Tag Archives: motorcycle boots

Highway 21 Axle Waterproof Motorcycle Shoes | Gear Review

Highway 21 Axle Waterproof Motorcycle Shoes

When I’m riding, no one has to tell me that the journey is the destination, because I’m usually not thinking about where I’ll end up. I’m thinking about how much fun I’m having in the moment. However, motorcycles are also a way to get from Point A to Point B. Eventually, the joy of the journey ends, and I have to park and dismount. After that, I must use my feet to get to where I’m going. I start walking, and before I know it, the motorcycle boots that were so comfy minutes before suddenly remind me that the boots were made for riding, not walking, and that’s just what they do. That’s not the case with Highway 21’s Axle Waterproof Motorcycle Shoes.

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Whether I’m riding or walking, zipping or skipping, the Axles feel like they belong. They also look like they belong, with an appearance that resembles high-top sneakers. The black leather upper provides a discreet look, while the suede cuff and trim around the metal eyelets add character.

While riding, the Axle shoes feel comfortable and protective. They are not as bulky as some riding boots, making it easier to feel where my foot is and get my toe under the shifter. The composite shank helps isolate vibrations, although my feet and legs get a little tingly after long hours in the saddle. I’ll take some vibration to be able to feel where my foot is, but others might prefer more damping.

Highway 21 Axle Waterproof Motorcycle Shoes
Photo by Killboy

Part of the walkable comfort of the Axle shoes is due to their flexibility and light weight. They are easy to move around in, and the mesh inner liner adds comfort. However, that flexibility comes at the price of some protection. The shoes do have dual-density ankle protectors and reinforced toe and heel boxes for support and impact protection.

Highway 21 Axle Waterproof Motorcycle Shoes

Highway 21 also offers a version of the Axle shoes with a textile upper, which have an appearance that appeals to me more than the leather upper. However, the leather version has a great advantage: Hydraguard waterproofing. If there is one bit of riding gear I want to be waterproof, it’s my footwear. Squishing around on soggy feet can turn a good day into an unpleasant one. While riding in the rain wearing the Axle shoes, my feet stay completely dry, and the leather keeps my feet warmer than the textile version, making these shoes preferable for cool weather riding.

Highway 21 Axle Leather Waterproof Motorcycle Shoes are a great option for commuters or riders who spend a lot of time walking in their riding footwear. They are available in men’s and women’s sizes for $139.95, and the textile version without waterproofing is available for $109.95.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots | Gear Review

TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots

When it comes to adventure riding, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected. Weather conditions, terrain, challenging situations – it’s all up for grabs. That’s why both ADV bikes and adventure-touring apparel like these TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex motorcycle boots are designed to be versatile. They should perform well, come what may.

Motorcycle boots are critical pieces of riding gear. They need to protect all the bones, connective tissue, and muscles in the lower legs, ankles, and feet, yet they must also be comfortable and provide enough dexterity for using the shifter and brake pedal and to communicate feedback from the footpegs. And if you enjoy splashing through puddles or riding in the rain, they must be waterproof. 

TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots

On the bottom of the Infinity 3s is TCX’s proprietary Groundtrax sole, which is rigid enough to withstand long stints of standing on the pegs but isn’t so hard that it renders the sole a numb block of wood. Rather than the big, chunky sole of a motocross boot, the Infinity 3 sole has a sportier shape, making it easier to manipulate the controls and contributing to comfort when walking around off the bike. Likewise, the OrthoLite insole is nicely cushioned and provides some breathability.

The Infinity 3 upper is constructed of various durable materials, including microfiber, split leather, and abrasion-resistant engineered fabric, with an injected polyurethane shin protector and reinforcements on the ankle, heel, and toe. The boot has a slender shape that fits under touring pants and provides a comfortable, secure fit. Two large Velcro flaps adjust the fit at the top and mid-calf, while a clever, one-handed rotary knob cinches the boot tighter with a slender steel cable to dial in a precise amount of snugness around your foot. The knob is much easier to use than the motocross-style buckles found on many adventure boots.

TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots
TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots

I’ve been testing these motorcycle boots for the past six months, and they strike a good balance between the lightness and flexibility of sport-touring boots and the ruggedness and protection of motocross boots. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps my feet dry, yet the boots aren’t so thick and heavy that the inside feels like a sauna.

