I am SO over motorbike boots

[Ixion]

Once, like everyone else, I wore safety boots for riding. Then I was seduced by the Gear nazis and decided I should wear "proper" bike boots.

Well, so much for that experiment

My present Oxford boots are literally falling apart! The uppers are cracking and coming away from the soles . And they are less than two years old ! I certainly could NOT recommend the Oxford brand.

My older Oxtars (note - Oxford vs Oxtar) are more repairable (the sole came completely off one, but goopy gluey glue has fixed that ; one zip has had it but the velcro still works) but they have long lost any vague claim they might have had to being water resistant. And they are only four years old!

I do have a pair of StylMartins that are in good nick still, but they are too uncomfortable to wear all day every day

Meanwhile , my $39 pair of Warewhare safety boots are still in decent nick after ten years.

I'm just a poor sweet impoverished old man, eking out a penurious existence on the smell of an oily rag. I can't be having with buying new boots every other year at my time of life.

Bike boots have got to be a major rip off. They cost hundreds of dollars, the design is crap, they leak like sieves, the workmanship is abysmal and they fall apart in no time at all

Next week I'm off to my faithful Army Surplus place to get a pair of combat boots. I'll bet they won't fall apart after only two years.

Bike boots - you can keep them

I'm not enthused about motorbike jackets either. I may see if you can still get Army great coats.

[firefighter]

Combat boots WILL fall apart......I changed mine a lot and am glad I never had to pay for them- remember untie Helen did wonderful things with defence funding during her destructive reign........(remember those skyhawks that are now rusted through sitting OUTSIDE a hanger wearing "protective" condoms....)

[Ixion]

Ah, that's NZ Army boots. I'll go for yurpean.

[RantyDave]

I hear you, man. I have some "Forma" brand boots I got from TSS. A year old at most. One zip has gone already and been replaced, the other zip has just gone. They used to be marginally comfortable to walk in (should I, y'know, be going somewhere) but now do an excellent job of eating through the backs of my ankles. Bastard things. Expensive bastard things, too.

Dave

[FJRider]

Try to get a pair of American, special forces, combat boots... I have a pair... Worn them regulary for 6 years now... patent leather...

[Katman]

The whole four years of couriering in London I wore a pair of quick lace German Army boots. I'd have worn them as slippers if I'd been allowed.

[Jantar]

In late 1979 or early 1980, I can't remember the exact date, I bought a pair of Frames motorcycle boots, made in Dunedin. 12 years later, they had done their dash with buckles falling to bits etc, but they had remained waterproof right to the end, and the soles were still in good order. I called into Frames in Dunedin to buy a new pair, only to discover they had stopped making them some years earlier.

Apparently there is no profit for boot makers who design a product to last. Boots have be made to fall apart within 4 years, or the manufacturer doesn't get enough repeat business to stay in business.

[thehovel]

At last Ixion you have rocked up at the same conclusion I made years ago.:first: Protector safety GUM boots & a winter warm army greatcoat is the coolest bike gear you will ever use. The gumboot may be hot in the summer but you can kick them off Sooooo easly. :clap::clap:Safety gumboots $50 and they last about 4 years constant use. regards Richard

[Mom]

At last Ixion you have rocked up at the same conclusion I made years ago.:first: Protector safety GUM boots & a winter warm army greatcoat is the coolest bike gear you will ever use. The gumboot may be hot in the summer but you can kick them off Sooooo easly. :clap::clap:Safety gumboots $50 and they last about 4 years constant use. regards Richard

Sheesh, you're all class really...:bleh:

[enigma51]

Have a set of two set of spidi's The race vertibra and the normal ride one. The tourie one got a bit damaged in two many offs but is still good for touring type stuff

the vertibra after 2 years and some serious scraping is still good as new just replace some of the plastice bits

[KoroJ]

Bought my Spidi Canyons for $400 2-3 years ago and they are still in excellent condition and continue to keep the water out.

I happened to be in TSS the other day though and I see they are now $530 ...and I thought I was being extravagant at $400. I might have to resort to just wearing them on long rides.

[jrandom]

One of my (several) Christmas presents to myself was a pair of Gaerne GRW Aquatechs to replace my old Sidi Stradas, which stopped being waterproof after 18 months due to excessive dragging on the road.

Being $400 cheaper than a pair of the top-end Sidi Vertebras ($750 for a pair of boots? Piss off!) made the Gaernes a no-brainer. Guess I'll have to wait and see how they hold up. At least the replaceable toe sliders fully cover the join between sole and upper, unlike the Sidis, which tend to wear away the sole when they drag.

The Gaerne waterproofing seems to work well. My tootsies stayed dry in the rain on Monday.

[kave]

The zips on both my Gaerne boots have fallen apart in less than a year. I want to stick with motorcycle boots as I reckon they offer better protection but I cant afford to spend $200ish every 9 months on shoes. I really don't know what my next step will be.

[spookytooth]

had a pair of Gaerne for a few years now nice and comffy except in the rain,no matter what i use on them they leak worse than my jandels

[Mikkel]

you can kick them off Sooooo easly.

A bit like jandals then? :gob:


Being able to walk normally is invaluable! While expensive, the ankle joint scaffolding you can get on some of the top-end boots may be just what saves your ankle from being turned into a mishy-mashy gob of goo. Your mobility, your choice.

[jrandom]

The zips on both my Gaerne boots have fallen apart in less than a year.

Shoe repair shops should be able to replace them without any hassle. Don't buy new boots just because the zips broke.

[ManDownUnder]

Ah, that's NZ Army boots. I'll go for yurpean.

I know just the place too - on the South side of K'Rd just along from Starbucks. Forget what it's called - but there are heaps of different styles of boot in there from the various military around the world.

[pritch]

Try to get a pair of American, special forces, combat boots... I have a pair... Worn them regulary for 6 years now... patent leather...

