formalized their majority stake via an agreement that included further capital injections aimed at debt reduction and business stabilization, with the funds earmarked for innovation and growth initiatives. This restructuring positions the company under private debt-focused ownership, emphasizing financial recovery while preserving its core protective gear expertise. Revenue declined to €209 million in 2023 and €190 million in 2024, with net losses of €43 million in 2023 and €120 million in 2024, contributing to the pressures.

Mission, Values, and Global Presence

Dainese's mission, established since its founding in , is to advance , performance, and above all in dynamic , enabling athletes to push the limits of the human body and mind in disciplines such as , , and . The company focuses on developing innovative protective solutions that enhance visibility, comfort, and protection, drawing from Italian traditions in hide-tanning and clothing craftsmanship to create gear that integrates functionality with cutting-edge technology. At the core of Dainese's operations are four key values: , which drives the pursuit of bold innovations like lighter protective materials and the D-Air® airbag system, extending even to applications in space exploration; Trustworthiness, reflected in the commitment to high-quality, reliable products and open engagement with customers and professional athletes; , emphasizing the adoption of safety standards that improve performance and accessibility across sports; and Style, which fuses ergonomic design with Italian aesthetic flair, incorporating artistic elements into functional gear. Dainese maintains its headquarters in , , with a global presence spanning operations in (EMEA), the (including the ), and Asia-Pacific (APAC), serving athletes in over 90 countries through an extensive network of online platforms and physical flagship stores. The company employs more than 1,000 people worldwide and reported annual revenue of approximately €250 million in 2022, underscoring its scale in the protective equipment industry prior to recent financial challenges.

Products

Motorcycle Protection Gear

Dainese's motorcycle protection gear encompasses a range of apparel and accessories designed specifically for riders across different styles, emphasizing abrasion resistance, impact protection, and ergonomic fit. The core product lines include racing suits, touring and adventure (ADV) gear, urban and commuting apparel, gloves, and boots, all constructed primarily from high-quality leathers and advanced textiles to meet CE certification standards for safety. Racing suits represent the pinnacle of Dainese's high-performance offerings, tailored for track and competition use with premium materials like for superior lightness and tensile strength. The R D-Air, for instance, is a one-piece perforated suit featuring integrated D-Air technology that deploys ultrarapidly—in 45 milliseconds (total inflation time)—to protect the torso and neck without relying on vehicle-mounted sensors, supplemented by Pro-Armor protectors made from expanded for CE Level 2 impact absorption at key zones such as elbows, knees, and shoulders. As of 2025, the D-Air 3X system allows up to three activations before requiring replacement. These suits incorporate pentaxial elasticity systems for unrestricted movement during aggressive riding, and titanium sliders enhance slide protection. For touring and ADV riders, Dainese provides all-weather gear focused on long-distance comfort and versatility, including waterproof jackets, pants, and layered systems. The ADV Touring collection introduces enhanced sets like the Carve Master 3 and Gullfoss D-Dry outfits, featuring upgraded ventilation through perforated panels and mesh inserts, alongside improved impact absorption via composite Pro-Armor elements and reinforced knee guards, all while maintaining for and conditions. These ensembles prioritize , allowing riders to adapt layers for varying climates without compromising protection. Urban and commuting apparel from Dainese blends style with everyday functionality, using softer leathers and textiles for city navigation. Jackets like the Urban 2 emphasize lightweight construction with removable Pro-Armor protectors for shoulders and elbows, while pants and vests offer discreet CE-rated armor for low-speed urban scenarios. Gloves in this category, such as the 3D Dry Urban, provide compatibility, reinforced palms, and weatherproofing for daily commutes. Boots, developed in collaboration with TCX—acquired by Dainese in —include models like the S-TR1 Air, which integrate seamlessly with suits via the IN system for lower-leg stability, featuring Torsion midsoles for ankle support and impact dissipation. Dainese extends its gear to specialized lines for women and children, ensuring inclusive sizing and fit without sacrificing protective features. Women's collections include tailored and touring suits with adjusted , such as the Misano 3 D-Air women's suit with integrated D-Air technology, while youth gear like scaled-down Pro-Armor-equipped jackets and gloves maintains the same CE standards for junior riders. Innovations across all categories, particularly the sensor-independent D-Air system, underscore Dainese's commitment to proactive and rapid inflation for enhanced rider safety.