See all of Rider‘s apparel reviews here.

If you’re looking for a light, durable, comfortable adventure boot that can also be used for general-purpose riding and touring, then TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex Boots are worth checking out. They’re available in Black in European sizes 38-48 (U.S. men’s sizes 5-13) for $419.99.

The post TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots | Gear Review appeared first on Rider Magazine.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

New Gear: BMW Motorrad ProRace Motorcycle Boots

BMW Motorrad ProRace Motorcycle Boots

ProRace Motorcycle Boots from BMW Motorrad offer features that make them ready for both the track and on-road tours.

See all of Rider‘s apparel reviews here.

The versatile ProRace sport boots are waterproof, windproof, and breathable thanks to the BMW Climate Membrane, and the napped leather leg liner adds comfort. Some of the many features include: a form-fitting shin guard, interior reinforcement at the toes, shock absorbers at the heel, a shift-lever guard, an anti-slip rubber treaded sole, a washable insole, and replaceable side plastic sliders. The ProRace motorcycle boots are available in black with a RACE inscription on the shin guard in men’s sizes 39-48 for $379 on the BMW Motorrad Ride Collection webpage.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

New Gear: TCX Infinity 3 Adventure Boots, Mid or Tall

TCX Infinity 3 boots
TCX Infinity 3 boots. On the left is the mid in Black/Green. On the right is the tall in Black.

Offering both a tall and mid model, the Infinity 3 adventure touring boot from TCX is made from a mix of microfiber, split leather, and engineered fabric. The mid model features a T-DRY waterproof membrane for protection against atmospheric agents, while the tall model has a GORE-TEX Performance waterproof membrane.

See Rider’s apparel reviews here.

The Groundtrax rubber outsole optimizes performance in all conditions, and the OrthoLite insole provides long-lasting cushioning and breathability. A dial fastening system adjusts the tension of the external lace, and an adjustable front band completes the perfect fit. Both models have a breathable and waterproof lining, ergonomic shin plates, and reinforcements for the toe, gear area, heel, and ankle.

The Infinity 3 boot mid model comes in Black or Black/Green for $329.99. The tall model is only available in Black for $419.99.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

Alpinestars Faster 3 Shoes | Gear Review

Alpinestars Faster 3
Alpinestars Faster 3 motorcycle shoes (photo by the author)

They are called shoes in the Alpinestars sales and marketing literature, but the Faster 3 shoes are truly a hybrid crossover between shoes and boots. The Faster series of footwear has been in the Alpinestars line for some time, and this third iteration is a substantial upgrade from earlier offerings.

Gear selection is an exercise in personal preference and compromise. The Faster 3 shoes are an object lesson in this concept. I have both high-top and fully armored riding sneakers and several types of high-rise boots in my gear closet. The sneakers are extremely comfortable both on and off the bike but are very light on protection. The boots are supremely protective, but are rigid, awkward, and semi-uncomfortable for extended walking. The Alpinestars Faster 3 shoes can be boot-horned directly between these two extremes.

The Faster 3 shoes are an armored, over the ankle, lace-up model with a substantial cutout in the Achilles area for enhanced mobility. I am sure you can already see the advantages.

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Let’s start with the safety features. The Faster 3 shoes now carry the important CE certification in each of their variations: the Rideknit, Drystar, and the standard version (as tested). There is a subtle, low-profile TPR toe slider and an extremely protective and supportive TPR heel cup out back. Dual density ankle protectors are inserted between the microfiber upper and padded lining on both sides of the shoe.

On the comfort end of the spectrum, the aforementioned cutout in the rear of the boot gives a level of front to back mobility that full-rise boots can’t match. The sole is semi-rigid with an integrated support shank, providing a solid riding platform while also affording comfortable walk-ability. The boots feel supportive and comfortable both on and off the bike. I identified no pressure points or comfort quibbles on day-long rides. Ventilation is more than adequate.

The lace-up design is another advantage of this shoe. I really like the ability to fine-tune the fit with laces; however, loose laces on a motorcycle boot can cause problems if the laces are allowed to whip around. Alpinestars has provided a solution by including an easy-to-actuate Velcro strap to secure the boot laces for riding. The design works well and is easily adjusted with gloved hands.

