Alpinestars SMX Plus V2 boots

I was looking for some track boots for the coming year, as my intention is to try some trackdays. Alpinestars started off making boots and I have had them before, so I know they fit my foot shape well. But having size 5 feet, my first choice, the Supertech R were out as they start as a size 6. No matter, the SMX start at 5 (euro 39) and go right up to 11.5!

The first thing that strikes me is they are lightweight – really light. The leather is not, in fact, leather but microfibre – whatever that is. It’s man-made, but helps that light feel and feels broken in straight away. It seems to be surrounded by lots of flexible plastic, especially around the heel and the ankle, where it has a nifty articulated part and a large chin guard. They have toe sliders, and both left and right have gear pads, so great for the older bikes!

Getting them on is a faff, but you do get used to it. I like the side zip, and inside that there is a drawstring section – the idea is to keep your foot firmly secure and for the boot to morph to your shape. The ratchet at the top also helps to seal around leathers, or be tighter to fit inside trousers. The sole feels nice and grippy, and is quite narrow – perfect for my feet. In fact, once on these are supremely comfortable boots. They have ventilation too; not really what I want at this time of year, but welcome in the summer.

Overall, I feel these boots are perfect for what I wanted; dry weather sports boots for modern or old bikes. They are expensive, but then I’d happily walk around in them all day and I’ve even done flat track school in them. I have no proof of how they’d perform, but have confidence through how they are armoured and hold my feet. My only concern is keeping them looking like new, with all that plastic that so easily marks. Tested by Maria ■ Alpinestars.com ■ £280