Kawasaki Concours Forum

The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => Accessories and modifications - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: lawfarm on July 09, 2015, 12:15:00 PM

Title: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: lawfarm on July 09, 2015, 12:15:00 PM
I looked around to find the right forum for this--if this is the wrong spot, apologies (and please move).

Starting up riding a 'new to me' Concours, after a few years of not riding.  I'm looking to pick up a pair of riding boots, to use in my normal riding.  Normal riding will be a lot of commuting and intermediate distance (30-90 mile) trips, in predominately rural (and sometimes suburban) environments.  Think: lots of 2 lane rural 55mph roads.

There are a bunch of boots that look great, but what I'm primarily trying to decide is if I need the rigid sides and shin protection that some boots offer.  For example, the SIDI Canyon boots look great and get good reviews, but have very limited ankle and shin protection.  On the other hand, something like the SIDI Armada or Dianese TRQ Tour have far more extensive shin and ankle protection.  I'm not planning on track days or tail of the dragon at this point...I just want some comfortable, waterproof/breathable boots that offer greater protection than gym shoes or hikers...and I'm trying to decide how much additional protection is worthwhile or necessary.  I'm sure if you crash you want all of the protection, but I'm looking for some practical advice. 

By way of comparison, if I knew I was going to crash, well, I wouldn't ride...but if I was going to ride, I'd wear full leathers.  I'm not planning on wearing full leathers every day.  So what's a reasonably safe compromise...or should I not compromise on foot protection, and just go to boots with greater protection?

For my work, I'll probably end up bringing shoes with me, and changing when I get to my destination.  So while there are times that a 'normal looking boot' would be nice (e.g. going to pickup carryout Thai food), I'm not planning on doing a lot of riding where I'll get somewhere and have to do a lot of walking in the boots.

Sorry if this is long--trying to give a lot of info to solicit helpful responses.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: brant bandit on July 09, 2015, 12:28:35 PM
I have a pair of Oxford boots that are fairly low cut. Full ankle protection though.

I've got me eyes on Tourmaster Air boots though.

I think the most important part is proper ankle protection and good soles / tread. Ankles get killed in crashes.......
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: Rhino on July 09, 2015, 01:23:29 PM
What Brant said, ankle protection. I also think easy on/off is important if your lazy like me. If they are a PITA put on, I'm more inclined forgo the boots. I have a pair of lace Icon boots with a ski boot type buckle. I replaced the laces with LockLaces.com. This allows instant on off but the buckle system keeps them on in case of crash. I always slip them on before hoping on the bike.

(http://images.motorcycle-superstore.com/productimages/OG/2010-icon-super-duty-4-boots-black-mcss.jpg)



Other options... NOT

(http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FPnf6zOU300/hqdefault.jpg)


For the Harley riders:

(http://store.barnettharley.com/common/images/products/large/sg23-5114-1.jpg)

Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: sailor_chic on July 09, 2015, 01:37:12 PM
I'll put in a vote for the Tourmasters Air WP. I just purchased these before my 18 day road trip and they were great! Even doing some hiking, they were comfortable to walk in.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 09, 2015, 03:37:26 PM
I wear the Cruiser Works Boots..

https://cruiserworks.com/Products/Footwear/Cruiserworks%E2%84%A2-Men-s-Tour-Boots.aspx
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: Conniesaki on July 09, 2015, 03:50:31 PM
What Brant said, ankle protection. I also think easy on/off is important if your lazy like me. If they are a PITA put on, I'm more inclined forgo the boots ... {snip}

^ :rotflmao:

I have a pair of lace Icon boots with a ski boot type buckle. I replaced the laces with LockLaces.com. This allows instant on off but the buckle system keeps them on in case of crash. I always slip them on before hoping on the bike.

^ :rotflmao:

Well placed typos in your post, Rhino!  :chugbeer:

Sorry! Resuming boot-talk: These might be too 'boot' for you, but I like my TCX X-Ride waterproof boots a lot :) http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tcx-x-ride-wp-boots (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tcx-x-ride-wp-boots)

Not as comfortable as a sneaker, but for me very comfortable to walk around in. Easy on/off ... zipper & velcro only.

