O’Neill Rider Boots
Alpinestars Tech 10 Boots
AXO Drone Boots
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When it comes to key pieces of equipment for motocross and dirt bike riding, a solid pair of boots is one of the most important investments any rider can make. Remember that your feet are one of the key contact points to your bike, so if your boots aren’t comfortable, neither will your ride be.
At the same time, your lower legs can take more damage from low lying debris – dirt mounds, stones, stick and undergrowth – that any other part of your body. So your boots also need to have the strength to stand up to this abuse whilst also protecting you from harm.
That is all asking for a lot from a simple pair of boots! In this guide then, we’ve taken a deep dive investigation into some of the best motocross boots on the market right now, and at a wide range of price points too.
The Best Motocross Boots
1
O’Neill Rider Boots
We’ll kick off our list with this entry from O’Neill, a brand with a well-earned rep for producing quality motocross gear. This pair of boots has an entry-level price tag of around 100 bucks. Despite that though, it is still packing a number of excellent features.
It is geared more toward protection that anything else. That helps to make it an excellent entry level boot, since beginner riders are likely to need that little bit more protection, though it will also do a fine job for any motocross or off road biking veterans looking for a boot with a little extra protection.
Injection Molded Plastic Plates
Durable Goodyear Sole
Synthetic Leather Heat Shield
Metal Toe Box
- BrandO’Neal
- Model0324-107
- Weight7.4 pounds
2
Fox Racing Off-Road Motorcycle Boots
The Fox Racing Comp 5 is the entry-level little brother of the more technical boots in the Fox Racing line up. Because of this, they also come with a more palatable entry-level price tag compared with more higher end models of boot.
Just because of that though, don’t expect this boot to be missing out on a lot of the features you’ll find on pricier boots. Fox Racing has worked hard to produce a feature stuffed boot here whilst also keeping the price low.
Race Bonded Out Sole
Easy to Use Buckles
Full Leather Construction
- BrandFox Racing
- ModelComp 5 Men’s Boots
- Weight6 pounds
3
AXO Drone Boots
The next boot that we are going to take a look at is this entry from AXO. It may have one of the duller names of all the boots on our list (Drone, really?), but that is not to say this is not a quality boot.
This boot has been tailored more to the comfort end of the feature spectrum. To help achieve this, it boasts design points like extra long instep panels. These panels help the boot fit a wider range of calf sizes, making this an ideal boot for anyone who has struggled with calf and lower leg discomfort in contemporary dirt bike boots.
Instep Panels for Comfort
Vinyl Foam Wrapped Gaiter
Replaceable Buckles
- BrandAXO
- Model11000-05-090
- Weight8.16 pounds
4
Gaerne Balance Pro-Tech Boots
Gaerne are the manufactures of the next MX boots to make our list. This company is another with a strong reputation for producing high-end boots that command a lot of respect in the motocross riding community – but also come with big price tags attached!
This entry is a mid-range model with a mid range price tag. That does mean that you are getting Gaerne quality build and construction here, but in a boot that doesn’t quite bring the same level of features as a top of the line model. This is for example a lighter style of boot that supplies slightly lower levels of protection – there is no metal toe box in this design for example.
All Leather Construction
Easily Replaced Buckles
Gum Rubber Sole
- BrandGaerne
- ModelGaerne Balance Pro-Tech Boots
- Weight7.4 pounds
5
Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro Boots
Anyone looking for a quality pair of motocross boots has long known that an investment in a pair of Alpinestars boots is an investment in quality. That tradition is very well guarded with this excellent pair of boots, the Tech 7 Enduro.
They are packed out with high quality features. There is for example the ergonomic multiple buckle system. This allows for a secure but also highly personalized closure for boots that fit well and comfortably. They are built of aluminum as an added nod to quality and durability.
Ergonomic Buckle System
Innovative Ankle Protection
Flex Zones for Excellent Bike Control
- BrandAlpinestars
- ModelTech 7
- Weight10 pounds
6
FORMA Adventure Off Road Motorcycle Boots
One of the big stand out features of this boot has to be its looks. This really is a fine looking boot that really leans into its outdoor adventures styling. Some people will prefer a sports style appearance, but if you lean more toward a cross country, outdoor adventure look there are few finer examples.