"Patent leather combat boots." Congratulations! I believe that's a new oxymoron :dodge:

I have had mixed luck with boots:

Style Martin town boots, lethal on wet tiles otherwise OK for the intended purpose. Nearly four years old, looking OK. I haven't tested the waterproofing on these.

Style Martin touring boots. They seem waterproof, I've certainly never seen any water leak out. Four years old, zips work fine.

Spidi Canyon GoreTex, maybe a year old. Waterproof so far but slightly awkward when it comes to undoing the fastening arrangement. Or it could be just my gut getting in the way. Nice Vibram "commando" sole helps with secure footplant when manouvering.

Red Wing slip-ons. No pretensions at being waterproof or anything else much, another Vibram sole. OK to walk in, the pair I wear the most.

One thought, don't buy boots with hooks instead of holes for the laces. :nono: Not unless you want to turn your nice vinyl seat cover into something resembling a sieve. There speaks the sad voice of experience

[Big Dave]

I get 2 years between re-soles out of H-D brand Johnny Rebs and I wear them casual as well as riding.

Lets make Ixion hip!

[jrandom]

I get 2 years between re-soles

Where do you get the re-soling done?

[Big Dave]

Where do you get the re-soling done?

Don't recall name - That old school place in Newmarket on Broadway - on the left heading towards the car yard end.

[slofox]

I'm just a poor sweet impoverished old man, eking out a penurious existence on the smell of an oily rag. .

AHHhhhhhh begorrah, ya pooooor ole bugger...bring ya beggin' cup by me shop an' I'll give ya all me 10 cent pieces Ixion.....

[timetoride]

The zips on both my Gaerne boots have fallen apart in less than a year. I want to stick with motorcycle boots as I reckon they offer better protection but I cant afford to spend $200ish every 9 months on shoes. I really don't know what my next step will be.
I got a pair of them Puma r1000 from santa. Really good deal off tardme for $240.00 seriously cumfortable AND NO ZIPS! :Punk:
Here is a good review.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfbDZgWZYaU

Haven't tried them in the rain yet, I have however done nearly 1000k in them since last week and have had no issues with them. Fairly light but really strong and much more comfortable than my old boots. (less feel to start with but my old boots were cheap thin crap these one actually feel safe).
I have come off wearing army boots, right foot peg snapped off when it hit the car and cut throught the boot like butter. The said snapped foot peg then degloved the whole top of my foot breaking all the little bones that control the toes in the process. Entered just behind my big toe and left me alone at my ankle (doctors said if it had gone 10 cm deeper the would've had to have taken my foot off):shit:. Combined with a few other injuries I couldn't walk for three months (and had to have 3 operations on that foot) If I had these boots then I can confidently say I would have been much better off. YES Boots are expensive. BUT I would rather have a small dent in my pocket than an empty space at the end of my leg. just my 2c

[testastretta]

Been riding for 20+ years and until 5 years ago all i used were Doc Martens,tramping boots,steelcap work boots or(stupidly)running shoes.Then I bought some Sidi sport/touring boots and wearing them year round in rain,hail and snow they are still in good nick and are far superior when it comes to feel at the contols than anything else I have worn.

[FJRider]

Apparently there is no profit for boot makers who design a product to last.

That applies not only to manufacturers of boots...

[Big Dave]

Mr Ixion in spidi and alpine stars. That would be a sight to behold.

I've not met mrs ixion but I'd like to be there when the statement arrived.

[Motu]

I guess the thinking is the boots will be soooo uncool in a couple of years that people will be too embarrassed to wear them...so toss them in the bin for the the latest hip style jobs.That's ok for young IT workers earning big bucks - but for old working men like me it's just not on.

My Gaerne Balance are 5 years old,and looking pretty beat up to me - I bought them for the rest of my life!!! I still have my 30 year old Sidi's...but wouldn't wear them unless pushed.I have a pair of 20 year old lace up gumboots,just like Dad used to wear doing the lawns....minus laces.They have a toe cap and steel shank - I used to ride off road with them and they are still covered in gorse prickles.I now use them to mow the lawns...minus the laces.

My next pair of bike boots will be high top forestry boots...I'll sleep in them when on the road as I used to do back in the day.

[portokiwi]

i crashed my bike into a truck yesterday..... he turned in front of me.
i hit the front right side of truck went along the road for a while woke up some time later. my boots 5.11 side zip combat boots are in good nick. my hld helmet saved my head. i have no problems recomending them to others. saved my boots getting cut of having the side zips.
my pants were cut off as were my jacket so they could check me over.
not one scratch on my darbi gloves.
had to get 7 stitches in my knee though lol and nice brusiesing down my left hand side after hitting truck road and mabe a tree.

[Ixion]

Mr Ixion in spidi and alpine stars. That would be a sight to behold.

I've not met mrs ixion but I'd like to be there when the statement arrived.

Actually, I made a mistake. The uncomfortable boots are Alpine Stars not StylMartins.

And not the least of the annoyance is that everytime I am forced to buy yet ANOTHER pair of boots Mrs I will exclaim "Oh they are very dear". And then take that as a signal to go out and buy a new pair of shoes! Have you priced women's shoes recently? They're even more absurd than bike boots. Totally unwaterproof, no protection whatsoever. And they cost hundreds of dollars! And for some reason that I cannot understand she cannot (she says) wear them when they're a ew years old even if they're in quite good condition. Not to mention the colours! Just don't say "What's wrong with black?". DAMHIK.

[Ixion]

I guess the thinking is the boots will be soooo uncool in a couple of years that people will be too embarrassed to wear them...so toss them in the bin for the the latest hip style jobs.That's ok for young IT workers earning big bucks - but for old working men like me it's just not on.

...

You don't happen to know the location of that bin do you?

[Manxman]

Ah, that's NZ Army boots. I'll go for yurpean.

Scored mine for $11 from the disposals sale...two years ago. No dramas whatsoever.

