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Many new riders think their hands are the most important points of contact when riding a motorcycle, but your feet are just as important – and vulnerable.
Because you use your feet to shift gears and brake, proper riding boots are one of the most important pieces of motorcycle safety equipment.
Every rider tends to have a good deal of opinions on the best bike or helmet, but many overlook their shoes.
Safety aside, you’ll also want a pair of boots that provide comfort while you walk around between rides.
Motorcycle boots come in many different shapes, sizes, and styles.
Learn everything you need to know to purchase the best pair.
What Are the Most Important Features of a Motorcycle Boot?
Don’t make the mistake of skimping on your boots. You may see others wearing nontraditional shoes while they ride and wonder if investing in this piece of equipment is necessary. We assure you it is.
Most motorcycle boots have plenty of features that are intentionally built to keep you safe and designed for riding.
As with any shoe, be prepared to break in your shoes after you purchase them.
No matter your riding style, these are some of the top features you should look out for when shopping for boots.
- Oil-resistant soles.
- Ankle protection.
- Torsional stiffness.
- A boot height that matches your bike.
- Ventilation.
- Water resistance.
- A good sole.
- High-quality construction.
- Proper sizing.
1. Oil-resistant Soles
This will prevent any slipping when you place your feet down on the road while braking.
2. Molded Ankle Position and Armor
In the case you fall, this will protect the sensitive bones in your ankle from fracturing or breaking.
3. Torsional Stiffness
This is essential to keep your legs protected and prevent torsional and lateral injuries in the event of a crash.
4. Matches your Bike
The height of your bike’s foot pegs and controls will differ based on what model you have.
You’ll want to select to boot that’s going to be most comfortable for your bike’s riding position.
5. Ventilation
Motorcycle boots with good ventilation ensure foot health and airflow, preventing your feet from getting too sweaty (and stinky).
6. Water Resistance
Water-resistant boots are ideal so you are protected and dry whether you drive through a puddle or ride during rainy seasons.
7. Good Sole
Your boots should have soles that are thick and durable with a high grip.
These features are important for foot protection and keeping control of your bike.
8. High-quality Construction
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend boots constructed with high-quality leather, stitching, and soles. Avoid cheap materials and cheap construction.
9. Proper Fit and Sizing
Getting fitted for the right size boot is important when selecting a good pair.
You’ll want a boot that is pretty snug on your feet.
Don’t always assume that your normal shoe size will match your motorcycle boot size.
Most manufacturer’s websites have sizing charts, enabling you to find your perfect fit at home.
How To Pick The Right Boots For You
The two main factors to take into consideration when purchasing a pair of boots are your riding style and budget.
There are a lot of boots out there on the market. Get familiar with the benefits of the different styles.
Sport Motorcycle Shoes
These boots are great for cruiser or sport-bike riders.
They are designed for protection at high speeds and don’t extend very highly on your calves.
The designs caters to the backwards position of the foot controls on many sport bikes.
This also tends to make them a bit more comfortable to walk around in once you hop off your bike.
They tend to be more expensive than other styles because of the high quality of their materials.
Motorcycle Shoes
If you prefer a shoe rather than a boot, these are for you.
Motorcycle shoes have a lower profile that doesn’t reach as high on your ankle.
This is a relatively newer style that provides protection and versatility to be paired with everyday clothing.
While they look similar to regular shoes and are practical as such, they are constructed to be highly sturdy to protect your legs.
Sport and Race Boots
These are the boots you will see pro racers wearing.
They are half-calf and paired with full racing leathers that extend over the entirety of the calves to provide maximum protection to keep ankles safe in the event of a high-speed crash.
They’re sturdy and thick yet lightweight.
Because of their high quality and large offering of great specs, they tend to be on the pricier side.
They are worth the investment if you are doing this type of riding.
Touring and Adventure (ADV) Boots
These boots are designed to be tough, yet light and flexible.
They enable you to ride on all terrains.
They are often the sturdiest on the market—designed with stiff protection for your ankle and cal.
Many systems allow you to tightly cinch the boot to your legs, and provide protection for all the different parts of your feet.
They’re pricey, but they will last a long time.
Dirt-Bike Boots
Though dirt-bike boots may look similar to your standard adventure boots, they do have some distinct differences.
Most notably, they provide a hard plastic shell specially designed to protect your feet and legs from gravel.
They are pricier than standard ADV boots, but worth it due to the increased shin padding and protection if you’re riding off-road.
Cruiser and Harley Boots
Black leather boots are popular among Harley riders.
It’s a classic option that offers a tough, rugged-looking boot while providing style and safety.
Women’s Motorcycle Boots
Though many boots can be unisex, there are boots specifically customized for women.
They differ from men’s boots in size, weight, ankle support, and color.
Price Range of Motorcycle Boots
You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 for a pair of motorcycle boots.
What you pay is what you will get.
Typically, the higher the price, the better the quality and specs of the boots.
It is recommended you invest in a good pair to ensure your safety. Don’t skimp on your safety gear.