Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: SmithSwede on April 13, 2015, 08:50:51 PM
-
We've been getting a lot of rain in the Dallas area lately. My "waterproof" Icon Reign boots ain't waterproof. And I've tried treating it repeatedly with Nixwax.
So, is there such a thing as a truly waterproof boot? Recommendations appreciated. I'm not a slave to fashion. Just want comfort and waterproof.
-
Sidi.
-
My bmw all around boots have been 100%dry.
Ive also had icon "waterproof" gear not be waterproof, so I feel your pain.
-
Be aware that when you do find a truly waterproof boot after only a few hours your feet will smell like weeks old rotten meat. There is a really fine difference between waterproof and breathable.
-
Sidi.
:+1
On this ride I lived in my Sidi's for nine weeks. From home to Sitka was mostly in rain. And it rained from Sitka to Campbell River, BC where the rain finally stopped.
http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=62032.0
:BEER:
Matt
-
Sidi.
+2!
Best,
Carlo
-
Be aware that when you do find a truly waterproof boot after only a few hours your feet will smell like weeks old rotten meat. There is a really fine difference between waterproof and breathable.
Got some Sidi sport/rain boots a couple years ago ($200) and I haven't used them in a gully washer, but they haven't leaked yet and they breathe too even tho they aren't leather. Think they're Lyrica instead that looks like leather. Even work in triple digit heat tho they aren't vented. :BEER:
-
I currently have Aerostich Combat Touring Lite boots. I've worn them as snow boots and in the rain, no issues at all. They are made by Sidi and are really thick leather. Very comfy, no pointed toe box.
-
I wear Danner boots. Waterproof, durable, made in America. Either the Mountain Light II or some combat boots my son got from Danner in Afghanistan but never wore. Plus, they can be re-made, and the ledge from the stitch-down construction is perfect for upshifts with the side of the boot rather than the toe.
PS: I've gone wading in them with my dogs at our cabin, and they have not leaked.
-
Sidi.
Second choice (no personal experience, but seriously looking at getting a pair); Forma. The trouble with them, not guaranteed to be waterproof. May be. May not. Depends on the pair. But they say the best walking boot for motorcycling.
-
No mater what brand, if you wear them enough years they will start to leak.
-
We've been getting a lot of rain in the Dallas area lately. My "waterproof" Icon Reign boots ain't waterproof. And I've tried treating it repeatedly with Nixwax.
So, is there such a thing as a truly waterproof boot? Recommendations appreciated. I'm not a slave to fashion. Just want comfort and waterproof.
Dunlop wellingtons. :) Available at better tack and feed shops everywhere.
JD
-
No mater what brand, if you wear them enough years they will start to leak.
My Sidi OnRoad Sympatex boots are 11 or 12 years old and have yet to leak a drop.
I've about worn them out, so will be replacing them with another pair of Sidis.
-
With all this talk on boots, does anyone know who makes a good waterproof boot in the larger sizes? I'm either a 14 or 15 depending on brand, and the BMW's are getting worn out.
-
Sidi canyon goretex. Never leaked in any rain, on any ride. Easy on/off with single buckle and velcro along the whole side. There isn't any open areas to leak (zippers, gaps, etc)
Very well made. Worth every penny.
-
My Sidi OnRoad Sympatex boots are 11 or 12 years old and have yet to leak a drop.
I've about worn them out, so will be replacing them with another pair of Sidis.
I've replaced my old Sidii On Roads with new ones. I put mink oil on the old ones, and brought them out to SoCal. They've never leaked out here.. but it really doesn't know how to rain out here, either. ;D I'm pretty sure that Sidi makes boots for BMW, etc, too.
-
I have 2 pair of Vendramini boots and they are comfortable and rock solid. I don't have the touring version..http://www.trophycycleapparel.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=70_82&products_id=207
I have these but I had to order direct from Italy and pay a FedEx import fee that I didn't know about until after. That said, I really like them .... http://www.customfitmotorcycleboots.com/en/boots/allroad/vj429-tuareg-s.html
Here are some more... http://www.bikerworldusa.com/vendramini.html
-
The Coast Guard uses Magnum Tactical boots. They hold up pretty good.
In the huge sizes, Xtra Tuffs are waterproof.
-
With all this talk on boots, does anyone know who makes a good waterproof boot in the larger sizes? I'm either a 14 or 15 depending on brand, and the BMW's are getting worn out.
Vendramini come in 14, 14.5 and 15. Search the site. See my above post.