(http://images0.revzilla.com/product_images/0066/7287/tcxx_ride_wp_boots_black_detail.jpg)
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: maxtog on July 09, 2015, 03:55:59 PM
I am just wearing traditional "crusier" style boots with the ride rings by "Double H."  I had a shoe repair store add some additional height to the toe with a replacement sole to help with reaching the ground.  I think they are 15 years old now?  The very heavy leather and full coverage gives good protection.  Even though they are full boots, they are surprisingly comfortable.  But they are very much not waterproof, and don't breathe all that well either.

Walking in them is not difficult, but not great.  If I am not just riding but have a destination, I will carry a pair of regular shoes to wear at destination.  I would NEVER get on a motorcycle without wearing proper boots, gloves, full helmet, and armored jacket.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: Jaxter on July 09, 2015, 04:48:34 PM
I went to a Harley store and got a pair of leather boots which lace up the front and have a zipper on the inboard side...once the laces are tightened to here desired they don't have to be messed with again, just use the zipper. These boots are extremely comfortable and could be worn all day, they keep my feet warm, dry and safe. The only adjustment necessary to ride on the Connie is to remove the metal Harley-Davidson tag on the heel. Harley does have some excellent riding gear.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: bigfraid on July 09, 2015, 07:53:08 PM
I just got these a couple of days ago and the are comfortable,waterproof and has enough protection and isn't going to break the bank.the first day I got them I put them on and did some in house work for about 3 hours the went for a 50 mile ride and my feet felt great.these boot didn't even need broke in.

http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-cape-horn-boots#activate_zoom (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-cape-horn-boots#activate_zoom)
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: Daytona_Mike on July 09, 2015, 08:03:59 PM
I wear the Cruiser Works Boots..

https://cruiserworks.com/Products/Footwear/Cruiserworks%E2%84%A2-Men-s-Tour-Boots.aspx
I own a pair of those same boots for many years. They are really good boots. Completely waterproof and yet they breathe really well. No sweaty stinky feet.
They also feel like your walking in a fine pair of Italian loafers. Very comfortable they look like nice  dress shoes.
Very highly recommended.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: MAN OF BLUES on July 09, 2015, 09:12:46 PM
I never bought riding boots for on road for many years, but spent tons of money protecting my shins, ankles and feet, prior for many hundreds of bucks...
 currently, the company I bought multiple pairs of touring boots from, because when I found them, they were awesom, and when I got them from Iron Pony, they cost a mere $75 delivered... I wish they still made them... totally waterproof, never a soaked foot. and comfey from the start...
I'm on my last set, hope they last another 3 years...

reference:
if you can find these, buy them.... seriously

http://www.vtxoa.com/forums/showthread.php?177229-Boot-review-M2R-Nordic-Waterproof-Boot (http://www.vtxoa.com/forums/showthread.php?177229-Boot-review-M2R-Nordic-Waterproof-Boot)


next up, and I have not bought them, but M2R were the best I had since my 1974 metal shin protected High point moto boots..


http://www.made2race.com.au/all-products/freeway-boot (http://www.made2race.com.au/all-products/freeway-boot)

if these were my size. I'd buy them in a second... my feelings about M2R products are +10 so far...
http://thumbs4.ebaystatic.com/d/l225/m/mObwvNeWKZ7TeZEKlYBWwsQ.jpg (http://thumbs4.ebaystatic.com/d/l225/m/mObwvNeWKZ7TeZEKlYBWwsQ.jpg)


Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PH14 on July 10, 2015, 07:01:11 AM
I'm still wearing a pair of Wolverine pull on boots I bought in 2009 on the way home from Iowa on a trip from Pittsburgh. I was on my old RC51 and my boots gave out. I waterproofed them on the sidewalk in front of the store and went on my way with my old ones strapped to the top of the pack. They have never leaked in all these years of riding in rain. I keep them treated.

