Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: lucydad on November 21, 2015, 09:07:37 PM
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All,
Ok, the Aerostich catalog came. I am eyeing their "Combat Lite" boots at $347. Not cheap, but I know they make good boots.
My current boots were bought at a local sporting goods mega store. They are leather bottoms, mesh uppers, and zip sides with laces in front. Laces are not ideal for riding, I know that, but they fit under my kevlar and leather riding pants. They fit well, and are comfortable and great for high heat. They SUCK in the rain though and protection is so-so. I think I spent $40.
The AS boots are not cheap. And since I now am retired, I need to pinch my scheckles a bit tighter. My Scottish grandfather also is urging me to start shopping better.
So, may I ask for boot recommendations please? I do not want dirt riding style. I also like fairly easy on and off.
Oh, and I am thinking about a waterproof, tough duffle for the V7R: the main camping gear bag perhaps? Thoughts?
Thanks in advance.
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SIDI On Road for boots, waterproof and Velcro closure.
Ortlieb waterproof for duffle.
YMMV
Brian
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I absolutely love my BMW Pro Touring 2 boots:
http://shop.bmw-motorrad.com/Boots/Pro-Touring-2-boot-psc-200000641-YlegMkqlzXAAAAE0t9JtTecS-UXCOM-WFS-en_EU-EUR.html
They're comfortable for all-day walking, I can wear them under khakis or jeans for work, and they're waterproof, too. Great protection features as well. Highly recommended.
(http://shop.bmw-motorrad.com/is-bin/intershop.static/WFS/UX-UXCOM-Site/UX/en_EU/Products/250/A0130659.png)
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I got some Sidi sport/rain boots a few years ago and am very happy with them but that particular model is NLA. Took a little time to break them in but not too long.
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I ride every day (unless it's icy) in the crap weather of my environs. The Combat Lites are my main boot and have been for five years or so now, if I ever wear these out I'll buy another pair but it looks like that'll be a while.
It's cheaper to buy good gear the first time, I had serious palpitations ordering my Roadcrafter back in 2009, best gear money I've ever spent. I live in it and it gets better every year.
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I favor Cruiserworks Engineer boots -- they look like they belong on a motorcycle. Then again, I ride a cruiser much of the time.
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I have some Alpinestars that have served me very well since late 2008. Don't know the model, price was reasonable, under $200 iirc. *Very* comfortable, and dry in rain. Goretex and some insulation so warmish in winter and tolerable in summer. They're starting to show wear but will be around for a while longer.
I recently picked up some Aerostitch Combat boots, used from a friend whose foot will never be the same again but is at least still attached and now working fine. Never have a bike spear your foot by the footpeg. Price was right. They're heavy (all the better for kickstarting the BSA) and more "old school" than the Alpinestars, which are in the modern heavy-duty high-top running shoe category by comfort (leather, though). Comfortable in their own way. Re-soleable, which is a rarity these days. One of the buckle straps was torn through use, I figured it would be an easy replacement. Oops, no. Lite buckles are available but the thicker Combat ones are "backordered". They were good at suggestions, Lite straps and anchors and maybe use a ski shop for the work. Cheap Guzzi content: I looked at the tear, found that most basic glues didn't attach to the strap's plastic, and used some canvas and epoxy to patch the thing. So far so good. Combat Lites should be noticeably lighter. Built to last and be repaired. Do note that the Combats are not all that insulated -- a Good Thing for warm weather, less so for cold.
cr
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I absolutely love my BMW Pro Touring 2 boots:
http://shop.bmw-motorrad.com/Boots/Pro-Touring-2-boot-psc-200000641-YlegMkqlzXAAAAE0t9JtTecS-UXCOM-WFS-en_EU-EUR.html
They're comfortable for all-day walking, I can wear them under khakis or jeans for work, and they're waterproof, too. Great protection features as well. Highly recommended.
(http://shop.bmw-motorrad.com/is-bin/intershop.static/WFS/UX-UXCOM-Site/UX/en_EU/Products/250/A0130659.png)
Gotta go with MojoHand. I have worn this boot for many years, tuff as nails, comfortable all day long, and still dry on the inside after tropical style downpours.
Great boot for the price, and superb protection from all angles.
Ciao,
DC
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Sidi adventure boots. Super product (Sidi makes the Aerostitch model, Ive tried them, prefer the Sidi version).
But Forma is on my radar as many folks say it's the best boot if you have to do a fair amount of hiking/walking in them.
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Sidi adventure boots. Super product (Sidi makes the Aerostitch model, Ive tried them, prefer the Sidi version).
But Forma is on my radar as many folks say it's the best boot if you have to do a fair amount of hiking/walking in them.
