Cordura can be more resistant than leather

Leather motorcycle suits are usually thought to be more resistant than synthetic fiber suits. There are two reasons for this. The first one is that cow leather has always been used in the manufacture of racing apparel, so leather is associated with quality. The second reason is that there are few brands that are using high-strength synthetic materials.

At Andromeda we have the world's most advanced synthetic motorcycle suit and cafe racer jacket, both with AAA protection level (using UHMWPE and Kevlar).

For example, when conducting abrasion tests, cow leather is often compared to Cordura 500D. Instead of comparing it with higher density Cordura (deniers) such as Cordura 1100D.

The truth is that cow leather is still the same as it was years ago, while innovation in synthetic fabrics is unstoppable.

What is Cordura and what is its resistance?

Cordura is a fabric created out of the rayon by DuPont. It is a 6-6 nylon with great resistance to abrasion and tear. These features have led to its widespread use in the manufacture of clothing and accessories such as motorcycle jackets, backpacks and ski suits.

When talking about motorcycle suits made of Cordura, they usually have a strength of 400D, so in this case they are less resistant than cowhide, which is around 1000D. The higher the denier, the thicker the fiber section and the more resistant to abrasion.
But there are also higher levels of Cordura: 700D, 1000D and even 1100D.

Cordura has certain advantages compared to leather: its fibers are more flexible and also require less maintenance (leather needs hydration and greater care in cleaning). In the case of jackets, they usually have a waterproof inner layer that protects against rain, cold and wind.

Beyond Cordura

We can say that Cordura is the most famous synthetic material when it comes to motorcycle clothing. However, there are synthetic fabrics with higher performance, such as the ones we offer in Andromeda: UHMWPE synthetic leather, Kevlar and Superfabric (the most resistant material in motorcycle clothing).

In the following chart we will show different materials focusing only on abrasion. However, it should be noted that there is no consensus on abrasion tests.

Source: High Performance Textiles and Their Applications and Taber Test.
*It depends a lot on the type of Kevlar. In addition, this fiber is intertwined with other fabrics, so the amount of Kevlar in a garment may vary.

HMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)

UHMWPE is one of the most revolutionary materials in motorcycle protection. With abrasion resistance exceeding that of steel and remarkable lightness, this polymer has found applications in demanding sectors such as aerospace, military, and maritime industries. Its exceptional cut and tensile strength make it an ideal textile to replace leather in motorcycle gear, offering extreme levels of protection without compromising weight or mobility.

At Andromeda Moto, UHMWPE is the primary fabric used in the NearX suit and Neowise jacket —our highest-performance riding gear. It’s also featured in its denim-style version in the Rocket jeans, providing a casual aesthetic with AAA-rated protection (the highest level achievable).

Superfabric

Superfabric is another standout material featured in our most advanced garments. It consists of a base layer made from nylon or polyester, overlaid with tiny, high-strength ceramic plates. This unique design functions as a modular armour, dispersing impact energy and delivering exceptional resistance to tearing and abrasion.

In the NearX suit, we use Superfabric specifically in high-risk areas: shoulders, forearms, and legs. These are critical zones where a fall is most likely to result in direct friction against the tarmac. Incorporating Superfabric in these regions further enhances protection. Moreover, this fabric withstands abrasion even under extreme conditions, significantly extending the garment’s lifespan.

Kevlar®

Kevlar is synonymous with durability. This fabric, developed by DuPont, has been used for decades in bulletproof vests, space suits, and high-performance tyres. Its greatest strength lies in its incredible resistance to heat and tensile force, making it an excellent internal reinforcement for protective gear.

At Andromeda Moto, Kevlar is used as an internal lining across several of our most iconic pieces: the NearX suit, the Neowise jacket, the Kuiper jacket, and the Meteor gloves. Its strategic placement enhances the overall impact and abrasion resistance of the garments, while maintaining comfort inside. Being flame-resistant and thermally stable, it also adds an extra layer of safety in scenarios involving high friction or extreme heat—such as during a prolonged slide.

Keprotec®

Developed by Swiss manufacturer Schoeller, Keprotec is a technical fabric that blends high-strength fibres like Kevlar with elastic fibres, resulting in a hybrid solution: protection with flexibility. This makes it ideal for areas of the body requiring greater freedom of movement, such as the underarms, groin, or behind the knees.

In our suits and jackets, Keprotec is used in key articulation zones to ensure superior ergonomics. This allows riders to maintain an aggressive riding posture without experiencing pulling or discomfort, even during extended use. Its durability and shape retention ensure the garment maintains its fit over time, withstanding the usual stress at tension points. With Keprotec, performance and freedom of movement go hand in hand.

If you want to know more about motorcycle safety gear, read this post.

We hope this information has been useful for you to be able to differentiate between the features of the different types of fabrics. If you have any doubt, you can send us an email or leave a comment on our social media.