I am looking to replace them soon so this is a good thread.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: RBX QB on July 10, 2015, 10:12:48 AM
I went to a Harley store and got a pair of leather boots which lace up the front and have a zipper on the inboard side...once the laces are tightened to here desired they don't have to be messed with again, just use the zipper. These boots are extremely comfortable and could be worn all day, they keep my feet warm, dry and safe. The only adjustment necessary to ride on the Connie is to remove the metal Harley-Davidson tag on the heel. Harley does have some excellent riding gear.

That... tho, not at a Harley shop (but they are labeled as such). After a year or so, they became uncomfortable to walk in, but they're still great for riding.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PlaynInPeoria on July 10, 2015, 10:53:56 AM
I wear the Cruiser Works Boots..

https://cruiserworks.com/Products/Footwear/Cruiserworks%E2%84%A2-Men-s-Tour-Boots.aspx (https://cruiserworks.com/Products/Footwear/Cruiserworks%E2%84%A2-Men-s-Tour-Boots.aspx)

$325?  Yeesh. I just paid $200 for these, the most I have ever paid.  I do like them but beware, they are narrow. I have narrow foot, so no biggie for me. First road trip coming up.  I wear them all day long at work in an office. I should change shoes just to save the wear.

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/35956/i/gaerne-g-altus-road-boots (http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/35956/i/gaerne-g-altus-road-boots)
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 10, 2015, 02:26:19 PM
I paid about $200 for mine some years back.  I wonder if I should sell them as vintage for $400?
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: maxtog on July 10, 2015, 03:28:10 PM
$325?  Yeesh.

Yeah, that pushes the envelope for just boots.  At least for me it does.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 10, 2015, 05:41:07 PM
Does me as well.  $200 is about my limit.  They're good but not that good.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: AZ-ZG on July 10, 2015, 09:22:52 PM
Replaced my Strada Air, about 9 years old with some of this.  ;)

My Strada Gore Tex are long in the tooth and will need to be replaced soon!
Coming from a dirt background I love the tall boots!

For me, Sidi boots are all-day comfortable straight out of the box!

Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: Conniesaki on July 10, 2015, 10:26:13 PM
I paid about $200 for mine some years back.  I wonder if I should sell them as vintage for $400?

I'll give ya $380 ... and not a penny more!!!

Oh wait, what size do you wear?? :P
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: VirginiaJim on July 11, 2015, 02:50:48 AM
Your size.  That's the ticket!
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: JS_racer on July 11, 2015, 04:57:03 AM
Replaced my Strada Air, about 9 years old with some of this.  ;)

My Strada Gore Tex are long in the tooth and will need to be replaced soon!
Coming from a dirt background I love the tall boots!

For me, Sidi boots are all-day comfortable straight out of the box!


 :thumbs:   SIDI Vertigo here
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: jtk1531 on July 11, 2015, 11:22:06 PM
I just got these a couple of days ago and the are comfortable,waterproof and has enough protection and isn't going to break the bank.the first day I got them I put them on and did some in house work for about 3 hours the went for a 50 mile ride and my feet felt great.these boot didn't even need broke in.

http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-cape-horn-boots#activate_zoom (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-cape-horn-boots#activate_zoom)

i wear Forma Adventure boots to work everyday. boots worn for at least 8-9 hours per day, it's comfortable enough for walking around.
doesn't feel that hot in tropical temperatures around here. totally waterproof so far, and i've been using it for at least 3 years+. i do ride in the rain quite often.
http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-adventure-boots (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-adventure-boots)

too bad cape horn boots weren't available when i was shopping for a new pair of boots.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: twowheeladdict on July 12, 2015, 06:06:26 AM
I wear TCX infinity Gore-tex boots.  Absolutely waterproof, great traction soles, and awesome protection. http://www.revzilla.com/product/tcx-infinity-gtx-boots?gclid=COTT1q7G1cYCFdgZgQodltUCfw (http://www.revzilla.com/product/tcx-infinity-gtx-boots?gclid=COTT1q7G1cYCFdgZgQodltUCfw)

Looks like they have a new improved boot.http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tcx-infinity-evo-gore-tex-boots (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tcx-infinity-evo-gore-tex-boots)

Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: bigfraid on July 12, 2015, 09:37:42 AM
Just came back from Gettysburg bike week last night, I put my forma cape horns on at 7:30 am and they didn't come off till 11:00 pm my feet didn't hurt at all these things are like sneakers.they did get alittle warm but it was 80-85 degs out my feet were not wet or sweaty and I only had liner sock and a light pair of socks.when these wear out I will be getting another pair.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: freebird6 on July 12, 2015, 09:48:09 PM
I just got these a couple of days ago and the are comfortable,waterproof and has enough protection and isn't going to break the bank.the first day I got them I put them on and did some in house work for about 3 hours the went for a 50 mile ride and my feet felt great.these boot didn't even need broke in.

http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-cape-horn-boots#activate_zoom (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-cape-horn-boots#activate_zoom)

I went with almost the same. http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-adventure-boots (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/forma-adventure-boots)   After all this rehab I have 7 screws and a plate in one ankle and a hardware store n the other leg. Tried several boots and Revzilla just kept em coming. Ended up with the Forma Adventures as they had hard protection over the screws sticking out the sides of the ankle bones. The Formas feel like a really comfy sneaker on the bottom although they are stiffer. The 3 buckles just click in place and they are most def waterproof. I have owned lots of touring boots by several different companies including Forma, TCX, Sidi and was wearing a TCX when the idjut pulled out in front of me. Too late for the Forma Adventures at that point but I would tell anyone to grab a pair of boots with hard ankle protection knowing what I know now.....and as the inmate who makes his living repairing broken feet.

Best walking around boot I ever owned was the Harley Lynx. Made by wolverine....it is just a great boot that feels like a tennis shoe.  You can do what you want but I think the boots with hard ankle protection in the riding you are doing is a smart choice.

Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PH14 on July 13, 2015, 08:56:53 PM
I just got the TCX Explorer Evo Gore-Tex  boots for me. They have Goretex. Motorcyclegear.com has them for $169. I was looking at the TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots since they are leather, but they were out of my size. The Explorer Evo may be better overall since they are lighter and will probably breathe better. We'll see.
(http://www.motorcyclegear.com/image/path/49395/EXPLORER_EVO_GTX_BLACK-2.jpg)
 http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/boots/tcx/explorer_evo_gore_tex_boots.html (http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/boots/tcx/explorer_evo_gore_tex_boots.html)

I got the TCX X-Cube Waterproof Boots for my wife. They are on closeout for $69.
(http://www.motorcyclegear.com/image/path/37874/X-Cube_waterproof.jpg)
 http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/last_chance_bargains/tcx/x_cube_waterproof_boots.html (http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/last_chance_bargains/tcx/x_cube_waterproof_boots.html)
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PH14 on July 13, 2015, 09:12:33 PM
^ :rotflmao:

^ :rotflmao:

Well placed typos in your post, Rhino!  :chugbeer:

Sorry! Resuming boot-talk: These might be too 'boot' for you, but I like my TCX X-Ride waterproof boots a lot :) http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tcx-x-ride-wp-boots (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/tcx-x-ride-wp-boots)

Not as comfortable as a sneaker, but for me very comfortable to walk around in. Easy on/off ... zipper & velcro only.

(http://images0.revzilla.com/product_images/0066/7287/tcxx_ride_wp_boots_black_detail.jpg)

What are your thoughts on the micro fiber material? I ordered the Explorer EVO Gore-Tex boots and they are made the same way. I really wanted leather but they were out of my size in the X-Five. I liked the fact the Explorer also has some areas of cordura so they should breathe a little better and be lighter than all leather, but I am still wondering about the micro fiber.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: xsv on July 13, 2015, 09:31:52 PM
Not yet mentioned, but not cheap either.

http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sidi-all-road-gore-tex-boots (http://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sidi-all-road-gore-tex-boots)
(http://images1.revzilla.com/product_images/0114/1210/sidi_all_road_gore_tex_boots_black_detail.jpg)

I've ridden in hot weather and cold and am pretty satisfied.  Most of my 24,000 mile on my bike have been with these boots.  From a commute to the grocery store to 2500 mile rides.  Easy and quick on and off.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: Conniesaki on July 14, 2015, 09:08:15 PM
What are your thoughts on the micro fiber material? I ordered the Explorer EVO Gore-Tex boots and they are made the same way. I really wanted leather but they were out of my size in the X-Five. I liked the fact the Explorer also has some areas of cordura so they should breathe a little better and be lighter than all leather, but I am still wondering about the micro fiber.

