I never really thought about buying motorcycle boots until I saw that F9 video on beginner gear. As it turns out, lower limb injuries account for around 47% of injuries in motorcycle crashes.
Since then, I’ve upgraded to a tall pair of riding boots that fit my riding style perfectly.
But that’s not to say there was some trial and error.
This article will help you choose the right motorcycle boots for yourself, along with some tips and steps you can take along the way.
And if you’re still looking for gear, check out this article on the essential motorcycle gear for beginners.
Benefits of motorcycle boots
Real quick, here are some of the benefits of wearing motorcycle boots:
- They provide crucial protection for your feet and ankles in case of a crash.
- They are designed to stay on your feet during a crash, unlike normal shoes or casual boots.
- They have special features that make riding more comfortable and enjoyable, such as pads near the big toe or anti-slip soles.
- They can also enhance your riding performance by providing better grip, leverage, and balance on the bike
If you think about it, tall motorcycle boots are a no-brainer. It is too easy to drop your motorcycle on your leg when you’re riding at low speeds. This is especially true for new or beginner riders who are style getting that finesse with the clutch and countersteering.
Motorcycle Boots vs Shoes
I would never recommend that you wear a regular shoe on a motorcycle. But what about motorcycle shoes? Are they a safe alternative to the tall and sometimes inconvenient motorcycle boot?
Motorcycle boots – are the safer option for riding, as they offer more coverage, protection, and support for your feet, ankles, shins, and calves. They are designed to withstand impact, abrasion, and twisting forces, and to prevent injuries such as burns, cuts, sprains, and fractures.
Motorcycle shoes – are the more comfortable and convenient option for riding, as they are easier to walk in and blend in with casual outfits. They still have some protective features, such as ankle cups, reinforced toe and heel, and thicker soles, but they are not as effective as boots in preventing serious injuries.
I always recommend wearing tall motorcycle boots, especially for new riders, sportbike riders and anyone riding offroad. But that’s not to say that I don’t understand the appeal of motorcycle shoes. If you need a more casual option for convenience purposes, you are always better off buying motorcycle shoes than just wearing a regular pair of shoes.
What to look for in motorcycle boots
With all the options available to you, you want to make sure the motorcycle boots you choose fit the following criteria:
- Good abrasion-resistance and CE level armor
The most important function of motorcycle boots is to provide good abrasion resistance and protect your feet and ankles from injuries. Leather is the most common material for motorcycle boots, but there are also synthetic options that offer similar protection. Whatever material you choose, make sure it has at least 600D of abrasion resistance. In addition to abrasion resistance, a good motorcycle boot should also have some level of impact protection. Most motorcycle boots have or allow for the use of armor inserts in the toe, heel, ankle, and shin. Armor is often rated with a CE level.
- Should fit your riding style and budget
Just like all other pieces of motorcycle gear, motorcycle boots are also designed to suit different riding styles. Sport boots are more aggressive and offer more protection and performance, while touring boots are more comfortable and versatile. Cruiser boots are more casual and stylish, but may not have as much protection. Budget is also a key factor, as it determines how much you can spend on your motorcycle boots. Fortunately, there are many affordable options for riders of all levels and preferences. You can find a quality motorcycle boot at any price range.
- Should be comfortable
Another important aspect of motorcycle boots is how they fit and feel on your feet. A motorcycle boot that is too loose or too tight can compromise your safety and comfort. A loose boot can slip off or get caught on the bike, while a tight boot can restrict your blood circulation and cause pain. A good motorcycle boot should fit snugly but not too tightly, and should allow some room for your toes to wiggle. It should also feel comfortable around the ankle, calf, and instep.
- Should provide the features and protection you need
Besides safety, your motorcycle boot should also provide some of the features and protection you need for your riding conditions. For example, if you ride in cold weather, you may want a boot that has a thermal liner or insulation. If you ride in hot weather, you may want a boot that has ventilation or perforation. And if you ride in wet weather, you may want a boot that has waterproofing or water resistance.
- Should be from reputable manufacturers and sources
As with any other motorcycle gear, you need to make sure that you are buying your motorcycle boots from a reputable source and manufacturer. There are many online retailers that sell motorcycle boots, but not all of them are reliable or trustworthy. Unknown brands may have poor quality and safety standards that may not be evident until you actually need them to work. Buying from a trusted source like Cyclegear gives you the confidence that you are buying a tested and verified product from a reputable source.
