Choosing the Right Motorcycle Boots and Footwear - Buying Guide
Content
- An explanatory guide to choosing the right motorcycle boots and shoes
- Sneakers, shoes, boots, ankle boots ... find a way to protect yourself and ride in style
- PPE standard: 3 criteria, 2 levels
- Boot or basketball?
- Material: leather or textile?
- Waterproof or ventilated?
- Heated or not?
- Zipper or laces?
- Selector protection or not?
- The only
- What is the shoe size?
- Comfort
- style
- Man or woman
- What is the budget?
- Tips before you hit the road or track
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Conclusion
An explanatory guide to choosing the right motorcycle boots and shoes
Sneakers, shoes, boots, ankle boots ... find a way to protect yourself and ride in style
In France, law requires motorcyclists and scooter drivers to wear a CE approved helmet and PPE certified gloves. But the fact that the rest of the equipment is optional does not mean that it should be considered as an accessory, especially boots and shoes.
Indeed, the feet are among the most vulnerable limbs in the event of an accident, from the ankle to the tibia. According to official figures, 29% of seriously injured people have orthopedic injuries. Hence the advantage of good equipment in terms of footwear, allowing you to limit risks regardless of their use.
Because there are as many shoes, boots, boots as there are applications ... for city driving, on the road, off-road or on the track ... which will define a wide variety of models.
Then there's style. Because yes, there is everything you need to outfit your city scooter, sports roadster, track or cross country ... with the choice also to consider the season between waterproof models for the middle and winter seasons or breathable in summer.
And there you will have a wide selection of all the famous brands - Alpinestars, Bering, Dainese, Forma, Ixon, Spidi, Stylmartin, TCX to name the most famous ones - as well as the own brands of Dafy (All One), Louis (Vanucci) or Motoblouse. (DXR), not to mention Falco, Furygan, Gaerne, Harisson, Held, Helstons, IXS, Overlap, Oxstar, Rev'It, Richa, Segura, Sidi, Soubirac, V Quattro or even XPD. Some brands especially specialize in track (Sidi, XPS) or vice versa Vintage (Helstons, Soubirac), most brands offer a relatively wide range for all tastes.
But then what to choose among all the models, from sneakers to boots, including ankle boots, ankle boots and shoes, and for what? We guide you from standards to adherence to selection criteria that must be considered so that you are protected in style and in maximum comfort.
PPE standard: 3 criteria, 2 levels
Because motorcycle boots are optional, manufacturers may sell equipment that is not specifically approved. This can be for two reasons: either the shoe does not meet the requirements of the standard, or the manufacturer did not submit its model for testing due to cost reasons. For our part, we advise you to use only shoes and boots with the CE logo and meeting the requirements of the EN 13634 standard.
Released in 2002, then updated in 2010 and most recently in 2015, this standard defines the level of protection of a download according to various criteria. First, to be eligible for testing, a motorcycle boot / boot must have a minimum strut height. Therefore, the top must be at least 162 mm for sizes under 36 and at least 192 mm for sizes over 45.
If it meets the conditions, the boot can pass tests that give it a level 1 or 2 (highest - most protective) for each of the three cut, abrasion and crush resistance criteria. These values are listed in this order under the biker EPI logo.
Mentions can be added depending on the equipment level of the IPA boot if there is ankle protection, IPS for shin protection and WR (water resistance) if the boot is waterproof.
Thus, boots can be approved, but without special protection for the ankles, shins ... It is up to you to decide what you want to protect.
Boot or basketball?
Racing boots, retro boots, urban sneakers, enduro boots, hiking boots ... When we see the wealth of manufacturers' offerings, it is not always obvious which model to go to.
Obviously, we are tempted to go for a model that matches the style of his two-wheeled bike. Even if it means equipment, you can do it with aesthetics in mind. And this is far from a bad thing, because each model type accommodates differences in motorcycle use or terrain. Outside of practice, flexibility and foot position are not at all the same, and therefore practice-oriented models are required.
For example, using hiking boots for getting up off-road can become problematic due to the mud on the smooth outsole. Conversely, very stiff enduro boots on a roadster or sports car will cause discomfort due to the more flexed ankle position on this type of motorcycle.