I have a pair of Forma boots, and they were very comfortable once I swapped out the insoles. I have no problem wearing them all day long on my feet. I did get stuck in standing water one day for about an hour, and water did seep through. FWIW, I do need to change insoles on all of my boots, so the standard boots may fit you well. My write up on these is here: http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=65039.0
Ken
P.S. I have no idea how these will do in hot TX weather, but they've never been too warm on hot and humid WI days.
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I have several pair of SEDI-vented, Gore, and On -Road, and they are all top notch.
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Had a pair of the AS full height boots for years, loved the look and the coverage of my foot and leg, but never got comfortable shifting and braking with them, ultimately sold them on AdvRider. I replaced them with these TourMasters about a year ago, they've worked very nicely this past season:
http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tour-master-solution-wp-air-boots?utm_source=product&kwd=&gclid=CjwKEAiA7MWyBRDpi5TFqqmm6hMSJAD6GLeA-Hbt-ohf5oTOZACyOvPk2gnvkOTGZZUYw0YTsEHEFxoCv4fw_wcB
Easy on, reasonably comfortable & priced. I take a 9.5 U.S. which became a 43 Euro size, so they may run slightly small.
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Sidi on roads. More than likely the last boots you'll have to buy. Like most tools, you buy cheap stuff over and over..good stuff once. :smiley:
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Vendramini: - smaller toe box than most making manipulation below shifter easier,
- Models with zipper/Velcro on lateral/outward facing side of boot - ever had your hardware hang up on peg? :shocked:
- articulate at ankle well
- Italian made - izzat good?
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Another vote for Sidi from me. I had a pair of BMW enduro boots for many years, which were very good (I believe made by Alpinestar). But finally the rubber layer on the top for the gear shifter flaked away. I replaced them with off road Sidis. Really good boots, comfortable and totally waterproof. I understand you don't want the off road type, but I'm sure the road type are just as good.
If you're looking for waterproof bags, these are also excellent. Don't know if they're available in the states, but I really recommend them if you can find them.
https://www.ortlieb.com/en/
John
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Alpinestar SMX5 most days now that summer is over. 5 years on them and only now do the heels start to show the underlayer. Sidi all mesh for the summer. Again, Alpinestar adventure with GTex are warm in the winter and mostly waterproof unless standing in a puddle. (Welt construction). I have used the Alpinestar XCR for 3 years as my daily walkers and at least 23 MSF classes per year. Only now are the soles loosing their tread. The interior looks new and the laces replaced once. Still not sold on the new XCR with the Velcro but the rest of the construction looks to be the same so in the end, they will probably be here when the sale prices show up after Christmas. The XCR has been the best value ever.
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I highly recommend the SIDI On Road boots. They are my current boots.
Also, Vendramini makes a very fine boot. The Daytona and the Marathon are both excellent.
One thing I've recently noticed is that perhaps Sidi has discontinued/replaced the all-leather On Road with a new version that incorporates textile. If true, that would probably displace me back to the Vendramini.
Looks like Sidi now has the "All Road" textile/leather. Maybe the Touring would be ok. Why did they discontinue their most-popular boot?
http://www.motonation.com/store/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=6
Vendramini Marathons-
http://www.bikerworldusa.com/vendramini.html
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I have the combat lite's. After the break in period they work great. Break In takes a week or two. Just wear them around the house. I love them and will likely be the last boot I'll buy. Spoke with a guy still wearing his after 15 years. The yellow laces do shred a bit from the Velcro closure. As already mentioned, they are made by Sidi.
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I have the combat lite's. After the break in period they work great. Break In takes a week or two. Just wear them around the house. I love them and will likely be the last boot I'll buy. Spoke with a guy still wearing his after 15 years. The yellow laces do shred a bit from the Velcro closure. As already mentioned, they are made by Sidi.
Aerostich Combats are good but they are not waterproof.
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Looks like Sidi now has the "All Road" textile/leather. Maybe the Touring would be ok. Why did the discontinue their most-popular boot?
Fortunately, I have mine. SIDI, what are you thinking??
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Aerostich Combats are good but they are not waterproof.
Interesting that you say that. Mine have kept my tootsies dry in downpours. At least that's my experience to date. The AS literature claims waterproof if I recall correctly.
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Redwing 953's for me. Started wearing them in 1992 as my daily boot working construction. Once broken in more comfortable than a well worn pair of tennis shoes and can also be cleaned up to wear with casual business attire. I like the 953's because they are inexpensive, still made in the states, not insulated and do not have a lugged sole to harbor dog sh!t and mud. YMMV
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Redwing are a damn good choice! I just cleaned up a 13 year old neglected pair with Pecards and Aquaseal. Good as new.
You won't regret the Combat Touring or Lites. Solid build. Good looks. Excellent peg feel with the wedge soles. Super ankle support. And for me as a newbie rider a confidence booster. Feet feel incased in iron.
If you go with the CBTs, SuperFeet are a nice upgrade. Make sure to fit the insole to your arch. Not the size of the boot.