Gear for Other Dynamic Sports

Dainese offers a range of protective gear tailored for , emphasizing impact absorption and mobility for off-road conditions. The company's MTB protections include knee and elbow guards featuring Pro-Shape 2.0 soft protectors, which utilize viscoelastic compounds to dissipate energy during falls while remaining flexible for pedaling. Padded shorts and base layers incorporate D3O® impact absorbers, providing targeted cushioning to hips and without restricting movement, as seen in models like the Trail Skins shorts. Jerseys and long pants, such as the Enduro trousers, integrate lightweight, abrasion-resistant fabrics with ventilation zones to suit varied trail environments, ensuring riders maintain control during descents. In winter sports, Dainese provides apparel and armor for skiing and snowboarding, focusing on thermal regulation and spine protection. Ski jackets and pants, like the Essential Piste series, employ Gore-Tex® membranes for waterproofing and breathability, combined with insulated linings to handle sub-zero temperatures during extended runs. Back protectors, certified to EN 1621-2 Level 2, use hybrid foam constructions for lightweight shock absorption, fitting seamlessly under outer layers to safeguard against terrain impacts. Knee guards with ergonomic straps offer high-impact resistance via composite shells, while helmets—developed in collaboration with the Dainese Group—feature MIPS technology to reduce rotational forces in crashes, applicable to both alpine skiing and snowboarding disciplines. Snowboard-specific protections extend these designs, prioritizing flexibility for tricks and jumps. For niche dynamic sports, Dainese has developed specialized equipment for equestrian and activities. Equestrian safety vests, introduced in collections as early as 2012 and worn by Olympic riders, utilize soft foam padding compliant with EN 13158 standards to protect the torso during falls from horseback, balancing coverage with unrestricted arm mobility for rein handling. In , the Sea-Guard vest, created for teams like Emirates Team New Zealand and , integrates flotation capabilities with impact-resistant panels covering ribs, collarbones, and the back, ensuring buoyancy in water while allowing full range of motion for high-speed maneuvers. These vests employ ergonomic patterning derived from Dainese's expertise to minimize bulk. Across these sports, Dainese emphasizes modular and adaptable designs that prioritize lightweight materials and ergonomic fits for multi-sport versatility. Protections often feature interchangeable components, such as removable armor plates, allowing users to customize for different activities while maintaining a low profile. Extensions of technology, like the D-air® system adapted for , provide rapid inflation for enhanced protection in high-risk scenarios, building on origins without altering core garment functionality. This approach ensures gear remains intuitive and unobtrusive, supporting athletes in diverse, lower-velocity dynamic environments.

Research and Innovation

D-air Airbag Technology

The D-air airbag technology was initiated in 2000 by Lino Dainese, founder of the company, with the development of the first prototype designed specifically for motorcyclists to enhance protection during high-risk dynamic activities. This electronic system marked a significant advancement over traditional passive armor, aiming to provide active inflation in response to detected crashes. The first fully integrated motorcycle airbag suit was introduced in 2010, incorporating sensors that enable inflation within 45 milliseconds of fall detection. At its core, the D-air system relies on an inertial platform equipped with accelerometers to measure linear and deceleration, gyroscopes to track across three axes, and GPS for speed monitoring, processing 1,000 times per second through proprietary algorithms to distinguish crashes from normal movements. Upon detection, a compressed CO2 cartridge rapidly inflates expandable bladders that envelop the , back, and , creating a uniform 3D protective barrier without restricting rider mobility. This active protection absorbs up to seven times more impact energy than conventional hardshell gear, significantly reducing transmitted force to vital areas—for instance, limiting it to approximately 2.5 kN in tests compared to 9 kN for rigid Level 2 protectors under a 50 J impact. The technology has been primarily applied in gear, where it is seamlessly integrated into suits, jackets, and standalone vests for both track and road use, offering tailored coverage such as shoulder and collarbone protection in variants or chest and back focus for street riding. Adaptations extend to other dynamic sports, including the D-air Ski system introduced in 2012 for athletes in disciplines like downhill and , and the D-air Bike variant for , particularly downhill , where it deploys to safeguard against high-speed falls. Extensive validation involved over 30 years of , including millions of kilometers of real-world and rigorous crash testing across diverse terrains to refine algorithms and ensure reliability. The system debuted in MotoGP racing in 2007 and became mandatory for all professional riders across classes starting in , underscoring its proven efficacy in elite competition.

