Whether you do it casually or professionally, motorcycle riding is definitely an enjoyable, adventurous, and fun activity. However, motorcycle riding also comes with various hazards and risks such as burns and accidents. Therefore, it’s important to invest in the right riding gear if you want to have a safe and enjoyable riding experience. You need to have an armored jacket, riding gloves, the right helmet and the most important of all – a reliable pair of biking boots. The best motorcycle boots will protect your feet from unexpected and unwanted hazards, while also feeling snug.
Your boots need to be comfortable enough, to make sure that you don’t experience any discomfort during your ride. However, comfort and protection are not the only factors to consider. You also need to choose a pair of biking boots, which will complement your style. But with thousands of options on the market, we know that choosing the right pair of boots can be a time-consuming and overwhelming process. Fortunately, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We have identified and reviewed the best motorcycle boots. So, take your time to go through this awesome list and choose a pair of boots that align with your style and personal preferences. We’ve also created a detailed motorcycle boots buying guide, which will help you to make an informed buying decision.
Top 5 Best Motorcycle Boots For Men
Rank | Product Image | Brand Name | Link |
---|---|---|---|
1. | |||
2. | |||
3. | |||
4. | |||
5. |
1. Harley-Davidson Men's Scout
- Moto-inspired boot featuring three-strap harness with metallic hardware ring and logo applique on shaft
- Instep zipper
Are you looking for premium quality, comfortable and stylish motorcycle riding boots? If so, then you should check out the Harley-Davidson Scout. These classic motorcycle boots fit well and look great. Wherever your riding adventures take you, these boots will protect your feet, and ensure you remain comfortable throughout your adventures. Durability is one of their key strengths. They are made of 100%, high-quality leather. Combine with their solid construction, you can rest assured that these boots will serve you for many decades.
Inside, they feature a full-length cushioned sock lining, featuring a breathable mesh surface. If you are looking for motorcycle boots for plantar fasciitis, diabetes, or painful knees, the Harley-Davidson Scout is a solid choice. Their durable rubber outsole is slip, oil, and abrasion-resistant. On the other hand, the sturdy YKK zip ensures comfortable and secure fastening while the tough, mid-calf shaft will protect your lower legs and ankles as you cruise on the highway.
These motorcycle boots for beginners feature a round toe, designed to give your toes enough room for wiggle. Slipping them on and off is easy, thanks to the side zipper while the metal Harley-Davidson logo on the shaft gives them a unique look and distinguishes them from other similar boots. They also come with a harness element on the ankle, designed to enhance their style and aesthetic appeal. Unlike other boots, these feature Goodyear welted construction, which is renowned for maximum durability as well as unmatched reliability. Whenever you step out with these boots, you can expect nothing less than the best of comfort, reliability, durability, and security.
2. Harley-Davidson Men's Brake Light
- Oil, slip, and abrasion resistant
- Full length cushion sock lining
- Goodyear welt construction
- Re-soleable
Harley-Davidson is a renowned brand in the motorcycle industry. In fact, it’s possibly one of the most popular bike brands in the world today. If you are a Harley rider, then you will need a pair of boots that will protect your feet, while helping you to complete the classic Harley-Davidson look. And even if you are not riding a Harley-Davidson, you can still show your love for this iconic American brand by rocking these motorcycle boots.
The Harley-Davidson Brake Light is designed to protect your feet against the elements while ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the day. In short, they strike a nice blend of performance, comfort, and style – a blend that is not easy to come across. Their upper is made of 100% premium-quality leather to ensure top-notch protection. Similar to other boots from this brand, the Brake Light is equipped with a full-length short-cushioned lining, for optimal comfort.
Their shaft rises 6.25 inches from the arch, a design that helps to protect your ankles and lower legs from debris and harsh elements. As for the outsole, it’s oil, abrasion, and slip-resistant. Wherever your riding adventures lead you, you don’t have to worry about slipping or sliding hazards, as long as you are wearing these motorcycle boots for men. Slipping them on and off is fast and easy, thanks to the two front zippers. Metal tabs on the heel, toe, and shaft, combined with the silver logo on the sides give them a rugged look while the rounded toe ensures your toes have enough room for wiggle.
