| Buying Motorcycle Boots |
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| Introduction |
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| Good motorcycle boots are an essential part of a biker's outfit. Of course it's easier to ride with sneakers or sandals, but they are not very practical. Even if you don't crash, just the fact of putting your foot down while waiting for a traffic light, a car can easily run over your feet. Or a moment of inattention can result in you dropping your bike while standing still, and when you try to correct yourself, sneakers or sandals will not be of any use to you. |
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| Types of Motorcycle Boots |
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| As there are different motorcycles available, there are different types of boots available. If you're planning to ride off-road, then off-road or motocross boots are best suited. That does not mean that you can not use off-road boots in the city when commuting; it's just not comfortable. The same applies to riding with street boots, you can still use them off-road, or on the track, but they'll not offer the same protection and comfort. |
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| Track Boots |
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Track boots, used for racing, are reinforced in the areas that when the boot touches the track, they will protect your toes if there is an increased friction between the track and the boots. The boots are far stiffer than street or casual boots, since you do not require much movement in the boots (as opposed to casual where you will want to walk in them).
The boot's length will go halfway between the ankle and knee, offering a high impact resistance. The ankle, toes, heel and shin are highly protected. The boot itself is quite stiff. |
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| Sports Streetbike/Touring Boots |
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| Streetbikes that are sporty usually require sports or touring boots. They are like track boots, but more comfortable and less stiff, but still provide adequate protection. These type of boots can be used occasionally on a track, and next to the casual boots, are the most commonly used. |
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| Casual/Commuter/Cruiser Boots |
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Commuter/Casual/Cruiser boots are more casual, and are usually half length. They will protect your ankle, but not your shins. Commuter boots can be used for walking, and often have a “normal” appearance, in other words, you can use them in the office or at home.
Heels, toes and ankle are well protected. Many use laces or buckles to close, while some use Velcro. Most commuter boots are either rainproof or you can get a rain cover for them to protect yourself from the elements. As far as motorcycle boots go, they offer the least protection, but are the easiest to use. |
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| Dirt/Motocross Boots |
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Dirt/Motocross boots are very high boots, protecting a large part of the foot under the knee. They are very rigid and difficult to walk in, but provide a decent impact protection, not only for when you fall, but also from other motorcycles hitting your foot.
Most dirt boots use metal clasps to fasten, and the protection is almost all of your lower leg. |
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| Fitting Motorcycle Boots |
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Getting the right fit for any type of motorcycle boot is essential. You'll be wearing them for hours on end, so they need to be comfortable. When trying on boots, make sure you have thick socks on and your toes have enough room to wiggle. Your feet need to be snug, but not tight, since your feet are going to get hot, so they will expand. When the boot is too tight, with the heat, your blood circulation will diminish.
Getting a motorcycle boot that is loose is bad. In case of a crash, the boot will come off. |
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| Socks |
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| You need to wear socks when wearing motorcycle boots. Best is to have moisture absorbing socks, but in the winter, thick socks can make the difference between an uncomfortable ride and a great one. |
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