Komine: A Complete Guide to Its History, Product Lineup, Materials, and Technologies
Komine, founded in 1947, has established itself as a leading Japanese motorcycle gear brand, recognized for its reliability and a comprehensive range of affordable products. Over more than seven decades, the brand has developed a reputation for offering everything from jackets, pants, helmets, and gloves to body armor, rain gear, footwear, and accessories among others. Few manufacturers cater as extensively to every rider’s needs, but Komine excels by merging traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern tech innovations. The approach ensures their products prioritize safety, durability, and cutting-edge features, making them a trusted name in the industry.
Headquartered in Tokyo, Komine consistently upholds international safety standards, earning a strong foothold across Asia, Europe, Oceania, the Middle East, and South America. A key milestone in their global expansion was the landmark cooperation agreement with AGV Sports Group Inc., signed on October 15, 2024, which marked Komine’s official entry into the North American market. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable gear while maintaining a strong focus on rider safety and comfort.
With a wide-reaching presence and a legacy of innovative, well-crafted products, Komine remains dedicated to providing reliable gear that ensures safety across diverse terrains and conditions, continuing to meet the needs of riders worldwide.
History of Komine: From Bicycle Accessories to Global Motorcycling Gear Giant
Komine’s journey is a story of evolution and an unwavering drive to meeting the needs of riders, beginning in post-war Japan—a period marked by profound social and economic transformation. Over the past 70 years, the company has grown into a trusted name in the industry, continuously adapting to the evolving demands of motorcyclists worldwide.
The Early Days: Bicycles in Post-War Japan (1947)
Komine’s origins trace back to 1947, when Chusaburo Komine founded the company in Tokyo, during Japan’s post-war recovery period. At the time, bicycles became essential for daily commuting as Japan worked to rebuild its infrastructure and economy from the devastation of World War II. Recognizing the demand for affordable transportation, Komine Shoukai, the company’s original name, focused on manufacturing and wholesaling bicycles and accessories. These early products, including tires, gained popularity due to their reliability, helping establish Komine as a trusted name in Japan.
But there was more to this family business than just bicycles. Chusaburo’s son, Komine Shunsuke, had a growing passion for motorcycles—specifically for iconic brands Indian and Triumph. And his love for two-wheeled machines would eventually steer the company in a new direction as Japan transitioned from relying on bicycles to embracing motorized transport, laying the groundwork for Komine’s future success in the motorcycle industry.
The Shift to Motorcycling Gear: A Bold Move (1950s)
By the 1950s, Japan’s industrial boom was in full swing, and motorcycles were quickly becoming a popular mode of transport, particularly among young, ambitious riders. Sensing this shift and inspired by Shunsuke’s passion for motorcycles, Komine made a strategic decision to move away from bicycle production and into the world of motorcycle supplies. During this transformation, the company rebranded as Komine Auto Center, reflecting its new direction and ambitions. Soon after, it refocused on a mission that would define its future: designing quality protective gear to enhance rider safety while keeping it affordable for everyday consumers.
Komine’s entry into the motorcycle industry began with the production of motorcycle helmets, and it wasn’t long before they expanded into protective apparel and accessories. It was a leap of faith that would become a turning point for the company, positioning Komine at the forefront of Japan’s rapidly burgeoning motorcycle culture. And riders, already loyal to the brand, responded positively to this shift, further solidifying Komine’s reputation for producing reliable motorcycle gear.
As the brand’s reputation for quality, durability, and safety grew, Komine secured its place in the performance-driven helmet market, mirroring trends seen with Bell in America and AGV in Italy. Thus began Komine’s legacy as one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of motorcycle helmets and gear—a reputation that continues to resonate in the motorcycling world today.
Entering the Helmet Standards Game: Safety First (1960s)
Subsequently, in 1967, Komine made history as the first Japanese helmet manufacturer to earn Snell certification—an internationally recognized standard for rigorous helmet safety testing. Meeting the 1962 Snell General Helmet Standard meant its helmets were now tested under extreme conditions of heat, cold, and water to ensure the highest level of rider protection.