3. Dingo Men's Chopper Harness
- Harness boot with decorative silver-tone hardware
- Comfort cushion insole
- Oil resistant outsole
Whether you are just hanging out with your friends or you are riding a bike, you will love wearing the Dingo Chopper Harness. These are suitable motorcycle boots for walking around when you're not riding. They are engineered for utmost comfort and unmatched durability. Their versatility is one of the reasons why most bikers opt for these boots. And you can rest assured that you will fall in love with them, immediately you slip your foot inside the first time. Their sole is sturdy but flexible, their leather is sturdy but pliable and their style is timeless. And unlike other bike riding boots, these don’t require any break-in period, since they are ready to wear straight out of the box.
They come with an upper made of high-quality, sturdy leather, for long-term performance and durability. Their shaft rises approximately 12 inches from the arch, to ensure your feet have adequate protection against the elements. These motorcycle boots for large and wide calves, come with a boot opening of approximately 13 inches all around. Apart from the large shaft opening, they are further equipped with two pull-on tabs on the sides. When it’s time to slip them on and off, you will not encounter any challenges.
If you are looking for motorcycle boots for plantar fasciitis, then the Dingo Chopper Harness should be on top of your list. Featuring a comfort cushion insole, your feet will love every minute spent wearing these boots. And on top of their durability and comfort, these boots are also aesthetically appealing. Apart from the eagle harness strap on the ankle, they also feature several metallic pieces, for that stylish look.
4. AdTec Men's 11" Harness
- MOTORCYCLE LIFE: Ride in style with this classic motorcycle boot Shoes; Whether you are riding your hog across country or just taking it for a joy ride, the best choice in riding boots is adtec; These attractive and classy western fashion Men boots will always be in style
- RIDING NECESSARY: Riding Horse or Motorcycle, Safety is compulsory; AdTec motocross Mens riding Black boots provide you maximum safety for you feet; Non slip rubber outsole save your feet from high impact coming from road while you are riding
- QUALITY DESIGN: Designed with a full-length comfort lining, waterproof, heavy duty grain leather, Goodyear Welt Construction, O-ring ankle harness strap and cushioned insole for your trendy looks; Superior weather resistant design at an affordable price
- EASY ON OFF WITH PROTECTION: No more nagging with lace up Trouble; Just pull up and down to fixed it and save your time without any hesitation; It will be suitable for a running person; Square soft toe secure your toe protection
- COMFORTABLE AND LONG WEARING: Short break in period; Comfortable and high quality cushioned insole, oil-resistant rubber outsoles provides you rugged durability for soft and comfortable ride or walk
The AdTec 11-inch Harness is a full-grain leather motorcycle riding boot for men, featuring a rugged construction, a comfortable interior, and a stylish look. These boots are perfect for various activities. If you are looking for motorcycle boots for adventure touring, or you are simply looking for something you can wear during your casual rides, then you can never go wrong with this model. From cruisers to dirt bikes, these boots can handle almost any condition that you put them through.
Featuring 100% full-grain leather, a sturdy rubber outsole, and an 11-inch arch these boots are a solid as they look. Apart from protecting your feet against the elements, these boots are also exceptionally comfortable. The comfort cushion insole ensures your feet remain comfortable the entire day while the two pull-on tabs on the sides provide an easy on and off. And if it happens to rain when you are cruising with your bike, these boots will ensure your feet remain firmly on the pedals, thanks to their slip-resistant outsole. These are very suitable motorcycle boots for diabetics, because also feature a square toe, which provides ample wiggle room for your toes. Whether you ride daily or you are an occasional rider, these boots are perfect for your needs. They are classy looking, well made, stylish and comfortable.
5. Polar Fox Wyatt Men's MPX608005
- SUGGESTED FIT: 1/2 Small Than Your Current Shoe Size / Please Reference Our Size Chart for Details.
- SPECIFICATIONS: Made With Top Tier Hand Crafted Durable Synthetic Leather For Extra Comfort, Water Resistance and Breathability. For Durability, We Have Incorporated 2 Heavy Duty Adjustable Metal Buckles and Zipper.
- CRAFTED FOR COMFORT: Our Padded Interior, Double-Stitched Exterior and Rubber Soles Provide Flexibility, Comfort, Impact/Slip Resistance and Traction With Every Step You Take. Making The Wyatt Boot Ideal For Any Riding Conditions, Work or Rugged Outdoor Environment. Our Boots work Hard So You Don’t Have to!