Didn't realize micro fiber was involved (til now), but I've only worn shorty socks with them and the boots are very comfortable on the legs, and overall. Feels like good construction. And I was looking for something more subtle that doesn't scream motorcycle boot too loudly when a pant leg is hanging over it.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PH14 on July 14, 2015, 10:39:17 PM
Didn't realize micro fiber was involved (til now), but I've only worn shorty socks with them and the boots are very comfortable on the legs, and overall. Feels like good construction. And I was looking for something more subtle that doesn't scream motorcycle boot too loudly when a pant leg is hanging over it.

Thanks, good to hear. According to the description, the micro fibre is what they use on the uppers instead of leather. It must be okay if you didn't notice.  :D
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: wally_games on July 16, 2015, 11:35:56 AM
What Brant said, ankle protection. I also think easy on/off is important if your lazy like me. If they are a PITA put on, I'm more inclined forgo the boots. I have a pair of lace Icon boots with a ski boot type buckle. I replaced the laces with LockLaces.com. This allows instant on off but the buckle system keeps them on in case of crash. I always slip them on before hoping on the bike.

(http://images.motorcycle-superstore.com/productimages/OG/2010-icon-super-duty-4-boots-black-mcss.jpg)


I wear something very similar that I picked up at Cycle Gear a few years ago for well under $100 (not the $140 for those Icon's). Not sure of the brand, but they've got great protection. They look similar to one of the Bilt branded boots, but not exactly.

I see that CG has a sale on these that you might like to try, especially given the price ($70 on sale). http://www.cyclegear.com/BILT-Sprint-Racer-Leather-Motorcycle-Boots (http://www.cyclegear.com/BILT-Sprint-Racer-Leather-Motorcycle-Boots) or even these http://www.cyclegear.com/BILT-Pit-Motorcycle-Boots (http://www.cyclegear.com/BILT-Pit-Motorcycle-Boots)
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: twowheeladdict on July 16, 2015, 08:19:28 PM
Don't look like motorcycle boots to me.  I want 12" minimum.  Not just crash protection.  Heat protection from engine heat.  Rock and stick protection.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: elp_jc on July 17, 2015, 01:51:25 PM
I have 2 pairs of Sidi Strada boots; the tall waterproof and shorty air. I like them because they have minimal sole, which minimizes knee bend while on the pegs. And still reach the ground close to flat footing (always a compromise), which is enough for solo riding. Noticed the Connie spews more heat than other bikes, and it was roasting my ankles on my first trip. I can wear longer socks, but it's safer to move up to a mid-height boot for summer. They're longer than shorties, but not more than 10". They should provide the protection I need, but having a hard time finding one with a low 'sport' sole. I don't mind a little higher heel, but the sole forward of the heel needs to be low. Sidi only makes their mid-height boots with freaking tractor sole, which is like an inch taller. And don't have an 'air' model. I could settle for a normal boot (not air), but not waterproof, since they're a lot hotter for summer riding. And the fairing has fairly good rain protection if I happen to catch a shower. If somebody has a good alternative, please post it. Looked at Alpinestars, Sidi, TCX, and nothing. Even though my shorty boots supposedly have ankle protection, I agree with the comments that is not the case. Already have to ride with a flimsy summer jacket, but want my feet better protected. I'm a safe rider, but like to ride fast and aggressive, so need to take better precautions. Already ordered a Kula XD cooling vest, which will afford me to get a more substantial summer jacket, not the Joe Rocket Phoenix 4 I have now. Might look into air pants too, since Draggin' jeans wouldn't cut it in a fall either. The good news is I don't ride in summer much, but want to be as safe as possible. At least my noggin is well taken care of with a Shoei X-12. Take care.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: stevewfl on July 17, 2015, 01:58:40 PM
Don't look like motorcycle boots to me.  I want 12" minimum.  Not just crash protection.  Heat protection from engine heat.  Rock and stick protection.