[rainman]

Don't know wot yer on about. I bought some cheap (OK, $200) Dririders and they a) don't leak and b) only one zip tag has broken off on them. Zips, velcro, etc all good. That after 2ish years of commutering most every day.

Always buy not the cheapest, but next one up!

[Ixion]

It's not the riding that does for them, it seems to be the walking around all day.

Though I must also note that NONE of them now seem to have a reinforced instep for the kickstarter. A pennypinching bit of cheapness, that.

[Max Preload]

I've had 'bike' boots before but now I wear full height Oliver ATs (http://www.oliver.com.au/boots/45-665_lrg.jpg), available from Protector Safety. I can wear them all day every day, no problem and often do because I use them for work. They're the most comfortable footwear I've ever owned.

[rainman]

It's not the riding that does for them, it seems to be the walking around all day.

Spare shoes, bottom drawer of filing cabinet at work...:done:


Though I must also note that NONE of them now seem to have a reinforced instep for the kickstarter. A pennypinching bit of cheapness, that.

True. I had not spotted that. Possibly owing to a complete lack of need to, of course.

[AD345]

I just wear these:

http://www.nungar.com.au/catalog/images/JR18190413-Johnny-Reb-Short.jpg

Not only do they last forever but they make me more sexually attractive to women.

[MsKABC]

I guess the thinking is the boots will be soooo uncool in a couple of years that people will be too embarrassed to wear them...

Not me mate! You should've seen me in my hand-me-down, 1980's Alpinestars boots - white leather with red accents. Noice! They did however match my motorcycle perfectly, which was also an 80's vintage, also white with red trim :niceone:

Following the hysterical reception they received from my husband's hard core motorcycling buddy, I decided it was time to upgrade. Enter the Sidi touring boots - haven't done too many miles just yet, but they're ok so far. Mind you, considering the impending upgrading of my leathers to some much more fetching, sportier & better fitting duds, an upgrade to sport boots might be in order..... *goes off to look for hubby's visa*

[HenryDorsetCase]

I was just surfing round that Olivers site (they have some good kit, looks like) and found the perfect boot.. their 350mm mining boot.

go from the mineshaft (ooh err) to the moshpit, via the Goth party, all in the same boots. I'm totally getting a pair.

[Chooky]

A truckie mate of mine once told me that long long time ago,he and two mates [3 of them] used to hop on a sprung hub Triumph and ride from Tirau to Mt Maunganui to go surfing....They took 'one' gumboot which was tied to the back mudguard......That was used for kick starting...

[Kickaha]

My first pair of Motorcycle boots was a custom made pair from "The Last Footwear" company after 11 years of reasonably constant use I wore the toes out when I first started sidecar racing

Since 2001 I have used the same pair of Sidi Vertebra as both my road and race boots and that's what I will get again when they finally die of old age

[racerhead]

Ive used daytona boots before and cant fault them and anyone Ive heard talking about them cant say enough good about them. Waterproof, comfortable and very good protection
http://www.daytona.de/english/boots_e/gore.html

[swbarnett]

Ive used daytona boots before and cant fault them and anyone Ive heard talking about them cant say enough good about them. Waterproof, comfortable and very good protection
http://www.daytona.de/english/boots_e/gore.html
Ditto.

I've got a pair of the Traveller GTX. They're the most comfortable boot I've ever owned.

Any idea if there's a New Zealand importer?

[racerhead]

Ditto.

I've got a pair of the Traveller GTX. They're the most comfortable boot I've ever owned.

Any idea if there's a New Zealand importer?

The pair I got I bought them at a show in the UK but Im from Ireland so not sure if there is a dealer in NZ

[R1madness]

My Sidi sympatec boots are great. Lasting well although its only been 2 years they still look almost new. Soles holding up well, can be resoled, water resistant, safe, warm, easy to get into thanks to the quick release ratchet buckle and velcro fastners.
Complaints. only one, they take ages to break in.

[jonbuoy]

The whole four years of couriering in London I wore a pair of quick lace German Army boots. I'd have worn them as slippers if I'd been allowed.

Murder for the first couple of days then fit like they were custom made. I had a pair resoled twice, wore them in all weather and my feet never smelt of anything other than leather.

[swbarnett]

The pair I got I bought them at a show in the UK but Im from Ireland so not sure if there is a dealer in NZ
You had me hoping for a moment. I bought mine (as did my wife) before we left Switzerland in late 1997. Mine sat in a cupboard gathering dust for eight years until I finally got another bike. I've used them for the past two years plus and they're still going strong. My wife bought two pairs and her main pair just gave up the ghost last year.

[jrandom]

toss them in the bin for the the latest hip style jobs.That's ok for young IT workers earning big bucks...

I burn with a vague sense of bourgeois shame.

[Grahameeboy]

The whole four years of couriering in London I wore a pair of quick lace German Army boots. I'd have worn them as slippers if I'd been allowed.

What stopped ya....

[sinfull]

I have a problem with hobbit feet ! Finding a pair of boots that i can wear for the day is a mission ! Not so bad on the track as i just ditch them tween sessions now but might just go to steel caps for road riding (if i ever go back)

[Mystic13]

I own a pair of 45,000km two year old Alpinestar's. Still waterproof even in several hours of wet riding Aucks to Wgtn mid winter. I don't polish them so they look seriously scuffed up front.

I took the adventure riding through streams and tore a small hole in the side when I had to push some other folks out trouble. It seems that weren't made for turning sideways and pushing against rocks.

Rushed them into Gemmell's in Symonds Street where they say for two days with a bunch of other motorcycle boots. And now they're good as new.

The deal for me is when you try them on if you can imagine the water getting in, then it will. Some boots have bugger all overlap or none. It seems to me if they zip up and their is no cover over the zip then they will leak.

My Alpinestars have a flap the full length of the zip. All of my boots have been waterproof. I have never found a glove or jacket that is waterproof except for plastic and rain-off gloves.

