Waterproof Boots

[The_Veg]

For lace-up boots you cen get lace-in zippers. They are available at uniform shops that specialise in police & military stuff. I used to ride in Hitec magnum boots which are very similar to the Danners. I was about to give up on the boots because the lacing and unlacing was driving me mad, even when I only had to do it once a day. The lace-in zippers made life SO much more pleasant and I rode in these boots another year. I still have them but they now look like they've been through serious combat and my current 'real' motorcycle boots fit around the levers better due to smaller soles.

[minidisco]

For the last 2 years I've been using - and abusing - a pair of Gaerne boots. I have to say that the comfort (walking, hiking, riding 20hr days across North America, from Toronto to Fairbanks AK) is incredible. It took almost no time to get them to "wear in" and be comfy when flexing the foot and stuff... However, the first pair I got was far from 100% waterproof as advertised, and it leaked quite bad - so I called up the Gaerne rep, explained the problem, and they sent me back a FREE pair.

Right now I'm wearing a pair of Oxtar Infinity. They are indeed 100% waterproof, to the point of walking through a small creek, and they breathe really well especially after a long day wearing them in a downpour. However, I'm not yet comfortable with the "ski boot" latches and stuff... might need some more wearing-in experience before I get to like them.

[GlobalRider]

Too limiting? You haven't tried good boots! Or modern boots... they've come a long way in 30 years

I'm on the road for over a month...that means not just riding, but walking all over cities, etc. Yup, motorcycle boots are too limiting. And yes, I have tried good boots; my ASOLOs. The first pair is ten years old and still going and my second pair will surely last as long. Remember, these boots are made for serious outdoor use and not just sitting on a motorcycle.

I also don't want a boot that goes halfway up to my knee. I don't care how they're contructed...they're simply too hot to walk in when its 100??F+.

And motorcycle boots don't have the support I need when I hike on rough trails and they don't have a lug sole in almost all cases; ever have a foot slide away from under you with those smooth soles. Not yet? "Yet" being the key word.

[tessler]

I recommend the Prexport 360 WP. They're completely waterproof, have a breathable membrane and a removeable insole. No speed-laces, no cinches nor buckles, just good old fashioned HD Velcro. And they're positively comfortable for walking.

When not wearing my Roadcrafter, I've got a Nelson-Rigg 2 piece rain suit (in an un-Tessler-like loud color ). Easy to don, breathable and features boot stirrups to hold the pant legs in place. It's been very effective.

[wmubrown]

I'm on the road for over a month...that means not just riding, but walking all over cities, etc. Yup, motorcycle boots are too limiting. And yes, I have tried good boots; my ASOLOs. The first pair is ten years old and still going and my second pair will surely last as long. Remember, these boots are made for serious outdoor use and not just sitting on a motorcycle.

I also don't want a boot that goes halfway up to my knee. I don't care how they're contructed...they're simply too hot to walk in when its 100??F+.

And motorcycle boots don't have the support I need when I hike on rough trails and they don't have a lug sole in almost all cases; ever have a foot slide away from under you with those smooth soles. Not yet? "Yet" being the key word.

Thougtht we were talking about waterproof riding boots?!? Nothing was said about 100 degree temperatures, hiking rough trails, etc. WWFU (whatever works for you) ... sounds like you have the solution for your particular needs, but I think your needs exceed what regular riders are looking for. I'm thinking riding/rallying use and the Oxtar's do that just fine. I usually bring along sandals or tennis shoes but rarely switch to them - the Oxtar's are that comfortable. Then again, I don't hang out on rough trails, mud bogs, or in 100 degree weather much

[DMR]

Although I currently own only 1 motorcycle (gasp!), I am envious of those of you that have a ride for different situations- street, touring, off-road, grocery shopping, etc. Why must there be a single piece of footwear to serve all purposes? I have boots for riding, shoes for walking, and shoes for work. I, too, would love a pair of riding boots that look like dress shoes, but the easiest alternative is to have a good pair of motorcycle boots and pack the dress shoes for work in a case.
Is there such thing as a product that does it all? (besides WD-40)

Dave

[GlobalRider]

Thougtht we were talking about waterproof riding boots?!?

We were and they are, waterproof, that is. Not only are they good for riding, but they're good for a whole lot more.

Might as well buy a boot that is comfortable over the widest temperature range. No?

[mika]

I have a pair of AlpineStar water proof boots. They are excellent for that purpose and are comfortable to walk in. I can recommend them for that purpose. I do agree with Alex and would not buy another pair. Rather I focus on a good pair of hiking boots for the reasons he outlined and one more.

If a boot is an excellent waterproof boot it does not breathe. For me that results in very hot stinky feet in warm conditions and more. Now I look for a good water repellant hiking boot. This seems to deal with all my concerns, gives me a good riding and hiking boot. I have made changes to my pegs so clearance is not an issue.

If you can afford the luxury of a day tripping riding wardrobe I can give a big nod of the helmet to AlpineStars. If you are camping and touring spend some time finding a good water repellant hiking boot.

[iRene]

I am now on my second pair of all-day-dry-in-the-rain Frei Daytona Goretex boots. I've posted their praises before.
Overbuilt and reliable in standing water.

[Ab544927]

If a boot is an excellent waterproof boot it does not breathe. For me that results in very hot stinky feet in warm conditions and more. .

Not exactly true, the GoreTex boots are waterproof and breathe well in the heat. Well at least the two pairs I have do...lol. The stiky feet thing you may need to seek help with M1Ka...lol. Just kidding of course.

[mika]

Not exactly true, the GoreTex boots are waterproof and breathe well in the heat. Well at least the two pairs I have do...lol. The stiky feet thing you may need to seek help with M1Ka...lol. Just kidding of course.

I just came in from a ride home. Had the AlpineStars on.
Nice and warm I almost hate to take them off.
It is a bit of a struggle I am stiff from the cold
Left offNow the right
WhatÔÇÖs that?
Sulfur looking cloud rising from 
Cant breathe
Its my feet
cant
..............t...
...................y...
.......................p...
............................e

[Ab544927]

I just came in from a ride home. Had the AlpineStars on.
Nice and warm I almost hate to take them off.
It is a bit of a struggle I am stiff from the cold
Left offNow the right
WhatÔÇÖs that?
Sulfur looking cloud rising from 
Cant breathe
Its my feet
cant
..............t...
...................y...
.......................p...
............................e

LMBO.... There goes the ozone layer a little more...good one M1Ka...lol

[BiffsR]

BMW Goretex boots. The have been great for something like 4-5 years, and they were only $77.

[Daver90s]

I need some advice on buying some water proof boots. I just got back from a 3 hour ride in some moderate to heavy rain. My boots filled up water after about the first hour. My boots I have now are the Kilamangero (sp)? style with the zippers on each side. Also the rain pants are first gear, I like them but they dont have boot straps which I think was the biggest problem because they ride up your leg exposing the zippers. Help anyone.

OBX GS

I keep a pair of rubber wellingtons in my tank bag and wear US military jump boots for every day riding - I can quickly slip them over my boots when the weather gets bad - cost about $12 at a discount shoe store. Much less expensive than fancy Italian boots. maybe a little more dorky tho'

[dickhein]

I have to second (or third) the Oxtar Matrix. Absolutely dry, comfortable to walk in and never get too hot.