The Faster 3 shoes really shine on the bike. That semi-rigid sole gives good riding feedback while spreading the pressure from the foot pegs over the full arch. The ankle mobility makes shifting and braking seamless and nimble. The low-profile toe box facilitates movement between upshifting and downshifting.

I am calling the Alpinestars Faster 3 shoes a winner for urban riding and light touring. While not as protective as full boots, the compromises are well-balanced and carefully engineered. The $169.95 retail price point places Faster 3s in the ballpark with other premium riding shoes.

The Alpinestars Faster 3 shoe is available for $169.95 in six color options and sizes 6-14.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

Umberto Luce Crimson Boots | Gear Review

Umberto Luce Crimson Boots
Umberto Luce Crimson Boots (Photos by Kevin Wing)

Long before I got into motorcycles, I was into boots. As a rebellious middle-schooler, I stomped around in army-surplus combat boots. In high school, I bought a pair of Danner hiking boots that have protected my feet over hundreds of miles of trails in the Appalachians, Rockies, and Sierra Nevada. Thirty years later, I still have them, and their Vibram soles have been replaced multiple times. When it comes to boots, as with other gear we depend on, quality is worth paying for.

Umberto Luce boots first popped onto my radar last November at the IMS Outdoors show in Southern California. Peter Jones, Rider’s resident fashionista and shoe aficionado, and I both admired the stylish kicks, which look cool but are also designed to withstand the rigors of knocking about on motorcycles. We met Humberto Luce, the company founder and designer, who exudes energy and passion.

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In January, Peter and I ran into Humberto again at AIMExpo in Las Vegas, and this time he sent me home with a pair of Crimson boots. I tried them on at the show, and they were so comfortable that I kept them on. For the past few months, with rare exception, the Crimson boots have been on my feet both on and off the bike. Part of what makes them so comfortable is a flexible, durable sole made from a stack of leather, EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), and an anti-slip vulcanized rubber with a lugged tread. The outer sole has a unique speckled pattern that reminds me of a terrazzo floor.

The full-grain leather upper has an oil-tanned suede finish and a butter-soft, odor-resistant interior. Getting in and out of the lace-up boots is made easy with a quick-entry side zipper. Protective features include CE-certified D3O ankle protection, secure lock stitching, and a frontal-impact-protection cap toe, all of which are tastefully incorporated into the stylish design of the boots.

Umberto Luce Crimson Boots

I’ve spent full days in the saddle of a motorcycle, as well as full days tromping around city streets and airports, with these boots on, and they’re among the most comfortable I’ve ever worn. You’ll have to pry them off my cold, dead feet.

Umberto Luce Crimson boots are available in men’s sizes 7 to 13.5 and priced at $329. They’re made in small batches by craftsmen in León, Mexico. Check out the website for other styles.

For more information, visit umbertoluce.com.

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

Touratech launches 3-in-1 boot

German adventure motorcycle accessories company Touratech has launched a boot it claims is a three-in-one to cover touring, sports and adventure riding.

Touratech Australia does not yet have a date for the arrival of the Touratech Destino Ultimate GTX boots and are currently only gauging interest.

But wait for it — if or when they do arrive, they will set you back almost the price of three boots at $A1492 in sizes 39-47.

For that price they better one good.

Touratech says they have the all-day “comfort of a touring boot, the safety of a sports boot and the robustness of an MX boot”.

So let’s check the claims on these boots, developed for Touratech by Dutch motorcycle clothing company REV’IT!

Comfort

The comfort is provided by a flexible joint system, a SEESOFT protector insert in the tongue and an Apex sole, developed with Vibram.

They claim the sole makes them easier to walk in so you don’t clump around like you are wearing skit boots without the skis.

Touratech also claim the sole has different zones; one for operating the brake lever; another for strength and others for walking comfort. 

The insole is made of washable, open-pored PU foam.

Safety

The Destino boot features a lot of protection as you would expect from an adventure-style boot with what they call a Dynamic Support Frame (DSF).

It is made up of a calf shield, heel cup and a stability frame to prevent twisting with extra impact protection in the toe area.

