Motorcycle specific boots or general work boots

[Yonerkel]

Looking for a new pair of boots and was wondering if motorcycle specific boots are a better choice over regular work boots such as Wolverine Durashocks. Does the extra padding or layer of leather on the shift foot really help?

[67fire]

Good motorcycle boots are made with thicker leather and soles.
Often, they also have some steel reinforcement on the out side edges of the soles and the front.
They are also stronger in the ankle area.

Eric

[Jeff10236]

Looking for a new pair of boots and was wondering if motorcycle specific boots are a better choice over regular work boots such as Wolverine Durashocks. Does the extra padding or layer of leather on the shift foot really help?

I have a pair of military boots (Navy approved 6" workboots). I find they are very comfortable, but my next pair will be actual motorcycle boots. As Eric says, there are construction differences. One thing I've found with my Bates boots, something that makes them comfortable may hurt their performance as motorcycle boots. The outer sole is a very soft rubber- great for cushioning, not so great for durability on the pavement (they do seem to be wearing fairly quickly).

The leather on the shifting foot you'll find on some motorcycle boots is a great idea. On my boots I find that the leather on that part of the toe is wearing quickly. It may not help that I have a safety toe on my boots and there is a hard surface under the leather, it may not wear as much if the leather gave in that area. Still, the extra leather (or extra thick leather with some single ply leather motorcycle boots) would probably provide a lot more wear protection from the shifter.

You can find a pair of motorcycle boots for prices that are very similiar to work boots. Heck, for what I paid for my Bates I could have had some decent motorcycle boots with money left over. If you have a wide foot like me and are having trouble finding anything look up Milwaukee Motorcycle Clothing Company, Double H and Boulet (they all make boots in at least one or two styles with widths up to EEE at reasonable prices).

[danokat]

Suggestions for the non BMW boots for casual riding a GS1200. I really don't want the whole adventure look but I do want a nice boot that I can wear and don't look like I am racing.

[califkid]

I just bought a pair of SIDI boots I'm very pleased with. I can't tell you the style but check out the brand and you might be pleased.

Steve

[markk53]

Looking for a new pair of boots and was wondering if motorcycle specific boots are a better choice over regular work boots such as Wolverine Durashocks. Does the extra padding or layer of leather on the shift foot really help?

You will never regret getting motorcycle specific boots, especially if they're waterproof or really close, provided you get a good fit. Even if they cost double or triple the cost of the Wolverines they will be worth it. The only exception is if you actually would buy the Wolverines for daily work and use them to ride too. But even then I'd do both, save the work boot for work and the bike boot for the bike. If it would just be weekend work I'd do the motorcycle boots and a pair of low buck work boots for the yard or garage work. I have yet to regret buying a quality piece of motorcycle equipment when I need it on the bike.

Don't waste money on boots that aren't waterproof or water resistant. You're gonna thank yourself when you don't get wet feet in a downpour. I know having my well oiled and treated old HiPoints stay dry on a rainy ride is great. The two worst feelings are a wet crotch and wet feet... in that specific order. :thumbsdown:

[benny hedges]

work boots are no good if you come off - your ankle will either get ground off or snap.that's the thing about joints - they are also places where your body comes apart, so it's best to protect them ;)
there's plenty of plainer style armoured boots if you dont want to look like rossi

[kat569]

Any ideas for riding or work boots that don't have a HUGE honkin' toe? I have two pairs of hiking boots; a pair of Doc Martens; and got a pair of HD riding boots for Christmas (too big; need to return them). ALL of them have this really thick toe, as in I could fit BOTH feet in there and have wiggle room above them. It makes it really hard to get my toe under the shifter (as it is, I need to move my foot a bit forward on the peg to get enough leverage to shift). Any ideas?

[benny hedges]

Any ideas?

check out ebay....
(this is uk ebay but there will be similar on yours if you dont want to import)

search 'ladies motorcycle boots'

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/?_from=R40&_trksid=p3984.m570.l1311&_nkw=ladies+motorcycle+boots&_sacat=See-All-Categories

i bought my last 2 pairs from ebay and saved a fortune.
2 lady riders i know have sidi vertigo boots, they look great and have all the right protection.
expensive from a dealer but well worth it.