[Usarka]

I dont dig laces and loops and shit.

from the old skydiving adage "hooks and loops kill".

on a motorcycle it's more likely to snag on a sidestand and result in an embarrasing (but expensive on a modern bike) fall to the side in rush hour traffic while all the caged monkeys ooh-ooh-ooh-ah-ah-aah at the biker who rudely split passed the fuckers two minutes ago.

[The Pastor]

God gave me a pair of kiwi shoes. They seem to do the trick, If they get broken they mend themselfs!

[Wonko]

I've had 'bike' boots before but now I wear full height Oliver ATs (http://www.oliver.com.au/boots/45-665_lrg.jpg), available from Protector Safety. I can wear them all day every day, no problem and often do because I use them for work. They're the most comfortable footwear I've ever owned.

I second the Oliver ATs. great boot to wear all day every day. Have had about 2 years worth of wear and the soles still good. Only issue is that I have worn the leather away above the back edge of the steel cap on the gear lever. Best thing is that they are still water proof with this hole in them.

Current NZ Army boots only last about 6 months before the sole is completely shot.

[cheshirecat]

The whole four years of couriering in London I wore a pair of quick lace German Army boots. I'd have worn them as slippers if I'd been allowed.
And you survived 4.
I did three with a comp that looked after you. Must be hard going these days with the internet taking business

[Swoop]

Sidi Vert's are lasting very well indeed. Four years in this pair and still going strong.

Murder for the first couple of days then fit like they were custom made.
The secret is to either piss in them or simply shove the hose down the side while wearing them... then walk...

[normajeane]

Yeah the fashion police tried to get me to wear BLACK boots cause I had brown lace ups (old leather walking boots BROWN!) but haven't changed anything despite changing from a pillion to a hardened HD rider in past 2 years. Give the odd polish - to get rid of the gear changing marks and occasionally swoop to dubbin for waterproofing. WHAT I FOUND to be the best buy is a pair of ex-army gators. These are leather and go ontop of boots and trouser ends and stop the trickling of H20 into the boots!
Go Kiwi injunuity!:niceone:
Have another one:beer:

[Swoop]

a pair of ex-army gators. These are leather and go ontop of boots and trouser ends and stop the trickling of H20 into the boots!
Go Kiwi injunuity!
How the hell did Ixion get access to your login?:scratch:

[Ocean1]

One of my (several) Christmas presents to myself was a pair of Gaerne GRW Aquatechs

I bought a pair about a year ago, got them at a run-out sale @ $270.
They're 1/2 a size small for me, so I don't like walking too far in them. But then I don't like walking too far anyway. So far holding up well.

My first brand spanking, store-bought motorsickle boots were Vendraminis, all plastic, like a ski boot with slightly more ankle articulation. Christ they were 'orrible, zero grip on the pegs and it was impossible to walk in 'em. They did, (of course) last for fookin' years though, couldn't kill 'em. Think I eventually burned the bastard things and buried them down the bottom of the garden somewhere.

Bought Gaerne trials boots then, excellent all round boots, but no wear pads for road use.

Vendramini still make boots, good ones by most accounts:

http://www.bikerworldusa.com/vendramini.html

Don’t know if there’s an NZ agency though.

[Ocean1]

I That's ok for young IT workers earning big bucks -.


I burn with a vague sense of bourgeois shame.

Doubt you'd be due more than a mild singe, there, dude.


Even considering the antiquity of the source.


:baby:

[xwhatsit]

Where to buy gaitors/combat boot type things? It's January now... winter'll be here soon!

[rphenix]

I also go through boots at least once every season getting sick of having to go into cycletreads and put down the cash so have been thinking about the likes of cat workmans boots with steel caps etc.. they would last but I worry they would come off in an accident and leave the ankle exposed to being ground down on the tarmac if you came off with the bike pinning you down.

[H00dz]

I'm with you Ixion, too much hype over boots still end up with injuries.....

[speights_bud]

The Gaerne waterproofing seems to work well. My tootsies stayed dry in the rain on Monday.

Mine Didn't :( The fine Stainless steel breathing mesh on the side of my Prexport boots turned em into buckets :laugh:

[samgab]

I've been just wearing leather shoes, but my ankles felt very unprotected, especially now as I go on the motorway. So I bought some motorbike boots from 1tonne. They are cheap, leather, and armoured. They were about $135 or something?
Anyway, wearing them for the first time on the bike today, along with the armoured cordura trousers I bought. It feels really weird, with the boots. I don't have the same feel that I had before, I can't feel the brake pedal or gear lever very well through the boots, and I used to move my ankle to brake or shift, but now I'm having to more move my whole leg up and down. I guess i'll get used to it. I just feel more... distant from the bike. It's hard to explain. Anyway, I feel much more protected now, armoured jacket, trousers, gloves, and boots. Feels safer on the motorway, that's for sure.
I've already spent over a month in a hospital bed as a result of a motorbike crash, and it's not fun, and I don't want to go through that again!

[ital916]

Where to buy gaitors/combat boot type things? It's January now... winter'll be here soon!

army surplus on k road matey but be warned they are not as cheap as youd think and pretty chunky.

[ital916]

I have been told by a lot of people that steel caps + motorcycle boots are bad as they can be crushed and hence your toes will be then non exsitent. Personally I was of the opinion that a force that is enough to crush the steel cap and remove your toes will remove your toes anyway with a motorcycle boots fitted with the usual plastic caps.:laugh:

[twotyred]

I've had 'bike' boots before but now I wear full height Oliver ATs (http://www.oliver.com.au/boots/45-665_lrg.jpg), available from Protector Safety. I can wear them all day every day, no problem and often do because I use them for work. They're the most comfortable footwear I've ever owned.