Destino boots are certified for safety with the highest EC approval level: EN 13634:2017 Level 2.

Fit

Another feature is the BOA Fit closure system which uses a now-popular hand-operated ratchet dial that pulls wire laces for the optimum fit and release at the touch of the centre button.

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There are no show laces to tie and no bulky and uncomfortable clasps that feature on many off-road boots.

Having the boot tight not only ensures a correct and safe fit, but also prevents mud and dust getting in.

Waterproof

These boots are made of a combination of materials such as SuperFabric, microfibre lining, Omega leather, supple nubuck leather and a Gore-Tex membrane that they claim guarantees “absolute waterproofness with simultaneous breathability”.

Excuse my cynicism here, but I have yet to find any breathable clothing that is also 100% waterproof.

However, there are varying degrees of water resistance indicated by an Ingress Protection (IP) rating.

This rating consists of two numbers. The first from 0-6 measures protection from foreign bodies such as dust, while the second from 0-9K measures resistance to water. Click here for more details.

I can’t find any reference to an IP on their website. It just says “Waterproof Yes”.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Gaerne Dakar GTX Boots | Gear Review

Gaerne Dakar GTX adventure motorcycle boot review

Riding on technical off-road terrain can be hard on feet, ankles, and lower legs. During stand-up riding, one’s full bodyweight is carried on the footpegs, and the acrobatics required to counterbalance, absorb g-outs, and keep the bike upright over obstacles can be hard on muscles, joints, and bones. And, as I know all too well, sometimes things go pear-shaped. I once broke my foot on an adventure ride while wearing boots that weren’t up to the task.

Gaerne Dakar GTX adventure motorcycle boot review

Lesson learned, now I won’t go on a serious adventure or dual-sport ride without wearing boots that provide the utmost in crash protection as well as comfort and maneuverability.

After torture-testing a pair of Gaerne G-Midland Boots on the Oregon Backcountry Discovery Route, EIC Drevenstedt reported that “the just-right fit, rugged soles, and generous ankle support have served me well in all kinds of riding and walking conditions. In fact, G-Midlands are among the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn” (read the full review). Wanting even more protection, I opted for Gaerne’s Dakar GTX Boots.

Gaerne Dakar GTX adventure motorcycle boot review

A key feature of the Dakar GTX is a fully pivoting mechanical hinge at the ankle that wraps around the Achilles area. It attaches to a hard plastic heel counter as well as one of the two MX-style adjustable buckles. Covering the shin is a durable polyurethane armor plate, and there are flex panels at the front and back of the ankle. The rest of the boot’s outer is made of full-grain, oil-tanned leather, which is lined with a breathable, waterproof Gore-Tex membrane. Instead of a third buckle at the top, there’s a large outer flap with a Velcro panel to secure the boot. A lugged sole is attached using tough welt stitching, and it has a multidirectional tread pattern that provides good grip on the pegs (though more so on cleated pegs than on those with rubber inserts) and traction when walking on loose surfaces. 

Gaerne Dakar GTX adventure motorcycle boot review

With a spacious, well-padded interior, a cushioned insole, and a flexible yet supportive sole, I concur with our EIC’s assessment – the Dakar GTXs are some of the most comfortable motorcycle boots I’ve worn in 46 years of riding, both on and off the bike. I haven’t had any pain points, and it is easy to pull them on and off as well as adjust the fit to be snug and secure. And although the sole is tough, it isn’t too rigid. It allows some flex and feedback through the pegs, and I was able to use the shift and brake levers with confidence.

If you’re looking for an adventure boot that provides excellent protection and comfort, then Gaerne Dakar GTX Boots are worth considering. They’re available in brown in men’s sizes 7-13 for $429.95. They’re darn good-looking boots, too.

For more information, visit atomic-moto.com

Gaerne Dakar GTX adventure motorcycle boot review

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Source: RiderMagazine.com

The Best Motorcycle Boots You Can Buy [Updated Q4 2020]

One rider’s opinion of the best motorcycle boots will differ greatly when compared to another. Some riders are looking for close-fitting, high-performance sports boots, while others might be looking for casual boots with enough protection for slow city riding, but with a look and style that won’t look out of place in the office. So, for this list, we’ve decided to cast a wide net and look at some of the best motorcycle boots you can buy for a wide variety of situations.