- Should match your bike and style
And last but not least, you should also choose a motorcycle boot that matches your bike and style. This may not be as important as the other criteria, but it can still enhance your riding experience and appearance. As a rider, you want to look good and feel good on your bike. Don’t go with a boot that clashes with your bike’s color or style, or with your jacket and helmet. Choose a boot that complements your bike and style, and expresses your personality and taste.
Choose your type and style of boots
One of the most important things for riders is making sure they pick the right style and type of motorcycle boot.
This comes down to a few things like making sure they fit your riding style and personal style.
Here are a few of the different types of motorcycle boots along with a few features and reasons you may decide to wear them.
Motorcycle Shoes
Motorcycle shoes are made for riders who value simplicity and comfort. They have a relaxed fit that provides more freedom and flexibility. They also have a very low-cut that barely covers the ankle, and a minimalist style that looks like regular shoes. The main drawback of these shoes is that they may not have any protection or performance features.
Features – These shoes are designed to be simple and comfortable, so they have features that make them easy and convenient, such as slip-on design, elastic bands, and Velcro. They may also have some features that provide minimal protection and comfort, such as reinforced toes, padded tongues, and rubber soles.
Best suited for – Motorcycle shoes are suitable for riders who prefer a more simple and comfortable riding style, or who ride scooters or other types of motorcycles that have a low position. They also have a simple and casual look that suits any rider.
Materials – The most common material for motorcycle shoes is textile, but they can also be made of leather or synthetic. Textile shoes offer more breathability and comfort, while leather or synthetic shoes offer more durability and style.
Street Boots
Street boots are made for riders who value convenience and style. They have a casual fit that provides more comfort and ease. They also have a low-cut or medium-cut that covers the ankle or lower shin, and a fashionable style that complements any outfit. The main drawback of these boots is that they may not have as much protection or performance as sport or touring boots.
Features – These boots are designed to blend in with the urban environment, so they have features that make them discreet and versatile, such as hidden armor, zippers, and laces. They may also have some features that provide basic protection and comfort, such as toe sliders, heel guards, and padded collars.
Best suited for – Street boots are suitable for riders who prefer a more casual and convenient riding style, or who ride street or commuter bikes that have a neutral position. They also have a fashionable and trendy look that suits any rider.
Materials – The most common material for street boots is synthetic, but they can also be made of leather or textile. Synthetic boots offer more variety and affordability, while leather or textile boots offer more quality and style.
Sport and Racing
Sport boots are made for riders who value speed, performance, and protection. They have a tight fit that provides more stability and control. They also have a high-cut that covers the ankle and shin, and a reinforced toe that protects the foot from the gear shifter. The main drawback of these boots is that they can feel stiff or uncomfortable for some riders, especially for walking.
Features – These boots prioritize safety and performance, so they have high-quality abrasion resistance and impact protection. They also have sporty styling and a sleek fit that matches the aesthetics of sportbikes.
Best suited for – Sport boots are ideal for riders who enjoy fast and agile riding, especially on twisty roads or tracks. They also have a sporty look that appeals to riders who like to show off their skills.
Materials – Sport boots can be made of various materials, but the most common ones are leather and synthetic. Leather boots offer more durability and style, while synthetic boots offer more breathability and flexibility.
Touring
Touring boots are made for riders who value versatility and convenience. They have a comfortable fit that allows for more movement and functionality. They also have a medium-cut that covers the ankle, and a flexible sole that makes walking easier. The main drawback of these boots is that they may not offer as much protection or performance as sport boots.
Features – These boots typically focus more on functionality and comfort than performance and safety. They have features that make them convenient and versatile, such as waterproofing, ventilation, and zippers. They also have features that provide some protection and visibility, such as armor, reflective strips, and bright colors.
Best suited for – Touring boots are suitable for riders who prefer a more relaxed and comfortable riding style, or who ride touring or adventure bikes that have a upright position. They also have a practical and elegant look that suits any rider.
Materials – The most common material for touring boots is textile, but they can also be made of leather or synthetic. Textile boots offer more variety and affordability, while leather or synthetic boots offer more durability and style.