I too wear full height AT's:niceone:

[McJim]

I've got an old pair of Gaerne boots still going strong over 3 years. Sole is worn on the left foot (from outing my foot down at red lights, stop junctions etc.) but I'll glue some more sole on. One zip is a bit sticky in the middle but I'll sew a new zip in. Apart from that I think I will see another 3 years out of them easily.

[swbarnett]

One zip is a bit sticky in the middle but I'll sew a new zip in.
Get yourself a can of silicone spray. Works wonders on old zips.

[racerhead]

You had me hoping for a moment. I bought mine (as did my wife) before we left Switzerland in late 1997. Mine sat in a cupboard gathering dust for eight years until I finally got another bike. I've used them for the past two years plus and they're still going strong. My wife bought two pairs and her main pair just gave up the ghost last year.

I just had a look on daytonas website and they have a distributor in Australia so you could try them if you need another pair:niceone:

[limbimtimwim]

I'm with you Ixion, too much hype over boots still end up with injuries.....I went into a ditch at 100km/h, my Ducati used my lower legs as a trampoline as it too rolled/cartwheeled through the ditch. I remember seeing it standing up up above me thinking "This is probably it then.."* but no.

Anyway, no broken bones, but some nasty bruising on the legs: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=69730&l=7aa0a&id=696495759

I'll keep wearing proper boots.

Incidentally the boots I crashed in are for sale.

How defeatist of me.

[Ixion]

Where to buy gaitors/combat boot type things? It's January now... winter'll be here soon!

Gaitors is $12.50 a pair from the Army Surplus place. K Road, past Ponsonby Rd heading toward red Baron, on the left, opposite the billboard with the chick with the giant tits.

Dunno about their boots yet. They're listing new Danish Army high lace up boots for $99. Need to look at them though.

[carver]

we used to call aqua-techs by gaerne-aquarium techs, they keep the water in and dont let it out

[Daffyd]

I wear "Paraflex" work boots. I have had them for about 12 years.
They are supremely comfortable, have cushioned tops, and the only cost has been having the heels built up last year as they had worn on one side.
I nugget them regularly to keep them supple and waterproof.
They have lace holes, with one pair of hooks about halfway up.
I expect them to see me out.

I also wear gaiters when I'm wearing my draggins as they tend to catch on the pegs, but don't normally when wearing my 'proper' riding pants.

[bungbung]

I've got a pair of Oxtar TCX goretex boots, 4 years now. Still waterproof, I use them for almost all riding. They are pretty scuffed up due to buckets abuse and the front tip of the sole needs to be glued back. Zips still work fine. Expensive, maybe $370

Also have a 6 or 7 year old pair of Gaerne touring boots, a cheap model made of the synthetic leather stuff. They have never been waterproof, although it was never claimed that they would be. Very comfy, they use velcro strap closures. Cheap, maybe $160. I understand that there is a waterproof version, but I would still prefer the extra protection from the Oxtars.

[STOLLI R1]

I've got a pair of Sidi Flex Force MX boots. They arent exactly slippers to wander about in but they started work in 2001 doing 2 full seasons of MX and countless trail rides and now do my road work They are still water proof and completely functional. Retail at time of purchase was $600.00 but when it comes to fending off traffic and the road in general they excel. I like the way they don't allow the foot to be crushed under the bike, they are hinged to allow up and down pivioting but very little sideways movement to give a high level of ankle support. Sadly I think that may lead to the next weak point to give out, the knee joint but if your wearing knee braces as many MXers do there isn't a problem. I use US jungle boots if I know I'll be doing a whole heap of walking and not alot of high speed riding. They look a heap less road warrior too.

[Swoop]

One zip is a bit sticky in the middle but I'll sew a new zip in.
Have you tried rubbing a candle on the length of zip, then running the glide up and down a few times? The parrafin does wonders and helps a little bit with waterproofing.

[Happybug]

but they knew how to make things in the good old days. I've been looking at getting new ones... but nothing appeals. Finally updated my jacket - and warmth is so nice!

[WierNixie]

I bought my brother these boots which he wears to ride and work, he says they are the best riding bookts he has ever had http://www.cozyboots.com/ugg-boot.shtml?group=197

[surfer]

The whole four years of couriering in London I wore a pair of quick lace German Army boots. I'd have worn them as slippers if I'd been allowed.

Yep, second that. I've still got got a pair I bought in the 80s second hand from an army surplus store. They still work and provided they are polished with water proof stuff they don't let the wet in.

[Dean]

Scored mine for $11 from the disposals sale...two years ago. No dramas whatsoever.

i badly need boots but i cant afford the 300 dolla ones has any one got any boots going really cheap old ones or whateva just aslong as their boots really cheap maybe not 11dollas but 60 dollars pleeezzzz

[limbimtimwim]

i badly need boots but i cant afford the 300 dolla ones has any one got any boots going really cheap old ones or whateva just aslong as their boots really cheap maybe not 11dollas but 60 dollars pleeezzzzIf you don't mind them not being waterproof and one needing a new zip: http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=195406304

[k14]

From my point of view (racing) its either alpinestars or sidi that are the only choice. I have owned a pair of each and would have to say that the alpinestars are the better of the two. But in saying that in two crashes last year I swear that my sidi corsa vertigo's ($700) stopped me having a broken ankle. Yeah maybe I am just sucked in with the marketing dribble but I'm convinced.

So depends on what price you put on a broken ankle. To me that means the best protection possible. Its quite an easy choice, I don't want a broken ankle and its as simple as that :)

[Ixion]

Well a visit to the friendly surplus store produced the goods. A pair of new unused UK paratroopers boots. Calf length, ring fasteners (not hooks), solid leather as solid as a solid leather thing. Bellows tongue and a proper bovver boy sole. And I reckon if they're up to jumping out aeroplanes without breaking your ankles motorbikes should be a doddle. Only downside is they're awfully stiff so I'll have to break them in. But once broken in they should be good, I mean paratroops have to walk a long way . $169. I've gone right off all the magical membranes and such stuff. I reckon the only way to waterproofness is to keep the water out. Solid leather and lots of dubbiny dubbin and Nuggety Kiwi polish.