-
In Seattle of the early eighties, I kept a set of chest waders in my sidecar. On many occasions I wore them while riding.
Once I was stuck in I-5 afternoon gridlock wearing the waders, a Helly Hanson commercial fisherman's long coat with hood pulled up over my hamlet,
and fishermans' long rubber gloves. Traffic was stopped for a while in the center of town and a late model touring bike was stopped alongside.
The rider was wearing the usual weather gear for a distance rider but it had pretty much soaked through. After a few minutes of looking me over
he asked, "You are a local aren't you?" I just smiled and said, " What gave it away?"
-
Your "Hamlet"?
-
Sidi.
Second choice (no personal experience, but seriously looking at getting a pair); Forma. The trouble with them, not guaranteed to be waterproof. May be. May not. Depends on the pair. But they say the best walking boot for motorcycling.
My write-up on Forma: http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=65039.0
I found out late last year, that they aren't waterproof if you're standing in a deep puddle for more than 10 minutes. I haven't ridden in a significant downpour long enough for my feet to get wet, but they've been good in moderate amounts of rain. I still recommend getting rid of their footbed, and adding Dr. Scholls double cushion insoles.
Ken
-
http://www.oxtar-boots.com/matrix.html
I think I have them for over 10 years now. I thought that really good boots did not exist, until I bought my Oxtars. You can stand in a bucket of water with these and they breath as well. No smelly feet ....
-
http://www.oxtar-boots.com/matrix.html
I think I have them for over 10 years now. I thought that really good boots did not exist, until I bought my Oxtars. You can stand in a bucket of water with these and they breath as well. No smelly feet ....
I have the exact boots bought in 2006, I can stand in 4 inch puddle for hours and the feet are dry as powder.
Recently the soles detached from the boots, I sent them to a cobbler near to my house to have them glue back. The guy insisted to sew the sole to the boot even though I told him my boots have waterproof Gore-Tex booties in them. He refused to do it my way and I refused to do it his way. Ended up I glued them back with a can of $1 Dunlop glue.
Still in service now ;D
(http://www.ksrc-au.com/assets/images/Oxtar_Matrix_1.jpg)
-
I am several years on with a pair of Sidi On Road Gore-Tex and no leak problems.
-
I can recommend Gaerne boots. They stayed waterproof for about 3 years. ;-T
-
SEDI on road boots. These are my go-to boots for testing-I make waterproof seat covers for motorcycles and as such have plenty of experience with the wet-as do plenty of you. Any breathable membrane needs regular treatment to keep the very outer fabric from "wetting out". That's one of the reasons some experience items leaking after a period of time.
There is plenty of info available on this but if you know a serious backpacker pick their brain. Riding at speed adds another variable though that deals with hydrostatic pressure-again lots of info out there as this is a simplification.
-
Be aware that when you do find a truly waterproof boot after only a few hours your feet will smell like weeks old rotten meat. There is a really fine difference between waterproof and breathable.
Exactly. I really like my Dainese "Dean" waterproof boots--got caught in a downpour last year and was soaked except for my feet--but being waterproof, they do get hot and muggy after a while.
-
I wear something like this.
(http://s7d5.scene7.com/is/image/RedWingShoeCompany/02271_trans_IS?$Setter_MainProduct_png$)
After 12 years or so, I can still stand in a puddle and not get wet feet. I take care of them and I find them 100% waterproof, even after resole. I know they're not motorcycle specific, but Red Wing caters to my 13B shoe size. All in all, great boots and comfy like bedroom slippers.
http://www.redwingshoes.com/footwear/filter-electrical-hazard,Pull-On,red-wing-waterproof,steel-toe
-
Sidi. Currently wearing the Canyon GoreTex model. I also have an 8-yr old pair of Oxtars (Matrix I think) that are still waterproof, despite the soles being worn out. I think Oxtar has now morphed into TCX, and the Matrix is now the X-Five.
-
I bought a lower cut TCX X-Rap Gore-Tex boots recently.
The relatively long shifting stroke of my V7 Sport makes shifting in high cut boots a challenging chore.
It may look sneaker-esque but in actual it is a proper CE certified riding boots with Gore-Tex membrane.
Haven't see any rain yet, will update when I met one.
(http://www.tcxboots.com/image.php/_files/immagini/2013/10/3jaypz.jpg?resize(700x700))
-
I currently have Aerostich Combat Touring Lite boots. I've worn them as snow boots and in the rain, no issues at all. They are made by Sidi and are really thick leather. Very comfy, no pointed toe box.
