More than a daredevil, Evel Knievel combined athletic ability and showmanship to reach worldwide fame and popularity. Making his motorcycle soar over rows of vehicles was far more dangerous than previous motorcycle stunts and required greater skill. Television carried his visually stunning, suspenseful performances to audiences everywhere. For his costumes, Knievel chose custom-made jumpsuits with patriotic designs and white leather to contrast with black leather jackets. He always wore a helmet for safety. Knievel’s jumping career lasted from 1965 to 1976; he wore this jumpsuit at the height of his career in the early 1970s.
