Leathers or textiles? It doesn't really matter as long as you wear them.
What's better? Leather is usually a little more durable and may be better for high speed and multiple crashes, but textile in my opinion is warmer in the cold and cooler in the heat. It's really your choice and both will protect you.
I’m not sure what new skin costs but I hear it is painful and never fits right. We’ve got leathers at prices where no one has an excuse not to wear them. Pick your leathers based on the type of riding you will do and buy the best you can afford. Leathers with CE armour are always a good idea as a high sider is quite violent and tends smack your hard parts on other hard things which can damage you. Fit is very important, I’m not sure brand-name is key, just make sure the leather is thick enough - 1.2 mm is a good start. Usually better leather comes with more protection including hip and tail bone. Don’t forget about ventilation, you’ll bake like a potato and probably get the “rot” if you don’t have enough airflow. Two piece leathers are definitely more convenient for street riding but make sure that if you want to ride the track that you have a 360 zipper or the track folks may make you sit out. For Cruiser riders, make sure your arms and butt are covered. Rubbing your butt skin off is just as painfull as your back or front of your legs - wear your chaps for crazy games with your significant other, not for riding protection and while vests look cool, they don't offer much protection.
Remember, it's not always you that causes the fall, if you don't wear protection, you're probably the kind of rider that would pull your goalie in the first period- you can get away with it for a while, but sooner or later, you are going to get scored on!
Have a look at our "all about gear video" on youtube.