Sports, off-road, adventure touring—we’re listing the best pairs we’ve seen on sale this year, no matter what category they fall into.

Our selection is based on a number of contributing factors. Safety is always the number one priority, but comfort, versatility, and value for money are also important metrics. After all, protective boots are only safe if you’re wearing them. Uncomfortable and unattractive boots often get left behind in favor of comfortable, cool-looking numbers. We’re only human! With that in mind, our choices offer great protection, great comfort, and great styling.

It’s also important that they’re supported by real-life reviews from real-life riders too.

Here are the top choices!

Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots

Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots In Black

Review: In-depth review
Price: $299.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If you’re looking for touring boots that offer rocksteady protection and top-level comfort, then the Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots are an excellent choice. Manufactured by Dainese, these boots are constructed from full-grain cowhide leather and Gore-Tex, for a breathable, weatherproof, and secure ride.

These boots have been enhanced with the addition of nylon heels, ankle inserts, and thermoformed shin guards to keep your feet and ankles protected in the event of an accident, either on tour or on the way to work. The protection doesn’t sacrifice your comfort; these boots are flexible and offer decent mobility, even for walking around town.

Other cool features include a gear shifter guard, calf adjustment straps, a tough zipper closure, reflective inserts, and a thick rubber sole. Take note though, if you have wide feet these may not be the best option as they tend to run a little narrow.

The Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots are our top choice for affordable CE-certified touring boots.

SIDI Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Mid Boots

SIDI Adventure 2 Gore Tex Mid Boots In Black

Review: In-depth review
Price: $349.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If adventure touring is more your kind of thing, then the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Mid Boots are worth a look. While these boots can be worn for a wide range of riding experiences, they’re ideal for adventure touring. They’re not as tall as standard adventure boots, but they offer a great balance of comfort and capability.

Made from Cambrelle, leather, Cordura, Gore-Tex, and microfiber materials, these boots are tough and sturdy, but light and breathable too. Despite the rigidity of some of the protective features, such as the shock-resistant heel cup and ankle defenders, these boots are very flexible. This makes them an ideal choice for adventure touring when you need bike boots that can double up as comfortable walking boots too.

These boots are easy to slip on and slip off, and they remain secure thanks to the use of micro-adjustable cam lock buckles.  These buckles do a great job of keeping out any water that usually manages to sneak in through boot fastenings, making these boots dry and warm whatever the weather.

Ideal for road and dirt riding, in a wide range of weather, these boots won’t disappoint.

SIDI Performer Air Boots

SIDI Performer Air Boots In Black

Review: In-depth review
Price: $239.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Our top sports boots are another SIDI product. These are the SIDI Performer Air Boots. They’re high-quality track boots that have been manufactured to a high standard using a combination of modern materials. These include a perforated Technomicro base, Cambrelle, mesh panels, DuPont polymer, and Nylon sections. Since they’re not made from leather, these boots won’t break-in over time, so make sure you get the right size from day one!

Since these boots are designed for high-risk riding scenarios, they come equipped with a number of safety-focused features. These include calf protector plates, ankle protective caps, inner cell foam padding, external plastic guards, a shin deflector plate, anti-abrasion panels, and a dual compound sole. Despite the shopping list of protectives, these boots are light and flexible, with incredible airflow.

They do have one major downside though. As they’re constructed from perforated materials, they have holes in them. Yeah, if you’re looking for really waterproof boots, these aren’t what you need. However, you can ride them in the rain without getting soaked, but don’t expect to stay 100% dry. In dry climates, these boots are awesome. In wetter regions, less so.

Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro Boots

Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro Boots In Black

Review: In-depth review
Price: $389.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If your sport takes you off-road rather than to the track, then the Tech 7 Enduro Boots from Alpinestars offer the best protection. Dirt riding requires different gear, as the sport makes different demands of the rider, and off-road boots need to be able to protect the rider from a much wider range of hazards.

Featuring a heavy-duty sole with outstanding grip, the Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro boots are strong, stable, and flexible, with serious ankle protection, in a package that won’t interfere with your foot controls. These boots are made from a microfiber base for maximum comfort and abrasion resistance and adorned with a liberal amount of thermoplastic polyurethane.

