Bowtex materials and leather both serve protective roles in motorcycle and other rugged clothing, but they’re fundamentally different materials with unique strengths. Let's put it straight, good quality full grain leather is still king when it comes to pure abrasion resistance, especially in high-speed slides. It’s the gold standard in track and performance riding and that is why it's the only material allowed on track. Because it will withstand that prolonged slide at high speeds. And these speeds are exceeding the scope of testing of regulation EN17092 to which all manufacturers need to comply.

At Bowtexw we are not trying to replace leather—it’s filling a different niche. Heck, when riders contact us to ask if Bowtex is fit for their use and they mention they ride an R1 at high speeds, we recommend going for leather.

Bowtex is the agile exosuit. For urban riders, commuters, travellers or anyone wanting discreet yet serious protection, Bowtex is an excellent, modern alternative that brings flexibility and safety together.

Dyneema is an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. It is up to 15 times stronger than steel by weight, yet it is lightweight and flexible. Dyneema offers excellent resistance to cuts, abrasions, and impacts, making it ideal for protective applications. It is also resistant to moisture, UV light, and chemicals, ensuring durability in harsh environments. In the Bowtex range of protective clothing, Dyneema is used to enhance rider safety without compromising comfort. Bowtex integrates Dyneema fibers into base layers and leggings to provide high abrasion resistance. This allows riders to wear casual outer layers while still benefiting from advanced protection. Dyneema’s flexibility ensures that Bowtex garments remain breathable and non-restrictive. Its use helps achieve CE-approved protection levels while maintaining a low-profile fit. Overall, Dyneema elevates the safety and performance of Bowtex gear for motorcyclists

UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) is a type of polyethylene with extremely long molecular chains, giving it outstanding strength and durability. It is known for being incredibly lightweight while offering high resistance to abrasion, cuts, and impacts. UHMWPE is also resistant to chemicals, moisture, and UV radiation, making it ideal for demanding environments. Its high tensile strength makes it stronger than steel on a weight-to-weight basis. In the Bowtex Optimal range, UHMWPE is woven into the fabric to provide motorcycle riders with advanced protection.
This allows Bowtex to create slim, flexible garments that meet CE Level AA abrasion resistance standards. The Optimal line uses UHMWPE to reinforce high-impact zones while keeping the garment breathable and comfortable. Unlike traditional bulky gear, Bowtex Optimal clothing offers discreet protection that can be worn under or as casual outerwear. The use of UHMWPE ensures long-lasting performance without adding significant weight. Overall, it delivers top-tier safety with the comfort and versatility that modern riders demand.

The Bowtex Elite and Bowtex Optimal are both protective motorcycle base layers designed to enhance rider safety and comfort. While they share some similarities, they differ in terms of protection level, materials, and intended use. Here's a detailed comparison to help you choose the right gear for your needs.

Protection Level

Bowtex Elite: Certified to the highest CE safety standard, AAA, making it suitable for high-speed riding and offering maximum abrasion resistance.
Bowtex Optimal: Holds a CE AA rating, providing a balance between safety and comfort, ideal for urban commuting and moderate-speed rides.

Materials & Construction

Bowtex Elite: Constructed entirely from Dyneema®, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, breathability, and thermo-conductive properties that offer a cool, soft feel against the skin.
Bowtex Optimal: Made from ultra-stretchy UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) fabric, ensuring excellent fit, flexibility, and durability.

Armor & Fit

Bowtex Elite:
Includes SAS-TEC Level 2 protectors at knees and hips.
Features reinforced flat lock seams and an adjustable drawstring waist for a perfect fit.
Designed with a tailored, ergonomic cut to provide excellent coverage and protection while maintaining full mobility.
Bowtex Optimal:
Comes with SAS-TEC Level 1 protectors at knees and hips.
Features an adjustable waistband for a secure fit and added coverage.
Lightweight and breathable, perfect for everyday use and layering under any outerwear

Conclusion

Choose the Bowtex Elite if you require the highest level of protection for high-speed or long-distance rides. Its Dyneema® construction and Level 2 armor provide maximum safety, making it suitable for riders who prioritize protection. Opt for the Bowtex Optimal if you're looking for a more affordable, comfortable option for daily commuting or casual rides. Its stretchy UHMWPE fabric and Level 1 armor offer a good balance between safety and comfort. Both products are made in Europe, ensuring high standards of quality and craftsmanship. If you have specific preferences or riding conditions in mind, feel free to provide more details, and I can offer a more tailored recommendation.