- ANKLE SUPPORT: Our Boot Is Designed To Protect and Stabilize Your Mid Range Ankle Area From Many Activities, Offering You 2 Adjustable Buckles As Tightening Mechanisms For Complete and Reliable Support. We Have Also Incorporated a Heel Tab and Heavy Duty Zipper to Not Only Prevent Boot Folds During Entry but To Create A Stress-Free On/Off Motion, Making This The Perfect Boot for Any Man On The Go.
- WARRANTY & CARE: Reliable Customer Service Is Our #1 Priority. Here at Conal International, We Readily Offer a 30-Day Money Back Guaranteed and 90-Day Limited Manufacturer’s Warranty. Which Covers (Manufacturing & Material Defects). For Maximum Usage, We Suggest That You Hand Wash and Lay Flat To Air Dry. Our products are NOT Washer/Dryer Safe.
If you are looking for motorcycle boots for hiking, walking, or commuting, then you should check out the Polar Fox Wyatt. Made of 100% vegan materials, these versatile boots are perfect for almost anything that you might have in mind. They are designed to provide a smooth transition from work to riding and vice versa. The upper features hand-crafted synthetic leather, which has been specifically engineered to deliver superior comfort levels and top-notch breathability. Also, their upper is water-resistant, making them perfect for different weather conditions.
Featuring a double-stitched exterior and a padded interior, you are guaranteed exceptional comfort whenever you are wearing these shoes. On the other hand, the sturdy rubber outsole supplies slip resistance, flexibility and additional protection. Apart from their excellent comfort and protection, these motorcycle boots for everyday use are also designed to stabilize and protect your ankles.
They are further equipped with 2-adjustable buckles, which provide a secure and custom fit while a side zipper and a rear pull-on tab provide an easy on and off. You will also notice they are significantly lighter than other boots on the market. And they are so stylish that everyone you come across, will be asking you where you got them. If you are always moving from one place to the other, then these boots are perfect for your busy lifestyle.
Top 5 Best Motorcycle Boots For Women
Rank | Product Image | Brand Name | Link |
---|---|---|---|
1. | |||
2. | |||
3. | |||
4. | |||
5. |
1. Harley-Davidson Women's Tegan
- You don't have to be on your bike to show your love for Harley-Davidson. Incorporate your passion into your everyday wardrobe with these great boots
- Full-grain leather upper with harness and buckle detail
- Lace-up closure with side zipper provides the perfect fit
- Full-length cushioned sock lining offers lasting comfort
- Lightweight rubber outsole and heel. Durable cement construction. Measurements: Heel Height: 1 1⁄2 in Weight: 1 pound 2 ounce Circumference: 10 1⁄2 in Shaft: 4 1⁄2 in Product measurements were taken using size 6, width B - Medium. Please note that measurements may vary by size
Are you looking for a good pair of boots that you can wear every day whether you are riding your bike or not? If so, then you should check out the Harley-Davidson Tegan. Super stylish and cute, these boots are so versatile that they can complement almost any style. Also, you will get compliments wherever you go, wearing these boots. And with their sturdy construction, these high-quality boots will protect your feet against harsh conditions or situations, for many decades.
Produced by a renowned global shoe manufacturer, the Harley-Davidson Tegan features a full-grain leather upper, with buckle and harness detailing. The full lace-up closure, the side zipper, and the rear pull-on tab are designed to save you time and energy when it’s time to wear or remove your boots. When it comes to comfort, these motorcycle boots for bunions, bad knees and plantar fasciitis are a cut above the rest. A cushioned sock lining ensures that your feet remain dry, warm and comfortable at all times while the roomy forefoot area provides plenty of space for your toes to wiggle. Also, they don’t require any break-in period.
These boots are also equipped with numerous protective features, to ensure your feet remain safe, regardless of the conditions. Some of the safety features include a padded shaft opening, a reinforced toe, and a sturdy, thick sole. As mentioned above, the Harley-Davidson Tegan is one of the best motorcycle boots for women that you can find on the market today. They will provide superior protection and comfort even after many years of use. Apart from that, you can wear them when you are running errands in the city, around the house or even when you are attending an elegant occasion. And they will always look great when you wear them with almost any piece of clothing in your wardrobe.