While camping equipment offers maximum versatility for on-road use, it is not ideal in all areas. For example, the lack of a slider on the outside of the foot can quickly wear down that area on the track ...
Basically your choice should be determined by your riding practice, but also by your activity during the day. Sneakers are the least protected models, but they are also the best for everyday life. If you don't have a decision to change shoes at work or if you have to walk, then sneakers will be more comfortable than boots, but with less protection, especially in height, since the upper part of the boot is higher than the shoes.
But come what may, we must ban the use of ready-made shoes, especially those made of canvas and open shoes that offer no protection whatsoever. Ladies, a stiletto or a ballerina is a very bad idea (and we're not talking about flip flops, even in fashion).
Material: leather or textile?
leather almost always provides the best abrasion resistance, depending of course on its thickness. The thicker it is, the better it protects, but, on the contrary, the less sensation and contact, especially with the selector. On the other hand, textile footwear makes the selector feel better. But unlike gloves, your feet don't need to feel a lot. After that, it's a matter of habit and desired comfort every day.
Now two levels of PPE certification make sorting more efficient. Therefore, it is necessary to give preference to the textile footwear, which received level 2 on all counts, and not the leather model, which will only be level 1. Of course, everyone is free to have their own preferences in this matter; so to speak.
Waterproof or ventilated?
And here again, it is the use of two-wheeled vehicles that should determine your choice. If you live in the south and only skate in the summer, there is no point in choosing waterproof shoes, especially since membranes, even breathable, limit moisture transfer. If they come in handy during the rain, they can turn into ovens in hot weather. People who drive more in hot weather are better off switching to more ventilated models.
And don't feel like you have to wait for a temperature of 30 ° C to experience the oven effect. At temperatures above 20 ° C, waterproof shoes become too hot to the point of being unpleasant ... even when removed to remove odors. Therefore, preference should be given to those with an effective and recognized breathable membrane.
Today, more and more models are available in two versions: waterproof and breathable with the same look. Opportunity to take advantage of sales Consider purchasing both models. And be careful, the breathable membrane is not a thermal film and therefore does not mean it will keep you warm. This explains why different membranes are often stacked together to get the quality and effect for each membrane.
Of course, it is not enough that the boot is waterproof, it is also necessary that the water does not slip in easily. And in case of rain, a raincoat or waterproof trousers sometimes play this role, redirecting rain into the shoes if the latter does not have a high enough top. Obviously, the shoe will be easier to repair with rain pants, limiting the possibility of penetration (there is nothing worse than this trickle of water that gradually slips into the shoe).
Heated or not?
There are currently no heated shoes, but there are, on the other hand, heated insoles connected like the Digitsole. While gloves or heated vests are necessary in winter, freezing of feet rarely occurs if you're well equipped, but in colder regions, replacing the sole of internal origin can be a plus.
Zipper or laces?
Laces, side zippers, elastic bands, cable fasteners, micrometric buckles, Velcro… And again there are many fastening systems, from the simplest to the most complex. This is important because it is he who allows the shoe to remain tightly closed on the foot. The closure system also affects ergonomics and, even more so, ease of donning.
A simple lace will be easier to tie than a trio of micrometric buckles, but it can also easily give way if not held by a Velcro strap. Here's a little to rate each one. But boots with a side zipper are a must, sometimes in addition to laces, which makes putting them on much easier.
Some shoes and even lace-up boots are often very naturally covered. We are outraged by the fact that they need to be loosened as much as possible in order to be able to put on or take off. The zip closure makes it quick and easy to put on or take off your leg.
And the last thing: who has never had a lace stuck in the selector and could not put his foot on the ground? The fall is guaranteed! And besides, we can hurt ourselves (and not only at the level of self-esteem).
Selector protection or not?
Most motorcycle boots have selector protection, but this is not a general rule of thumb.
Some models also have a solution, for example, a darker source area and therefore less sensitive to these particular footprints, but without adding a specific part.
In particular, the more urban models do not have it, as, for example, the Helstons with the Heritage model, but with the CE and the motorcycle.
You can always equip a separate protection for this. In fact, the selector guard is especially useful on brown models as they can turn black under the pressure of the selector rubber. And then it's really hard to clean them up to remove that black mark. On the other hand, we are only talking about aesthetics, because even without strengthening the selector, I have never seen a boot puncture at the point of friction with the selector. And it should be noted that for an urban model such selector protection looks "motorcycle" and less aesthetically pleasing.