I like this boot but the Aerostitch catalog doesn't mention that they are water proof. I see your in the soggy northwest so suppose you experience lots at parcipitation. Have you treated these boots in any way?
Thanks
-
Don't buy anything without trying them on. Sidi waterproof Leather were extremely comfortable. The new synthetics, not, for me anyway. My Gaernes were waterproof for about 4 years but material in the web has started to disintegrate. TCXs are still waterproof and seem very well made.
Pete
-
I purchased my Sidi All Roads in 1998? and they are starting to leak. Would like another pair but they seem to have changed the design and are currently out of stock. May get a pair of the Adventures as they seem to have better protection. Anyone own a pair of these and how hard were they to break in?
(http://www.motonation.com/store/pc/catalog/2014_sidi_adventure_rain_black_600.jpg)
-
I wear Danner boots. Waterproof, durable, made in America. Either the Mountain Light II or some combat boots my son got from Danner in Afghanistan but never wore. Plus, they can be re-made, and the ledge from the stitch-down construction is perfect for upshifts with the side of the boot rather than the toe.
PS: I've gone wading in them with my dogs at our cabin, and they have not leaked.
Hmm. I have a pair of Danner tactical boots (Thanks Cam!), might have to try them as riding boots.
-
I purchased my Sidi All Roads in 1998? and they are starting to leak. Would like another pair but they seem to have changed the design and are currently out of stock. May get a pair of the Adventures as they seem to have better protection. Anyone own a pair of these and how hard were they to break in?
(http://www.motonation.com/store/pc/catalog/2014_sidi_adventure_rain_black_600.jpg)
I've been thinking on trying a pair of these when the OnRoads give it up.
-
I alternate between these:
(http://images.danner.com/is/image/LaCrosse/30800?$pdp_main_2x$)
(http://images.danner.com/is/image/LaCrosse/45200?$pdp_main_2x$)
-
After *many* years and 10s of thousands of miles, my old On Roads started leaking. The Gore Tex liner had worn through. I worked mink oil into them, and they quit leaking. Brought em out to SoCal to enjoy semi retirement. My new ones are only about 5 years old, but still waterproof.
-
I've been thinking on trying a pair of these when the OnRoads give it up.
That is my boot. Had them for about four years now. Had to ditch the inner sole for something else to make my toes happy. I've stood in about 6" of water (doggy pool), no leaks. On and off all day rain to the Datil Rally last year, no leaks. I forget where I bought them but there were two flavors, waterproof for $600 and water resistant for $350. (Guzzi content) I went with the water resistant. Ha! They've been waterproof for me.
They do squeak. I've tried mink oil and something else. Still squeaks when I walk.
Had them on when I crashed the Griso hard two years ago. Scuffed a latch buckle was all they suffered.
I think they are just a tad narrow for my feet as long walks are out. Hence the interest in the Forma boots. A bit stiff making shifting on the CB1100 problematic (not nearly as bad as my Motocross boots!).
I have the Tour Masters that are water proof too, but once I got the Sidi's the TourMasters hardly get used. Partly because I can wrap the upper around to a tight fit to my leg and the Tour Masters just zip up with a fair amount of slop.
Being in Arizona I shouldn't worry about the rain so much but I spent all my early years riding in around Duluth Minnesota and I got soaked. I really dislike riding in the rain; mainly because the gear back in the day was not up to the task. Today, not nearly the issues I had back then. These boots are part of the reason.
-
I forgot to add that for really cold rain or multi day frog killers a pair of over boots (Nelson Rigg among others) is useful.
-
$400 Adventure Rain wording:
"Membrane equipped to add a waterproof yet slightly breathable barrier between the elements and the rider’s feet."
$550 Adventure wording:
"Equipped with the world famous Gore Tex highly breathable and waterproof membrane to add a waterproof yet highly breathable barrier between the elements and the rider’s feet. The Gore Tex membrane breathes more than any other membrane thus the rider’s feet will stay cooler in warm weather with a Gore Tex equipped boot."
-
I use Alpinestars'
-
Hmm. I have a pair of Danner tactical boots (Thanks Cam!), might have to try them as riding boots.
I also wear Danner Striker tac boots. They are listed as water proof with Goretex liner. I still treat the outside with a good leather product. The liners may keep your feet dry but the leather will stay wet if not treated.
I have not tried to make them leak, but, I will buy another pair before next winter (the liner on one of mine ripped, due to my stupidity).
I also have a pair of Bates, but, they just don't fit me as well.