One of the key tests involved shock absorption, where the helmet, mounted on a 12-pound magnesium alloy headform, was subjected to impacts from a 120-foot-pound energy source. The goal was to keep the acceleration force under 400 Gs, a critical factor in preventing head injuries. These tests were conducted under extreme conditions, including heat (125°F), cold (0°F), and water exposure, simulating real-world riding scenarios.
Beyond impact resistance, Komine’s helmets also had to pass stringent tests for chin strap strength, ensuring they could withstand a 300-pound load, and penetration resistance, which involved dropping a 4-pound conical striker onto the helmet to assess its structural integrity under duress.
By consistently refining their helmet designs and materials, Komine has maintained compliance with stringent helmet safety standards worldwide, including the current:
- DOT FMVSS 218 in the United States
- ECE 22.06 in Europe
- AS 1698:1988 or AS/NZS 1698:2006 in Australia
- SG or JIS T 8133:2000 standards in Japan, certified by the Japan Motorcycle Sports Association (MFJ), which represents Japan in the International Federation of Motorcycle Cyclism (FIM)
- TIS in Thailand
- CNS in Taiwan
- KS G 7001 in Korea
- SIRIM (Malaysia) in Singapore, among others.
Adhering to these diverse international standards underscores Komine’s commitment to ensuring that its helmets offer the highest level of safety protection for riders across different regions worldwide.
Going Global: The Expansion Years (1970s-1990s)
The 1970s and 1980s were transformative decades for Komine, as the company set its sights beyond Japan. Beginning with Asian markets such as China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam, Komine expanded into Europe by the late 1970s. The European motorcycling scene, known for its stringent ECE helmet standards and vibrant rider culture, provided fertile ground for Komine’s high-quality products, which met the demands of both sport and casual riders.
Diversification of Its Product Line: 1980s and 1990s
And as Japanese motorcycle brands like Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki surged in popularity during the 1980s, so did the demand for complementary gear. Komine seized this opportunity, leveraging its expertise in helmet manufacturing to expand its product line to include a broader range of protective gear, such as jackets, pants, gloves, and footwear. The strategic expansion, backed by Komine’s reputation for producing affordable, certified helmets, enabled the company to meet the evolving safety and comfort needs of riders across different regions, helping it gain a strong foothold in new markets like Australia, Chile, and Russia.
By the late 1990s, Komine had fully integrated into the global motorcycle culture, with partnerships through major distributors ensuring their products reached riders worldwide. Today, Komine’s commitment to accessibility and quality is evident in its continued presence in markets such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
The 1990s also witnessed the rise of extreme off-road sports like motocross, supercross, freestyle motocross, enduro, and trials riding. As these high-adrenaline disciplines gained mainstream popularity, Komine responded with specialized gear designed to meet the demands of extreme riding conditions.
Product Innovation: 2000s and 2010s
As the new millennium dawned, Komine innovation like never before, further expanding its product lineup with a focus on both style and safety. The 2000s saw the company introduce motorcycle parkas and jeans with various levels of lining, from single-layer to fully-lined Kevlar, offering riders a stylish yet protective alternative to traditional leathers. By incorporating advanced materials like Kevlar, Armalith, Covec, Pekek, UHMWPE, and well-known brands such as Dyneema, Spectra, and Cordura, Komine crafted jeans that balanced protection and comfort, appealing to riders who wanted gear that looked great off the bike while still delivering solid safety.
It was also during this period that Komine ventured into the electronics space, launching motorcycle intercom systems and Bluetooth speakers designed to make rides more enjoyable. But growth meant more than just broadening their product line. Komine needed to position itself as a serious contender in the motorcycle gear market, competing with brands that were already well-established.
So, during the 2010s, company’s shifted even further toward ergonomic designs, reflective elements, and weather adaptability to meet the demands of riders across diverse climates and terrains. Komine’s four-season gear, for instance, came equipped with advanced venting systems and thermal liners, ensuring both comfort and protection in both hot and cold environments. The adaptability significantly enhanced Komine’s appeal, especially among long-distance and adventure riders who require gear capable of performing reliably across changing conditions.