2. Harley-Davidson Women's EDA-W
- Made with the best full grain leather uppers available, a full-length soft cushioned sock lining, and industry's best YKK locking inside zippers for ease of putting on and taking off
- Designed with metal eyelets, side straps riveted to an O'Ring, fashionable O'Rings at top, with a Harley Bar & Shield silhouette on the side
- Lightweight outsoles and heels provide a nice flexibility and good traction for comfortable standing, walking, or riding
- The boot's sole, insole and upper are bound using state-of-the-art cement construction methods, giving superior flexibility for fatigue-free wear
- Shaft height: 9", Heel height: 1.5"
Harley-Davidson is famous for producing stylish and well-engineered motorcycles. But apart from motorcycles, they also manufacture a wide range of boots, such as the Harley-Davidson women’s EDA. These biking boots are so stylish and versatile that they can complement almost any style. Besides that, they are tough and sturdy, making them perfect for almost any outdoor activity.
High-quality motorcycle jackets and gloves are made of full-grain, top-quality leather. And considering these motorcycle boots for diabetics are made of the same material, you can expect nothing less than exceptional performance, durability, and comfort. Full-grain leather is flexible and pliant. It will keep your feet comfortable, even in wet weather. It’s also durable, resilient and easy to clean. Therefore, when you purchase these boots, you will enjoy these benefits, and even more.
A Harley-Davidson logo and several metal pieces give these boots a stylish and cool look. A locking YKK inside zipper provides an easy means of putting them on and off, while the 10-inch shaft ensures your legs have adequate protection. The upper, the insole and the outsole are bound together using the cutting-edge cement construction for sublime strength and durability. These women’s motorcycle boots for commuting also come with a conventional lace-up closure, which you can adjust to obtain a custom fit. A full-length, internal sock liner provides round-the-clock comfort while acting as a shock absorber. On the other hand, the rubber outsoles supply traction and additional protection. Whether you are riding your bike, hiking, or simply going on about your day, you can trust these boots to protect and keep your feet comfortable.
3. Harley-Davidson Women's Inman Mills
- Ankle-high moto boot in full-grain leather featuring lace-up vamp with logo lace charm and dual side zippers for easy entry
- Breathable mesh lining
- Lightweight outsole and block heel
If you dream of going for biking trips and capturing picturesque footages while the cool, wind blows through your hair, then you need the right shoes for such touring adventures. And while there are numerous options out there, only a few come close to the Harley-Davidson Inman Mills, when it comes to performance, comfort and protection. Made of full-grain, high-quality leather, these biking boots for adventure touring will ensure your trips are as enjoyable as they should while leaving you with great, unforgettable memories.
Unlike other motorcycle boots for women, these don’t require any break-in period. Once your pair arrives, you will experience instant comfort. Their shaft measures approximately 5 inches from the arch, for adequate ample protection. If you are looking for biker boots for hot weather, then these should be perfect for you. Their low-cut shaft, combined with a breathable mesh lining, allow hot air to escape from inside the shoes, leaving your feet feeling cool and fresh.
Two front zippers, together with a rear pull-on tab provide easy entry and removal, while the lugged synthetic sole supplies traction. They come with ample interior cushioning, as well as a spacious toe box, making them perfect motorcycle boots for bunions, plantar fasciitis, and other foot conditions. And thanks to their spacious interior, you can use custom orthotics or wear them with thick socks, without affecting their fit. The logos on the side and front, give them a rugged and stylish look.
4. Harley-Davidson Women's Alexa Boot
- Oil, slip, and abrasion resistant
- Full length cushion sock lining
- Goodyear welt construction
- Re-soleable
- YKK locking inside zipper
If you are on the market for a new pair of motorcycle boots for women, then the Harley-Davidson Alexa Boot is just what you need. They are stylish, comfortable, and well-made. Whether you are hiking, walking, or biking in the countryside, these boots will keep your feet warm, toasty, comfortable, and safe.
