You can’t rely on laces to keep boots on in a crash. Strongly fastened boots will protect the skin and the dozens of bones needed to operate your next ride.
MOTORCYCLE GEAR
BOOTS
BOOTS OVERVIEW
What to look out for when buying motorcycle boots.
01
ABRASION GUARD
02
STURDY BOOTS
03
ADD REINFORCEMENT
04
SECURELY FASTENED
01 - ABRASION GUARD
MOTORCYCLE BOOTS WORK BEST
Boots specifically designed for motorcycle and scooter riding will always be the best investment for your feet. They’ll guard against the severe abrasion, burns, gashes, crushed bones and fractures you face in a crash.
02 - STURDY BOOTS
REGULAR BOOTS ARE SECOND BEST
Boots specifically designed for motorcyclists will far outperform regular boots. Unlike regular boots, motorcycle boots are made strong enough to stay on the foot and prevent injuries in crash conditions. Choose designs that cover the ankles and the lower shins.
03 - ADD REINFORCEMENT
LOOK FOR REINFORCED STYLES
Extra reinforcement to vulnerable toes, heels, ankles and shins reduces injuries that can prevent riding again. Leather motorcycle boots need 2.5mm thickness with 4mm thick soles. Lighter weight textile options offer water resistance and more choice of styles. CE-approved styles carry the EN 13634 code.
04 - SECURELY FASTENED
ZIPS SNAG AND LACES TANGLE
Strongly fastened boots will stay on during a crash. Avoid laces as they can fray in a slide. Some boots come with laces for aesthetics, but they should never be used to keep the boot secure on your foot. The best place for zippers is the inside ankle. Zippers placed in impact points like the outside of the shin are dangerous.
05 - ALL RIDERS
Boots for scooters
Scooter riders face the same patterns of injury to lower limbs as other riders, even when travelling short distances. Open wounds most commonly faced by scooter riders include severe abrasion from hitting the road, cuts from impact trauma, burns, damage to blood vessels and skin detachment.
BUYING GUIDE
Motorbike or scooter boots outclass all other boots for their protection. Look for styles marked EN 13634 which have earned CE approval. You’re also after resilient materials, strong designs and a snug fit.
01 - Quality materials
Choose from high grade leather that’s thicker than 2.5mm or CE-tested synthetic materials. Synthetics are lighter in weight and water resistant.
02 - Substantial soles
Soles stitched to the boots are less likely to tear off. Look for soles that are at least 4mm thick to protect bones from being crushed.
03 - Waterproof and grip
Wet, cold and numb feet can’t react with precision. Search for soles that are waterproof, non-slip and oil resistant.
04 - True comfort
Test the comfort level by sitting on your bike and checking you can operate each control effortlessly. Also try walking up stairs.
05 - Safe fastenings
Motorcycle boots should fasten on the inside of the ankle so zippers avoid impact points. Avoid laces as they can tangle.
06 - Avoid steel caps
Steel cap boots aren’t effective. They can cut toes and increase the risk of friction burn. Other work boots are better than regular shoes but motorcycle boots marked with the EN 13634 code are the best choice to protect your feet and ankles.
TYPES OF BOOTS
Motorcycle boots come in different styles and materials. Find the safest boots to suits your style using our list of Victorian stockists.
BUYING SECOND HAND
Buying second hand can be a good option for the budget conscious rider wanting the safest gear. When shopping for second hand gear, use the information below check the safety features to look out for and search the safest options for jackets, pants and gloves.
01 - Test the fit
Try the gear on with clothing you normally wear while riding. Check that it is snug and comfortable in your normal riding position.
02 - Impact protectors
Impact protectors must remain securely in place to work effectively. Check your protectors fit with the gear, especially over your shoulders, elbows, hips and knees.
03 - Seams and stitching
Make sure there’s no splits at the seams. They should have two or three lines of stitching to prevent seams bursting on impact.
04 - Shop local
Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace are good places to snag bargain second hand gear. Use their filters to search locally. Always try the gear on before you buy.
FIND A STOCKIST
We’ve compiled a list of Victorian motorcycle retailers where you can buy the latest and safest gear. If you decide to buy gear online, it’s a good idea to shop around and find gear that fits you best first. Most online retailers have physical stores and the larger retailers offer all popular motorcycle gear brands.
