The striking Dainese logo immediately catches attention with its bold and devilish motif. Many wonder, “Is that a red devil?” The simple answer is “Yes,” but there’s much more to the story.

Meaning and Origins

Dainese was founded in 1968 by a young Lino Dainese during a Vespa trip to London. Inspired by his journey, Lino decided to create high-quality protective gear for motorcyclists. By 1971, the first sketches of the brand's emblem emerged. These early versions featured a more detailed and explicit representation of a devil, often incorporating elements like a wheel. This design symbolized speed, dynamism, and rebellion—key traits for motorbike enthusiasts.

Evolution of the Logo

The modern Dainese logo is a more minimalist and refined take on the original "speed demon" concept. Unlike its detailed predecessors, which included full devil figures or intricate heads, today’s logo simplifies the idea into a sleek and abstract devil’s face. While the new design feels less provocative, it still evokes the bold spirit of the brand. However, even this subtle version has occasionally faced rejection due to its diabolical associations.

“Devil” Inspirations Beyond the Logo

The devilish theme extends beyond the logo to many of Dainese’s products. A notable example is the Dainese Settantadue (Dainese72 in the US), a retro-inspired collection launched in recent years. This line includes gear featuring unique symbols like the Demon Flower, designed by New York artist Othelo Gervacio.

The Demon Flower

The Demon Flower takes inspiration from the exotic Tacca Chantrieri, or the "black bat flower," a plant native to Asia with a strikingly dark and unique appearance. This creative homage underscores Dainese's commitment to blending artistry with functionality while maintaining its rebellious edge.

From its origins to its modern interpretations, the Dainese logo and its devilish theme remain a powerful representation of speed, protection, and bold individuality.