[4Raven]

check out ebay....
(this is uk ebay but there will be similar on yours if you dont want to import)

search 'ladies motorcycle boots'

http://shop.ebay.co.uk/?_from=R40&_trksid=p3984.m570.l1311&_nkw=ladies+motorcycle+boots&_sacat=See-All-Categories

i bought my last 2 pairs from ebay and saved a fortune.
2 lady riders i know have sidi vertigo boots, they look great and have all the right protection.
expensive from a dealer but well worth it.

I would def try some boots on at a store first though, before buying on ebay....all boots fit differently and when you shop at ebay it may cost you extra to ship them back if they don't fit right...but if you want extra boots and cheap (benny's right) shop on ebay.

I am going to try Ridge boots this year...going to head down to a store, not too far away and try them on again to be sure....

[DucMonster696]

Anyone have any suggestions for a nice pair of low cut boots? There's a pair I like but i'm not sure how they'd do for riding. To new to post a link of them but they're by five ten and they're called "pursuit" if anyone cares to look them up. Thanks!

[Gnomad]

I have a pair of Wolverines that are super comfortable. Most motorcycle specific boots seem to be only comfortable when you are riding. I usually put my boots on in the morning and never take them off all day so I demand a comfortable boot for walking as well as riding. I also only wear insulated, waterproof boots that help to keep my feet cool and dry.

[aaronrkelly]

I ride as part of daily life.....to work, to go get the kids, to the store.....I cant stop and put on "motorcycle specific" gear every time I want to jump on a bike....Id spend like 2 hours changing a day.

Ive got a pair of Carhartt work boots.....they've been across the US a few times on my touring bike......out in the woods on my dual sport......and everywhere else I go.....all day, every day.

Are they better for motorcycling then motorcycle boots.....no, doubt they are.

.....but they seem to be working well enough for me.

Id say if your set with every OTHER aspect of gear that you want....then by all means, try a pair of MC boots.

.....but Im guessing unless your playing MotoGP racer on track day, regular boots work just fine for the most of us.

....thats providing your actually buying DECENT work boots - skip the cheapo crap.

[starguard]

I went out and bought a set of "Motorcycle boots" when I first bought my bike, and as of yet I still have not worn them. After giving them a firm inspection I found that they were really nothing more than thick golashes better suited for the rain than riding on a bike.

Each time I go riding, a have a pair of over the ankle shoes that I have been wearing, but I do understand the need for motorcycle specific boots.

As soon as I get my money right, I am definitely going to buy a good $100 + pair!

[aaronrkelly]

I cut and pasted this from another post.....thought it was relevent here considering the statement I made two posts up.....yeah, eating crow now.



My boots weren't designed specifically for motorcycles, but they do provide the same protection plus they have steel-toes.
So, showing my ignorance, do boots specifically designed for riding have steel-toes?

I dont know what kind of boots your talking about......so I cant say for certain.....but I REALLY doubt they provide the "same protection".

I was recently in a motorcycle accident wearing a pair of Carhartt steel toed work boots - I thought, much like you.....good boots are good boots.

It was a 15mph get off in which I stupidly tried to "save" the bike by planting my foot.......well the bike kept going.....my foot stayed put and pulled me off the bike and decimated my ankle. Now the wreck was my fault......and planting my foot was stupid (its an automatic reaction when your going down....its hard to override it)........but it happened.

I did the following:
broke my Fibula 3 inches below me knee
split my Fibula and Tibia apart at the base
busted the base of my Tibia off
tore ligaments in my ankle

1 week in a splint to reduce swelling, 2 hours of surgery, 2 weeks in a splint again, 6 weeks in a walking boot (but I wasnt allowed to even put that foot on the ground....zero weight) followed up by 6 weeks of physical therapy (transition from crutches to walking) and Im on my way to walking like a 80 year old. They said about 6 months till Im back to pre-accident shape.