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Stylemartin Indians in Brown. get rid of the red laces and buy a set of decent brown boot laces from REI or whomever
(http://images2.revzilla.com/product_images/0116/4938/stylmartin_indian_boots_detail.jpg)
Look good enough for work. Comfortable enough for all day and good protection.
Lugged sole for grip that's replaceable. although boots are a little wide for driving clutched cars like MR2's & CTS-V's
8" Full lace with hooks for great ankle support. some of us have a bit of a floppy foot
Oil the leather with olive oil rather than messing with boot polish. old equestrian trick I figure mine are going to last years of daily use. The only downside is they're to hot for when it get's over 95. but my feet run hot
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I love my Combat Lites, but they take a LONG time to break in. They are remarkably water resistant. If you want a stiff boot that is closer to a MX boot than tennis shoe type boot, you will probably like them. Only need to buy once...
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I still have a pair of the bmw touring boots like above picture, but I have moved up to better protection. I use these for offroad, dirtbike riding, and touring. Warm and dry, plus I can walk the towns in them.
(https://www.motocard.com/images/articles/M-0668031D6.jpg)
https://www.motocard.com/en/boots/alpinestars-toucan_gore_tex_black_10.aspx?ctry=us¤cy=&utm_campaign=comparadores&utm_source=google&utm_medium=comparadores_en&utm_term=boots_alpinestars_m-0668031&size=10%20(EU%2044.5)&gclid=CjwKEAiA7MWyBRDpi5TFqqmm6hMSJAD6GLeANuom5P5uK_EWw7PzNVN1taULwM35x7X5MfszEZp0_hoCPA3w_wcB (https://www.motocard.com/en/boots/alpinestars-toucan_gore_tex_black_10.aspx?ctry=us¤cy=&utm_campaign=comparadores&utm_source=google&utm_medium=comparadores_en&utm_term=boots_alpinestars_m-0668031&size=10%20(EU%2044.5)&gclid=CjwKEAiA7MWyBRDpi5TFqqmm6hMSJAD6GLeANuom5P5uK_EWw7PzNVN1taULwM35x7X5MfszEZp0_hoCPA3w_wcB)
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Another vote for Vendramini Daytona's. I've had mine for almost ten years, and they are still going strong. Expensive, but worth it.
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Interesting that you say that. Mine have kept my tootsies dry in downpours. At least that's my experience to date. The AS literature claims waterproof if I recall correctly.
Unless something has changed, Aerostich specifically says they are NOT waterproof. Lemme go look.
From their description-
"From time to time, apply any good waterproofing product and they will mostly eliminate the need for carrying rain boots."
I seriously looked at these in the past. They do not have a Goretex etc liner.
They may be good enough for you, though. I'm sure they are very high-quality boots.
However, you can (could) put on a pair of On Road Sidi boots or Vendramini boots and stand in a bathtub of water and not get any water intrusion. I doubt that the Combats would do that.
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Another vote for Vendramini Daytona's. I've had mine for almost ten years, and they are still going strong. Expensive, but worth it.
If you ever have them re-soled, caution the shoe repairman to not impair the inner water barrier that wraps the sole.
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I have the Sidi Doha short boots and heartily recommend them as comfortable and protective.
I also recently got a pair of the Sidi On-Roads, the all-leather model. I haven't had a chance to wear them much, especially in rain. My only comment is that in a recent horrible thunderstorm over near the Mississippi I sure wished I'd worn the On-Roads instead of the Doha's. I was soaked neck-to-toe before I could even get my Frogg Toggs on!
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I wanted boots that were functional beyond riding.
Have enjoyed L.L. Bean's waterproof engineer boots. They do take a while to break in, though. Heavy. Strong. Well made. But don't have CE armor, etc. Just boots.
http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/78205?feat=engineer-SR0&page=katahdin-iron-works-engineer-boots-plain-toe
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Redwing 953's for me.
I have a pair of Redwings for walking. One of the great things about them is that you can get your size, not just length but width too. The 953 looks like a better sole than the one I got - look out for "dual density", which means there's (only) a durable outer layer, and once that's worn through the sole is a goner. Local shoe repair options are Vibram lug soles only.
But I'd prefer a motorcycle boot for motorcycling, if possible. No laces, ankle skids, stuff like that no one needs but a motorcyclist. Vendramini works so far for me. Shoe repairman replaced the straps with better velcro, that helped a lot.
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Sidi and TCX both make a nice variety of waterproof leather boots. I have a pair of Oxtar Matrix GoreTex boots that I've had for 8 or 9 years and countless thousands of km, that are still waterproof. The soles are getting a bit thin, and they're now relegated to mostly around-town day-trip use. Oxtar is now TCX, and the Matrix is now the X-Five. Not hugely expensive. The Sidi boots I have (Canyon Gore) are a bit heavier with a stiffer sole, more $$, and every bit as good. Probably 3 or 4 years on them, still 100% waterproof. Aside from some scuffs here and there and some slight wear on the soles, they look essentially new. And they're comfy to walk in, moreso than the TCX. I've seen the TCX boots for around $220 (US) and the Sidis for about $350.
