The is a replica-style design made in memory of Marco Simoncelli, the Italian rider who raced for the San Carlo Honda Gresini team in MotoGP and died after a crash at Sepang in 2011. It is built as a made-to-order riding jacket as well as a tribute for MotoGP fans, and this guide covers who the rider was, what the product page lists and how to choose the fit.
Key Takeaways
- Marco Simoncelli, number 58, won the 250cc world title in 2008 and raced for San Carlo Honda Gresini in MotoGP.
- The jacket is a replica-style design inspired by his 2011 Honda HRC look, not a team product.
- The product page lists 1.2-1.3 mm drum-dyed milled cowhide and describes removable CE Level 2 armor (EN 1621-1:2012).
- A removable spine and back protector, mesh lining and optional perforation are also listed.
Who Was Marco Simoncelli
Marco Simoncelli was born on 20 January 1987 in Cattolica, Italy. He won the 250cc world championship in 2008 on a Gilera, clinching it at Sepang on 19 October, and later moved up to MotoGP with the San Carlo Honda Gresini team on a Honda RC212V, using his number 58. He died on 23 October 2011, aged 24, after a crash at the Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang. His number 58 was retired from all Grand Prix classes on 8 September 2016, only the third number ever retired in the sport (Wikipedia, Marco Simoncelli).
The Jacket and Its Design
The design replicates the red and white Honda HRC livery of his 2011 season, according to the product page. It is a replica of the look, inspired by the rider, and is sold independently of the team and the series. Fans of the rider can find related pieces in the collection, and Honda riders can compare the range.
Leather and Construction
The product page lists 1.2-1.3 mm drum-dyed milled cowhide leather with pre-curved sleeves that follow a riding position, YKK semi-auto-lock coil zippers at the front and cuffs, and stretchable Cordura panels at the sleeves and calves. Cowhide is a common choice for race-style jackets because it resists abrasion.
Protection and Armor
Armor is where a race-style jacket differs from a fashion jacket. The product page describes removable CE Level 2 armor (EN 1621-1:2012) at the shoulders and elbows, plus a removable spine and back protector it calls compatible with EN 1621-2, carbon-reinforced metal shoulder protectors and TPU elbow sliders. Level 2 is the higher of the two EN 1621 impact levels. The armor is removable; follow the care label for cleaning, and check the marking on the protectors. Armor only works when it sits over the joints, so fit in riding position matters as much as the rating.
Comfort, Ventilation and Options
The lining is polyester breathable mesh, with a left-side inner chest pocket. Options include speed hump choices, perforation, removable lining and matching gloves. Riders who want a Honda jacket for road use without race styling can also look at the , and Honda fans can compare the .
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Marco Simoncelli jacket an official Honda product?
No. It is a replica-style jacket inspired by Marco Simoncelli and his 2011 Honda look, made to order and sold independently of Honda, the team and the series. The rider and team names describe what the design is inspired by and do not indicate endorsement.
What armor does the jacket list?
The product page describes removable CE Level 2 armor (EN 1621-1:2012) at the shoulders and elbows and a removable spine and back protector it calls compatible with EN 1621-2; check the marking on the protectors. EN 1621 is the standard for motorcycle impact protectors. Protection also depends on the jacket fitting so the armor stays over the joints.
Can the jacket be ordered with perforation?
Yes. The product page lists perforation among the customization options, along with speed hump choices, removable lining and matching gloves. Perforation increases airflow in warm weather, while a closed leather jacket suits cooler riding, so the choice depends on the climate and the riding season the jacket will mostly be used in.
Why does the number 58 matter to MotoGP fans?
Number 58 was Marco Simoncelli's racing number. It was retired from all Grand Prix classes on 8 September 2016, only the third number ever retired in Grand Prix racing, which is why the number remains closely tied to his memory.
Written by the Leather Collection Editorial Team.






