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Expensive vs value: boots

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Posted by: CHR!S

i would like to know if the more expensive brands, like alpinestars and gaerne, are really better than your average boot. Is the price just for the star on the front, or are you really paying for better boot?


Posted by: robwbright

I had Alpinestars M4s - a pretty cheap boot that I picked up for $70 when I first got back into bikes. Then I got a pair of Tech 8s - NO COMPARISON.

The M4s were good for protecting my ankle and legs from light to medium impacts, but they didn't provide much support.

The Tech 8s make my ankle feel like it's encased in steel and the buckle system is 10 times better.

Of course I bought the Tech 8s used for $50 from MXGirl230, so . . .


Posted by: Papakeith

Spend the cash and get a good pair of boots. I've got A-star tech 6s. These boots have saved my feet/ankles more times than I'd care to count.


Posted by: Octane250F

You do get a better boot when you spend more money, but you have to decide how much is too much for you to spend. If you are just a weekend trail rider, you might decide its not worth investing a lot of money in high-end boots.
Ive got a pair of Alpinestars Tech-4s. They are nice and were relatively inexpensive, but the buckles dont always stay latched.


Posted by: Okiewan

You can damage an toe/foot/ankle/leg riding trail on a weekday too

Two things I will never "settle" on to save a few bucks; helmet and boots. I'm not comfortable with "this boot will probably be good enough". It doesn't matter how often, or where & what I ride, I want to know I've protected my body parts as well as I can. It would be difficult to kick myself in the arse with a broken ankle.

Bottom line; if you can afford good protection for your body, you can't afford this sport.


Posted by: Little Dinosaur

dude spend the money! Buy cheap spend twice. Materials are going to be better and will last longer. A lot of reserach and development goes into those "name brands".


Posted by: CHR!S

from a price to boot standpoint, not what boot should i get, does the difference in safety, durablity and comfort equal the difference in price?


Posted by: KX02

Yes. I had a pair of Alpinestars M4's which was about a $180 pair of boots. They began to stretch out quickly and the buckles were junk. I upgraded to a pair of Tech 6 alpinestars which is about a $260 pair of boots and will absolutely never wear budget boots again. More expensive boots use a much better grade of leather, better buckles, etc.


Posted by: FruDaddy

Chris, you should read some of the other threads on boots. The more experienced riders all seem to believe that the extra cost is well deserved. The same goes for helmets. Unfortunately, I cannot give a good opinion from personal experience because I bought the inexpensive Thor boots and still wear them. When the time comes, I will most likely spend a bit more on better. My boots have done their job so far, but I am not completely happy with them.


Posted by: CHR!S

getting more specific...
does anybody know how the gaerne fastback compares to the sg10? the price is definatly a plus. also, does anybody in socal know who stocks gaerne? can't find anybody.


Posted by: mdkuder

Alpinestars Tech 6 or 8's & Sidi's are sweet and well worth the cash!


Posted by: DWreck

Quote:
Originally Posted by CHR!S
getting more specific...
does anybody know how the gaerne fastback compares to the sg10? the price is definitely a plus. also, does anybody in socal know who stocks gaerne? can't find anybody.


I have a pair of fastback and am happy with them. I have never had a pair of sg10 to compare them to.

My previous boots were the old Tech 5's and then a pair of Tech 8's. I loved the Tech 8's but destroyed them in less than two years. At $235 the fastbacks seem like a good deal compared to the Tech 6, 8, or sg10's and they have the hinged ankle like the more expensive sg10's.

If you have big calves (I don't) you will love the gaerne boots they are very roomy there.

If money was no object I would buy the new Sidi's but $400 is a little too rich for me.

At the price I paid for them I feel like I can replace them on a regular basis.


Posted by: thebleakness

I rode with a pair of my friends Sidi Force SRSs this weekend. I wore those things for 14 hours straight and they are amazing. If i could afford those i would definatly buy some. On the other hand I have tried on some Flys and didnt like those as much. Ive been looking into getting boots here soon and the more im learning I think i will definatly go with some more expensive better brand boots.


Posted by: Josherichy

I have fox forma pros and they work vary well, at about $200 now on sale, they saved me many times as well


Posted by: dirt bike dave

IMO, the way to go is to buy a premium boot on close-out. Get an '06 right after the '07 models come in for a big discount. I bought my black '05 model Gaerne SG-10s for $250 at the start of '06. Considering cheap boots retail for $150 - $200 I think I got a steal.