The Bowtex Elite V2 features several key improvements that enhance comfort, durability, and functionality. It now includes an adjustable drawstring waistband, allowing riders to fine-tune the fit for greater comfort and long-term wear. Aesthetically, the V2 adds reflective Bowtex logos and branded zipper pullers for improved visibility and a more refined look. A practical side pocket has also been added for extra convenience. The Elite V2 retains its full Dyneema® construction, offering 360-degree abrasion resistance and maintaining its CE AAA safety certification—the highest available for motorcycle clothing. It continues to feature SAS-TEC Level 2 protectors at key impact zones, ensuring advanced protection. These upgrades make the Bowtex Elite V2 more rider-friendly while upholding the highest standards of safety and performance.

The Bowtex Optimal and Essential Ultralight are both CE AA-rated protective base layers, but they cater to different riding needs. The Optimal is constructed from ultra-stretchy UHMWPE fabric, offering a balance between comfort and safety for all riders. It incorporates SAS-TEC Level 1 protectors at the shoulders and elbows, with the option to upgrade with a back protector. The Optimal is designed to be lightweight and breathable, making it suitable for everyday use and layering under any outerwear. On the other hand, the Essential Ultralight is made from a Dyneema®/Spandex monolayer, providing a skin-hugging feeling of protection and comfort. It's ultra-lightweight, ultra-stretchy, and easily packable, making it ideal for riders seeking maximum flexibility and minimal bulk. The Essential Ultralight includes SAS-TEC Tripleflex Level 1 knee and hip protectors and features reinforced flat lock seams all around. Its thermo-conductive Dyneema® fibers help keep riders cool and comfortable on long rides in various weather conditions. In summary, choose the Optimal for a balanced, everyday protective layer with optional upgrades, and the Essential Ultralight for a minimalist, high-flexibility base layer that excels in comfort and packability.

The best way to describe how to care for your Bowtex gear is to treat like a delicate sweater
Washing: Hand wash or machine wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle. Avoid high spinning speed.
Drying: Air dry; avoid tumble drying.
Armor: Remove all armor inserts before washing.

Bowtex products are proudly made in Portugal using components sourced exclusively from Western European suppliers, ensuring exceptional craftsmanship, strict quality control, and ethical production standards.

Yes, the Bowtex Elite Shirt is compatible with most airbag vests. You can wear the vest either over or under the shirt. If you choose to wear the airbag vest under the Elite Shirt, we recommend sizing up one size to ensure proper fit and unrestricted airbag deployment. Wearing the vest over the shirt is often more practical and maintains optimal protection without the need to adjust sizing.

Shipping Policy

At Bowtex®, we strive to ensure your order gets to you quickly, safely, and with full transparency.

Shipping & Processing Times

All parcels are shipped within 24 hours from our headquarters locations (excluding weekends and holidays). Once your parcel is picked up by UPS, our trusted shipping partner, you’ll receive a shipment notification email with tracking information.

Estimated Delivery Times

European Union: 2–3 business days

United States & Canada: 4–5 business days

Other Countries: Please contact us at team@bowtex.store for specific delivery estimates.

Shipping Costs

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your location and order weight.

Free shipping is automatically applied to all orders over €150.

Missed Deliveries
If a parcel cannot be delivered to your address, it will be redirected to the nearest UPS pick-up location, and you will be notified via email with further instructions.

Shipping Destinations

If your country is not listed in the available shipping options during checkout, feel free to reach out to us at team@bowtex.store—we’ll do our best to accommodate your request

When your order is prepared and ready for pickup, UPS will send you a separate email containing an estimated delivery date along with tracking options. You’ll be able to follow your parcel's progress in real time and choose to receive updates at every step of the journey.

If you live outside of Europe, you may be required to pay additional customs duties, taxes, or import fees depending on your country’s regulations. These charges are not included in your purchase and are the customer’s responsibility. We strongly recommend checking with your local customs office or tax authority before placing your order to avoid any surprises.

For customers in the United States and Canada, $ prices now include shipping and duty. Items are shipped from Europe using the DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) method.

We have a 14-day return policy, which means you have 14 days after receiving your item to request a return.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.

To start a return/echange process, you can contact us at team@bowtex.store.

If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a UPS return shipping label and you'll need to bring the parcel to a UPS pick up location found here : https://www.ups.com/dropoff?loc=en_BE

You can always contact us for any return question at team@bowtex.store and we'll do our best to help you out?

Damages and issues:
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.

Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.


Sale items
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.

Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, we'll prepare the new item and ship it out to you.

European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.

Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at team@bowtex.store.

At Bowtex, we genuinely care about our customers and want you to get the best possible experience and long-term value from your gear. If something goes wrong, we're here to help.

All Bowtex products come with a 2-year legal warranty, but we go beyond that by doing our best to assist with any repair or service needs. If a product develops a fault, we will either repair it at our factory or, if a repair isn’t possible, replace it with a new item.

To start a warranty or repair process, simply email us at team@bowtex.store with a description of the issue. Our team will get back to you within 24 hours to guide you through the next steps. Your satisfaction and safety are our top priorities.