Similar to other motorcycle boots from this manufacturer, the Alexa Boot is made of from superior, high-quality materials. The entire upper features full-grain leather while they have been put together using the Goodyear Welt construction method, meaning they are re-soleable. If you are tired of buying motorcycle boots that only last a few months, then it’s time to invest in these boots. They are designed and built to last a lifetime.
The Harley-Davidson Alexa Boot comes with a shaft that rises approximately 13.5 inches from the arch. Therefore, regardless of the conditions that you encounter during your biking trips, these boots will protect your legs with adequate protection. Harley-Davidson has also furnished them with a full-length sock lining, which helps to keep their interior odor-free, sweat-free and comfortable. If you are looking for a pair of motorcycle boots you can wear all day, then you don’t have to go any further.
Harley-Davidson has also equipped them with a sturdy rubber outsole, which is oil-resistant, slip-resistant, and abrasion-resistant. Whether you encounter mud, rain, or snow, you don’t have to worry about slipping, sliding or losing your footing when you have these boots on. Whether you are planning to hit the Trail Ridge Road this weekend or you plan to do some urban trips in the streets of Portland, these motorcycle boots for wide feet are just what you need for all your biking adventures.
5. Harley-Davidson Women's Jocelyn
- Premium full grain leather | Locking YKK inside zipper | Full length cushion sock lining | Lightweight outsole and heel | Metal harness ring
The Harley-Davidson Jocelyn is a pair of motorcycle boots for women, which delivers exceptional protection, comfort, and unmatched durability. Just like other Harley-Davidson boots, the Jocelyn is made of full-grain, top-quality leather. With such sturdy and solid construction, you are assured of reliable protection and performance, whether you are riding during winter or summer.
Their excellent versatility makes them ideal motorbiking boots for everyday use. You can use them for commuting, fetching groceries from the store, strolling around the neighborhood or attending casual events with your friends. And regardless of where or how you are using them, these boots will never let you down. They are equipped with a locking YKK inside zipper, designed for easy on and off. A metal harness ring and a Harley-Davidson logo on the side give them a trendy, stylish look.
If you are looking for women’s motorcycle boots for plantar fasciitis, bunions, Morton’s neuroma or painful knees, then these boots from Harley-Davidson are just what you need. They come with a full-length sock lining, which supplies comfort and shock absorption round the clock. And thanks to their roomy interior, you can use custom orthotics, for additional support and comfort.
Motorcycle Boots Buying Guide
The importance of wearing the right boots for motorcycling cannot be overemphasized. As noted earlier, motorcycle boots will protect you from burns and elements and while reducing the extent of injuries after an accident. Therefore, the boots you choose should offer a great combination of control and protection, without sacrificing comfort and style.
Benefits of Motorcycle Boots
As much as motorcycle riding is fun and adventurous, it also presents various risks. As a rider, you might be tempted to wear your ordinary sneakers or even sandals, in an attempt to look cool and stylish. Unfortunately, every rider on the road is highly vulnerable, especially when you bring in other road users such as trucks. The best motorcycle boots might be expensive, but the benefits you will get, outweigh the costs by far. Here are some benefits of wearing dedicated motorbiking boots:
Impact Protection
Whenever you are riding a bike, various parts of your leg and feet are exposed. Such exposed parts are vulnerable to serious injuries if you were to get an accident. It’s highly advisable to choose motorcycle boots that come with some sort of reinforcement such as steel or plastic. Also, boots with a high shaft tend to provide better protection as opposed to those with a low-cut shaft.
Foot and Ankle Support
When you bring your motorbike to a stop, your legs have to balance both your weight as well as the weight of the bike. Therefore, you need adequate ankle and foot support, so that you can do this safely. Also, in the event of an accident, your feet might be subject to unexpected contouring and twisting. And this is where motorcycle boots come in. A high-quality, well-made pair of motorcycle boots will ensure your ankles and feet have adequate protection and support. If you were wearing a pair of tennis sneakers, running shoes or ordinary shoes, they will not provide that amount of support and protection. In fact, ordinary shoes might even slip off, thus exposing your feet further.
Weatherproofing
As noted earlier, your feet are normally exposed to various elements, whenever you are riding. If you will be riding in a hot and dry area, then it’s highly advisable to choose highly breathable boots. On the other hand, if you are expecting wet conditions, then you should opt for waterproof motorcycle boots. If your feet are comfortable, then you will enjoy the trip and even ride longer.