The insides are lined with contoured padding, soft foam reinforcement, and an anatomically-shaped footbed. An innovative buckle system ensures a tight and close fit that keeps out excess water and dirt, ensuring a comfortable ride experience allowing riders to concentrate on the trails. The buckles have a cool memory function and can be replaced if they get damaged.

In summary: these are great off-road boots that are geared towards enduro riding than MX. Take care though—they have been known to run a bit narrow.

TCX Street Ace Air Shoes

TCX Street Ace Air Shoes Front and Side Views

Review: In-depth review
Price: $159.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Modern motorcycle shoes have the ability to look cool and casual while offering decent levels of protection. Though these short boots might look like casual shoes, they’ll keep your feet protected in a crash. The TCX Street Ace Air Shoes are ideal short riding boots for those who need real protection but with a more versatile look.

These cool looking sneakers are made from a perforated leather upper combines with a luxurious Air Tech breathable lining, built on top of a sturdy high wear-resistant rubber sole. They’re reinforced in all the right places, with a Comfort Fit System keeping your feet snug, with a sturdy toe and heel counter, and padding around the ankles. The insole is anatomically shaped and replaceable.

Laces though? Yeah, laces aren’t ideal for motorcycle boots, but if you want the casual look and feel of a sneaker then you’ll compromise and go with laces. Besides, since these are versatile shoes, you won’t need to change in and out of them all day like you would with regular motorcycle boots. Laces can be annoying, but you’ll only have to fasten them once a day.

They’re not great in the wet but for casual riding in the summer months, they’re a great option.

Belstaff Endurance Boots

Belstaff Endurance Boots In Black Side View

Review: In-depth review
Price: $495.00
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Not all riders are happy to wear futuristic lookin’ boots covered in fancy thermoplastic. Some riders want a simple and refined boot that ticks all the safety boxes without any reflective piping or mesh panels. If you’re a traditional cruiser rider looking for sleek, refined, and safe footwear, then these Belstaff Endurance Boots are what you need.

Made from durable and water-repellent buffalo leather, these boots are tough, rugged, and built for longevity. The buffalo hide exterior is complemented with an internal breathable, waterproof membrane that promotes airflow without any dampness. The interior also features protective inserts, ankle impact protection, and a molded insole for added comfort.

The sole is a heavy-duty thing. It’s made from Vibram rubber and has a thick tread with a serious anti-slip surface. These boots are fastened with a zipper and hook/loop tab, with the option for a more precise fit using the collar buckle straps.

Belstaff is an expensive brand, and these boots aren’t cheap. However, they’re manufactured to a high standard and will stand the test of time—providing that you take care of them properly!

Rev’It! Royale H2O Boots

REVIT Royale H2O Boots Side and Rear View

Review: In-depth review
Price: $369.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Urban riders looking for the right balance of functionality, protection, and versatility should consider something like the REVIT Royale Boots. They’re similar in nature to the above mentioned TCX Street Ace Air Shoes, but they’re a more premium product packed full of even more advanced features. If you want a boot that can protect you while you’re riding and feels great while you’re walking, these are the boots for you.

Constructed from full-grain cowhide leather with textile paneling, these boots are tougher than you’d expect from a casual looking boot. They also reach further up the ankle than other casual boots too. Protective features include thermoformed heels, toe caps, and injected ankle cups, along with a tough synthetic rubber sole. A gear shift pad, anatomically shaped footbed, and adjustable ankle strap are also included.

What we really love about these boots is their waterproof properties. Each boot features a hydrate liner that really keeps water and moisture out. They also have a CoolMax mesh lining which is supposed to improve the airflow, but it’s not as good as it could be. And that’s the downside: these boots can get a little hot and sweaty. They definitely work better in a colder climate!

TCX Vibe Air Boots

TCX Vibe Air Boots Side and Rear View

Review: In-depth review
Price: $135.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The TCX Vibe Air Boots are our top choice for those looking for light and airy summer boots with serious protection stats. Riding in hot weather can be a hot and uncomfortable affair but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of good summer boots out there, but TCXs Vibe Air kicks get our seal of approval. They’re everything you’d hope for and more from a summer boot.

