Review: Dainese Laguna Seca Two-Piece Leather Suit
When it comes to technical motorcycle leathers, shopping around usually doesn’t take too long since only a handful of companies make them. During my KTM Duke lineup test, I knew I faced a mix of road and track, so I needed leathers. I settled on the Dainese Laguna Seca two-piece with the idea to sport the whole suit on the track and pair the jacket with riding jeans on the road. That was the plan, at least.
Made of tutu cowhide, the whole suit is extremely comfortable. As soon as I put on the pants and zipped the jacket together, the whole ensemble felt like a second skin. Some leathers are at their most comfortable when in a riding position, but the Laguna Seca suit exceeded my expectations, as I was walking, sitting, standing, and riding in superior comfort. Dainese put in fancy tri-axial stretch inserts and fabrics throughout the suit to ensure maximum mobility.
I ended up wearing this suit on the road during the 990 Duke test ride, mainly because of the anticipated pace, but also because the mercury dipped unexpectedly low. My riding jeans weren’t going to keep me warm. With only technical base layers under the Laguna Seca, I stayed reasonably cozy. Add another layer, and I would have been good to go for the whole day.
In the safety department, replaceable knee and elbow sliders, as well as aluminum elbow and shoulder plates, protect the joints. It’s not only a mental thing, but with the suit as comfortable as it is, I highly recommend pairing it with either a back protector or an airbag.
Almost Perfect
The pants sport two tiny pockets on the thighs that don’t fit more than earplugs. The jacket has no external pockets, but two inside chest pockets will hold a wallet and phone. There’s also a pocket behind the slot of the optional chest protector. The back of the neck features a mesh-like fabric that would be excellent in hot weather, but during my cold test day, I would have preferred less perforation. In the summer, though, I’ll likely wish there was more of it.
My idea to pair the jacket with jeans didn’t pan out. The jacket is cut too high and wide, leaving too big of a gap between the jeans and jacket. It can’t really be worn on its own, which I think is a huge miss.
While I won’t be able to sport just the jacket, the superior fit and comfort of the Laguna Seca had me move some of my other favorite riding gear down a few coat hangers. Wearing it from July through September is out, but for the rest of the year, this Dainese suit will work well in the southeast.
Dainese Laguna Seca Two-Piece Leather Suit
$1,599.95
Sizes: 34-54
Colors: Black/black/white, black/anthracite/fluorescent red,
black/white/red