As for waterproof bags, there are tons of options. I'm a long-time backcountry whitewater canoe addict, so I tend to use my canoeing waterproof bags for motorcycle travel as well. They're every bit as tough, or tougher, than motorcycle-specific bags, and just as easy to use. I've had a couple of different-sized SealLine (Cascade Designs) waterproof duffles that have survived more abuse than they deserve, and continue to function perfectly. They've been across the trans-Labrador 'highway' on the back of my bike, they've been across Canada and back twice, most recently they spent 2 weeks canoeing the Wind and Peel rivers in Yukon. They'll probably last longer than I will. They tend to cost significantly less than the moto-specific stuff. I also have some Ortlieb panniers for my dirt bike. The SealLine stuff is sturdier. If they made panniers, I'd have those instead of the Ortliebs. If you want something more moto-specific, some of my pals swear by a company named Mosko Moto. Too much frippery for me when I already have stuff that works for me, but they do look sturdy and useful.
I ride many tens of thousands of km a year, in every kind of weather, and my gear works (for me).
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I have a pair of Sidi On Roads which I purchased about 10-15? years ago, anyway old and the velcro has finally gone and they are starting to leak but I still use them on regular rides so I replaced them with the Sidi Adventure Boots about 6 months ago and they are even better than the On Roads. They have more protection than the On Roads and of course they look like space boots but IDGAF what they look like.
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falco boots--made in Italy by the brother of mr. sidi-- and half the price-- a true guzzi find--
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These are the popular riding boots around here. Bare feet dry quickest.
(https://www.bikepics.com/pics/2012/06/03/bikepics-2410520-800.jpg)
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Sidi here, tall and shoes
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I've got about 10 years and over 50000 miles on a pair of Aerostich Combat Lite boots (cleat sole). Being close to Duluth, MN, I drove up over the winter and bought a pair, then spent the non-riding winter breaking them in. They are very heavy leather and will require some break-in time before getting on the bike. 'Stich's Combat Touring Boots Owner's Guide does a good job of suggesting how to live with a pair, see link below. Annual (or more if needed) application of Lexol Cleaner and Conditioner works very well at keeping the leather in good condition and will help break them in. A few times over the years I've also sprayed them with (what now might be an old version/recipe of) 3M Scotchguard Outdoor Protector to keep water from saturating the leather. Pay attention to seams and the joint of the upper and the sole. I don't routinely ride on rainy days but I've had times of long, wet rides and my feet have stayed dry in the Combats. Wet commuting, or light/moderate rain for awhile on tour, you'll stay dry. If the heavens are opening up and the gullies are getting washed out, stay inside/get off the road until it passes... Not safe to ride in those conditions, anyway.
In my experience, I'm of the opinion that waterproof footwear (Gortex liners, etc) that keeps water out does a good job of keeping liquid water (sweat) in. Not that a thick slab of leather "breathes", or allows evaporated water (sweat) to travel out of the boot through the surface of the leather faster than it collects in there, but having one more layer of moisture resistant material between my foot and the open atmosphere just does not seem to serve me very well. Nor does letting the outer leather saturate and then depending on an inner waterproof layer to keep that water out. A few pairs of Keen non-motorcycle footwear have demonstrated this to me. (Membranes pass humidity but not liquid, and the liquid is not going to evaporate and pass through faster than it is created inside your boot in warm weather.) Therefore, the unlined boots that are treated on the outer surface for water resistance have proven themselves to me to keep outside water out. This includes my non-lined Red Wing work boots are are many times per week sunk into standing water and sloppy mud, and rain/snow, on construction sites-- no water has even gotten through those boots during any season of the year. I can't tell you how many times I've used a 1-2 inch deep puddle to slop around in to clean the mud off my boots. My feet remain dry just fine.
Hot weather sweaty foot moisture can be remedied by bringing along a pair or two of fresh socks, and letting the boots air out for a minute as you change your socks. Easy.
Lexol products-
http://www.lexol.com/lexol/categories (http://www.lexol.com/lexol/categories)
Red Wing products-
http://www.redwingshoes.com/shoe-care (http://www.redwingshoes.com/shoe-care)
Scotchguard Outdoor Protector-
http://www.scotchgard.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/NAScotchgard/Global/Products/Product_Catalog/~/Scotchgard-Outdoor-Water-Shield?N=4340+3294466439+3294529207&rt=rud (http://www.scotchgard.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/NAScotchgard/Global/Products/Product_Catalog/~/Scotchgard-Outdoor-Water-Shield?N=4340+3294466439+3294529207&rt=rud)
Aerostich Combat Lite boots, scroll down for helpful documents-
http://www.aerostich.com/clothing/footwear/combat-touring-boots/aerostich-combat-lite-boots.html (http://www.aerostich.com/clothing/footwear/combat-touring-boots/aerostich-combat-lite-boots.html)
Steve.
