Evo-X Racing buys the SKeeD protective undergarments brand
After 10 years as distributor for the French market, Evo-X Racing has acquired the SKeeD brand of FFM, FIM, FIM and SFI endorsed protective sport underclothing.
Based near Lyon, SKeeD products are an intermediate layer worn by motorcycle racers and sports riders to protect against any material likely to melt during a high-speed skid, such as a synthetic lining. It also helps limit leather-to-skin heat transfer due to its insulating properties and thus limits the risk of burning.
SKeeD clothing is especially designed for two-wheeler driving. It is made from French manufactured Kermel fibre, which is used to equip elite forces all over the world, such as firefighters or military aviators. It is a unique fibre, boasting extraordinary properties - a high-technology fibre that is intrinsically non-flammable and melt-resistant. "Its qualities also include exceptional comfort and thermal protection, as well as effective moisture management," says Evo-X Racing and new SKeeD owner Sébastien Aubry.
"The deal was sealed with former owner Sébastien Jarrot at the 2024 Salon du Deux Roues in Lyon and new partnerships with French and European teams and dealers are already being established.
"With our ten years of experience in the distribution of the SKeeD brand in France, we have decided to integrate SkeeD into the Evo-X family, thus demonstrating our continuity to offer high-quality and innovative products, faithful to the DNA of Evo-X Racing."
Developed by former French pharmaceutical giant Rhône-Poulenc, the qualities of Kermel are remarkable - remaining unchanged regardless of the weather and the number of washes. It is not a flame retardant applied to the mesh, but instead its qualities are characteristics that are integral and specific to the fibre itself and from the design of the garments it is used for.
Kermel fibre is a polyamide-imide fibre and is a member of the meta-aramid family. A polyamide-imide polymer is a molecular structure, which is naturally thermostable and fireproof, which means that its temperature does not change, that it is inflammable and that it is heat-resistant.
It can be used constantly in average temperatures of 200 °C. It doesn't start to change until it exceeds 400 °C and even offers maximum protection for a few seconds against very high temperatures (up to 1,000 °C).
The fibre's thermo-stability properties mean it offers great thermal insulation. The fibre does not change temperature in external conditions or on contact with the body, which means body temperature is balanced. As the fibre is unchangeable, its structure does not change under the effect of a liquid. It is therefore non-absorbent, does not retain moisture and dries quickly in the open air.
In terms of undergarment manufacture, Kermel fibre has a smooth surface and is similar to wearing cotton, which gives it a soft, silky touch. It has great flexibility and resistance, which makes it a highly stretchable material.
