VERSATILE RIDING KIT
The right kit for the right conditions can make a good ride a great one, but with prices of everything going up each day, it really pays to look for products that are suitable for as many situations as possible, without sacrificing quality. So, how do you find kit like that? Well, we’ve put together a few pointers to help you pick the best kit for you…
BOOTS These boots were made for riding… and walking
If you’re anything like us, you’ll often end up wearing your boots off the bike as well as on, so check out options that aren’t difficult or painful to walk in. If you put your boots on in the morning for the commute, spend a day at work wearing them, and then ride home in them, you want them to be comfy. It’s worth bearing in mind what you’ll be wearing them with to make sure that they fit comfortably over or under your riding/work/casual trousers.
STAY DRY
Look for boots that are both waterproof AND breathable as that way you are set for all seasons – in warmer months, it’s often your sweat making the inside of the boots damp rather than rain. Grim, but true… the level of waterproofing and breathability you need also depends on how long you normally wear the boots, and what kind of weather you are happy riding in: Short, sunny rides only – not such a big deal; long days in the saddle, no matter what the weather – best go for Gore-Tex or similar.
FASTENERS
Depending on the style of boot you go for, the fastenings vary from lace-up and Velcro, to zips and buckles. Often boots that fasten with laces also have a zipper on the side so you don’t have to undo the laces every time. Consider how you use the boots. If you are likely to put them on and take them off all the time, something like laces may be a bit fiddly. Also, while Velcro wins in simplicity, it may not necessarily provide the cool look you’re after.
STYLE
There are many styles of motorcycle boots, ranging from race, lifestyle, vintage, touring, sport performance and off-road. It is completely dependent on your riding style on what works best for you, but there are some great options out there that look just like regular shoes but with certified motorcycle protection, which we’ve found work well as an all-rounder.