Boots

What do you want from motorcycle boots?

Motorcycle boots need to protect your feet and ankles while riding without affecting your ability to operate the controls. In most cases they also need to be suitable foot wear for walking around once at your destination.

Does it comply with the european standard for motorcycle boots (EN 13634)?

Those that have been tested against the EU standard will be marked CE 13634. There are an increasing number of CE marked motorcycle boots available.

Check also that they comply with ISO 11642 which is the international standard for colour fastness in water.

Leather or textile?

Boots may be made from either leather or textile materials, provided they can give a minimum of 5.0 seconds abrasion resistance. Leather should be 2.5 mm thick.

Comfort and fit

Boots must be comfortable and fit closely but not tight. Boots that are too tight will cause blood restriction and loss of feeling.

They must also be waterproof, to prevent your feet from becoming dangerously cold to the point that you cannot operate your controls.

How are they designed?

Boots should fully cover the entire foot and ankle and lower part of the shin.

How well are they constructed?

How are the soles attached to the upper? Stitching is stronger than glue or bonding, which may be ripped apart if dragged against the road.

Soles should be rigid to reduce the risk of your foot being crushed.

Are all fastening points secure and protected?

If you can pull them off without needing to undo any fastenings, then they can be dragged off in a crash.

Zips should be on the inside of the leg and covered with a flap of material.

Only wear lace up boots if the laces are fully covered by a secured flap of material. Exposed laces can be abraded away and shoes torn off on contact with the road. Laces can also catch on parts of the vehicle causing the rider to be trapped or dragged.

Do the boots provide impact protection?

Impact protection is recommended for the shins, instep, ankles and heels.

Final check

Can you walk, climb stairs, bend over and crouch comfortably? Try bending down to pick up your keys.

To see why protective clothing is so important, view our latest TV ad.