Bottom line: We can all wear whatever we wish when we ride, as long as it complies with local laws.
The least amount of safety gear I will wear on the street is jeans, in addition to a helmet, leather jacket, gloves, and boots. I have been involved in too many incidents both on the street and at the track (should have been killed at least once, possibly twice) to do otherwise. I have always walked away with bruises and at most, a small cut inside mouth from hitting the inside of my helmet. Thank you God.
There have been times during hot summer days when I have been absolutely miserable on the 998R, because of the clothing and the heat radiating from the bike while at a light. When I think about complaining, I remind myself that flying through the air just before impact is not the time to wish I had my boots on, etc.