This is what my foot looked like about 4 weeks in.....they were taking the staples out.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263588_1597727362402_1812559313_957726_2870434_n.j pg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267833_1597727162397_1812559313_957725_375693_n.jp g

Work boots are better then tennis shoes.......but they damn sure arent as good as motorcycle boots.

........and by motorcycle boots I DONT mean those Harley or Milwaukee wannabes......they are glorified work boots and only are for looks.....they offer **** protection, dont bother.

I have a pair of Alpinestars that I will be wearing once my ankle stops swelling up.....I cant get my foot in them now.

If you read the features and compared them to your work boots....you can see they dont measure up.




*Contoured shin plate protector is injected with high modulus PU for a high level of impact and abrasion resistance

*Extended inside plate is injected with medium/low durometer PU guarding the side and toe box area and features a rubber insert for controlling grip

*The inner side of the boot is specifically designed for control and features thick and whole stamped suede designed for excellent contact and grip against the bike, whilst guarding against heat

*Wide calf protector plate is injected with PU for high impact resistance

*Injected external PU heel protector guards the outer ankle and features a shock-absorbing insert on the back of the boot

*Poly fabric internal lining is laminated with open cell foam for improved air circulation

*High density contoured padding provides shock absorption for the heel and ankle areas.

*Removable anatomic foot bed

*Optimal back and forth flexibility

*3-stage instep flex zone for maximum comfort, control and support

*Coated Leather upper

*Exclusive rubber outsole design

*Closure structure features three, low profile Aluminum buckles with memory, self-closure design provides superior impact avoidance and optimal fit

*Increased flexiblity at the ball of the foot for improved braking and shifting

*Patented "ankle brace" protector

*Increased back and forth flexibility

*New form fitting PU gasket seals water out of the boot

[chefonahonda]

I cut and pasted this from another post.....thought it was relevent here considering the statement I made two posts up.....yeah, eating crow now.




I dont know what kind of boots your talking about......so I cant say for certain.....but I REALLY doubt they provide the "same protection".

I was recently in a motorcycle accident wearing a pair of Carhartt steel toed work boots - I thought, much like you.....good boots are good boots.

It was a 15mph get off in which I stupidly tried to "save" the bike by planting my foot.......well the bike kept going.....my foot stayed put and pulled me off the bike and decimated my ankle. Now the wreck was my fault......and planting my foot was stupid (its an automatic reaction when your going down....its hard to override it)........but it happened.

I did the following:
broke my Fibula 3 inches below me knee
split my Fibula and Tibia apart at the base
busted the base of my Tibia off
tore ligaments in my ankle

1 week in a splint to reduce swelling, 2 hours of surgery, 2 weeks in a splint again, 6 weeks in a walking boot (but I wasnt allowed to even put that foot on the ground....zero weight) followed up by 6 weeks of physical therapy (transition from crutches to walking) and Im on my way to walking like a 80 year old. They said about 6 months till Im back to pre-accident shape.

This is what my foot looked like about 4 weeks in.....they were taking the staples out.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263588_1597727362402_1812559313_957726_2870434_n.j pg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267833_1597727162397_1812559313_957725_375693_n.jp g

Work boots are better then tennis shoes.......but they damn sure arent as good as motorcycle boots.

........and by motorcycle boots I DONT mean those Harley or Milwaukee wannabes......they are glorified work boots and only are for looks.....they offer **** protection, dont bother.

I have a pair of Alpinestars that I will be wearing once my ankle stops swelling up.....I cant get my foot in them now.

If you read the features and compared them to your work boots....you can see they dont measure up.




*Contoured shin plate protector is injected with high modulus PU for a high level of impact and abrasion resistance

*Extended inside plate is injected with medium/low durometer PU guarding the side and toe box area and features a rubber insert for controlling grip

*The inner side of the boot is specifically designed for control and features thick and whole stamped suede designed for excellent contact and grip against the bike, whilst guarding against heat

*Wide calf protector plate is injected with PU for high impact resistance

*Injected external PU heel protector guards the outer ankle and features a shock-absorbing insert on the back of the boot

*Poly fabric internal lining is laminated with open cell foam for improved air circulation

*High density contoured padding provides shock absorption for the heel and ankle areas.

