Where does inspiration for new gear styles come from?
Our design director, Kurt Walter, is the mastermind behind Icon. His designs are heavily influenced by what he wanted in motorcycle gear back when there was no Icon and it was either wear a full race suit or a touring jacket. Back then the fashion conscious street rider was out of luck.
Everyone in the Icon office rides and we all contribute to product development. If we see a need for a product, we do our best to fill that need for ourselves, work out all the kinks, and release it to the public. What product has been the biggest hit that you never saw coming?
The Field Armor vest we made to be worn under a jacket. Street specific torso protection changed the game for the most at risk group of motorcyclists—young sportbike riders. It has undoubtedly saved many lives by putting true protection on the previously unprotected. It is the single most important piece of gear Icon has made. Icon is based in rainy Oregon, does that help or hinder product development?
I’ve always felt the rain has made me a better rider. It continually teaches you to think ahead and be prepared for anything. There is a good blend of freeways and backroads here in the city that makes it the perfect place to develop products.
What do you say to riders who don’t think Icon gear will stand up as well as other brands in a wreck?
Take a gander at the ‘Busted and Broken’ section of our Limiter site!
Will there ever be plans to break into the race world?
No, but you can get an Overlord jacket and pant that have 3/4 zip for the track. That’s what the guys in the office do.
What’s your first choice from the garage?
My chopper, ‘Anemic.’ It was a build plan hatched over beers and several employees pitched in to help me build it during an extremely difficult time in my life. It symbolizes all the great things about motorcycling: sportbikes, oily Harley motors, bad ideas, beer and brotherhood.
What is your daily rider?
A 2006 Triumph Speed Triple. The Triple is a great balance of comfort and performance. It’s comfy on the freeway and more than capable in the twisties.
What’s the craziest ride you’ve had?
I don’t think I can answer that question until the statute of limitations runs out!