Aerospace and Specialized Projects

Dainese has extended its expertise in protective gear beyond terrestrial sports into applications, developing specialized compression garments to address physiological challenges faced by astronauts in microgravity. The SkinSuit, introduced in the 2010s, is a custom-fitted designed to mitigate spinal elongation and during long-duration missions on the (ISS). It applies graduated compression along the body's longitudinal axis, simulating Earth's gravitational pull to reduce fluid shifts and back pain. The suit, requiring over 150 body measurements for precise tailoring, was tested by (ESA) astronaut during his 2015 Iriss mission on the ISS, where it successfully demonstrated its efficacy in maintaining astronaut health. This project stemmed from collaborations with ESA and , leveraging Dainese's experience in dynamic body protection. Building on this, Dainese's BioSuit represents an ongoing initiative for future deep-space exploration, particularly 's planned Mars missions in the 2030s. The BioSuit employs mechanical counterpressure through a form-fitting structure to replace traditional gas-pressurized suits, offering enhanced mobility and reduced bulk while counteracting fluid redistribution in zero gravity. Developed in partnership with and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), it aims to minimize the physiological impacts of prolonged microgravity, such as cardiovascular deconditioning. Prototypes have focused on materials that provide uniform pressure distribution across the body, drawing from Dainese's advanced fabric technologies. In specialized high-performance projects, Dainese has collaborated with elite teams to create protective equipment for extreme maritime conditions. Since the 2010s, the company has partnered with Emirates Team New Zealand for the , supplying custom suits that integrate flotation devices, impact-absorbing padding for ribs, collarbones, and the back, and embedded communication systems. The Sea-Guard jacket, a key innovation, enhances crew safety at speeds exceeding 50 knots, where risks mirror those in MotoGP racing. This partnership continued through the 2020s, including the 2021 and 2024 editions, with additions like the Nucleo Oceano helmet for head protection in high-wind environments. Dainese's Advanced encompasses broader R&D efforts for protections in extreme environments, emphasizing innovations tested under real-world stresses. A notable component is the Project Apex, an exclusive track event at involving MotoGP and Superbike riders to evaluate next-generation protective technologies. Participants, including , tested prototypes for enhanced impact resistance and performance, accelerating development for applications in and dynamic sports. This initiative builds on sensor technologies akin to those in D-air systems, focusing on adaptive responses to environmental extremes without delving into airbag specifics.

Worker Safety and Non-Sports Applications

In 2015, Lino Dainese founded D-Air Lab as an innovative startup dedicated to extending D-air® technology beyond dynamic , focusing on solutions for everyday and professional risks. Building on this initiative, D-Air Lab collaborated with in 2017 to develop the WorkAir jacket, an airbag-equipped garment specifically engineered for workers operating at heights, such as on ladders or scaffolds in power plants and sites. The system deploys airbags around the torso in 40 milliseconds upon detecting a fall from at least 1.2 meters, safeguarding the back, chest, and vital organs without replacing standard harnesses. Field testing of the WorkAir jacket, including over 2,000 hours of real-world validation and certification through 286 impact simulations by Dolomiti Cert and the , demonstrated a 60% reduction in transmitted impact force compared to regulatory thresholds. Initial deployments occurred in Enel power plants, with 20 units distributed in 2018 to employees in renewables, distribution, and divisions; the technology has since been adopted by and construction firms for enhanced fall protection. D-Air Lab has also advanced FutureAge prototypes, wearable airbag belts tailored for elderly individuals to mitigate fall-related injuries, particularly to the hips, through rapid and integrated alerts. For extreme environmental challenges, the Explorers Antarctica Suit represents another non-sports adaptation, comprising an undersuit and external cover to shield researchers during expeditions in temperatures as low as -80°C.