-
$400 Adventure Rain wording:
"Membrane equipped to add a waterproof yet slightly breathable barrier between the elements and the rider’s feet."
$550 Adventure wording:
"Equipped with the world famous Gore Tex highly breathable and waterproof membrane to add a waterproof yet highly breathable barrier between the elements and the rider’s feet. The Gore Tex membrane breathes more than any other membrane thus the rider’s feet will stay cooler in warm weather with a Gore Tex equipped boot."
Some Ebay Sellers in Europe have the Sidi Adventures listed at $350. I'm verrry tempted.
-
Some Ebay Sellers in Europe have the Sidi Adventures listed at $350. I'm verrry tempted.
Hmmm.....$291.00 + $31 bucks shipping.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/SIDI-Adventure-Gore-Tex-boots-NEW-many-sizes-/261830478677?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&var=&hash=item3cf6500b55
-
Hmmm.....$291.00 + $31 bucks shipping.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/SIDI-Adventure-Gore-Tex-boots-NEW-many-sizes-/261830478677?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&var=&hash=item3cf6500b55
Gotta love favorable exchange rates, sometimes!
-
Gotta love favorable exchange rates, sometimes!
$200+ savings. I was going to spray some NeverWet on the boots and call it a day but this is too tempting.
Update: ordered@$287.49.
-
I have some of those aerostitch boot covers that work really well riding in the rain. Can't zackly go wading in them but they keep the rain out.
http://www.aerostich.com/clothing/footwear/rain-boot-covers-and-overshoes/aerostich-boot-raincovers.html
I wear 'em over my red wings that I keep oiled up nicley. Works for me. 8)
-
With all this talk on boots, does anyone know who makes a good waterproof boot in the larger sizes? I'm either a 14 or 15 depending on brand, and the BMW's are getting worn out.
Aerostich Combats. I wear a size 14. Not a lot of choices in our size ;)
-
Aerostich Combats. I wear a size 14. Not a lot of choices in our size ;)
I tried those on when I was in Duluth 2 years ago. No go on the fit for me unfortunately. Those sidi boots posted earlier look like the ticket though. Maybe try a pair on locally....
-
My first pair of Alpinestar Web Gortex were waterproof until destroyed in an argument with a car. The second pair were fine for a couple of years, but recently riding 6 hours in constant rain let a little water in on both toes. Have been wading in rivers with them to no effect. I do keep up the waxes and am a little disappointed, but they are still great boots. Will have to do another all day rain ride before looking for others. And the have a wide last - for those of us who didn't wear shoes much as kids.
I've heard good things about some BMW & Triumph boots in the past.
Mal
-
I also wear Danner Striker tac boots. They are listed as water proof with Goretex liner. I still treat the outside with a good leather product. The liners may keep your feet dry but the leather will stay wet if not treated.
I have a Goretex jacket and the fabric itself doesn't stay dry, just the insides. 1 time after a pouring rain we stopped for breakfast in a Denny's. I was dry but my jacket dripped water like a mop. :)
-
I wear Rocky waterproof socks just in case. Boots can leak but the Rocky waterproof socks never do.
-
I bought a pair of these Vega boots at Bike Week 2 years ago. They are waterproof and holding up very well. 2 complaints. The sole is thin and required gel inserts to be really comfy. The uppers tend to chafe my calves, so I use leg bands to eliminate that.
http://www.motosport.com/product?psreferrer=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.google.com%252Faclk%253Fsa%253Dl%2526ai%253DCGeRRZE0uVYStN6XNsQfwvYCQBPmBrqkFoarxh_ABueuR-a4CCAYQBigIYMmesYj0o5AQoAGRorT9A8gBB6oEJk_QWBmJmMON6kEuMaqCsbkQsjmQfM0izoY1C9lJFQXJXauOj0pgugUTCKTav6Oc-MQCFYlajAodXBQANcAFBcoFAKAGJoAH193LAogHAZAHAqgHpr4b2AcB4BKdiqnV74q05AM%2526ei%253DZE0uVaSYM4m1sQTcqICoAw%2526sig%253DAOD64_38vzMbEGosxl5gXqs3ab0u5dG5KA%2526ctype%253D5%2526rct%253Dj%2526q%253D%2526sqi%253D2%2526ved%253D0CLYBEPQO%2526adurl%253Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.rkdms.com%252Fredirect%25253Fc%25253D1409992302%252526en%25253D27%252526cl%25253D500%252526u%25253Dhttp%2525253A%2525252F%2525252Fwww.motosport.com%2525252Fad%2525252F%2525253Fcode%2525253DSS-M-G-P-NA-PLA-STREET%25252526key%2525253DVega-Touring-Boots%25252526adpos%2525253D1o6%25252526creative%2525253D64385814265%25252526device%2525253Dc%25252526matchtype%2525253D%25252526network%2525253Dg&pssource=true&segment=badger-street&key=Vega-Touring-Boots&adpos=1o6&creative=64385814265&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=Cj0KEQjwmLipBRC59O_EqJ_E0asBEiQATYdNh2HBdFKl-xY0tvolJYTStoYsoE0SlD8TR0EU5qrND-IaAnmZ8P8HAQ
-
I've been thinking on trying a pair of these when the OnRoads give it up.