There were a number of other models, I could have got a nice pair, new, not as heavy but more padded like for $125, but they didn't have my size. They have new Danish Army boots laceup, but I liked the toughness of the paratroop boots. If you don't need waterproof they have very nice leather and Cordura boots for (I think ) $129.

Having said all that I stopped by at the local Warewhare. They still have good solid boots for $34.99 ! Mine are five years old and still going OK. As far as value goes, that has to be tops.

[Macros]

picked up a nice set of steel capped work boots from the red shed today. 70 bucks but look like they're decent and will last.

[rocketman1]

I have a Pair of Oxtar zip up boots, had them 3 years, not falling part at all, and they have a WATERPROOF sign on the side. (what bullswool)
They leak like a sieve, may as well wear jandals,

[1tonne]

I've been just wearing leather shoes, but my ankles felt very unprotected, especially now as I go on the motorway. So I bought some motorbike boots from 1tonne. They are cheap, leather, and armoured. They were about $135 or something?
Anyway, wearing them for the first time on the bike today, along with the armoured cordura trousers I bought. It feels really weird, with the boots. I don't have the same feel that I had before, I can't feel the brake pedal or gear lever very well through the boots, and I used to move my ankle to brake or shift, but now I'm having to more move my whole leg up and down. I guess i'll get used to it. I just feel more... distant from the bike. It's hard to explain. Anyway, I feel much more protected now, armoured jacket, trousers, gloves, and boots. Feels safer on the motorway, that's for sure.
I've already spent over a month in a hospital bed as a result of a motorbike crash, and it's not fun, and I don't want to go through that again!

Hi. As the boots wear in you will find that you will have more feeling. The leather is just new. Cheers.

[sunhuntin]

I hear you, man. I have some "Forma" brand boots I got from TSS. A year old at most. One zip has gone already and been replaced, the other zip has just gone. They used to be marginally comfortable to walk in (should I, y'know, be going somewhere) but now do an excellent job of eating through the backs of my ankles. Bastard things. Expensive bastard things, too.

Dave

i got a pair of old steel cap cowboy boots that an ex gave me 5 years ago. perfect for on the bike, but the backs are like yours, which means i cant walk any great distance [no good for say cemetary circuit] i dont wear them anymore, but used to every day. when i got hit by that car, im almost certain they saved my ankle. now i wear a pair of horrid boots from an old job that are also steel cap.

[mazz1972]

Don't know wot yer on about. I bought some cheap (OK, $200) Dririders and they a) don't leak and b) only one zip tag has broken off on them. Zips, velcro, etc all good. That after 2ish years of commutering most every day.

Always buy not the cheapest, but next one up!

Glad yours are ok. We've got Dririder Nordics which are now 2½ years old. After a year both pairs leaked, then the soles started to come away at the sides, and now the surface of the "leather"? is ripping away where it's glued to the soles. Hubbys pair have cracks appearing in the "leather" in a couple of places. Mine now leak so bad I might as well be wearing sandals - I can tip water out of my boots after only a marginal amount of rain, and end up with socks and feet stained with black dye.

They are so crap I complained to the distributor after about 18 months. They were adamant the boots should not leak but it was too late to return them anyway. We aren't hard on our boots - we only ride when we can, no commuting etc so I reckon they should have lasted way longer than a year before starting to crap out.

I've just ordered a pair of Alpinestars Web Gortex at $400. If they don't last long I'll be fuming

[Finn]

I'm with Ixion on this. $400 worth of boots will not even last a season and I've tried many brands.

Recently, I reverted to sneakers. Well not sneakers like Jerry Seinfeld, more like Diesels.

[SPman]

I'm with Ixion on this. $400 worth of boots will not even last a season and I've tried many brands.

Recently, I reverted to sneakers. Well not sneakers like Jerry Seinfeld, more like Diesels.
Jeez - what do you do to them.......
I've got a 5 yr old pair of Sidi Verts, that have survived 2 crashes - saved my ankle in one - that I still wear, even though the soles are almost non existent, and a newer pair in Blue (reduced to $375), that match my Draggins and the XJR........

[pritch]

Well a visit to the friendly surplus store produced the goods. A pair of new unused UK paratroopers boots.

Another option not too dissimilar is the old type US fireman's boot. They have laces like the para boot but there is also a zip for speed. There is somebody local, maybe Martybabe or Swima who has a pair.

[talbertnz]

Just had my Alpine star boots fall apart!! was most surprised!! yes they are 5y/o and yes i've worn them a bit riding bikes about 10000km total max. but never realy walk on them for any distance at all. to uncomfy for that.
the sole just let loose badly. but fixed it with some no more nails :D
I LOVE that stuff!!!!!

[portokiwi]

Here is a two good sites for combat boots.
http://www.legear.com.au/Default.asp?
http://www.tacticalsolutionscorp.com/

[Coyote]

I'm over motorbikes boots, and pants, and gloves, and jackets, especially in this heat.

I've realised motorcycle gear is for people who want to look cool or want to live.

I wear my jacket down the road to please the parents, then I chuck it into my backpack.

[vifferman]

My last boots (StylMartin Strada) are still alive after about 6 years of daily use, and despite a couple of crashes. The velcro is less sticky, and one zip has a tooth missing. No damage to the boot itself or the soles.
Current boots are StylMartin StylSafe - had them for 2 years and six months, and they're still OK, although the velcro shows signs of wear, and the inner liner ("boot within a boot") is a little worn.

I think it's the daily use that ferks bike gear - all that putting on and taking off wears out the various fasteners. My old bike jacket (daily use for 7 years) is still good, apart from the velcro fasteners. Of course it's had some repairs due to sliding on the road a couple of times, and it's really faded (was red, now a sort of dirty colour) due to being washed six or so times, being subjected to traffic fumes and '"windblown dust'n'dirt", and a feeble attempt at dyeing it black.

