France Riding Gear Market Overview, 2029

The French motorcycle riding gear market pulsates with a unique rhythm, driven by a confluence of safety regulations, fashion consciousness, and a rich culture of motorcycling. Unlike other European counterparts, France mandates the wearing of high-visibility vests for all riders outside urban areas, creating a substantial market for this specific gear. This regulation, coupled with a growing safety awareness amongst French riders, has fueled demand for technologically advanced helmets, jackets with integrated airbags, and abrasion-resistant clothing. However, French motorcyclists are also known for their discerning taste. French riders, particularly those in urban areas, often prioritize style alongside safety. Manufacturers have cleverly responded by incorporating modern safety features like impact-resistant materials and discreet armor into classic designs. This synergy between safety and vintage chic fuels the market for premium riding gear that seamlessly blends function with a Parisian sense of fashion. Leather remains the preferred material for a significant portion of the market, particularly amongst touring riders and those seeking a classic aesthetic. Interestingly, French tanneries are renowned for their expertise in crafting premium motorcycle leather, creating a niche market for high-end, locally-produced gear. This focus on quality and style has fostered a vibrant domestic riding gear industry, with several French brands enjoying a loyal following and even exporting their expertise globally. Furthermore, the popularity of "scooter commuting" in urban centers like Paris presents a distinct market segment. Here, functionality and weatherproofing take center stage, leading to a rise in demand for lightweight, breathable jackets, and versatile gear that seamlessly transitions between riding and urban life.
According to the research report "France Riding Gear Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the French Riding Gear market is projected to grow by more than 5% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. The roots of French motorcycle gear can be traced back to the early 1900s, mirroring the evolution of motorcycling itself. Pioneering riders like Georges Gauthier explored unpaved roads, necessitating practical and protective clothing. Think leather jackets, breeches, and the iconic "coiffe" - a leather helmet offering minimal protection but undeniable Gallic flair. The post-war era saw a surge in motorcycle popularity, particularly among young people. Cafe racer culture emerged, emphasizing speed and style. Riders donned sleek leather jackets like the Schott Perfecto, a symbol of rebellion that transcended function. French manufacturers like Segura emerged, crafting high-quality leather gear that balanced protection with a touch of Parisian panache. The 1970s marked a shift towards safety. Mandatory helmet laws spurred innovation, with French companies like Shark leading the charge in helmet design. Textile gear also gained traction, offering weatherproofing and breathability. The following decades saw continuous advancements in materials and technology. French brands like Dainese, thanks to their Italian roots, brought high-performance leathers and technical textiles to the market. Today, French riders have access to a vast array of gear, from adventure-ready suits to airbag-equipped jackets, all reflecting the country's deep-seated love for both safety and style. The French riding gear market also faces some unique challenges. Firstly, there's a high level of price sensitivity among French consumers. While they value quality, they are also budget-conscious. This creates a competitive landscape where manufacturers need to strike a balance between performance and affordability. Secondly, the rise of online retail poses a challenge to traditional brick-and-mortar stores. French consumers are increasingly comfortable purchasing riding gear online. This trend can make it difficult for smaller, specialized stores to compete. However, these stores can differentiate themselves by offering expert advice and a personalized customer experience.
French regulations mandate helmets, making them the top seller. French riders prioritize safety, driving demand for high-quality helmets with advanced features like sun visors, Bluetooth communication systems, and double homologation (ECE and DOT) for added security. Body armor, especially back protectors and chest guards, is another crucial segment. Knee and elbow guards are popular, particularly among sport and adventure touring riders. Safety-focused French manufacturers are constantly innovating in materials and design to create lighter, more breathable protective gear. Jackets are the heart of the clothing segment. French riders favor both textile jackets for their comfort and weatherproofing, and leather jackets for their abrasion resistance and classic look. Textile jackets often come with removable thermal liners for year-round use, catering to France's diverse climate. Pants mirror the jacket trend, with textile options offering flexibility and waterproofing, while leather prioritizes abrasion resistance. Riding suits, combining jacket and pants into a one-piece unit, are gaining traction among touring riders seeking maximum protection and weatherproofing. French footwear segmentation reflects the country's diverse riding styles. Urban motorcycle boots prioritize comfort and practicality for daily commuting. They are typically shorter, lighter, and offer good ankle protection. Motorcycle touring boots prioritize comfort for long rides, often incorporating waterproof membranes and additional protection for the shin and ankle. Racing motorcycle boots prioritize safety and offer maximum protection for the foot, ankle, and shin. French riders are increasingly opting for touring boots that offer a good balance between protection and comfort.
Despite the rise of online retail, physical stores remain a dominant distribution channel in France. French riders value the ability to try on gear, ensuring proper fit and protection. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can advise on the best gear for specific riding styles and needs. Dealerships associated with major motorcycle manufacturers often have dedicated sections for riding gear, offering a curated selection that complements their motorcycles. Independent retailers frequently cater to niche markets, stocking gear for specific riding disciplines like enduro or motocross. Online retail is rapidly growing in France, offering convenience and a wider selection of riding gear. French consumers are increasingly comfortable purchasing helmets and clothing online, with established retailers offering robust size guides, return policies, and secure payment options. Online marketplaces allow smaller brands and niche retailers to reach a wider audience. However, some French riders still hesitate to purchase safety-critical items like helmets online, preferring the in-store experience for proper fitting.
French riding gear sales are seasonal, with peaks in spring and summer as riders prepare for warmer weather. However, the year-round usability of many products, thanks to removable liners and waterproof membranes, extends the sales season. Riding styles and gear preferences can vary across France. Urban riders in major cities like Paris might prioritize lightweight, practical gear, while touring enthusiasts in the French countryside might seek more robust, weatherproof options. Similarly, mountainous regions might see a higher demand for cold-weather gear. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards online retail. As French consumers become more comfortable with online purchases, the online segment of the riding gear market is expected to continue growing.
French motorcycle gear manufacturers and retailers understand these segmentations and cater their offerings accordingly. Marketing campaigns might target specific rider groups, highlighting features that address their unique needs. For instance, an urban-focused brand might emphasize the comfort and practicality of their textile jackets, while a touring-focused brand might showcase the weatherproofing and protection features of their riding suits. In conclusion, the French motorcycle gear market thrives on a well-defined segmentation strategy. By understanding the specific needs of different rider groups, from safety-conscious commuters to fashion-forward cafe racers and adventure-seeking tourers, French manufacturers and retailers curate product offerings and tailor distribution channels to ensure a smooth and successful riding experience on the open roads of France.

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Riding Gear market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product
• Protective Gear (Body Armor, Knee and Elbow guards, Glovers and Helmet)
• Clothing Gear (Jacket, Pants and Riding Suits)
• Footwear (Urban motorcycle boots, Motorcycle touring boots and Racing motorcycle boots)

By Distribution Channel
• Online
• Offline



The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Riding Gear industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.