I wear these when I'm in those conditions:

(http://images.motorcycle-superstore.com/productimages/OG/2010-sidi-adventure-rain-boots-black.jpg)

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/26805/i/sidi-adventure-rain-boots?WT.mc_ID=80003&P_ID=246396&colorid=9&sizeid=2593&SITEID=Google+SEARCH+NON-BRAND+Product+Level+Ads+-+Google+Shopping+Campaign+Brands&P_ID=1738962455&adpos=1o5&creative=53697087533&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=Cj0KEQjwz6KtBRDwgq-LsKjMk9kBEiQAuaxWUr2Caoyig-8cFf93Q63CNFyQZISRqs0PEi7ljVZl5hUaAptr8P8HAQ (http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/26805/i/sidi-adventure-rain-boots?WT.mc_ID=80003&P_ID=246396&colorid=9&sizeid=2593&SITEID=Google+SEARCH+NON-BRAND+Product+Level+Ads+-+Google+Shopping+Campaign+Brands&P_ID=1738962455&adpos=1o5&creative=53697087533&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=Cj0KEQjwz6KtBRDwgq-LsKjMk9kBEiQAuaxWUr2Caoyig-8cFf93Q63CNFyQZISRqs0PEi7ljVZl5hUaAptr8P8HAQ)

Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PH14 on July 17, 2015, 10:03:59 PM
Our boots arrived yesterday, motorcyclegear.com has great service. We ordered them on Monday and they arrived on Thursday.

My wife's boots fire her perfectly but mine seemed a bit too big. I prefer them to be bigger rather than tight, but thought these may be too big. I have issues since my right foot s a little bigger than the left, and I have trouble with boots being tight across the top of the right foot. I had ordered the TCX Explorer Evo Gore-Tex Boots in 43, which usually would fit. I tried them around the house and decided I would keep them, then I tried them on the bike. The left foot seemed to slide int he boot while trying to shift so I went back in the house and put on my old boots before riding.

I had originally wanted the TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots but they didn't have a 43. They did have one 42 left, so since the 43 seemed too big, and I was going to order a 42, I ordered the X-5 Plus. I doubt it will breathe as well as the Explorer since the Explorer is synthetic and has a couple textile panels and it seems to use a newer performance Gore-Tex liner. Had I have realized they had a newer type Gore-Tex liner I might not have ordered the X-5. My thought though, was that the X-5 would be warmer in the cold months. I also though the leather would conform to my foot a little more after they break in if I have any slight tight spots. We will see.

They had the X-5 in 42 on closeout for $169, the same as they had the Explorer. Free shipping as well.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 04, 2015, 12:44:22 PM
I just experienced a CBF (Catestrophic Boot Failure) with my CruiserWorks boots. I had them on getting ready to ride to a client and I heard a clicking type noise.  I've been hearing this on and off for awhile now.  So I took them off and the heel on the right just about fell off and the one on the left wasn't far behind.  Plus there were holes in the sole I wasn't aware of.  I've had these boots quite awhile but I was going to get another pair (different brand) when I came back from vacation. 

As it was we were in Ohio, sans bike, going to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the AF Museum with some antiquing along the way.  Saw a MC store (Ride MC Inc. between Columbus and Dayton) from 70 and decided to stop by and see what they had in stock.  I wanted a high top boot.   One of the brands was the Kili High Boot from First Gear.  Sizing was interesting as it took a 13 US size (I wear a 10.5 to  11) to fit correctly.  It was a 46 Euro and 12 UK.  I'm really glad I did not order on line as I would have went with an 11 and it would have been too small as was 12.  I can't imagine that my feet had gone from 10.5/11 to 13.  I did check later to see if anything else had grown but no luck there. :-[

These boots cost $150 and they feel pretty good so far.  I'm wearing them around the house today and tomorrow to get them broken in before I ride.  I can see that shifting might be a bit different.  We'll have to see.

