Boots, boots, boots...

[thistlefly]

OK, so I'm about to upgrade from low boots (aka riding shoes, to some) to something which has stronger ankle protection and which adds shin protection. I had just about narrowed it down to either the TCX X-5 or TCX Air Tech, and then took a look at the Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex.

These boots look like the best all-around touring/commuting boot out there... as in "too good to be true." Does anyone have these, and can they confirm or deny that assessment?

I still think the TCX boots are incredible, from everything I've read about them, but it sounds like the Nighthawks could be an "only boot" for anything but serious track or off-road riding, neither of which is me.

Thanks for any info-

   Bob

[chosemerveilleux]

Perhaps I'm biased, as I have the Air-Techs.  But looking at the nighthawks, they don't look to offer any more protection than the TCX X-5 or Air Techs.  In fact, they look shorter than the Air techs.  Its probably six in one hand, half a dozen in the other, so I'm sure since they're both gore tex the quality should be no problem either way you go.

[sleazy rider]

I grabbed a set of Sidi B2 goretex and love 'em.  Fit and finish are excellent.  I've racked up about 3k miles in them already and they might last me a few years compared to my old Setups.  The Setups were done after about 50k miles.

[veefer800canuck]

Can't have too much ankle protection, DAMHIK  


Squeamish alert:

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a280/veefer800canuck/Sylvan%20Lake%20accident%20pics/100_0430.jpg


Had these:



Upgraded to these:

[crispiegee1]

I was just going to post on the topic of boots also. I'm looking for the best VALUE in comfortable, protective boots to replace my ten-year-old Alpine Stars. (The heel has pulled away from the upper.)

So I've been looking through the close-outs on Motorcycle Superstore and MotorcycleGear.com, but for ever good review of a boot, I see a few others that say, "It came apart on me after 2000 miles!" or "It's so stiff and uncomfortable for walking."

I ride different kinds of bikes (from sport bike crouch to sit-up-and-beg seating), so I don't want a forward-canted race boot, but a touring boot that offers serious protection.

I can't afford more than $200, and would prefer even less. I know, I know... don't talk about how cheap I am... it's the economy, okay?   Anyway, my Alpine Stars were $199 and served me well.  

[sleazy rider]

http://www.motorcyclecloseouts.com/sport/motorcycle+boots/alpinestars_s-mx+5+vented+sport+boots

 

I think they're a great value, but not as protective as some others for a few shekels more.

http://www.motorcyclegear.com/street/closeouts/boots/sidi/strada_evo_air_motorcycle_sport_boots.html

Great name brand, damn cheap IMO.

[Flyer]

Sidi On Road

Still waterproof and comfortable after 9 years, they should soon be replaced for their fragrance alone...

[DangerMoney]

I've bought pair of TCX Matrix Gore-Tex boots back in '04 when they were known as Oxtar.  They took a while to break in but are very comfortable and feet stayed dry after hours in the rain. About two years ago I went looking for another pair of street boots since the Oxtars were getting pretty chewed up from dual-sporting. I went to Cycle Gear and tried every pair of boots they had in the store including Dainese. I found the other brands, including the Dainese, not be as comfortable nor protective as the old Oxtar I wore into the store. I ended up going back to TCX/Oxtar.

I'd suggest going to Cycle Gear and trying on several different brands. If there's not one near you, you can always order them online and send them back if they don't work for you.

[thistlefly]

Thanks all for your feedback.

I've gotten quite taken with the TCX line for great boots at a lower price than the equivalent by other makers.

At this point I'm leaning towards the TCX Air Tech for a combination of (1) protection, (2) waterproofing, and (3) good airflow.

I understand that the Dainese Nighthawk would sacrifice some protection, it just seems to have quite a dedicated following as being "the only pair of boots I need..." which would suit me fine.

Putting protection first, that leaves me with the Air Tech or X-5 in the TCX line, and I'm thinking that with my location (Northern California) I'd be better off to go with something which works well in heat, and see if it ever ends up not being warm enough. Going with the X-5 would be the reverse, and "cold" in Northern California is just not as big an issue as "hot."

Any additional input from anyone who owns one of these three models? I'm thinking of making tomorrow my 'Day of Decision.'

Thanks-

   Bob

[thistlefly]

I was just going to post on the topic of boots also. I'm looking for the best VALUE in comfortable, protective boots to replace my ten-year-old Alpine Stars. (The heel has pulled away from the upper.)

So I've been looking through the close-outs on Motorcycle Superstore and MotorcycleGear.com, but for ever good review of a boot, I see a few others that say, "It came apart on me after 2000 miles!" or "It's so stiff and uncomfortable for walking."

I ride different kinds of bikes (from sport bike crouch to sit-up-and-beg seating), so I don't want a forward-canted race boot, but a touring boot that offers serious protection.

I can't afford more than $200, and would prefer even less. I know, I know... don't talk about how cheap I am... it's the economy, okay?   Anyway, my Alpine Stars were $199 and served me well.  

In terms of a great boot for an unbelievably low price, take a look at the TCX X-Cube. I was considering that and then fell victim to 'upgrade temptation.'

Good luck-

   Bob