Cruiser
Cruiser boots are made for riders who value style and comfort. They have a loose fit that provides more room and flexibility. They also have a low-cut that exposes the ankle, and a casual style that blends in with any outfit. The main drawback of these boots is that they may not have as much protection or performance as sport or touring boots.
Features – These boots typically focus more on style and comfort than functionality and safety. They have features that make them stylish and comfortable, such as buckles, laces, and patches. They may also have some features that provide minimal protection, such as toe caps, heel cups, and ankle cups.
Best suited for – Cruiser boots are suitable for riders who prefer a more casual and laid-back riding style, or who ride cruisers or other types of motorcycles that have a relaxed position. They also have a classic and cool look that suits any rider.
Materials – The most iconic material for cruiser boots is leather, but they can also be made of other materials, such as denim, canvas, or suede. Leather boots offer more authenticity and character, while other materials offer more variety and comfort.
ADV Boots
ADV boots are made for riders who value adventure and exploration. They have a rugged fit that provides more durability and support. They also have a high-cut that covers the shin and calf, and a sturdy sole that grips the terrain. The main drawback of these boots is that they can be heavy or bulky for some riders, especially for long rides.
Features – These boots are designed to handle any challenge, so they have excellent water resistance and dirt protection. They also have features that make them adaptable and comfortable, such as adjustable straps, buckles, and Velcro. They also have features that provide ample protection and stability, such as shin guards, ankle braces, and steel shanks.
Best suited for – ADV boots are ideal for riders who enjoy exploring new places, especially off-road or on rough terrain. They also have an adventurous and rugged look that matches the spirit of adventure bikes.
Materials – The most common material for ADV boots is leather, but they can also be made of synthetic or hybrid materials. Leather boots offer more strength and durability, while synthetic or hybrid boots offer more lightness and flexibility.
Offroad Boots
Offroad boots are made for riders who value performance and protection. They have a snug fit that provides more stability and control. They also have a high-cut that covers the shin and calf, and a rigid sole that provides traction and support. The main drawback of these boots is that they can be uncomfortable or restrictive for some riders, especially for walking.
Features – These boots are designed to handle the toughest conditions, so they have features that provide maximum protection and performance, such as hard plastic armor, metal buckles, and hinges. They also have features that make them durable and resistant, such as rubber patches, double stitching, and heat shields.
Best suited for – Offroad boots are ideal for riders who enjoy challenging and aggressive riding, especially on dirt or mud. They also have a sporty and tough look that matches the aesthetics of dirt bikes.
Materials – The most common material for offroad boots is synthetic, but they can also be made of leather or hybrid materials. Synthetic boots offer more lightness and breathability, while leather or hybrid boots offer more toughness and durability.
Decide on your levels of protection
Besides choosing the right type of boots for your riding style, you also need to consider the level of protection you want from your boots. Different boots offer different features that can protect you from various hazards and weather conditions. Here are some factors to consider when deciding on your levels of protection:
- Armor
Armor is the most important feature for protecting your feet and ankles from impacts and injuries. Armor can be made of hard plastic, metal, or foam, and it can cover different parts of your boots, such as the toe, heel, ankle, shin, and calf. The more armor your boots have, the more protection they offer, but they may also be heavier, stiffer, or more expensive. You should look for boots that have enough armor to protect the areas that are most vulnerable to injury, such as the ankle and shin. Some examples of armor features are toe sliders, heel guards, ankle braces, and shin guards.
- Weather
Weather can affect your comfort and performance while riding, especially in extreme conditions. Weather can make your feet feel cold, wet, or numb, and it can also reduce your visibility, traction, and braking. To protect yourself from weather, you should look for boots that have features that make them suitable for different climates and seasons, such as waterproofing, ventilation, insulation, and reflective strips. You should also avoid boots that have too many gaps, vents, or laces, as they can let the weather in and create noise and drag.
Visit your local motorcycle store to get in-person advice
Just like all other pieces of gear, the secret to choosing the right motorcycle boots is to visit your local motorcycle store for in-person advice. Visiting your local motorcycle store before buying a motorcycle boots gives you the benefits of:
Asking questions before buying: You can ask the staff about the features, protection, and quality of different boots, and get answers that are based on their experience and knowledge.
