Buying booties

I am going to buy my first pair of proper riding boots and need some advice.
I have looked at a few at the bike shops and would like to know if there are
any brands that are really good, and likewise brands to avoid. I'm aiming
at around $400.
The main thing I want out of them is protection (obviously), not too bulky
and good ankle flexibility. Any recommendations. They all feel stiff
'cause they're new, so I was wondering if some soften up more so than
others.
I mainly ride on weekends, not commuting.

Thanks,
Proc.
1988 VFR700

 

I like Daytona Flash. About $265, well-made, strong, protective, last well,
& comfortable.

 

Check these out. I just bought a pair and theyre great. Aussie made as well
and only $250. Stood in the rain all day at GP and didnt get feet wet at
all. Really comfy as well. They have an air cushioned sole so comfortable
walking too.
http://www.rossiboots.com.au/catalogue/catalogue_details.asp?prodID=110

 

Petesin is of the opinion:

You can get some pretty schmick boots for $400.

I've just some Falco "Driver" waterproofs for $240, they seem like a good
fit. My previous boots were Rossi P-132 (now P-134) which if you want
something a little cheaper (but still a damn good boot) I'd go those at
around $170. My last pair only got replaced because the insurance company
was paying for them, after two riders and about 15 years worth of work (and
four down-the-roads).

Aaah, so you're looking for fashion rather than function? <g> Whatever
looks the best - you won't be spending enough time in them for fit or
comfort to matter.
</tongueincheek>

- Matt
GT750 and proud!

 

A boot with a gortex liner will make for a good general purpose boot
that can handle a variety of conditions. I have alpinestars boots at
the moment which have gortex and a porous leather outer (lots of very
small holes) which helps it to breath in warmer weather but still
remain 100% waterproof. I have never had a wet foot in 6 years.

Magic stuff.

Check out BMW gear too, its styling is neutral and they offer a nice
range of well made equipment. You might find they are a better price
than what you get in a mainstream motorcycle gear shop.


Tim.

 

I had a pair of rossi hikin boots once, lasted 3 years (normally i get
6months from shoes) so I reckon they must be doin somthing right....(if
anybodys actually wonderin, yeah their hikin boots are damn comfy as well,
soz about goin slightly west on the subject)

 

Whoops; we've got another Corks.....

 

If your budget is $400 I'de go for something like the Aplinestar SMX3 or
the Sidi Vertebrae I (they're on sale nowdays). Both are pretty kick arse,
offer plenty of protection in all the right places etc. Remember a felxible
heel means less rigidity when you come off, so your ankles will be worse
off. The stiffer they are in the ankle dept (left/right) the better as it'l
protect your ankles if something does happen. Then again, depends on your
riding and conditions. If you don't want to go up to the *sport* level,
I'de go a set of Alpinestar Stage Goretex. Awesome boots, fully waterproof,
nothing short of kick ass.

Cam
'00 ZX6R

 

Actually after the 1st reply I went and had a looksee at their
products.....was wondering about the hiking boots...so it was on topic for
me

I might have to go try some of these bike boots on myself I
think......waterproof sounds good. What about heat? are they very hot to
wear?

Tony

 

The Alpine Stars goretex range are great, especially if you have a wide
foot. The BMW boots are also good, but are of a narrow fit.

Pegasus

 

Their hiking boots are very good sadly the ones I got
aren't practically resoleable :-(.

They've been making 'standard' bike boots for ever. If you're
in Melbourne, consider Medal Boots too (Gertrude St., Fitzroy)

-----sharks