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These are the popular riding boots around here. Bare feet dry quickest.
(https://www.bikepics.com/pics/2012/06/03/bikepics-2410520-800.jpg)
For a stomach-turning good time, web search images for motorcycle accidents while wearing sandals. :shocked: I'd include a link, but I don't want to get banned from WG.
Heavy boots suddenly make real sense.
Steve.
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I absolutely love my BMW Pro Touring 2 boots:
http://shop.bmw-motorrad.com/Boots/Pro-Touring-2-boot-psc-200000641-YlegMkqlzXAAAAE0t9JtTecS-UXCOM-WFS-en_EU-EUR.html
They're comfortable for all-day walking, I can wear them under khakis or jeans for work, and they're waterproof, too. Great protection features as well. Highly recommended.
(http://shop.bmw-motorrad.com/is-bin/intershop.static/WFS/UX-UXCOM-Site/UX/en_EU/Products/250/A0130659.png)
Yup .............. I will second all of what you said........
My pair have been worn and beaten and still are performing. :thumb:
Ciao
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This year I added a pair of TCX Airtech boots to my TCX off road boots. No break in needed and wore them a month straight on a cross country trip with no problems. They let some air in and the water out. Stayed dry through a couple of frog stranglers. Top notch.
http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/boots/waterproof_sport_street_touring_boots/tcx/airtech_gore_tex_boots.html
When Sidi made leather boots I thought they were extremely comfortable but haven't felt the same about their synthetic line.
Pete
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http://www.gasolinaboots.com/images/autobahn2_500.jpg
These do not fit The OP's full criteria as they are not waterproof. I bought this model this year and have been very happy with them.Very comfortable and came with custom sizing to accommodate wide feet and broad calfs at no additional charge. They were well worth the money and the wait.
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Genera mini daytonas. Very nice, all leather boots that are easy to slip into yet give full protection. The fit is not as narrow as the standard Sidi. I have to give mine up as they are too tight for one foot. Plenty of life left in them. If you're interested, let me know. Technically, they're 11- but I'd rate them as size 10.
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Sidi on roads. More than likely the last boots you'll have to buy. Like most tools, you buy cheap stuff over and over..good stuff once. :smiley:
Agreed, 100%
Got my SIDI On Road Sympatex boots in 2004, or so - I Still got them.
I even wear them sometimes when watering the lawns; they're that comfortable..
Someone at a Moto-magazine ran a test, years ago, to see which boots were TRULY waterproof. They tested a wide variety of boots, about 20 different ones, IIRC .
Only the SIDI On Road Sympatex boots were able to resist the water immersion past 24hrs. Matter of fact, after several days, they still held, so that was that.
IMHO, This is the best Sport / Touring motorcycle boot made.
(http://www.extremesupply.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/600x600/sidi/sidi-on-road-sympatex-boots.jpg)
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All breathable membrane products need to be treated to prevent "wet-out". Jackets, gloves, boots, all of it. Plenty of tech info on the web if you need the nuts and bolts of why.
NixWax makes a whole bunch of products that work and there are others as well. Properly maintained these materials will work to the satisfaction of most riders. The psychics involved, due to all kinds of variables including but not limited to humidity and tempture will dictate how much water vapor can be moved and in what direction. Also, most membranes do NOT like dirt and espicially oil/grease contamination. These will compromise the performance big time.
That said, I've used SEDI on road boots for plenty of multi day rain rides (on purpose) testing my waterproof bike products. Never wet feet.
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Agreed, 100%
Got my SIDI On Road Sympatex boots in 2004, or so - I Still got them.
I even wear them sometimes when watering the lawns; they're that comfortable..
Someone at a Moto-magazine ran a test, years ago, to see which boots were TRULY waterproof. They tested a wide variety of boots, about 20 different ones, IIRC .
Only the SIDI On Road Sympatex boots were able to resist the water immersion past 24hrs. Matter of fact, after several days, they still held, so that was that.
IMHO, This is the best Sport / Touring motorcycle boot made.
(http://www.extremesupply.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/600x600/sidi/sidi-on-road-sympatex-boots.jpg)
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I agree BUT Sidi has discontinued them! No longer made!
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Waterproof luggage: - I've been using the Ortieb Rack Packs for the past 6 years - mostly the medium (31L), & sometimes the small (24L). Have probably done more than 100.000ks on the medium & still going strong. The roll top works well. Both fit the camping gear (hammock, fly, bottom insulation. sleeping bag & liners & blanket, ground sheet, pegs & ropes & a few clothes. The medium has room for a few more clothes, plus a couple of bottles of wine or whatever. Keep an eye out for the specials at BestRest Products
(http://www.bestrestproducts.com/c-108-rackpacks.aspx)
- they have the bags on discount often (& the actual price is cheaper than listed) - the best offer I caught was 2 bags for the price of one.