Getting expert advice and recommendations: You can get suggestions from the staff on which boots suit your riding style, budget, and preferences, and learn about the pros and cons of each option.
Getting feedback on fit and comfort: You can try on different boots and see how they fit your feet and your motorcycle. You can also get feedback from the staff on how to lace, buckle, or zip the boots to get the best fit and comfort.
Allowing you to try on different boots: You can compare different boots in terms of their look, feel, and performance, and see which one you like the most. You can also test the boots in different riding conditions, such as wet, dry, or rough, and see how they handle the terrain.
What to do if you don’t have a nearby motorcycle store or dealership
If you don’t have a nearby motorcycle store or dealership, you can still find good motorcycle boots online, but you need to be more careful and do more research. Here are some tips on how to buy motorcycle boots online:
- Try on boots: If possible, try to find a friend or a local rider who has similar boots to the one you want, and ask them if you can try them on. This will give you an idea of how the boots fit and feel, and if they suit your needs.
- Check for fit and comfort: If you can’t try on the boots, you need to check the size chart and the measurements of the boots carefully, and compare them to your own measurements. You also need to consider the type of socks you will wear with the boots, and how that will affect the fit and comfort. If you are unsure, it is better to order a size larger than a size smaller, as you can always adjust the boots with the laces, buckles, or zips.
- Check for protection and durability: You also need to check the reviews and ratings of the boots, and see what other customers have to say about their protection and durability. You can also look for videos or photos of the boots in action, and see how they protect your feet and ankles from impacts, abrasions, and burns. You should avoid buying boots that have a lot of negative feedback or complaints, as that might indicate a low-quality or defective product.
Common Questions
In this section, we will answer some of the most common questions that riders have about motorcycle boots, such as:
What are the best motorcycle boots for beginners?
The best motorcycle boots for beginners are those that offer a good balance of protection, comfort, and affordability. Some of the features that beginners should look for in motorcycle boots are:
- A sturdy and durable construction that can withstand impacts, abrasions, and wear and tear.
- A comfortable and breathable lining that can keep your feet dry and cool.
- A flexible and lightweight sole that can provide traction and stability on different surfaces.
- A secure and adjustable closure system that can keep the boots snug and prevent them from slipping off.
- A protective and stylish design that can match your motorcycle and your gear.
Some examples of motorcycle boots that are suitable for beginners are:
- Alpinestars SMX-1 R Vented Boots: These boots are designed for street and sport riding, and feature a synthetic leather upper, a mesh lining, a rubber compound sole, and a Velcro and zipper closure. They also have a reinforced toe box, heel counter, and ankle protector, as well as a replaceable slider and a vented panel for airflow.
- TCX Street Ace WP Shoes: These shoes are designed for urban and casual riding, and feature a full-grain leather upper, a waterproof membrane, a rubber sole, and a lace closure. They also have a reinforced toe, heel, and ankle, as well as a padded tongue and collar for comfort.
- Forma Adventure Low Boots: These boots are designed for adventure and off-road riding, and feature a full-grain leather upper, a Drytex waterproof lining, a dual-density rubber sole, and a Velcro and buckle closure. They also have a reinforced toe, heel, and shin, as well as a padded tongue and collar for comfort.
What are the best motorcycle boots for touring?
The best motorcycle boots for touring are those that offer a high level of protection, comfort, and versatility. Some of the features that touring riders should look for in motorcycle boots are:
- A waterproof and breathable membrane that can keep your feet dry and comfortable in different weather conditions.
- A cushioned and ergonomic footbed that can provide support and shock absorption for long rides.
- A durable and grippy sole that can handle different terrains and road conditions.
- A tall and sturdy shaft that can protect your lower leg and calf from injuries and debris.
- A reflective and visible design that can enhance your safety and visibility on the road.
Some examples of motorcycle boots that are suitable for touring are:
- Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots: These boots are designed for long-distance and all-season riding, and feature a full-grain leather upper, a Gore-Tex membrane, a rubber sole, and a zipper and Velcro closure. They also have a nylon shin plate, a thermoplastic polyurethane heel and toe, and a gear shifter guard, as well as a reflective insert and a soft insert for comfort.
- Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots: These boots are designed for adventure and dual-sport riding, and feature a microfiber and suede upper, a Gore-Tex membrane, a rubber sole, and a buckle and Velcro closure. They also have a thermoplastic polyurethane shin plate, ankle protector, and toe cap, as well as a replaceable slider and a flex system for mobility.
- Alpinestars Toucan Gore-Tex Boots: These boots are designed for adventure and off-road riding, and feature a leather and textile upper, a Gore-Tex membrane, a rubber sole, and a buckle closure. They also have a thermoplastic polyurethane shin plate, ankle protector, and toe cap, as well as a replaceable slider and a bio-mechanical pivot for flexibility.
What are the best motorcycle boots for off-road riding?
The best motorcycle boots for off-road riding are those that offer a maximum level of protection, stability, and performance. Some of the features that off-road riders should look for in motorcycle boots are:
- A hard and rigid construction that can resist impacts, punctures, and twists.
- A waterproof and dirt-resistant coating that can keep your boots clean and dry.
- A stiff and aggressive sole that can provide traction and control on loose and uneven surfaces.
- A high and tight shaft that can protect your ankle and lower leg from sprains and fractures.
- A reinforced and replaceable design that can withstand wear and tear and extend the lifespan of your boots.
Some examples of motorcycle boots that are suitable for off-road riding are:
- Fox Racing Instinct Boots: These boots are designed for motocross and enduro riding, and feature a synthetic leather upper, a rubber burn guard, a rubber sole, and a buckle closure. They also have a hinge lockout system, a slim medial design, and a Duratac compound for durability and grip.
- Alpinestars Tech 10 Boots: These boots are designed for motocross and enduro riding, and feature a microfiber and polyurethane upper, a thermoplastic polyurethane shin plate, a rubber sole, and a buckle closure. They also have a biomechanical inner brace, a dual compound foot shell, and a replaceable footbed for support and protection.
- Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS Boots: These boots are designed for motocross and enduro riding, and feature a microfiber and thermoplastic polyurethane upper, a thermoplastic polyurethane shin plate, a rubber sole, and a buckle closure. They also have a hyper extension block, a dual flex system, and a replaceable sole for mobility and performance.
How to clean and maintain motorcycle boots?
To keep your motorcycle boots in good condition and extend their lifespan, you need to clean and maintain them regularly. Here are some steps on how to clean and maintain motorcycle boots:
- Remove any dirt, mud, or debris from your boots with a soft brush or a damp cloth.
- Wipe your boots with a clean and dry cloth to remove any moisture or stains.
- Apply a leather conditioner or a waterproof spray to your boots to protect them from cracking, fading, or water damage.
- Polish your boots with a shoe polish or a wax to restore their shine and color.
- Store your boots in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
How to choose the right size and fit for motorcycle boots?
To ensure your comfort and safety, you need to choose the right size and fit for your motorcycle boots. Here are some tips on how to choose the right size and fit for motorcycle boots:
- Measure your feet length and width, and compare them to the size chart of the boots you want to buy. You can also use a foot measuring device or a ruler to measure your feet.
- Choose a size that is slightly larger than your actual foot size, as your feet tend to swell after riding for a long time. You can also wear thicker socks to fill the extra space and provide more cushioning.
- Try on the boots with the socks and the pants that you will wear with them, and see how they fit and feel. You should have enough room to wiggle your toes, but not too much that your feet slide or move inside the boots.
- Check the fit and comfort of the boots by walking, standing, and sitting on your motorcycle. You should be able to shift gears, brake, and balance without any discomfort or difficulty.
Conclusion
Motorcycle boots are an essential piece of gear that can protect your feet and ankles from injuries, enhance your riding performance, and complement your riding style. To choose the right motorcycle boots, you need to consider the following factors:
- The type of riding you do, whether it is street, touring, adventure, or off-road.
- The features and protection you need, such as waterproof, breathable, reflective, or rigid.
- The fit and comfort you prefer, such as snug, loose, flexible, or stiff.
- The budget and quality you can afford, such as cheap, expensive, durable, or disposable.
By following these tips and visiting your local motorcycle store for in-person advice, you can find the perfect pair of motorcycle boots for you and your motorcycle.
And if you are still adding to your list of gear, check out this guide on the essential motorcycle gear for beginners.