A top biker’s guide to picking the right motorcycle boots
Motorbike boots are one of the most expensive investments a rider has to make, commonly costing between £50 and £400. So why bother?
Normal shoes, builders’ boots and walking boots can be dangerous when riding on powerful motor vehicles. They wear quickly, especially if you’re a rider who likes to ‘feel the road’ a bit, and they can become flimsy. Boot laces can get caught in pedals and normal shoes can easily be pulled off leaving your feet exposed.
In stark contrast – a pair of good motorcycle boots will be comfortable even at the 300 mile mark. They will protect your toes, ankle, calf and shin and save your feet from turning to hamburgers in a crash. And sometimes they look pretty good too. Good biking boots offer superb protection and with a wide range to choose from there is no excuse for riding in sandals. Here are the three main types:
Motorcycle touring boot
These are usually the least expensive biking boots and are perfect for the everyday commuter who goes out in all weather and wants his boots to be comfortable and safe. You can expect to pay £50-£100 for a good pair and they should last you a long time unless you have a crash.
Check they are waterproof – there’s nothing worse than wet feet. A professionally made pair should have a HIPORA lining which guarantees they will keep water out.
Just because touring boots are lower in price doesn’t mean they all skimp on protection. Look for boots that have a solid shin, ankle guards, with toe caps and heel caps to keep your toes on your feet. Otherwise you might as well ride bare-foot.
Motorcycle sports boot
This footwear is ideal for bikers who feel the need for speed and also want to look the part while they’re cruising. Like designer trainers, this style of footwear often comes in a wide variety of colours or styles and is intended to look great and fit like a glove. The price ranges from between £70-£170.
They should still have all the protective features of a touring boot.
They should be comfortable. A good boot doesn’t put too much pressure on your feet but should grip you well enough to stay on even if you tug them hard.
Motorcycle racing boot
Racing boots are for serious riders who push their kit to the limit and demand all the latest technology and protection to keep them safe and improve their track performance. Unsurprisingly they are often the most expensive and can cost over £300, although good quality ones can be found for under £100.
Don’t believe the hype surrounding a designer brand boot. Check out what protection it offers and, if you can, try the boot for size and fit.
Shop around. Motorcycle clothing retailers have a whole range of prices – make sure you get the best deal.
As a good starting point visit http://wwwghostbikes.com.
For starters, why not check out their Cougar racing boot here: http://www.ghostbikes.com/products/1243-Ghost-Cougar-Motorcycle-Boots.html