They same sort of bag is available from Givi in 40L, & SW-Motech in 35L (and bigger) as well as from others. But I know the Ortieb lasts well.
For touring, the boots I use the Alpinestar Web Gortex - actually waterproof for years; replaced them a few years back, only because hitting a car destroyed one boot (but saved the foot). A wide fitting boot, wider than the Formas & the Sidis I've tried on. Pretty comfortable for me, but NOT a hiking boot. They are supposed to be a superceded model, but some vendors still stock them. As you will be living in them, the boots you tour in will have to fit very, very well. And there's not much give in the goretex lined boots.
Mal
Mal
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Gaerne builds some good footwear as well. They have street/adventure/dirt/or racing styles.
I'm in the G-Adventure; half way between a road and a trials boot. But rather than sales pitch a boot that is probably not what OP is looking for I'd like to suggest features to avoid in the spirit of longevity. Zippers and Velcro closures.
Zippers will eventually wear out due to grime in the coils (toothed zippers are an even worse choice for footwear).
Velcro loses it adhesive quality when soaked and also 'fuzzes' out with use. Snatch buckles like you see on skirts work pretty much forever. You really only need one across the instep to hold your foot on the shoe but a couple up the leg make for a much more secure fit.
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I just ordered a pair of Sidi On Roads from Extreme Supply tonight for $199 on close-out. Not sure how many they have left, but it's a good price if you're looking to get a pair before they're gone.
Great buy!
I may order a pair as spares!
They're up to $288 a pair now. Still a great buy.
http://www.extremesupply.com/product/SIDIONROADGORETEXBOOT.html
Same at other places like Revzilla-
http://www.revzilla.com/product/sidi-on-road-gore-tex-boots
.
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Oh, I just found the $199 On Roads at Extreme. They are the older style On Road-
http://www.extremesupply.com/sidi-on-road-sympatex-boots.html
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All,
Wow, thanks!! It will take a while to process your abundant input data. Water proof is a key need for riding this time of year.
Too bad there isn't a motorcycle boot superstore where a buyer can go try on boots. Sizing can be a bit dicey and a return policy key.
I will figure it out. Been busy today with getting current house roof replacement estimates for shingles. Not cheap. Also did my class homework.
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I have a pair of these Vendramini Aero boots for warm weather. The mesh really lets in the air and on 100F days I can feel the air moving across my feet. I have a pair of Vendramini Tuareg for cooler weather.
http://www.motoworldonline.com/Vendramini-Aero-Air-Tex-Boots_p_1100.html
http://www.customfitmotorcycleboots.com/en/boots/allroad/vj429-tuareg-s.html
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An important thing to consider when buying boots is re-sole capability. A traditional sewn welt or similar is the easiest for shoe repair shops to re-sole.
The cool-looking molded-on soles require the shops to actually saw them off. That process can sometimes breach the waterproof barrier underneath.
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So what is the current alternative to the Sidi On Road. The Tour looks similar. The All Road looks good too, but, is mesh and fake leather.
I would be looking for boots that are as comfortable as my Danner tactical boots (and as waterproof).
PS I should have said, as comfortable for all day walking in them.
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This response from Sidi's US importer to whom I sent a complaint about discontinuing the On Road.
NOV 23, 2015 | 08:49AM PST
Bill Berroth replied:
Hello David,
If I’m speaking candidly and only for myself I completely agree. It was a solid boot and personally I would take the “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” stance. But for whatever reason its no longer available. I’m sorry.
Sincerely,
-Bill Berroth
Customer Service Representative
Ph. (619) 401-4100 Ext 105 | Fx. (619) 401-4108
10225 Prospect Ave., Santee, CA 92071
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I've got a pair of these
(http://images3.revzilla.com/product_images/0018/5904/302775-02_detail.jpg)
Puma Desmo
and a pair of these
(http://images1.revzilla.com/product_images/0019/0990/Puma_1000_v3_Boots_detail.jpg)
Puma 1000
Like 'em both.
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Dr.Marten's. Best riding boot Ive ever had.
But if you need a riding boot marketed as a motorcycle boot Sidi is probably the best out there for the money.
If you want good but on the cheap check the Sedici line from Cyclegear. Probably the best cheap boot out there right now.
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Dr.Marten's. Best riding boot Ive ever had.
But if you need a riding boot marketed as a motorcycle boot Sidi is probably the best out there for the money.
If you want good but on the cheap check the Sedici line from Cyclegear. Probably the best cheap boot out there right now.
http://www.cyclegear.com/SEDICI-Maximo-Waterproof-Adventure-Boots
Good looking boot.
