TCX, Ether, Dainese and more

You know how pretty cool a pair of Chucks are and also the least comfortable basketball sneaker you could actually play in? That’s the problem with motorcycle boots that are all visible and don’t fit. Much like “motorcycle jackets,” motorcycle boots tend to steal the styling cues of the genre, minus the actual reinforcement that will keep you in one piece. If you actually ride, rather than just wanting to look like you, you should buy protective and functional features no matter what kind of riding you do. Your feet and legs will be safer and also, most importantly, much more comfortable, as the real deal will support your muscles and joints.

What to look for when buying motorcycle boots

Armor: Even the lightest and most discreet boots should have legitimate armor designed to reduce damage during a slide. Canvas sneakers might sound silly, but they won’t prevent a rolled ankle, and if you’re unloading a 400-pound motorcycle on your foot in sneakers, you might as well be in flip flops. Please, please, please, never ride in sandals.

Replaceable parts and construction: You can find cheaper analogues for some of the boots we have chosen. But the replaceable parts and construction features that let you do things like resoling the boot will help you spend less in the long run.

Shaped toe: You use your feet a lot when riding a motorcycle. Having a shaped toe that is less bulky will make things like shifting easier.

Type of riding: The longer you intend to ride off-road, the more you should also look for a boot that protects your lower leg, with a higher shin and calf section, so you don’t have to wear additional armor. Depending on where you live and when and where you plan to ride, you may also want waterproofing.

Ventilation: No one likes sweaty feet. The best boots will have some form of ventilation or air induction.