The only
This is a moment that you almost never think about when you buy a pair of ready-made shoes, but which you think about when you buy a pair of hiking shoes. It's a little the same on a motorcycle. The outsole will provide traction to the ground and, in particular, its resistance to hydrocarbides with the necessary anti-slip properties. And the difference can be anywhere from 1 to 10 between two motorcycle boots, a pair turns out to be a bar of soap when it rains or at a gas station, and the other is very reassuring.
What is the shoe size?
The sizing system for motorcycle shoes is no different from the sizing system for regular shoes. If you are wearing size 44, buy size 44. Italians tend to cut small and sometimes you have to count on an extra size.
As with ready-to-wear models, each brand selects shoes according to its own criteria. According to the manufacturer, we will be faced with thinner, wider, taller boots ... so it's best to try or follow the opinion of other users to see if the size is better or lower.
Comfort
As with ready-to-wear, it is difficult to predict whether a shoe will be comfortable or not, depending on its construction, upper height, leather or textiles, overall quality, thickness and stiffness of the outsole (often reinforced with metal). bar, which, for anecdote, often triggers a beep at airport portals).
Enduro boots are more like ski boots, which are difficult to walk in, as opposed to softer and more - reasonable - walking hiking boots. Between them we find "trekking" boots. Sneakers and city shoes are the most comfortable in everyday life, but they are not enough to ride on the track or paths without getting hurt (especially by stones thrown off-road, not to mention falling).
But the latest sneaker models are just as comfortable to wear as the ones available in sports stores, and for everyday use, that's a plus.
The textile model is usually more comfortable than the leather one. But everything is decided by the rigidity of the skin. There are leather models that do not soften at all (worse than army rangers), and vice versa others, in which you are immediately comfortable. For example, TCX has regularly surprised us with super comfortable leather models from the very beginning. Conversely, Helstons are often tough.
style
This is the question that we deliberately put last, and we often put it first. First, we choose the shoes by their appearance, and then we look at their quality and properties. Today, the choice between all brands has expanded significantly: from urban to vintage, from enduro to cross-country track, with a look that can satisfy all tastes.
Man or woman
A few years ago, there really weren't many models for women, at best with pink and flowers or very ugly. This period is over and now we regularly find the same models available in both the mens and womens versions, especially with pink or sequins. To find them, simply search for Lady.
What is the budget?
It is not easy to determine the typical budget for motorcycle boots, knowing that the price will differ depending on the type of model, the amount of protection, the materials used, the inner membranes, and also the brand ...
For a pair of PPE certified hiking boots we can thus go from one hundred euros for an entry-level model in a very classic style to 300 euros for a fully equipped Gore-Tex version from the manufacturer. in some cases even more.
Sneakers are more affordable at prices ranging from 80 to 200 euros. The same goes for boots, which rarely cost more than 250 euros. On the other hand, the most expensive hiking / adventure boots are between € 150 and € 400.
Often times during sales you can get great deals, with up to 50% off the previous season's models, but with all the protection you need and the style you like. It is also an opportunity to equip the brand with the model of your dreams, rather than a model chosen solely for your limited budget.
Tips before you hit the road or track
Motorcycle boots are often stiffer and, depending on the brand, very stiff. They do not have to be done easily and inconveniently right away. So, never go on a long trip without wearing a minimum of them beforehand. This will save you hundreds of kilometers with an aching boot that could ruin your entire ride.
It's the same with the track boot, which is very closed and stiff. Do not go on your first day of skiing or trekking with new boots. The trail day is already tough, and if you can't change gears with too stiff shoes, the trail is a nightmare.
Cleaning and maintenance
Shoes are like everyone else, you can take care of them, especially if they are made of leather.
Conclusion
We always recommend trying before purchasing. But as far as a jacket about its size fits, shoes of the wrong size, slippery or too warm do not stand out in the photo. So feel free to go and try the store and / or check the return policy when ordering online.
And keep in mind that versatile boots do not exist in the absolute sense for reasons of style, comfort, and use. It's up to you to decide which pairs are right for you based on your use.