Dean
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Had a pair of the AS full height boots for years, loved the look and the coverage of my foot and leg, but never got comfortable shifting and braking with them, ultimately sold them on AdvRider. I replaced them with these TourMasters about a year ago, they've worked very nicely this past season:
http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tour-master-solution-wp-air-boots?utm_source=product&kwd=&gclid=CjwKEAiA7MWyBRDpi5TFqqmm6hMSJAD6GLeA-Hbt-ohf5oTOZACyOvPk2gnvkOTGZZUYw0YTsEHEFxoCv4fw_wcB
Easy on, reasonably comfortable & priced. I take a 9.5 U.S. which became a 43 Euro size, so they may run slightly small.
I just ordered and received a pair of these, really nice! Thanks for the heads up.
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Over the years I have tried lots of boots for motorcycle use. Everything from Army Jump Boots to Redwings. They all have benefits (cheap being the main benefit). About 25 years ago I bought a pair of Combat Touring Boots, mentioned by others on this thread. I hated them because they were so damn stiff. Still, since I paid so much for them I wore them as much as I could stand. Then I got caught in a real gully washer frog strangler rainstorm. The leather got good and wet but I was still walking around in the boots as they dried out. All of a sudden they fit like my favorite sneakers. For about 10 years that's all I wore. Finally the sole wore down to the point where I did not have traction to climb a hill. I sent the boots off to be re-soled, this time with Vibran soles for better traction. The boots came back looking like new and still feeling great. At the 20 year point I finally decided to try the Touring Light boots, just to have something a little lighter for warm weather. This time I got the boots good and wet (soaked them overnight) and wore them for about 1/2 mile walk. They broke in immediatly. Now I switch between the two. I expect these to be the last boots I'll ever buy. Oh, I did get some "waterproof" Sidi boots. They felt great. When the soles wore down I had to throw the boots away. As for "waterproof"...my experience is that when they claim to be waterproof that means they let the water in but not out, water resistant means they let the water in and then it leaks back out. Either way your feet get wet. The only way to keep your feet dry is to wear some kind of boot cover. Aerostich makes a very effective boot cover that attaches to the bottom of the leg fabric on their pants. This covers the toe of the boot, where most water hits, and will keep your feet dry when riding. If you are crossing a stream all bets are off. Bottom line, spend the money for good boots that you can resole as needed. If your bike takes a nap you will be glad to have all the leather protection you can get.
Peter Y.
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I think I likely will buy the Aerostich Light Touring boot...hope to get size right first time. I am a bit reluctant about break-in, but I figure the wet trick makes sense. There are so many options. A good water proof oil helps real leather. I want boots that will last the rest of my riding career.
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All,
So, Luap offered a pair of Aerostich combats. Unused. Right size. What a deal, what a great guy! I look forward to trying them, I bet they fit and with some breaking in superb and check all my boxes. Current military desert combat boots are ok, but suck this time of year with colder and more wet conditions.
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Congratulations!
cr
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I was looking for waterproof with protection...very happy with Sidi Canyon Gore-Tex
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SIDI black rain EVOs have exceeded and outlasted all my expectations, coped with all extremes of weather, from above the snow line in January, black ice in the highlands, many a rainy London November, to Cadiz in August, heat exhaustion in the mountains, being crammed in mouldy panniers for months on end at airports etc etc.
They were expensive I recall, but 10 years on they show no signs of giving up, and I think I'll get another 5 years out of them easy.
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These Forma Adventure Low boots turned up in the mail yesterday. I haven't had a chance to properly try them yet but they look pretty robust and are surprizingly light.
http://i961.photobucket.com/albums/ae92/coastdude1/IMG_2493_zpsonglhbmm.jpg
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I was looking for waterproof with protection...very happy with Sidi Canyon Gore-Tex
That is usually a prime directive for me with my long-distance traveling boots.
My test is to wear the new boots and stand in a tub of water almost up to the tops for a while to see if they are water tight.
.
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My vote goes to SIDI. I have used their "on road" boot for many years and NEVER had wet feet. I replaced a worn pair this past spring with the SIDI Tour Gore-Tex boots. A partial inside zipper and Velcro makes getting them on and off easier than the previous SIDI's I used with straps on the outside. http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sidi-tour-gore-tex-boots
My previous pair are still good but all the tread is worn off after 12 years of riding with them. I could have gotten them resoled, but decided to replace them with something easier to cinch up. I'm still using the old ones for bumming around. They still keep my feet dry.
300 bucks over 12 years works out to be a pretty good value. Especially when they perform as expected. All I have ever done with them is clean them, apply some Meltonian Shoe Cream, and buff with a horse hair brush.
John Henry
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Alpinestar
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I think I likely will buy the Aerostich Light Touring boot...hope to get size right first time. I am a bit reluctant about break-in, but I figure the wet trick makes sense. There are so many options. A good water proof oil helps real leather. I want boots that will last the rest of my riding career.