In fall/winter 2018, Komine introduced special high-reflective printed pattern fabric (HR, or Highly Reflective Color) into their product lines. Combined with Komine’s unique high-security protector units, this innovation, enhanced nighttime visibility, further increasing rider safety.
Additionally, Komine began producing slim-line, low-profile protectors, which offer the same level of protection as bulkier models but with a more comfortable, discreet fit. These protectors adhere to CE Level 2, offering top-tier impact protection while maintaining a sleek design.
The CE standard classifies protectors into three categories—thoracic, vertebral, and other—based on the area they protect. Each protector must pass rigorous testing according to the European EN standard, which ensures that the gear meets stringent safety requirements
Leading the Way in Performance, Safety and Presence: Recent Years
By the 2020s, Komine had solidified its reputation as a brand synonymous with both safety and style, offering a wide range of products tailored to meet the needs of diverse riders—from weekend enthusiasts to professional racers across various styles, including classic, casual, sports, and adventure.
Today, Komine stands as a prominent player on the global stage, with a robust presence Asia, Europe, Oceania, the Middle East, South America, and an expanding footprint in North America. A pivotal moment in this journey occurred on October 15, 2024, when Komine entered into a historic cooperation agreement with AGV Sports Group Inc., a leading U.S. company renowned for its expertise in motorcycle apparel. The strategic partnership unites the strengths of two industry pioneers, harnessing decades of innovation, rigorous safety standards, and rider-centric designs to enhance the motorcycling experience.
Michael Parrotte, President of AGV Sports Group Inc., expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating,
“Partnering with Komine Co. Ltd. is a natural step forward for AGV Sports Group. Together, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of safety and innovation while delivering unparalleled products to riders everywhere.”
Beyond this significant partnership, Komine continues to make its products widely accessible to riders around the globe through its Komine WEB Shop, a direct-to-consumer platform. The online store offers special campaigns, such as the “jacket purchase campaign,” where customers receive a Komine Premium Hanger with every purchase of a Komine “JK-” category product, like jackets and parkas.
Additionally, Komine has established a comprehensive network of international distributors, enabling the brand to reach riders in countries including Australia, Chile, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam.
From its humble beginnings in post-war Japan to its current status as a renowned motorcycling gear manufacturer, Komine’s evolution reflects its unwavering dedication to safety, innovation, and value. As the brand forges ahead, one thing remains abundantly clear: Komine is a name that riders can trust, no matter where the road leads them.
Komine’s Current Product Lineup
Komine offers a comprehensive range of motorcycle gear and accessories that caters to various riding styles and needs, including classic, casual, sports, and adventure wear for men, women, and children. Their product lineup extends across protective riding suits, jackets, pants, gloves, protectors, and other specialized gear, ensuring safety, comfort, and functionality for every riding scenario. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Racing Leathers / One-Piece Suits
Komine’s racing suits integrate modern materials for enhanced mobility and safety while maintaining the iconic protection offered by leather.
- Materials & Construction:
- 3mm Full-Grain Cowhide Leather: Reinforced with Kevlar for high durability.
- Removable Polyester Mesh Lining: Simplifies maintenance and increases comfort.
- 3D Pattern Design: Enhanced mobility with shirring for a natural riding posture.
- Protection Features:
- CE Level 2 protectors (shoulders, elbows, knees).
- Replaceable elbow and knee sliders for racing scenarios.
- Perforated panels (front, thighs, ribs) for ventilation.
- Options for chest and spine protector upgrades.
- Women’s Sizes: WM/WL suits are tailored with CE Level 2 soft protectors, offering safety without sacrificing comfort.
Jackets
Komine jackets cater to various riding conditions with technical designs for every season:
- Winter Jackets: Waterproof, breathable nylon-PU shells, CE Level 2 protectors, removable thermal liners, and adjustable ventilation.
- Full Year Jackets: Adaptable for transitional weather with large vented zippers, reflective panels, and removable insulation.
- Leather Jackets: Cowhide construction with mesh linings, ergonomic designs for posture, and CE Level 2 protection.