Looks aren’t everything of course, but luckily FORMA have backed them up with a wealth of features. We have an oil treated full leather construction here, for a boot that is as tough and durable as it looks. This tough outer is backed up by quality injection molded plastic protection.
Oil Treated Leather Construction
Injection Molded Plastic Protection
Waterproof Lining
- BrandFORMA
- ModelFoadbr45
- Weight6.5 pounds
7
Sidi Crossfire 2 Boots
The Crossfire 2 represents the very best of all the offerings of Sidi, a motorsports apparel company based in Italy. As is only befitting such a top of the range model there are a host of very impressive features on this set of excellent motocross boots.
First of all every bolt on component, from the buckles to the soles, are designed to be easily replaced. That is a very impressive feature, and not one that we see on too many models. There is a calf plate system here that expands to allow a comfortable fit for even the largest leg circumference.
Available in 18 Colors / Designs
Hinged System for No Break In Time
Excellent Gripping Sole
- BrandSidi
- ModelCrossfire
- Weight8.82 pounds
8
O’Neal Element Boots
O’Neal are back with another very well designed boot with a price tag that puts it toward the entry level end of the market. Despite that though, this is still a very good all around boot, perfect for riders of different experience levels.
In truth there isn’t actually any single stand out feature. Instead, this boot contains a number of excellent design points that all combine to work in harmony. There is for example the bonded sole. This is just one example of the overall extremely durable construction of this boot, which also includes a metal shank inserted through that same sole of added strength.
Very Durable Construction
Adjustable 4 Strap Construction
Injection Molded Plastic Protection Plates
- BrandO’Neal
- Model0322-111
- Weight7 pounds
9
Gaerne SG-12 Boots
The Gaerne SG-12 is a top of the range model from a high-grade manufacturer. As such it is packed out with a number of features for both comfort and protection. Just as important though is the incredibly high-end design and construction that this boot is boasting.
It is a boot designed for comfort straight out the box, with a limited, even non-existent breaking in period. For a leather constructed boot that is truly remarkable. The SG-12 is an upgrade on the popular SG-10. It boasts a number of the same design points such as the excellent clasp system built of high quality alloy metal.
Available in 26 Colors / Design
High Quality Construction
Improved Toe Box for Superior Comfort
- BrandGaerne
- ModelGaerne Sg-12 Boots
- Weight12.12 pounds
10
Alpinestars Tech 10 Boots
We are going to finish up our list with this set of boots from AlpineStars and in many ways we’ve saved the best for last here. This set of boots is of a very, very high grade, a truly premium model that boasts a wide range of impressive design features.
The foot chassis is a one piece injected design that make use of five different polymers. This offers incredible strength and flexibility through the entire boot. The upper of the boot uses full grain leather for comfort and protection, and an abrasion resistant TPU shell protects all of that from abrasion damage, prolonging the boot lifespan as well as providing you yet another layer of protection.
One Piece Chassis for Strength
High Quality Aluminum Closures
Excellent Grip Sole
- BrandAlpinestars
- ModelTech 10
- Weight16 pounds
Best Motocross Boots Buying Guide & FAQ
In our buying guide, we’ll take you through the features that you should keep an eye out for when picking out the best motocross boots for you. After that, we’ll take a look at how best to use your new boots and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about these extremely useful pieces of kit.
What to Consider When Buying Motocross Boots
- Replaceable Buckles
Motocross boots take a lot of punishment, and the buckles, by their very nature, can be a weak point. Designs that come with buckles that are to replace are always good to see, allowing you to make fast and easy repairs to these key but vulnerable components.
- Protection
It is the protection that makes motocross boots stand out from other types of boots and shoes. Look for injection molded plastic shin guards and also look for toe boxes. Those two areas will often bear the brunt of impacts with debris when you are riding, so you want as much protection there as you can.
- Clasps
The clasps are one of the most important but also at the same one of the most underrated elements of the boot. Look for replaceable buckles, as we stated above. But also look for clasp systems that are well designed to both provide a secure fitting, holding the boot to your foot, but that are also easy to adjust for a comfortable fit.
- Rubber Soles
The soles of the boots are very important too. They provide the connection between you and the bike, one of the most important connection points between you and the bike after the handlebars. Good boots will use rubber or rubber compounds in the soles. This material is nice and tacky to provide good grip on the bike.