Sponsorships and Partnerships

Motorcycling and Racing

Dainese has maintained a storied legacy in sponsorships, beginning with support for 15-time Grand Prix World Champion , who began racing with the brand in the late and helped shape its early leather innovations. The company later collaborated with starting in 1978, outfitting the two-time 500cc World Champion with custom protective gear that advanced suit design for high-speed racing. This tradition continued with , whom Dainese sponsored throughout his career, supplying personalized leathers for his nine MotoGP titles and contributing to the brand's reputation in elite competition. In 2025, Dainese expanded its MotoGP involvement as the official partner and clothing supplier for under a three-year agreement spanning 2025-2027, equipping the team's riders with race suits and apparel. MotoGP rider Jack Miller, along with Moto2 competitors and , utilize Dainese gear during the season to enhance performance and safety on the track. Additionally, Dainese supports American racing through its athlete program in , providing advanced equipment to riders such as Bobby Fong. The brand actively engages in developmental events, exemplified by Project Apex 2025 held at Mugello Racetrack on August 28, 2025, where top riders including and collaborated with Dainese engineers to test and refine next-generation protective prototypes. This initiative underscores Dainese's commitment to innovation through real-world racing feedback. Dainese sustains ongoing involvement in by provisioning gear to WorldSBK teams and sponsoring leading riders, such as 2025 WorldSBK Champion Toprak Razgatlioglu and Nicolo Bulega, ensuring elite-level protection across the series.

Winter Sports and Other Disciplines

Dainese maintains significant sponsorships in winter sports, particularly , where it equips elite athletes with protective gear. Key partnerships include Italian skiers and , both multiple winners, as well as Swiss skier , with Dainese providing specialized equipment for the 2025 season to enhance safety during high-speed descents. These collaborations underscore Dainese's commitment to protecting athletes in gravity-fed disciplines, integrating advanced impact-absorbing materials into ski racing suits. In , Dainese supports downhill and enduro riders through its rider support program, offering discounted protective gear and opportunities for deeper brand integration. Notable athletes include French downhill pioneer Fabien Barel and Swiss enduro specialist Sophie Riva, who utilize Dainese's MTB-specific armor during competitive events and training. This support extends to broader disciplines, emphasizing protection for off-road terrains where falls pose significant risks. Dainese has a longstanding partnership with Emirates Team New Zealand in , dating back to 2016, focused on developing protective suits for high-speed in the . The collaboration introduced the SEA-GUARD line, featuring ergonomic suits and helmets designed to safeguard crew members at speeds exceeding 50 knots, and continues to evolve with each regatta cycle. Beyond competitive sponsorships, Dainese engages in broader initiatives, including support for charity and exploratory events that promote awareness. For instance, through local dealerships like Dainese Phoenix, the brand contributes to commemorative activities such as 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs, providing apparel and raising funds for firefighter foundations in 2025. Additionally, Dainese's Expedition Masters program facilitates adventurous explorations in dynamic environments, blending protection innovation with community outreach.

Design Recognition

Major Awards and Achievements

Dainese has received several prestigious design awards recognizing its innovations in protective gear, particularly for advancements in comfort, , and safety technology. In 2001, the T-Age suit was awarded the ADI, the first and only leather motorcycle suit to earn this honor from the Association for (ADI) for revolutionizing comfort and protection through its pioneering ergonomic features and flexible materials. The Pro-Armor protective system garnered the ADI in 2017, praised for its exceptional quality of design, innovative honeycomb structure that enhances impact absorption while maintaining flexibility, and contributions to ergonomic performance in dynamic sports gear. That same year, Dainese secured three Red Dot Design Awards in the Product Design category, selected from over 5,500 entries worldwide, for the R D-air® race suit, which integrates advanced technology with racing-specific ; the AGV Pista GP R , noted for its aerodynamic shell and ventilation system; and the Pro-Armor protectors, highlighting their balance of protection and mobility. In 2018, Dainese received additional Red Dot Design Awards for the AWA M1 winter jacket and the AGV Sportmodular helmet, recognizing their innovative designs in protective apparel and headgear. The AWA M1 ski jacket also won a Good Design Award that year, while the Pro-Armor protector earned an ISPO Award. Dainese has earned multiple recognitions from ADI for ergonomic innovations, including honorable mentions in the 2017 for the R D-air® suit and AGV Pista GP R helmet, underscoring the company's ongoing emphasis on in protective equipment.

