Dainese ARchivio in Vicenza begins with a journey: in 1968, Lino Dainese set off for London with two friends on a Vespa scooter. Protecting riders later became central to his work. The permanent exhibition follows that path through 20 thematic sections, connecting racing, materials and people.
One of its most striking subjects is the collection of racing leathers. Since 1972, the archive has gathered more than a thousand suits worn by riders in races and crashes. Preserved equipment offers another way to read racing history: abrasion and construction details add something that a list of victories cannot. Other sections explore Valentino Rossi’s helmets, the Paris–Dakar rally and the idea of designing clothing as an interconnected protective system.
The archive is at Via dell’Economia 64/B. It opens on Saturdays from 11:00 to 19:00, with weekday group visits by reservation. Check the current visiting arrangements before travelling. It is a stop for riders curious about how experience on a motorcycle informs materials, tailoring and freedom of movement.