- Parkas: Water-repellent polyester-spandex blends with removable hoods for casual riding.
- Denim Jackets: Lightweight, breathable linen-cotton mixes with built-in shoulder, elbow, chest, and back protection.
- Mesh Jackets:
- Half Mesh: Blends textile and mesh for entry-level riders.
- Full Mesh: High breathability for midsummer riding, featuring CE Level 2 protectors and reflective accents.
- Hoodies: Functional mid-layer or outerwear with neoprene and CE protectors, designed for urban and casual riding.
T-Shirts
Komine’s T-shirts are crafted from quick-drying polyester, ensuring a smooth and comfortable fit for riders. Available in three unique motif designs that symbolize the Komine brand, each T-shirt comes in two color options. These shirts are ideal for casual rides or as a base layer under protective gear.
Shirts
Komine’s casual collared protection shirts merge everyday style with essential safety features:
- Material & Comfort: Made from durable polycotton fabric with a boa lining, these shirts offer excellent heat retention for colder rides.
- Ergonomic Design: A three-dimensional ergonomic pattern ensures comfort and flexibility during riding.
- Protective Features:
- Komine’s soft chest protector.
- CE Level 2-certified shoulder and elbow protectors for superior impact resistance.
- An EVA back pad for additional spine protection.
- Enhanced Visibility: Reflective piping on the back improves safety during nighttime rides.
These shirts provide a practical combination of style, comfort, and protection for motorcyclists, making them versatile for both riding and casual wear.
Pants
Komine riding pants feature ergonomic designs, seasonal adaptability, and advanced safety components:
- Winter Pants: Windproof polyester shells with REISSA membranes, thermal liners, and reflective panels.
- Full Year Pants: Includes Air, Protect, and Adventure variants tailored for ventilation, off-road compatibility, and weatherproofing.
- Over Pants: Lightweight insulated options for layering over regular clothing, offering warmth and CE Level 1 knee protectors.
- Leather Pants: Sports-focused cowhide with CE Level 2 knee protectors and knee sliders.
- Jeans:
- Summer: Coolmax®-infused fabric for moisture-wicking comfort.
- Winter: Fleece-lined, windproof materials for cold-weather riding.
- Adventure Mesh Pants: Textile-mesh combinations designed for summer trails.
- Full Armored Mesh Pants: Equipped with CE-approved hard protectors, offering robust safety in warmer climates.
Gloves
Komine gloves provide safety, dexterity, and weather resilience:
- Winter Gloves: Insulated and weatherproof for cold climates.
- Racing Gloves: Enhanced with Kevlar stitching, CE Level 2 armor, and reinforced knuckles.
- Rain Gloves: Waterproof with anti-slip materials for better grip.
- Electric Heated Gloves: Adjustable heat settings for extreme cold.
Protectors/Armor
Komine’s protector range emphasizes lightweight, breathable designs with maximum safety:
- Knee & Shin: Slim CE Level 2 protectors for discrete wear under pants.
- Upper Body/Chest: Lightweight Japanese-made dry carbon shields with a 3D breathable mesh base.
- Back: CE Level 1 thin spine protectors with high airflow.
- Neck Protection: Urethane foam to mitigate helmet interference injuries.
- Inner Pants/Jackets: Stretch fabric with integrated CE protectors for seamless additional safety.
- Elbow Protectors: Supporter-style CE Level 2 protectors for comfort and stability.
Other Offerings
- Footwear: Motorcycle boots with reinforced soles and ankle protection.
- Rain Gear: Waterproof jackets and pants for all-weather riding.
- Bags: Durable and ergonomic luggage solutions for bikers.
- Electric Heat Gear: Heated clothing for extreme climates.
- Motorcycle Security Accessories: Locks and anti-theft devices for enhanced security.
- Helmets: Advanced designs for comfort and safety compliance.
Komine’s lineup is a blend of innovation, safety, and rider-centric design, making it a trusted name in motorcycle gear for enthusiasts worldwide.