Grip and Traction
Whenever you lose control on a motorbike or when it’s time to bring it to a stop, there is a high chance you will stick your feet out, to give yourself better balance. Also, when you are mounting or dismounting, you will have to rely on your legs at some point. Ordinary shoes might not have the right amount of traction for such situations. Besides, they are not built for such activities. Motorcycle boots are equipped with solid traction, which will give you a firm grip on the road, whether it’s wet, dry, loose or slippery.
Without a doubt, it’s important to ensure that you are wearing boots that are specifically designed to motorcycling, whenever you are riding your bike. They will protect you from the various hazards that you might encounter when you are enjoying your riding adventure. And the good news is that motorcycle boots are available at different price points. Therefore, it’s not hard to find one that suits your specific needs and budget.
Different Types of Boots
Some people simply hop onto their wheels while wearing a pair of boots they've already got lying around, and which happen to be a very good fit for the activity of cruising the freeway, such as hiking boots or police boots. But if you don't happen to have a good pair of boots suitable for the job of being the coolest speed demon on the road, then you'll have to make an effort to find the best pair for you.
Different motorcycle boots on the market are designed for different riding activities. It’s therefore important to choose a model that suits your specific activity. Some of the most popular motorbiking boots on the market today include sport touring, MX boots and touring or cruiser boots, racing or track boots, adventure boots, and short boots.
Cruiser Boots
Also known as touring boots, these popular biking boots feature a casual style and appearance. Most motorcycle boots for cruisers are made of leather, with mid-height shaft. Some are pull-on boots while others come with a side zip entry. You might also come across some cruiser boots that have laces. Their ankle harness is almost similar to the one you will find on engineer boots. However, the ankle strap or harness is not adjustable, as is the case with engineer boots. Also, cruiser boots have a squared toe while engineers boots feature a rounded toe. The majority of the cruiser boots being sold today are made of full-grain leather. The sturdy leather construction protects your feet from the heat emitted by the bike’s engine as well as other harmful elements. Most come with a slightly raised heel, with an outsole made of rubber. The ankle, the heel, and the toe might be slightly reinforced for extra protection.
Motocross or MX Boots
Off-road and motocross riding calls for a different set of gear, and the same applies to motorbiking boots. When it comes to off-road riding, you will encounter plenty of terrain changes. Consequently, your motorcycle boots should be highly durable and stiff. Also, they need to be form-fitting, to minimize unnecessary movements. Motocross boots are in frequent contact with the ground, objects, and the bike more often, compared to other types of boots. To take care of such issues, you will notice that most of them are usually made of metal, plastics, leather as well as other composite materials, to ensure maximum protection and long-term performance. They are also equipped with several buckles and straps, to ensure their opening remains shut, regardless of the conditions that you encounter when riding. Apart from being form-fitting, MX boots also come with a high shaft, usually covering the calves. The added leather panels on the sides, combined with the high shaft protect the rider against heat emitted by the bike’s exhaust pipe. Due to all the added protective components, MX boots are quite heavy, and it’s almost impossible to walk with them for long distances. It’s like trying to walk around wearing ski boots. Most of the boots in this class are not waterproof but you might come across some few Gore-Tex models.
Sport Touring Boots
Boots in this class are designed for maximum comfort, flexibility, and protection. Most are made of leather, with added plastic and metal pieces for additional protection. Comfort is usually their forte since they are meant for long-distance travels and commuting. Also, they are breathable and waterproof to handle various conditions that you might come across during your daily commute or ride. If you are looking for boots that are good for walking, then you should get yourself a pair of sport touring boots.
Short Boots
Some riding enthusiasts prefer wearing shorter boots, instead of the conventional high-cut boots. If you fall in that category, then short boots are perfect for you. These boots tend to strike a balance between comfort and protection. Their shaft covers up to the ankles, providing necessary protection and support. However, they are not as protective as high-cut boots. Some have laces while others feature buckle closures or zips. Waterproof options are also available. Short biking have a casual, athletic look, making them ideal for urban riding or commuting.