Dainese Archivio

The Dainese ARchivio, located in , , opened in June 2018 as a permanent spanning over 900 square meters, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the company's design heritage in protective gear for dynamic sports. Structured across 20 thematic sections, it features more than 1,000 leather suits, prototypes, and historical artifacts that trace the evolution of safety innovations since the company's founding in 1972, with roots tracing back to 1968. A standout feature is the "Leather Forest," an immersive display of 500 tagged leather suits suspended from the ceiling, allowing visitors to explore the craftsmanship and materials used in iconic pieces, such as those worn by MotoGP legend . The exhibit integrates narratives around key figures and milestones, highlighting how designs have advanced , , and performance in , , and beyond, with interactive elements that contextualize technological breakthroughs like early systems and ergonomic prototypes. The ARchivio serves as an educational hub, offering guided tours and workshops that immerse visitors in Dainese's over 50 years of , fostering an understanding of how protective equipment has shaped athlete safety and sport dynamics. Free admission and group reservations make it accessible, while a social wall encourages sharing personal stories and photos from athletes and enthusiasts via with the #DaineseARchivio, extending the exhibit's narrative online. Among the displayed items are award-winning designs that underscore Dainese's contributions to protective technology. In recent years, the ARchivio has incorporated virtual tour videos on platforms like , enhancing accessibility for global audiences interested in its heritage collections.

Retail and Experiences

Worldwide Store Network

Dainese operates a of more than 50 directly operated single-brand specialist stores focused on protective equipment for and dynamic sports. These outlets emphasize high-quality gear for enthusiasts, with a strong presence in key markets to support both retail sales and brand immersion. The company's flagship stores are strategically located in prominent cities, including (the Italian headquarters), in , in the , in the , and in , highlighting a primary emphasis on and the . This distribution reflects Dainese's core markets, where the brand has established deep roots since its early expansions. Store operations center on direct sales of apparel and protections, personalized custom fittings via the Dainese Custom Works program—which involves precise body measurements taken at stores or certified centers for tailored garments—and demonstrations of advanced technologies like systems. These services ensure optimal fit, comfort, and safety, with production handled in following in-store consultations. Online integration enhances accessibility through dainese.com, where customers can browse the full catalog with free shipping on orders exceeding $200, often bridging to in-store pickups or fittings. In 2025, following the ownership transition to creditor funds amid financial restructuring, Dainese has prioritized operational stabilization while pursuing growth in the region, exemplified by the reopening of its store in January. Certain stores also provide brief overviews of Dainese's experience programs to engage customers interested in dynamic adventures.

Expedition and Experience Programs

Dainese's Expedition Masters program, launched in 2023, offers annual guided tours designed to immerse participants in challenging terrains while enhancing riding skills through expert instruction. These expeditions combine with practical sessions, focusing on on-road and off-road techniques to build confidence and safety awareness for riders tackling extreme conditions. The program's core goal is to integrate real-world gear testing with unforgettable journeys, allowing enthusiasts to evaluate Dainese protective equipment in authentic scenarios while exploring remote landscapes. For 2025, the Expedition Masters lineup features diverse routes tailored to varying skill levels, emphasizing immersive experiences in rugged environments. The off-road tour, scheduled for September, spans nine days and 1,500 km through 's wild terrains, incorporating a charity component to support international cooperation projects by Doctors with Africa CUAMM. Iceland's expeditions highlight extreme conditions, with off-road options in July covering 1,100 km across volcanic trails, river crossings, and lava fields, led by instructors specializing in technical maneuvers. Additional 2025 itineraries include a seven-day, 1,500 km road tour through Italy's in June, an 11-day, 3,200 km journey along the U.S. West Coast and Route 66 in September-October, and a off-road adventure in October-November, each blending cultural discovery with skill-building rides. Strategic partnerships enhance the program's logistics and training elements. Dainese collaborates with to provide dedicated motorcycles, such as the Multistrada V4 S and DesertX models, along with integrated rider training focused on advanced control and responsiveness during the tours. ATPI serves as the official tour operator for 2025 events, managing complex logistics including motorcycle shipping from , participant travel from multiple continents, accommodations, fuel stops, and on-site support vehicles to ensure seamless execution, particularly for the demanding Iceland series of four consecutive tours. Beyond expeditions, Dainese's Experience initiatives include dedicated centers and events for hands-on product interaction and skill development. Riding Masters courses, available at select Dainese locations, offer on-road, off-road, and track sessions with certified instructors to refine techniques and test protective gear in controlled settings. The 2025 Project Apex event further advances this by providing an exclusive platform for participants to trial and contribute to the evolution of Dainese's protective technologies through collaborative testing. These programs collectively aim to foster a of informed adventurers, prioritizing and performance in dynamic environments.

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