There is no doubt that Alpinestars is primarily known from its exploits in the motorcycle world, however, in recent years it has seen its involvement in water sports such as surfing and wakeboarding grow. A-stars now produce technical board shorts for water sports fanatics and pro surfers and wakeboarders such as Nathaniel Curran, William Chino Sue-A-Quan and Jeff Weatherall.
Alpinestars was established in 1963 and has grown into a world-leading manufacturer of professional racing products, high-performance apparel, technical footwear and sportswear. Alpinestars understands that the best design and research is achieved under extreme conditions, and its involvement in Formula 1, the World Rally Championship, AMA and World Motocross and MotoGP has led to the creation of advanced technical equipment for racing's top athletes.
A leading force in motorcycling and motorsports product development for over 40 years, Alpinestars first made its mark as a ski and hiking boot company. Alpinestars would later shift its focus to the growing motorcycle market after founder Sante Mazzarolo talked to an enduro rider who told him that he needed a special boot for off-road riding. Alpinestars' first motorcycle boot was introduced in 1965 and it featured several innovations including a steel shin protector and a buckle closure system instead of laces.
Alpinestars focus on racing was the best way to develop and advertise its products, and by working with riders like 5-time World Motocross champion Roger Decoster and 4-time World Motocross champion Heikki Mikkola, Alpinestars quickly became known for its high quality boots and professional image.
After establishing its off-road boots, Alpinestars moved into the motorcycle road racing market in the late 70s. Once again, technical advances such as toe sliders and new levels of protection gained the attention of the best riders, and 3-time Moto GP champion Kenny Roberts showcased Alpinestars' new boots at racetracks around the world.
Alpinestars made its name in the motorcycling industry, but the company also has a rich history in auto racing. Alpinestars' involvement in auto racing began in 1990 and the car racing community has been very receptive to its products. Many drivers recognize the brand from motorcycle racing and they appreciate the company's innovative approach to development and willingness to employ their ideas. Alpinestars' dedication to excellence has gained the respect of top drivers in F1, CART, WRC and Sportscar.
Influential drivers such as Juan Pablo Montoya, Jenson Button, Fernando Alonso and NASCAR Champion Kurt Busch all play an integral role in the continuing development of Alpinestars' racing products.
Developing the best products for the best racers has always been a priority at Alpinestars, and current company President Gabriele Mazzarolo continues to follow this successful philosophy. Legendary road racing riders Kevin Schwantz, Mick Doohan and Alex Criville and motocross legends Bob Hannah, Ricky Johnson and Jeremy McGrath have all won championships with Alpinestars. These elite athletes have all contributed to making Alpinestars' products stand out in the industry.
Today, Alpinestars' products are developed by a large international staff with motorcycling and auto racing backgrounds at the company's laboratories in the United States (Los Angeles) and Europe (Italy). To exceed the needs of racers and consumers around the world, Alpinestars utilizes the latest technology for superior product development.
Alpinestars' product department features an in-house laboratory to test product and material resistance as well as behavior under various conditions. This enables Alpinestars to ensure the highest quality and consistency for all products. Inside the product department, a pattern and materials development team works with 10 cad-cam stations connected to electronic cutting tables. This development