Also bought a pair of Mesh overpants.  Next is another helmet as mine is being held together with epoxy at the moment.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: bbhzx12 on August 04, 2015, 07:57:05 PM
Boots with ridgid support, like my old Sidi Vertigo Corsas, offer alot of ankle protection.  Such as preventing you from shattering them if your feet hook the bars while you're being ejected over the front.  Just sayin'
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: VirginiaJim on August 04, 2015, 08:26:55 PM
Cruiserworks boots don't have rigid support.  The Kili's do.  Will take a bit getting used to that, but after wearing them a few hours they feel quite good.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: mikeb2411 on August 05, 2015, 05:07:50 PM
I just got the TCX Explorer Evo Gore-Tex  boots for me. They have Goretex. Motorcyclegear.com has them for $169. I was looking at the TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots since they are leather, but they were out of my size. The Explorer Evo may be better overall since they are lighter and will probably breathe better. We'll see.
(http://www.motorcyclegear.com/image/path/49395/EXPLORER_EVO_GTX_BLACK-2.jpg)
 http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/boots/tcx/explorer_evo_gore_tex_boots.html (http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/boots/tcx/explorer_evo_gore_tex_boots.html)

I got the TCX X-Cube Waterproof Boots for my wife. They are on closeout for $69.
(http://www.motorcyclegear.com/image/path/37874/X-Cube_waterproof.jpg)
 http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/last_chance_bargains/tcx/x_cube_waterproof_boots.html (http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/last_chance_bargains/tcx/x_cube_waterproof_boots.html)

TCX X-Five for me...love them!
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: Rhino on August 06, 2015, 08:31:23 AM
I'm going to pull the trigger on a new pair of these. I've had mine for about 4 years but for the last year and a half I've been commuting with these and wearing them all day at work. They have been great but now the soles are starting to delaminate. I still think I got my money's worth.

(http://images.motorcycle-superstore.com/productimages/OG/2010-icon-super-duty-4-boots-black-mcss.jpg)
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PH14 on August 06, 2015, 02:26:26 PM
TCX X-Five for me...love them!

Yeah, I love the X-Fives, but I still have a sizing issue. I got size 42 after the Explorer in size 43 was too big. I usually wear anything form 8 1/2 to 9 1/2 depending on the shoe. The 42 still seems a bit big on the left foot but the right one is fine. I should have sent these back and tried a 41 but by the time I realized it, I had already ridden with them. They seemed fine but my left foot has a bit of room to slide in them a bit when I shift. My right foot always fits tighter than the left. I do want to be able to wear thicker socks or my silk liners with another pair of socks so I did't want them too tight. I hate tight shoes or boots.

I may order a pair in 41 and try them, and if they are a lot better I'll sell these. I may try a gel sole in these. Overall I love them.
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: mikeb2411 on August 06, 2015, 02:34:15 PM
Yeah, I love the X-Fives, but I still have a sizing issue. I got size 42 after the Explorer in size 43 was too big. I usually wear anything form 8 1/2 to 9 1/2 depending on the shoe. The 42 still seems a bit big on the left foot but the right one is fine. I should have sent these back and tried a 41 but by the time I realized it, I had already ridden with them. They seemed fine but my left foot has a bit of room to slide in them a bit when I shift. My right foot always fits tighter than the left. I do want to be able to wear thicker socks or my silk liners with another pair of socks so I did't want them too tight. I hate tight shoes or boots.

I may order a pair in 41 and try them, and if they are a lot better I'll sell these. I may try a gel sole in these. Overall I love them.

Mine are great! Had the Tourmaster boots before the X-Five but the X-Five are much better. I wear a size 13 shoe and ended up with the 46's in the X-Five and they fit great, really comfortable!
Title: Re: What level of protection in riding boots?
Post by: PH14 on August 06, 2015, 03:41:52 PM
Mine are great! Had the Tourmaster boots before the X-Five but the X-Five are much better. I wear a size 13 shoe and ended up with the 46's in the X-Five and they fit great, really comfortable!

That sounds about right. According to their size chart, a 13 would be a 48, so you went down two sizes. That's what I should have done. I do have issues with my right foot since it always fits tighter across the top than my left does, so I want it to be comfortable. The do feel very nice though and they are well made boots.