The Sidi Adventure boots will be my next pair (GoreTex version) as well. Not cheap, but reviews are great.
-
http://www.treds.com/products/waterproof-motorcycle-rain-boot/
-
I also wear Danner Striker tac boots. They are listed as water proof with Goretex liner. I still treat the outside with a good leather product. The liners may keep your feet dry but the leather will stay wet if not treated.
I have a Goretex jacket and the fabric itself doesn't stay dry, just the insides. 1 time after a pouring rain we stopped for breakfast in a Denny's. I was dry but my jacket dripped water like a mop. :)
Yep, Goretex liners do seem to work well. If done right they are not exposed to dirt and keep doing their job.
-
http://www.treds.com/products/waterproof-motorcycle-rain-boot/
I've worn those for years. They are PIA to get on once it's wet.
-
I've had a pair of these First Gear boots for a couple of years and they've been dry inside, even when wading around in the flood of Sept 2013:
(http://assets.motorcyclegear.com/image/path/46926/small/51-5874KJHiBootWP-1.jpg)
On the other hand my socks get damp with sweat in very hot weather -- the boots don't breathe much. Because they're warm and dry I've been using them for slopping around in the snow.
I did buy a spray bottle of Never-Wet and have used it on boots, gloves and pants. Works very well -- water beads up instead of soaking through.
-
http://www.muckbootsandshoes.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=22_28&product_id=59
Muck boot co. Wellies waterproof leather and imitation gore tex sock. American built, true sizing and very wides available. I wore mine 3 years dry as a bone before they needed a treatment to keep the leather dry again. great product.
-
If your Gore boots leak call Gore. If it's a defect they will replace them in most cases.
-
I am not sure that waterproof boots actually exist.
I did pick up some EyeTallian Moto Guzzi boots at Brookside for $125. Like Darren seyz, you can walk in them.
I haven't got wet yet, knock wood!
Where's the little prayin' icon at Luap?
-
Thanks for all the suggestions. I just got some Sidi On Road Gore Tex boots on clearance. Beautiful.
Now I kinda hope it rains again so I can put them to the test.
-
I just got some Sidi On Road Gore Tex boots on clearance.
Me, too! Thanks to all for the comments. I didn't know I was about to buy boots, but when it turned out the On Roads are being discontinued and my size was one of the only ones still available, I finally gave in and purchased some.
Now what will I do with my SealSkins socks?
-
I'd give them the bucket test prior to riding. Been in the waterproof product game for a while now. It never surprises me when something is amiss right out of the box-any brand. Boots, riding suits, gloves-they all get the test prior to use.
-
Hi,
From direct experience, Daytona boots from Germany. Their gore tex leather boots, when treated with the Daytona polish, (very chemical smelly, but they must know it works) don't even get damp, (i.e. the leather is totally unaffected) after an hour of high speed riding in torrential rain. Never known anything to match these, except the Rukka textile gear.
Not wanting to sound like an advertisement but rather to share the experience.
-
I have not owned Sidi but friends I ride with have and I witnessed their effectiveness riding for days in the rain with them. My first pair of BMW boots were waterproof for about a year. Now that was 20 years ago. My Frank Thomas boots were not but my next 2 pair of BMW boots were great. I currently have Daytona boots and they are 100% waterproof. I also had great service with Helimot in purchasing them as I was not happy with the first pair I bought. I tried the increased height model but hated them after a few miles. Totally my fault but they helped me out.
My theory is if it says Gortex it most likely is waterproof and yes they breaathe well enough to prevent clammy feet when it is warm out. When it is hot enough nothing that will give you protection will stop your feet from getting warm when they are next to a hot engine and less than a foot off the hot asphalt.
Rudy