[turtleman]

Have a pair of Gaerne boots that are 15 months/24000K's old. Not a lot of wear on the Leather upper, and some wear on the sole, though I don't walk around much in them.
Very comfortable, and still waterproof !

On the other hand, my KBC cordura jacket has leaked from day 1 !
The Alpinestars pants are waterproof to a degree - get wet in the crotch, where there is a non-waterproof gusset (what the fuck is the point in that !!??)

Have reverted to Warehouse pants and jacket for real waterproofness (over my leathers), and just use the cordura for light showers....

[mazz1972]

R-Jays now have a few different options including their Terrain Boots (http://www.rjays.com.au/home/products/boots-terrain-boots.html)

[portokiwi]

:lol: They look like tramping boots or walk boots. I would hate to ask but whar the difference between normal walk/tramping boots to those RJs?
apart from the price?

[imdying]

The price of boots makes them dying a lot harder to swallow. I've a set of A* boots, SMX-R I think, not sure... $275 they cost me, and for that money they seem pretty good value.

Definitely check this place out, they've an excellent reputation.

http://www.newenough.com/

/edit: Might be these actually: http://www.newenough.com/boots/racing_boots/alpinestars/smx_plus_motorcycle_boots.html
/edit2: Or maybe even these!: http://www.newenough.com/boots/racing_boots/alpinestars/s_mx_5_motorcycle_boots.html

They all look the same to me :s

/edit3: My boots came from Hahn Motorsport in Anaheim, it's across the road from Burger King :D

[Lil_Byte]

At last Ixion you have rocked up at the same conclusion I made years ago.:first: Protector safety GUM boots & a winter warm army greatcoat is the coolest bike gear you will ever use. The gumboot may be hot in the summer but you can kick them off Sooooo easly. :clap::clap:Safety gumboots $50 and they last about 4 years constant use. regards Richard

Have you ever seen what happens to peoples feet when the gumboots get ripped off as they are sliding across chip seal @ around 100k.

Lace up boots at least guys.....

[Timber020]

Have you ever seen what happens to peoples feet when the gumboots get ripped off as they are sliding across chip seal @ around 100k.

Lace up boots at least guys.....

+1

Gumboots wont stay on if you take a tumble especially if they are heavy. Ive known guys who have had there gloves thrown off in accidents.

I love my oliver AT's, I get about a year out of a pair before they are wrecked.

[Ixion]

You can get lace up gumboots. Like ordinary boots , with laces, but gummy. I wore a pair for many years Red Bull or Red Band or some such name.

[Motu]

I have a pair of 20 year old lace up gumboots,just like Dad used to wear doing the lawns....minus laces.They have a toe cap and steel shank - I used to ride off road with them and they are still covered in gorse prickles.I now use them to mow the lawns...minus the laces.


Nothing wrong with gumboots - if you get the right ones.

[Winston001]

Hmmm....got me thinking. Aeons ago I used to ride with Army-surplus boots which did the job nicely although the laces were a pain. Still, it was something you got used to and quick at after a while.

I currently use a pair of Sidi motorcross boots which I bought in 1989. They've probably done 30,000k mostly in the last 5 years. They have never leaked - never. I do look after them - nugget and wax, and someone commented just yesterday what nice boots they are.

Anyway, on the budget/practical side of things, I wonder how much trouble it would be for a shoe repair chappie to sew a heavy zip onto combat boots and do away with the laces altogether. Alternatively, three wide velcro straps on the boot would achieve the same result. My Sidis velcro closed with an inner lace which I don't bother doing up for shortish rides.

[Pixie]

One of my (several) Christmas presents to myself was a pair of Gaerne GRW Aquatechs to replace my old Sidi Stradas, which stopped being waterproof after 18 months due to excessive dragging on the road.

Being $400 cheaper than a pair of the top-end Sidi Vertebras ($750 for a pair of boots? Piss off!) made the Gaernes a no-brainer. Guess I'll have to wait and see how they hold up. At least the replaceable toe sliders fully cover the join between sole and upper, unlike the Sidis, which tend to wear away the sole when they drag.

The Gaerne waterproofing seems to work well. My tootsies stayed dry in the rain on Monday.

I have some Gaerne road boots.They are 10 years old,have been put to a lot of use but were regularly cleaned and polished and are still waterproof .

[Pixie]

I have been told by a lot of people that steel caps + motorcycle boots are bad as they can be crushed and hence your toes will be then non exsitent. Personally I was of the opinion that a force that is enough to crush the steel cap and remove your toes will remove your toes anyway with a motorcycle boots fitted with the usual plastic caps.:laugh:

Toe caps are bullshit.They are intended to prevent injury from objects being dropped on the feet.
Things do not drop on your toes when you fall off a bike.
If another vehicle runs you over,it will not just run over your toes.

"Sorry Mrs Jones,your son was reduced to a greasy stain on the road - but his toes are ok"

Any thing above 100 Kg will landing on a toe cap will turn the open end into a guillotine,if it falls close to the ankle.

[Maffoo]

i have a pair of Hipora (i think) boots
they are less than a year old
the toggle part of both zips is broken, making them damn hard to pull up
the sole is seperating on the left boot, the upper parts are cracking, & the inner of the right boots is seperating from the outer, meaning when i put them on i get a 'clump' of material in one place

apart from that , they are awesome !!

[90s]

My MX boots (Fox Pro Forma) will take some destroying, but the Oxtar racing boots I am wearing in these hot months are much more delicately built. Having said that they are in good nick and Gemmel's only charged me $30 to fully replace and repair a damaged zipper including unstitching and resewing the leather.

Good boots and shoes and a good cobbler will serve you better than cheap compromise boots. I believe Terry Pratchett has used this to explain why the rich stay rich and the poor expend all their money on cheap shoes and boots.