Materials in Komine Motorcycle Gear
Komine motorcycle gear relies on a variety of materials to provide riders with the perfect balance of safety, comfort, durability, and performance. From advanced waterproof fabrics to high-strength fibers, each material plays a crucial role in enhancing the riding experience while ensuring protection in diverse conditions.
Gore-Tex
Gore-Tex is a high-performance material prized for its waterproof and windproof capabilities. It keeps the rider dry by preventing water penetration and shields against heat loss caused by wind exposure. Its exceptional moisture permeability allows sweat to escape as water vapor, making it the top choice for all-weather motorcycle gear such as jackets, pants, and gloves.
Thermolite
Developed by Invista, Thermolite is a lightweight insulation material with exceptional heat retention properties. It is widely used in cold-weather motorcycle gear like jackets, pants, and gloves. By offering superior warmth without bulk, it ensures comfort and flexibility for riders in cold conditions.
Coolmax
Coolmax, also developed by Invista, is a sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabric designed to lower body surface temperature. It effectively manages perspiration, making it ideal for base layers, summer riding gear, and helmet linings. Its cooling properties keep riders comfortable during hot weather, enhancing overall performance.
Cordura Fabric
Cordura fabric is a textile known for its remarkable durability and strength, being seven times stronger than nylon while weighing half as much as leather. Its excellent abrasion and tear resistance make it a favorite for motorcycle jackets, pants, and gloves. Riders value its balance of comfort, durability, and reduced weight compared to traditional leather gear.
Breathther All-Weather Fabric
Breathther is Komine’s proprietary material that provides waterproofing and moisture permeability at an accessible price point. With over 20 years of proven reliability, it’s widely used in rainwear and all-weather gear, appreciated for its stable performance in various conditions.
3M Thinsulate Insulation
3M Thinsulate is a high-performance material designed to provide warmth while remaining thin and lightweight. Used extensively in motorcycle jackets, pants, and gloves, it is ideal for cold-weather riding gear, offering superior heat insulation without adding unnecessary bulk.
BOA System
The BOA system is a precise fitting mechanism frequently used in motorcycle footwear. It features a finely adjustable dial for precise, incremental adjustments. The system includes a stainless steel wire lace for durability and low-wear guides to ensure smooth operation and longevity. Together, these components provide an exceptional fit, ensuring gear is easy to put on and take off while maintaining security and comfort.
Lycra
Lycra is a highly elastic fiber developed in the 1950s. Its stretchability makes it an essential material for motorcycle gloves, particularly in areas around the joints, where it enhances flexibility and comfort during extended use.
Clarino
Clarino, an artificial leather developed by Kuraray in 1964, is known for its excellent wear resistance. It is frequently used in the palms of gloves to improve grip and durability while providing an added layer of safety for riders.
Gel Vibration-Shock Proof Material
This gel-like padding is used in motorcycle gloves to reduce the vibrations transmitted from handlebars. It absorbs shocks and vibrations, minimizing rider fatigue, especially during long-distance rides.
Hipora
Hipora is a high-performance waterproof and breathable film developed by Korea’s Kolon Industries. It is particularly effective in winter gloves, providing superior windproof and waterproof capabilities while maintaining comfort and dexterity in cold conditions.
Cowhide Leather
Cowhide leather is a natural material known for its durability and abrasion resistance. It is a staple in motorcycle jackets, suits, pants, gloves, and boots, offering unmatched protection and a classic aesthetic, making it a reliable choice for riders.
Polyester
Polyester is a synthetic material valued for its durability, moisture-wicking properties, and lightweight nature. It is commonly used in motorcycle jackets, pants, and linings for its comfort, breathability, and practicality.
Nylon
Nylon is another synthetic fabric that offers excellent strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance. It is widely used in rain gear, jackets, and pants, offering durability and protection in various weather conditions.
Kevlar
Kevlar is a heat-resistant and high-strength synthetic fiber that provides superior abrasion and impact resistance. It is often used in critical areas of motorcycle jackets and pants, such as knees, elbows, and shoulders, to enhance rider safety in the event of a crash.
Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber is a lightweight yet incredibly strong material made by weaving carbon fibers and reinforcing them with resin. It is commonly used in knuckle guards for gloves, protective inserts, and helmets. Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it an essential material for safety and comfort in motorcycle gear.
