Proper Leather Care and Maintenance - Keeping Your Riding Gear in Top Condition

When it comes to riding gear, leather is a popular choice among motorcyclists for its durability, comfort, and classic aesthetic. However, like our own skin, leather requires proper care and maintenance to ensure it remains functional and looks great over time. Understanding how to care for your leather motorcycle gear is crucial if you want to prevent degradation that could compromise your safety while riding.

The Nature of Leather

Leather is made from animal hide, which means it shares some similarities with human skin. Just as our skin can become dry and cracked if not moisturised, leather can become brittle if it lacks the necessary oils. Conversely, too much moisture can make leather overly pliable, reducing its ability to withstand impacts. This delicate balance is essential for maintaining the integrity of your riding gear.

Why Proper Care Matters

Proper leather care not only enhances the lifespan of your motorcycle gear but also ensures that it performs as intended during rides. Degraded leather may not provide adequate protection in the event of an accident or harsh weather conditions. Therefore, understanding how to care for your leather motorcycle gear is vital for both aesthetics and safety.

Cleaning Your Leather Gear

Regular Dusting

Before diving into deep cleaning methods, it's essential to regularly dust off your leather gear. Use a soft cloth or a duster to remove dirt and debris that can accumulate over time. This simple step helps prevent scratches and keeps the surface looking fresh.

Deep Cleaning

For a more thorough clean, use a specialised leather cleaner that’s free from harsh chemicals. Apply a small amount onto a soft cloth and gently rub it into the surface of the leather in circular motions. Avoid soaking the material; instead, focus on removing any stains or grime build-up.

Rinsing Off

After cleaning with soap or cleaner, it's crucial to wipe off any residue with a damp cloth (not wet). Make sure no cleaner remains on the surface as this can lead to discolouration or damage over time.

Conditioning Your Leather Gear

Importance of Conditioning

Just like our skin needs moisturiser after washing, leather requires conditioning to maintain its suppleness and prevent cracking. Conditioning helps replenish oils lost during cleaning or exposure to elements.

Choosing the Right Conditioner

Select a high-quality leather conditioner specifically designed for motorcycle gear. Avoid using products that contain petroleum-based ingredients as these can damage the natural fibres in leather over time.

Application Process

Apply a small amount of conditioner onto a clean cloth and work it into the leather using circular motions. Focus on areas that experience more wear and tear such as elbows or knees where flexibility is crucial during rides. Allow the conditioner to absorb fully before buffing off any excess with another clean cloth.

Protecting Your Leather Gear from Elements

Water Resistance

While many leathers come treated with water-resistant coatings, it's wise to apply an additional waterproofing spray designed specifically for leathers periodically—especially before long rides in unpredictable weather conditions.

Sun Protection

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade colours and dry out leather quickly. When storing your riding gear, keep it out of direct sunlight whenever possible; consider investing in protective covers if you often park outside.

Storing Your Leather Gear Correctly

Proper storage plays an essential role in maintaining your riding gear's longevity:

1. Avoid Folding: Store your items hanging rather than folded; creases can lead to cracks.
2. Use Hangers: Invest in wide padded hangers that support jackets without distorting their shape.
3. Breathable Bags: If you need to store them away for an extended period, consider breathable garment bags rather than plastic ones which trap moisture.
4. Keep Away from Heat Sources: Avoid placing near radiators or heaters which can dry out materials quickly.

In conclusion, learning how to care for your leather motorcycle gear is essential not just for aesthetics but also for safety on the road. By regularly cleaning and conditioning your riding apparel while protecting it from environmental factors such as water and sun exposure, you ensure its longevity and effectiveness when you need it most.

Remember that proper maintenance will keep your gear looking sharp while providing maximum protection against potential hazards during rides—because when you're out there on two wheels enjoying freedom at speed, you want nothing less than optimal performance from every piece of equipment you wear!

Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear

Check out our full range of products, such as motorcycle clothing, motorcycle boots, motorcycle helmets, motorcycle gloves, motorcycle suits, motorcycle jackets and motorcycle trousers, which are available online or by visiting our Darwen store today. If you have any questions regarding any of our ranges, please call our customer service team at Race Leathers Motorcycle Gear store on 01254 704 000, and we will be more than happy to help.