Racing or Track Boots
Motorcycle racing presents more risks and challenges compared to ordinary street riding, commuting or urban riding. Due to these risks, racing boots should offer a higher level of support and protection. Motorcycle boots in this category are extremely armored, exceptionally durable and highly reinforced. Most are made of a combination of various materials, including heavy leather, metal, plastics, and composite elements, among others. Due to their high level of reinforcement, racing boots tend to be quite rigid. Therefore, they are not comfortable to walk with off the bike. All the high impact areas such as the sheen, Achilles, ankle, and heel, are reinforced with plastic armor. Some racing boots feature a full-length bootie on the inside, for extra stability.
Adventure or Dual-Sport Boots
These boots are more of a cross between a sport-touring boot and a motocross boot. They are aggressive, technical, rugged and highly versatile. Some models tend to lean more towards sport touring boots while others tend to borrow heavily from motocross boots. You can wear these boots off the bike.
Main Features
Motorcycle boots are designed to offer a combination of control, flexibility, and protection, without sacrificing comfort. As much as they might be more expensive than your ordinary pair of shoes, the benefits they offer are worth the cost. When it’s time to purchase boots for riding your bike, you will come across various styles and material combinations. Here are some of the main factors to consider when buying biking boots.
Type of Bike Riding
As noted earlier, motorcycle boots fall under different categories. Therefore, you first need to determine your type of riding to ensure you buy a type that aligns best with your situation. For instance, if you are a dirt rider, then you should look for boots that offer a great combination of rigidity and protection. On the other hand, if you are a casual rider, an urban rider or you are simply looking for commuting boots, then you can choose a pair of stylish, ordinary bike riding boots. And if you are a touring enthusiast, then you should go for a pair of boots that provide comfort, breathability, and adequate protection.
Construction and Materials
The construction and materials used, will determine how long your boots will last. One of the most common issues facing motorcycle boots is that their outsole tends to separate from the rest of the unit. And if that happens when you are in the middle of a ride, then you will be exposing yourself to various risks. It’s highly advisable to go for boots that feature Goodyear welt construction.
Fit
Whenever you are purchasing boots, you need to ensure that you purchase the right fit and size. Ill-fitting shoes will leave you with blisters, hotspots and other forms of discomfort. Also, it's not advisable to ride with a pair of ill-fitting boots, regardless of the distance you intend to cover. If you are purchasing boots online, make sure you check the manufacturer’s or seller’s sizing guidelines. You also need to consider the type of socks that you will be wearing with those shoes. Once your boots arrive, make sure you try them out with the socks you intend to ride in. Some boots will require a break-in period while others are ready to wear straight out of the box.
Shaft Height
Motorcycle boots are available in different shaft sizes. For instance, shorts boots, that come with a shaft that barely covers the ankles. Such boots are not recommended for off-road riding or rugged conditions.
Protection and Armor
Protection remains one of the most important factors to look out for when purchasing motorcycle boots. Whether you are an urban rider, a street rider or an off-road rider, you need to ensure that the boots you’ve purchased offer the right level of protection for your type of riding. If you are a racer, then you need to choose a boot that offers maximum protection. On the other hand, if you spend most of your time riding on the streets, then an ankle-length boot might be ideal for your needs. Some specialized motorcycle boots are equipped with additional features such as reinforced toes, plastic plating, as well as heat shields, for additional protection. Also, you need to ensure that the shoes you’ve chosen have adequate traction to prevent slips and slides.
Waterproof and Ventilation
Most motorcycle boots feature sturdy, all-round construction, with a nice blend of comfort and protection. If you will be riding in wet conditions, then you need to choose a pair of waterproof biking boots. Waterproof motorbiking boots will keep your feet dry and warm, even when you encounter wet conditions. On the other hand, if you will be spending most of your time riding in hot conditions, then you should ensure that your biking boots have adequate breathability, to keep your feet fresh and sweat-free. Also, breathable boots will prevent the build-up of unpleasant odors.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a casual or an avid biker, you should always remember that boots are an important part of your riding gear. A good pair of boots will protect you from heat, friction, impact, and various weather elements while making sure that you have a safe and enjoyable ride. Each pair of boots offers different options when it comes to protection, comfort, style, and control, among other features. But at the end of the day, make sure you choose a decent pair of boots, which can protect your feet from almost all the hazards that you might come across during your riding adventures.