*Removable anatomic foot bed

*Optimal back and forth flexibility

*3-stage instep flex zone for maximum comfort, control and support

*Coated Leather upper

*Exclusive rubber outsole design

*Closure structure features three, low profile Aluminum buckles with memory, self-closure design provides superior impact avoidance and optimal fit

*Increased flexiblity at the ball of the foot for improved braking and shifting

*Patented "ankle brace" protector

*Increased back and forth flexibility

*New form fitting PU gasket seals water out of the boot

Sorry about the broken leg... I am wearing Milwaukee Boots and like them as I started riding with my Merrell hiking boots but please tell me which Alpinestars you will be using, can't afford what I see in your photo's.:)

[aaronrkelly]

Sorry about the broken leg... I am wearing Milwaukee Boots and like them as I started riding with my Merrell hiking boots but please tell me which Alpinestars you will be using, can't afford what I see in your photo's.:)

Ive got a pair of Alpinestars Tech 6s for dual sport riding......and Im going to be using them on the road for a few months till me ankle gets tip top.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/aus_rider_22/DigiCam_Photos_014.jpg


Then Im going to be ordering a pair of touring boots. Not exactly sure which kind....something with MORE protection then just work boots.....but they arent going to need to be as protective as the off-road boots. A good compromise.

Im thinking about the Tour Master Solutions.

Features
-Water-repellent leather and PU upper
-HiPora® waterproof, breathable membrane
-3M ScotchLite™ on rear area for night time safety
-VR single density compound sole for reliable grip
-Auto lock zipper covered with adjustable Velcro® flap
-Leather stretch panels for better comfort and durability
-Molded nylon shin and ankle guard backed with shock absorbing material
-Shock absorbing latex foam on flex panels
-Leather shift pad
-TecnoGI® thermoplastic heel cup and toe cap
-Preformed orthopedic vibration absorbing foot bed

Price is $107 at Bike Bandit.

http://a2.bikebandit.com/assets/product_images/Tour-Master-Solution-2-0-WP-Motorcycle-Boots-2011-MD.gif


.......and your right about not being able to afford that. I have one VERY expensive ankle right now. Estimating about $50K before we are all over with....granted I have health care but even the 20% copay is going to be at $10K......but Im not real sure how its going to pan out.

Thankfully I had worked at my job for 10+ years and never took any sick leave so I had over 10 weeks saved up......I go back this Saturday, walking pretty good in this boot so I think Im good to go.

[chefonahonda]

Think I will check those out and order a pair next month. I wear great non skid work boots at work and rode with one time and won't be riding in them as they are too flimsy.

[Gold5th]

I have a pair of WP solution boots. I was involved in an incedent with a car that ended with my right foot spinning and twisting under my 1000lbs bike ended up pinned under the saddle bag.

Now my ankle hurt and the boots(well just the one) took a royal beating.. but the boots are still somewhat wearable, I'm waiting on the insurance outcome. I'm certain that had I been wearing my normal swat boots my ankle would have been broken/buggered.

Just got my wife some riding boots today.. she's been using swat boots.

[mikevillena]

I cut and pasted this from another post.....thought it was relevent here considering the statement I made two posts up.....yeah, eating crow now.




I dont know what kind of boots your talking about......so I cant say for certain.....but I REALLY doubt they provide the "same protection".

I was recently in a motorcycle accident wearing a pair of Carhartt steel toed work boots - I thought, much like you.....good boots are good boots.

It was a 15mph get off in which I stupidly tried to "save" the bike by planting my foot.......well the bike kept going.....my foot stayed put and pulled me off the bike and decimated my ankle. Now the wreck was my fault......and planting my foot was stupid (its an automatic reaction when your going down....its hard to override it)........but it happened.

I did the following:
broke my Fibula 3 inches below me knee
split my Fibula and Tibia apart at the base
busted the base of my Tibia off
tore ligaments in my ankle

1 week in a splint to reduce swelling, 2 hours of surgery, 2 weeks in a splint again, 6 weeks in a walking boot (but I wasnt allowed to even put that foot on the ground....zero weight) followed up by 6 weeks of physical therapy (transition from crutches to walking) and Im on my way to walking like a 80 year old. They said about 6 months till Im back to pre-accident shape.

