Leather Exclusively for Racing Suits
Providing the functionality required for road racing begins with leather created exclusively for that purpose. From carefully selecting the region of origin to choosing the exact type of hide and determining the finishing process, every step is handled by specialized staff with strict attention to detail. Known as KUSHITANI Leather, this supple, stretchable material acts as a second skin, delivering the natural feel and comfort of bare skin while offering the protection a rider demands.
Master Leather Craftsman
KUSHITANI’s story began in 1947, in Hamamatsu, Japan, crafting leather goods in the years following World War II. At a time when leather made specifically for motorcycles didn’t yet exist, KUSHITANI worked hand in hand with tanners — starting from the very process of making leather itself — to pursue safety, mobility, and comfort. Today, we continue that spirit of innovation with original high-performance materials such as PROTO-CORE Leather and EXALITO Leather, each developed using our patented technologies. Finish, texture, strength, water resistance, breathability — every detail is designed for the rider. Our philosophy remains unchanged: never compromise on leather, and take responsibility from material development to the finished product — even to repairs a decade later. That is the essence of KUSHITANI craftsmanship.
The Art of Leather Cutting
: The Artisian's Eye Talks to Leather
Master Leather Cutter
At KUSHITANI, we never use embossed or stretched leather — and there’s a good reason for that. As one of our master cutters explains, “To bring out the natural suppleness and character of leather, it must remain as it is.” Embossed or stretched hides lose their genuine texture and flexibility, and any surface flaw can become a weak point that tears during a fall. That’s why our craftsmen face each hide head-on, carefully examining every inch to decide which part to use. Every section of leather has its own unique qualities — elasticity, strength, and texture — and the cutter’s skill lies in matching these traits to the body’s movements. If the balance between left and right is even slightly off, the rider can feel it. It’s an inefficient process, but one that only a trained eye and years of experience can achieve. Each suit requires leather from about one and a half hides, prioritizing function and beauty over efficiency. Working closely with professional riders, our craftsmen constantly refine their technique — connecting raw material to finished product with a deep sense of responsibility. Craftsmanship and pride — the very essence of why KUSHITANI leather is trusted.
The Art of Detail:
Millimeter-Perfect Crafting of a Rider's Identity
Label & Embroidery Artisan
The decorative stitching on a KUSHITANI leather suit is a craft that borders on art. Even a single misplaced thread can disrupt the visual harmony, so absolute precision is essential. Each letter measures just 2 mm wide, and every piece of leather is diagonally cut to a mere 0.7 mm thickness. This meticulous process prevents uneven seams or bulges, ensuring that the decoration remains both beautiful and comfortable to wear over time. It’s in these unseen details that KUSHITANI’s craftsmanship truly lives — a world far removed from efficiency or mass production. Decoration is not merely for appearance; it contributes to durability, comfort, and the overall integrity of the suit. Every stitch carries intention and skill, making each KUSHITANI leather suit a one-of-a-kind creation.
Meticulous Sewing:
Crafting Form, Stitch by Stitch
Sewing Craftsman
A KUSHITANI leather suit is made up of more than 200 individual parts, including the lining. Even for a seasoned sewing craftsman, completing just one suit takes over 24 hours of meticulous work. Each color of leather is stitched separately, and every time the thread is changed to match a new section, the sewing machine must be finely readjusted. There is no single sewing method — techniques vary by area to achieve both tear resistance and freedom of movement. Among the most demanding are the tubular sections such as the arms and legs, where the sewing order is limited and the entire process must be visualized from start to finish. The only rule: stitch 12 mm from the edge. There are no printed guide lines on the pattern — just a few small alignment marks to rely on. Joining curved pieces precisely, guided only by experience and intuition — that’s how a flat pattern is transformed into a three-dimensional form. While strength is essential, the lining must be finished delicately so as not to become thick or heavy. Accepting that challenge, the craftsman sews while in constant dialogue with the material, pursuing both beauty and function. A sewing craftsman is not only an artisan, but also a bridge between the designer’s vision and the rider’s future.