- Price
We have boots on our list starting at 100 bucks and going all the way up to 400 or more. Of course, boots with a higher price tag generally have more features in their design. That said, you can still get quality boots for an entry level price, so set your budget and stick to it!
Benefits of Using Motocross Boots
To us there are a number of real benefits to wearing motocross boots. In fact, we would go so far as to strongly suggest that you should never really ride your bike without wearing your boots, even just for short distances!
- Protection
Probably the number one benefit of wearing dedicated motocross boots is the protection they provide. We don’t need to tell you that Motocross can be a dangerous sport, so it’s great that the best motocross boots are able to negate that danger by providing the right levels of protection exactly where you need it.
- Grip/Control
Your feet – along with your hands on the handlebars – provide one of the two contact points between you and your bike. A quality set of boots, with an excellent sole, makes it easier to grip and control your bike.
Different Materials used in Motocross Boots
- Plastic
Mainly used in shielding to protect from impacts. Plastic is lightweight but strong, making it ideal for the task.
- Leather
A time honored and time tested material for motocross boots. It is tough, strong, durable and long lasting.
- Synthetic Leather
Brings a lot of the benefits of leather whilst also keeping the weight and prices a little lower. Most enthusiasts will insist it is not quite able to provide the same level of performance as the real thing, but these days as production methods modernize, synthetic leather is starting to give the real thing a run for its money.
- Aluminum
You won’t find a huge amount of metal in motocross boots. Where it is present, look for aluminum. This metal delivers excellent strength without raising the boot weight too much.
- Rubber
Quality boots will usually use rubber in the soles. It is strong and long lasting, whilst also allowing for easy grip and good hold on the bike. That is especially important when riding rough off road courses and changing gear.
How to Measure Your Boot Size
Motocross boots generally follow the same sizing charts as normal shoes. One thing to bear in mind however is that they need to fit over your calves, and they also need to cover any padding your are wearing along with your socks and trouser bottoms.
Typically for that reason it is recommended that you buy boots around 1 or 1 and ½ times bigger than the normal size of shoe that you wear. So if for example you typically wear a size 10, when you are looking at Motocross boots it could be a good idea to buy a pair that is sized 11 or even 11 ½.
It is better to buy slightly bigger, and pad out the difference with extra thick motocross socks, rather than try to cram your feet into boots that are too small.
Best Motocross Boots FAQ:
Q: What are Motocross Boots?
A: Motocross boots are boots designed to be worn when riding motocross or off-road bikes. Who saw that coming huh?
What it means is that they are boots that provide an excellent mixture of comfort and protection. They will also usually have specialist soles too, usually of rubber or a compound rubber. That will help you keep your feet planted on your bike when you are riding, even during rough off road riding.
Q: Are Motocross Boots Waterproof?
A: Often they will be, though you can’t assume they are. Where possible, we highlighted which boots are totally waterproof in our list above. Aside from that, these boots will often provide good initial protection from water and mud. The moisture can eventually work its way in though.
Q: How do I maintain my Motocross boots?
A: Keep them dry and keep them clean!
After every ride, you should allow the boots to dry out before putting them away into storage. Don’t do this by placing them near a fire or another direct heat source though as this can damage the leather.
Clean the outside with soapy water regularly. If leather is used in the construction, use a leather cleaner/conditioner to keep it supple and looking good.
Our Top Pick
There are a lot of excellent motocross boots on this list. Narrowing down the list to just one selection is not easy, mainly because there are different boots here to suite different riders, different ride styles and across different terrains.
That being said we know you come to CarBibles because we don’t shirk the big decisions! To that end, what we decided to do was to award Top Pick to the best entry-level boot, and for us that has to be the O’Neill riding boot.
First of all it had a very attractive price tag, especially given it has the design and construction pedigree of such a well-regarded company as O’Neill behind it. At the same time, we were very impressed with the high level of protection in the boot.
As we mentioned in our review it is a great boot for entry-level riders, given the high protection levels. At the same time, its easy to use and functional design also makes it an ideal boot for seasoned riders too.
It is this versatility of appeal that has seen it crowned as our top pick.
Sources:
- Motocross - Red Bull
- Beginner’s Guide to Motocross - AMA