[gumboots4eva]

I wear a pair of terranova gumboots - they're light weight and firm fitting. Not got any extra protection other than they're waterproof and reasonably comfortable. May have to go to my steel-toed gumboots for that, but they're not so comfortable for doing much walking around in.

[Ixion]

I am very pleased with my Paratroop boots. Money well spent. Rode back from the Nikau cave ride in pouring rain, feet remained totally dry and toasty. And on ffwabbitt which is a very wet bike. GO the paratroop boots ! Upper half was good to, GO the hi-viz jacket. From wasit to calves however, soaked and soggy and cold. Memo to self. Cordura leggings are only waterproof up to about an hour.

[CookMySock]

Gaerne GRW AquatechsMy Gaerne Drytech boots have been awesome. 18 months and 20,000km on and they are still fully watertight and look nearly new, and I don't clean them at all. Cough, I don't scrape them on the road though..

I wouldn't ride on the open road without proper safety boots. I keep imagining toes coming off on the road.. :pinch:

Steve

[sinned]

Style Martins 3+ years and 30K+ in a fair bit of wet weather and no water inside. They are warm and comfortable and okay to walk in. They could last forever.

[Motu]

If you have $10 feet,get $10 boots.Fortunatly I have $5 feet.

[scumdog]

If you have $10 feet,get $10 boots.Fortunatly I have $5 feet.


Howzabout free?

Still using ex-freezing-works leather steel-caps with ex-army (ok, I had to pay for THEM!) leather gaitors. Heaps of dubbin and years on I still have not had wet feet while riding.

[Madness]

Cash Converters in Onehunga Mall have some AXO boots for $100, brand new in a few different sizes. They are a bit too "styley" for me but.

[NighthawkNZ]

I have had one pair of boots last more than a couple of years... (they actually lasted about 10) but can't find them anywhere to get a new pair...

My last pair lasted about 3 years and the stitching in places is starting to come loose.

Got a cheapish good pair from the Honda Otago Closing down sale :( However I can't see them lasting 10 years, maybe 3 or 4.

As Jantar pointed out, if you make something that will last, the manufacturer doesn't get enough repeat business to stay in business.

[swbarnett]

As Jantar pointed out, if you make something that will last, the manufacturer doesn't get enough repeat business to stay in business.
The problem is that there are just too many manufacturers to support both quality and price. Variety is all very well but I'll take quality over variety any day.

[MotoKuzzi]

Stick ya feet into a couple of plastic supermarket bags before putting boots on and doesn't matter what state your boots are in, your feet won't get wet.:lol:

[BAD DAD]

I wear good quality workboots most days winter or summer so tend to ride in them as well. Most motorcycle boots look overpriced to me and generally look a bit metrosexual to me as well. Having said that, if I was a hard-core or professional motorcyclist, or had access to more discretionary income I might tend to favour summat a bit more convenient than lace-ups (maybe).

[obstacle]

jrandom gifted me a pair of boots the insurance company replaced. they're still just as scuffed but they're also still waterproof. I can't stand wearing them for any length of time though, they hurt like buggery when you use them as shoes.

thanks again jrandom - i'm still stoked.

[FJRider]

Nothing like Work supplied and paid for , steel toe-caps...

[jono035]

I have been told by a lot of people that steel caps + motorcycle boots are bad as they can be crushed and hence your toes will be then non exsitent. Personally I was of the opinion that a force that is enough to crush the steel cap and remove your toes will remove your toes anyway with a motorcycle boots fitted with the usual plastic caps.:laugh:

Yeah, thats exactly what the rep said when we asked him about it while getting new steel caps for work. He basically said anything that crushes steel caps in like that will destroy ABS, so in that case you're stuffed either way.

I was considering just using my work boots (full length leather lace ups with steel toes) but figured the lack of ankle protection could be a bit rough, seems like you'd be better off with something stopping your ankles getting nailed by an impact/slide rather than toe caps?

[Max Preload]

Toe caps are bullshit.They are intended to prevent injury from objects being dropped on the feet.
Things do not drop on your toes when you fall off a bike.
If another vehicle runs you over,it will not just run over your toes.

"Sorry Mrs Jones,your son was reduced to a greasy stain on the road - but his toes are ok"

Any thing above 100 Kg will landing on a toe cap will turn the open end into a guillotine,if it falls close to the ankle.

What a load of shit. Toe cap protection doesn't just prevent falling objects. What protection do you think 'proper' motorcycle boots will provide when something over your magical limit of 100kg is exceeded? Your argument isn't even coherent.

Attached: photo of my actual Oliver AT 'steel cap' boot after a crash.

[Breed777]

Combat boots WILL fall apart......I changed mine a lot and am glad I never had to pay for them- remember untie Helen did wonderful things with defence funding during her destructive reign........(remember those skyhawks that are now rusted through sitting OUTSIDE a hanger wearing "protective" condoms....)

Two words... ORIGINAL SWAT.... I got some of these.... best boots I have ever owned.... they will survive a Nuclear Attack!

http://www.legear.com.au/Original-Swat-Police-Military-Boots-Australia-NZ-p/os-1152.htm

Check them out!

[Ixion]

I looked very hard at those. But went for the paratroop boots because of the ankle support. Paratroops drop out of aeroplanes, and hit the ground quite fast , their ankles take a big hit and their boots are designed to support the ankle.

[ducatilover]

My steel toe babies have lasted me 5 years and two crashes, only have had to replace laces. But I have been through two sets of riding boots in 3 years, the first set leaked but were comfy. The new set do not leak untill the zip pulls apart and are very uncomfy [but I didn't buy for comfort so "meh"] I have not crashed in my riding boots [go figure] :first: and my beast like steel toes are the only foot wear I have used in the last 5 years apart from riding booties.

Pointless rant over :mobile::niceone: