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.

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

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

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

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

After buying the Italian helmet manufacturer AGV in July 2007, the Dainese Group was acquired for €130 million by Investcorp in 2014, keeping its founder as a minority shareholder and president. 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.

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. 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.

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