Held

Overview

Held is a German motorcycle gear manufacturer specializing in protective clothing and equipment for riders. The brand is known for innovative protective gear including jackets, gloves, leather suits, and airbag vests designed with emphasis on safety, comfort, and durability. Held maintains a strong reputation in the European motorcycle market for quality craftsmanship and technical innovation in rider protection.

History

Held was founded in 1946 by Bruno Held and his son Edgar in Burgberg, southern Germany, following their expulsion from Abertamy, Bohemia after World War II. The company began as a glove manufacturer, producing fashion, work, and driving gloves before establishing its reputation for quality craftsmanship. In 1991, Held entered the motorcycle clothing segment with its first nylon jacket, followed by a kangaroo leather suit in 1992. The brand expanded into protective technology with a clip-in airbag vest in 2019 and waterproof boots in 2020, becoming one of the few brands offering waterproof gear across all categories. By 2024, Held had launched a new generation of airbag vests with enhanced coverage.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Held manufactures gloves and processes leather and fabrics into clothing and protective gear. The company operates as a family business based in Germany with in-house production capabilities for its core product lines.

Notable Products

• Kangaroo Leather Suit - Full protective suit introduced in 1992 showcasing commitment to innovative materials and durability
• Clip-In Airbag Vest - Advanced protective technology launched in 2019 providing impact absorption for riders
• Waterproof Boots - Weather-resistant footwear introduced in 2020 as part of comprehensive waterproof gear range
• New Generation Airbag Vest (2024) - Enhanced airbag system providing coverage for chest, back, ribs, and shoulders
• Protective Gloves - Core product line with roots in the brand's original glove-making heritage

Reputation

Held is recognized by motorcycle enthusiasts and professionals for consistent quality craftsmanship and technical innovation in protective gear. The brand is respected for its commitment to safety features and use of premium materials like kangaroo leather. As a smaller, family-owned manufacturer, Held maintains a loyal following particularly in European markets, though it remains less widely known than larger international competitors in some regions.