Motorcycle boots and shoes are common for riders. But which one is best for you? The answer depends on several factors: your riding style, the kind of bike you have, and even other factors like the climate.
In this article, we'll look at the pros and cons of each type of footwear to help you reach a decision on which is best for you.
Motorcycle shoes have a number of features that make them ideal for riding. They’re typically made from leather or synthetic materials, are durable and easy to clean. They also have reinforced toe boxes, ankle support, and other protective padding to keep your feet safe in a crash. Motorcycle riding shoes are designed to be comfortable, so you can wear them for long periods of time without feeling any pain or discomfort. Their ergonomic shape allows you to easily shift and brake with your feet.
Motorcycle riding boots provide more coverage than shoes. They have a higher ankle, heel, and calf which will help reduce the risk of injury in the event of a fall or crash. Boots also have extra padding in the sole of the shoe to protect your feet from vibrations (which can cause numbness or pain) when you're on the go. As an added bonus, with wear they can become more and more comfortable over time.
Weather conditions will come into play as well. If it is cold and/or the weather appears menacing, grab a pair of motorcycle boots before heading out. If it is hot and dry, then a pair of sturdy motorcycle shoes that won’t break when they hit the ground (it happens!) will do the trick.
Finding the right boots or shoes is a matter of personal preference, so we recommend trying on a few different pairs. Wear the boots or shoes for a while before deciding if they’re comfortable and meet your needs.
Avoid them if you have to overwork your feet to walk in them. If you can't walk normally in them without feeling pain or discomfort, shop for another pair.
Check out their soles as well. You want something with enough grip to hold your weight when riding, but not so much grip that it catches on pavement.
It depends on what you ride and where. Generally speaking, boots are better in colder weather and shoes are better in warmer weather. Boots provide more protection from the elements (rain, snow and cold), but they can also get hot on long rides. Whereas, shoes allow your feet to breathe a little easier, but they won't protect them as much when riding in the poor weather.
If you're going to be riding off-road or doing a lot of city commuting, consider having both.
But if you’re seeking the best protection for your feet, then boots are the way to go. They offer a more rigid material and provide more ankle support than shoes. However, if you want a lighter shoe that can still give some support while riding then shoes may be better suited for you.