Together, these materials form the foundation of modern motorcycle gear, catering to various riding conditions and ensuring a balance of safety, comfort, and performance.
Komine Function Technology
Komine is at the forefront of innovation in motorcycle safety and performance, combining advanced technologies and meticulously engineered features. Each detail reflects Komine’s commitment to enhancing rider safety, comfort, and overall experience. Here’s a detailed overview of its cutting-edge offerings:
Optional Items and Customization
Komine gear is designed with modularity in mind, allowing riders to add or replace specific components for improved functionality or personal customization. These optional items are compatible with products marked with designated icons, ensuring seamless integration and flexibility.
KOMINE Lab and Advanced Product Development
The Komine Lab spearheads research-driven advancements in motorcycle gear. By leveraging extensive testing and rider feedback, the lab ensures that each product meets the highest performance standards. This initiative represents KOMINE’s focus on continuous improvement and the development of industry-leading protective technology.
Mission to Reduce Motorcycle Fatalities
Safety is Komine’s core mission. As an officially commissioned protector promotion team for the Metropolitan Police Department, Komine designs products that prioritize reducing fatalities. Its advanced protective systems and adherence to international safety standards are testament to this commitment.
HR (Highly Reflective Color) Technology
Introduced in the Fall/Winter 2018 collection, Komine’s HR technology features high-reflective printed pattern fabrics. These fabrics drastically enhance nighttime visibility, offering increased relative safety during low-light conditions. Combined with Komine’s high-security protector units, this technology exemplifies a holistic approach to rider protection.
CE Standard Level 2 and Level 1 Protectors/Armor
Komine utilizes CE Level 2 and 2 protectors, the highest certification under the European EN standard. These protectors are subjected to rigorous testing for impact resistance and are classified into three categories based on anatomical coverage: thoracic, vertebral, and general body protection. This ensures tailored safety for critical areas during a crash.
Anti-Counterfeiting Technology
To combat the proliferation of counterfeit products, Komine incorporates anti-counterfeiting labels with patented hologram technology. These labels feature advanced 4D imaging techniques, providing a robust method for verifying product authenticity and safeguarding customer trust.
You’re encouraged to check for these labels when making a purchase to ensure you are getting genuine, reliable products.
Made in Japan: A Commitment to Craftsmanship
While modern production methods often prioritize efficiency over tradition, Komine is reestablishing its legacy of manufacturing in Japan. This approach emphasizes precision, quality, and the use of locally sourced materials, reinforcing Komine’s reputation for excellence.
EVA Padding and Ergonomic Design
Komine integrates EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) padding into its protective gear, a material renowned for its lightweight and shock-absorbing properties. Coupled with three-dimensional pattern designs, Komine gear promotes an ergonomic fit and facilitates a natural riding posture, ensuring comfort without compromising safety.
Komine has been at the forefront of improving motorcycle safety gear, constantly evolving its product line with better protective technologies and more user-centric designs. And in keeping with its commitment to safety and affordability, it continues to produce gear that combines high-tech materials and the latest safety features with a price point that remains accessible to most riders.
Wrapping Up
Komine’s evolution from its post-war beginnings to its current global stature is a remarkable story of adaptability and focus on meeting the needs of motorcyclists worldwide. Starting in 1947 as a bicycle accessories manufacturer in Tokyo, the company shifted its focus to motorcycle gear in the 1950s, driven by the growing popularity of motorcycles in Japan. Over the decades, Komine has built a reputation for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern safety technologies, and its gear is known for being both affordable and durable.
As the motorcycle industry expanded globally, Komine adapted to international safety standards and demands, becoming a key player across Asia, Europe, and now North America. The brand has evolved with motorcycling culture, continually innovating and improving its product range to meet the varying needs of riders—from motocross enthusiasts to long-distance touring adventurers.
This relentless commitment to innovation and rider safety has allowed Komine to remain a trusted name in the industry for over seven decades. Their ongoing global expansion is a testament to their ability to adapt and thrive in a competitive market.