These boots are made from a stylish and sturdy suede with Air Tech fabric sections. They’re lightweight boots, but they pack some heavyweight protection. These include malleolus protection inserts, PVC ankle guards, padded upper collars, and a durable, high-performance rubber sole. If you’re concerned about their protection, rest assured knowing that they’re CE certified.

On the inside, these boots also have a comfort fit system for a close and snug fit, along with anatomically shaped footbeds. Other cool features include reflective inserts to help raise your visibility, a Bycast leather gear shifter pad, and Velcro and lace-up fastenings. Though we don’t usually go for laces, these aren’t your typical laces—instead, they use a speed lacing system, and the Velcro collar does most of the heavy lifting!

Breathable, comfortable, safe, and affordable—these motorcycle boots offer a great return for your investment.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati launches new touring gear

If you love touring on your Ducati in Italian style, safety and comfort, you’re going to want the new touring range from the Borgo Panigale manufacturer.

Ducati Australia and New Zealand head of market Alana Baratto says the touring gear will arrive in November.

If you can’t wait, you can buy the gear online on shop.ducati.com.

Sport Touring C3 Jacket ($A789)Ducati touring gear

The Tour C3 sport-touring jacket, is produced by Spidi exclusively for Ducati with CE-certified protectors on shoulders and elbows. You can also fit a back protector.

The outer jacket, made of a mix of polyester fabrics, is equipped with large air vents and has a waterproof and breathable H2Out membrane.

The removable thermal lining can also be worn as a casual jacket.

It is designed to be worn zipped together with Tour C3 trousers.

It comes in a men’s cut in black/red and high-visibility black/ yellow, and for women in black/red.

Tour C3 Trousers ($A499)Ducati touring gear

The Tour C3 trousers are designed by Aldo Drudi and made in collaboration with Spidi Sport.

They also have the H2Out membrane, CE-certified shin and hip protectors, a removable lining, elastic fabric, and zipper-adjustable air vents.

The pants are tailored in different cuts for men and women.

Fabric-leather gloves Strada C4 ($A299)Ducati touring gear

These limited Strada C4 gloves are produced by Held exclusively for Ducati.

The exterior is made of cowhide, sheep leather and polyamide fabric.

Inside is a Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable membrane. However, the reduced thickness created by the Gore grip process still allows control sensitivity.

They also have SuperFabric inserts, volume adjustments on the wrist and are fully CE-certified.

Horizon helmet ($A999)Ducati touring gear

The Horizon composite fibre helmet is based on X-lite’s X-1004 shell, but designed by Drudi Performance.

This modular helmet is one of only a few flip-up designs approved to be worn while riding in the open position.

The chin guard has a dual safety opening system and ventilation system.

There is a removable and washable internal padding, a sun visor with UV 400 protection and reflex inserts for greater visibility.

Black Steel helmet ($A949)Ducati gear

The Black Steel helmet is based on the Arai Renegade V and designed by Drudi.

The outer shell is made of SFL fibre while the inner shell is made of EPS with differentiated density.

Its interior is made of antibacterial and washable fabric, the VAS visor has a wide field of view and the ventilation system is able to circulate about 14 litres of air per minute.

All Terrain Touring Boots ($A569)Ducati touring gear

These CE-approved, full grain leather and suede, all-terrain boots were made in collaboration with TCX.

They are equipped with a waterproof and breathable eVent membrane and a closure system with adjustable, interchangeable aluminium levers.

The boots have a rubber sole for maximum grip on the pegs and feature lined pleats to increase comfort.

Ducati Communication System V2 ($A569)Ducati gear

This intercom system with voice commands allows up to 15 motorcyclists to communicate simultaneously in a range up to 1.6km in “ideal conditions” and about 1km in “real conditions”.

The connection is automatic, activates by talking and goes off after 30 seconds of silence.

In case of interruption, the connection is automatically restored.

It is based on a Cardo Intercom System and allows the rider to make and answer calls, control mobile devices with the touch of a finger or a voice command and listen Bluetooth music or the integrated FM radio.

The volume of the device adjusts automatically according to the background noise.

It features universal connectivity with any Bluetooth headset of any brand.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com