Going to make a road trip up there this winter, going for the Aerostich Light Touring boots. Have bad feet and poor circulation, had really bad feet last summer, could hardly ride period! . I NEED the best!
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On their site, Aerostich recommended wetting (soaking I think) their boot and walking around for a spell - to break them in.
Another data point on Sidi Adventure boots. Mine were not supposed to be waterproof but have been (RH boot started to seep so it was retreated - no hard testing since). If you expect waterproof I think the chances of getting waterproof is quite high. But from the experiences of others, by no means 100%.
I have some Tour masters Touring that have proved fairly durable but not crash tested. I rarely wear them since I got the Sidi's. But they are cooler in the summer than the Sidi's.
Otherwise; it is great to hear of other brands that folks have had good luck with.
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300 bucks over 12 years works out to be a pretty good value. Especially when they perform as expected. All I have ever done with them is clean them, apply some Meltonian Shoe Cream, and buff with a horse hair brush.
John Henry
My wife uses the same logic for her shoe purchases. John, does that shoe cream help with the water proofing?
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I doubt it. I have been using Meltonian for years. Being a shoe cream, I **think** it helps restore the natural oils and helps preserve the leather. Having said that, my boots have never let in one drop of water. That testimonial includes a 600 mile day in the pouring rain the entire time.
John Henry
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10% off Combat Boots until tomorrow.
http://www.aerostich.com/
$312 for Combat Lites.
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I went back to Danner for my next set of boots. Should have them next week.
Leather treatment. Pecard. Learned about it from the guys at the Smithsonian. Used to make old leather new again. If you have a leather object that is old, stiff and will break if you bend it, apply this stuff. Magic. Side benefit is it repels water really well. Slather it on. Heat with a blow dryer until the leather soaks up all it can take. Wipe off excess. Cleans and removes stains as well. I have a pint container that has lasted me for about 15 years. (Note: I do not know if this stuff is compatible with GoreTex, it probably is not).
Fitting boots. Age old method is the wet fit as others have noted. Cowboy boots and other such are purchased as a tight fit. Go home and put them on. Stand in a bucket of water until the boots are wet all the way through. Walk until dry. Then apply leather dressing of choice. FWIW, this was the standard method going back when there was no such thing as right and left shoes. Need I say it, method only works on real leather :)
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I bought a pair of Vega Touring Boots a couple of years ago, they are holding up very well and are weatherproof, price is right, I will buy another pair when/if I wear these out. I will add that the soles are a bit thin. OK for walking for a while, but if you are going on a long hike, have a pair of hikers with you.(http://s27.postimg.org/6wuxyyddb/Vega_Boots.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/6wuxyyddb/)
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All,
Whee! Made my day!
Luap's Combat boots arrived, fit is perfect! I am one grateful and lucky poodle. No more wet/cold feet during our brutal (?) Gulf Coast, TEXAS winters! Think I will wear them for a few days to break them in, but these boots are not that stiff. Soles seem a bit slick, but some walking should improve the coefficient of friction. Might buy some taller boot socks.
Luap is a hero of the first rank! But, we all knew that.
:thumb: :bow: :grin:
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Hey folks- I need wider boots than what i got. What is the width like on the Combats? do they offer wider sizes?
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Boat,
I have average width feet and they seem just right. Some poodle walking will better reveal, but my guess is that wide feet could be a bit tight.
Perhaps call Aerostich?
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I went back to Danner for my next set of boots. Should have them next week.
Leather treatment. Pecard. Learned about it from the guys at the Smithsonian. Used to make old leather new again. If you have a leather object that is old, stiff and will break if you bend it, apply this stuff. Magic. Side benefit is it repels water really well. Slather it on. Heat with a blow dryer until the leather soaks up all it can take. Wipe off excess. Cleans and removes stains as well. I have a pint container that has lasted me for about 15 years. (Note: I do not know if this stuff is compatible with GoreTex, it probably is not).
Fitting boots. Age old method is the wet fit as others have noted. Cowboy boots and other such are purchased as a tight fit. Go home and put them on. Stand in a bucket of water until the boots are wet all the way through. Walk until dry. Then apply leather dressing of choice. FWIW, this was the standard method going back when there was no such thing as right and left shoes. Need I say it, method only works on real leather :)
charlie b, gonna try Pecard on my old stiff racing leathers, can't afford new ones.
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Just snagged some Aerostich Combat Lite Boots for $150 (free shipping, ebay).
(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/Pu0AAOSwwE5WW26h/s-l500.jpg)
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My wife uses the same logic for her shoe purchases. John, does that shoe cream help with the water proofing?
Two words for ya.. Mink oil.
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Two words for ya.. Mink oil.
Synthetic or not? What viscosity?
Dean
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Synthetic or not? What viscosity?
Dean
I think mink oil is, well just mink oil....