Is riding your passion? Do you know how to choose your riding boots?
Even if you don’t take long trips on your superbike, you must be using it to commute to the office every day or to take a quick ride to your favorite restaurant. After reaching your destination you might tug off all your motorcycle gear but can you yank away your motorcycle boots?
No, the boost stays on all the time you’re on the road. Motorcycle boots have a great task to do. They have to protect us in the event of a slide, and still look stylish and be comfortable enough to walk around. How to choose riding boots is one question riders ask frequently. Can you opt for any chunky-looking outdoor boots? No. Motorcycle boots need to surpass all tests and qualities required to protect your feet while you’re on the go.
In this post, we tell you how to choose a pair of quality motorcycle boots, and why regular boots just won’t cut it for mountain biking shoes.
Did You Know?
The US Center for Disease Control published a study finding that 30% of all non-fatal injuries in motorcycle accidents were to the foot and leg.
What Is Special About Motorcycle Boots?
Amongst all the hype about riding gear in the market, it isn’t easy to identify “motorcycle boost”. These shoes are designed with motorcycle-specific features in mind. So what are the features that make riding boots stand apart from regular ones?
Molded ankle protection, built-in shifter pads, increased torsion stiffness to prevent flexing, buckles or lace-retention designs to prevent snagging, oil-resistant soles to prevent a slip, and double or triple stitching in seams that could come apart in a crash. These features equip the boots with the unique needs you look out for as a rider.
But Riding Shoes Are So Expensive!
Are they worth a purchase?
“You get what you pay for”. High-quality riding boots are comfortable, durable, and offer great protection. They are engineered to stay put while you’re at speed. The materials required to craft them aren’t cheap but they are affordable as compared to skin grafts, surgeries, and loss of time at work. So it’s rightly said, “Don’t dress for the ride, dress for the slide.”Royal Enfield Short Riding Boot9.5/10
- Outer shell made from a combination of abrasion-resistant genuine leather and hard-wearing pu coated fabric
- Metal shank insert between the insole and the outsole offers support to the arch of the foot
- Reflective panels on the rear make the rider more visible in low-light conditions
- Two side entry zippers make it easier to put on and remove the boots
Check Price On Amazon Kawasaki Short Riding Boots9/10
- Fit Type: Universal
- Vibram outsole, reinforced heel, reinforced toe, TPU gear shift pad, anatomically shaped foot bed, PP insole with integrated shank, anatomically shaped ankle cup, gusseted tongue, easy entrance
- Adjustability, Sustainability,Safety
Check Price On Amazon ORAZO Picus -VWR Bike Riding Boots8.8/10
- 8” water resistant, light reflector at the heel side, Ankle twist protection
Shock absorption on the seat region - Highest grade abrasion & water-resistant leather, Smooth leather finish including tongue area
- Well-designed flex points make walking comfortable, High degree anti-slip dual density sole
- Antifungal In-socks which keep your feet dry
How To Choose Riding Boots – Features To Look For
1. Material
We all know the benefit of wearing leather boots. Yes, they are stylish but not necessarily designed keeping in mind the motorcycle-specific needs. Canvas or soft leather isn’t substantial for riding a bike. Some manufacturers are producing boots with high-quality textile materials that are abrasion-resistant as well as breathable. If you’re riding in different weathers choose boots with weather protection.
2. Height
A full-length boot is best to protect your ankle and feet in event of a slide or crash. For any boot to give proper protection they need to reach above the ankle and have stable construction. This will prevent your ankle from breaking, twisting, or scraping during a slide.
3. Construction
While buying riding or road cycling shoes, keep an eye on their construction. Look for double- or triple-stitching to make sure they don’t pull apart in nasty accidents. Soles that are glued to the boots are prone to detach in a crash. Opt for shoes typically with stitched soles as they are protective and durable.
4. Closures
Laces are the most common and preferable closure options in most triathlon shoes. They give a precise fit and are easy to take off. However, consider that the lace and hooks don’t snag while riding. Other closures like Velcro and buckles are also common with motorcycle boots.
5. Soles
The grip and stiffness of the sole may vary according to your choice. But, make sure that the soles are oil-resistant. Oil build-up on the streets is the greatest downfall for a rider. Wearing cycling shoes with stiff soles have better durability and lesser grip.
6. Sizing of Boots
This is one of the most important factors to consider. Setting on your road bike with the right size of boots is crucial. Be it casual riding or indoor cycling classes you need a pair of shoes of perfect size. Remember to check the size chart before you buy (US or UK measurements). Wear a pair of socks you’ll be riding in to check the perfect fit.
7. Armor and Protection
Racing boots with armor and extra padding is a bonus! Most riding boots come with built-in armor made from plastic, carbon, or Kevlar placed in high impact regions. Steel-plated shoes also add protection to your toes and thus, they are worth considering.
8. Replaceable Parts
Another perk that you can add to your riding boots is a removable bootie that can be detached for cleaning and airing purposes. Some manufacturers provide extra toe-sliders that allow you to change worn out plants quickly.
Hope you have got enough information on choosing riding boots. Never wear flip-flops or street shoes even if you’re motorcycling for short trips. Purpose riding boots are designed to protect your ankle and feet from the worst unfortunate accidents.
Invest wisely and ride happily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of riding shoes?
Here are the benefits of motorcycle riding shoes:
- Protects your legs in event of a crash
- Prevents early wear and tear due to frequent gear shifting
- More comfortable
- More durable and long-lasting
Can you ride a motorcycle with regular shoes?
Regular street shoes are not designed to give protection on the road. Motorcycle shoes on the contrary protect your ankle and feet against strong shearing forces. If you want to avoid those circumstances where your foot can get ripped away, riding boots are the smart choice.
Are safety shoes good for motorcycle riding?
Contrary to the popular myth, safety shoes with toe caps are not suitable for motorcycling. Neither are the fancy Woodland type shoes. Safety shoes are good for the work environment but don’t protect from impact while you’re at speed.