This is what my foot looked like about 4 weeks in.....they were taking the staples out.

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263588_1597727362402_1812559313_957726_2870434_n.j pg

http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267833_1597727162397_1812559313_957725_375693_n.jp g

Work boots are better then tennis shoes.......but they damn sure arent as good as motorcycle boots.

........and by motorcycle boots I DONT mean those Harley or Milwaukee wannabes......they are glorified work boots and only are for looks.....they offer **** protection, dont bother.

I have a pair of Alpinestars that I will be wearing once my ankle stops swelling up.....I cant get my foot in them now.

If you read the features and compared them to your work boots....you can see they dont measure up.




*Contoured shin plate protector is injected with high modulus PU for a high level of impact and abrasion resistance

*Extended inside plate is injected with medium/low durometer PU guarding the side and toe box area and features a rubber insert for controlling grip

*The inner side of the boot is specifically designed for control and features thick and whole stamped suede designed for excellent contact and grip against the bike, whilst guarding against heat

*Wide calf protector plate is injected with PU for high impact resistance

*Injected external PU heel protector guards the outer ankle and features a shock-absorbing insert on the back of the boot

*Poly fabric internal lining is laminated with open cell foam for improved air circulation

*High density contoured padding provides shock absorption for the heel and ankle areas.

*Removable anatomic foot bed

*Optimal back and forth flexibility

*3-stage instep flex zone for maximum comfort, control and support

*Coated Leather upper

*Exclusive rubber outsole design

*Closure structure features three, low profile Aluminum buckles with memory, self-closure design provides superior impact avoidance and optimal fit

*Increased flexiblity at the ball of the foot for improved braking and shifting

*Patented "ankle brace" protector

*Increased back and forth flexibility

*New form fitting PU gasket seals water out of the boot

I hope you won't mind if I cross post this on another forum (Sportbike Network) as a vivid example of the need for proper footwear. Of course I will mention your username here and I'll be posting this in the newbie section. Hope you are healing well. And thank you for sharing this painful experience. Hopefully, it can save a newbie from having to go through what you did.

[mikevillena]

I have put up a thread with a copy of aaronkelley's post in Sportbike Network. You can find it here: http://www.sportbikes.net/forums/new-rider-forums/446384-importance-proper-boots.html#post4584169

[aaronrkelly]

I hope you won't mind if I cross post this on another forum (Sportbike Network) as a vivid example of the need for proper footwear. Of course I will mention your username here and I'll be posting this in the newbie section. Hope you are healing well. And thank you for sharing this painful experience. Hopefully, it can save a newbie from having to go through what you did.

Nope, dont mind.....copy and paste away.

Doing better.....I got a hell of a limp and Im walking slow but Im back in my regular shoes for the most part. PT 2 times a week....they said Id be walking well in 6 weeks....but it would likely be close to 6 months before I was back to 100%.

Ive got a pair of TourMaster Solution boots coming.....alot more protection then work boots for only $120. Hope they get here before the weekend.

Would they have saved my ankle.....maybe not. Hell maybe my Alpinestar Tech 6s wouldnt have......who knows. I just know Id rather have had them on to give them a shot.

.....and this was not a high speed or rough wreck.....it was a mere 15mph step off......it was a joke for the most part - well, except for the borked ankle and leg.

[mikevillena]

Thank you very much aaron. Hopefully, your discomfort will be somewhat mitigated by the thought that a newbie somewhere reads it and learns a very important lesson about gear. Again, heal up well and get back on two wheels soon. Best regards. Mike Villena

[KMWilliams]

.....and this was not a high speed or rough wreck.....it was a mere 15mph step off......it was a joke for the most part - well, except for the borked ankle and leg.

Thank you for sharing this experience. It has me re-thinking my opinion of what is an acceptable boot.

[BikerFan]

I normally wear either Magnums or Carharrts. Looking to replace them and the wife came across one of them discount sites... ShoppingBlitz. Not into the whole online shoe thing... but into paying less.