I usually buy good boots, but I went cheap on my last pair before the Gaernes. MSR System 6 I believe. They lasted well, but I'll never buy cheap boots again. Less protection & less comfort.


Posted by: Farmer John

Boots are cheap when you compare them to a week off work from a foot injury.....or you compare them to a ER visit bill.


Posted by: thebleakness

Thats a good point Farmer John. I never thought about it like that, thank you. Now to find those boots...


Posted by: CHR!S

while were talking about boots...

ive never had white boots. are they hard to keep clean? how long do they stay nice and white?


Posted by: Jaybird

LOL....
Yeah, they look great before, during, and after the parade.


Posted by: Okiewan

Don't listen to the white boot hater!


Posted by: mex_ros

What you pay is what you get!
I have a pair of gaerne boots they are excellent 100% protection. The only thing that pisses me off is that i bought them black colour...Damn


Posted by: Steve St.Laurent

I bought cheap boots when I started riding off road back in december. This summer I bought a pair of Sidi Crossfire SRS boots. I'd NEVER EVER go back! With the cheap boots there was a break in period and I always seemed to be fighting the boots to work the controls. With the Sidi's they were comfortable right out of the box and I don't notice them at all when I'm riding. I'm able to shift when and where I want, brake exactly how much I want, etc. The protection is far better as well - I've taken hits in the Sidi's that I know would have done damage in the cheapies I had at first. IMO quality boots are 110% worth the cost. BTW, dirt rider magazine had the Sidi Crossfires as a 2nd place for the best product of the year.


Posted by: Papakeith

Jay, LMAO!

besides, they aren't just white boots, they are GWBs


Posted by: bsmith

I love my White's Boots
http://www.whitesboots.com/store/pr...ry=Boots&id=701


Posted by: sarah_J_

on tht website it shows them as black y is tht


Posted by: sarah_J_

Quote:
Originally Posted by bsmith

they boots are cool but it shows em up in black on tht site
n u sed urs were white



Posted by: biglou

Quote:
Originally Posted by sarah_J_
on tht website it shows them as black y is tht
Quote:
Originally Posted by sarah_J_
they boots are cool but it shows em up in black on tht site
n u sed urs were white

r u retart ed r sumthg?


Posted by: thebleakness

Quote:
Originally Posted by biglou
r u retart ed r sumthg?
doo wii half 2 sp33k l337 0r 5umptin? i5 th/-\t teh 0n1y \/\/ay 4 u 2 _5tand? Think outside the box my friend...

Well i ended up getting some nice boots afterall. Ordered a brand new pair of 07 Gaerne SG-10s yesterday. Those babies should be in on monday.


Posted by: Okiewan

Quote:
Well i ended up getting some nice boots afterall. Ordered a brand new pair of 07 Gaerne SG-10s yesterday. Those babies should be in on monday.
Make sure to post your thoughts when you get them.


Posted by: RocketRaccoon

Quote:
Originally Posted by biglou
r u retart ed r sumthg?


Thanks for that. You had me rolling on the floor laughing my arse off... ROFLMAO!!!!!!


Posted by: thebleakness

Quote:
Originally Posted by Okiewan
Make sure to post your thoughts when you get them.
Definatly, I cant wait to get riding in those boots. I have been holding out because I was wearing tall steel toed work boots. They werent the worst thing I could have worn but all that was available to me. My whole paycheck is being blown on these boots. It will be worth it though.


Posted by: Okiewan

Quote:
but are still paying more than they're worth.
That's kind of a worthless option to the poll ... it could be said about everything any of us buy.


Posted by: CHR!S

yes, i understand everything is marked up. what i was wondering if the price difference between Thor boots and Gaerne boots was because of manufacturing and materials, or just because of the higher demand.


Posted by: Okiewan

uh... the difference:

Thor:
http://www.subrew.com/library/yugo/yugo_rear.jpg

Gearne:
(BTW: Anyone for a Z06?)
http://www.justj.net/misc/Z06/Web/z...16.34.07.00.jpg


Posted by: thebleakness

Heres my report:

I picked up my SG-10s from the shop monday and had to ride back in them because I didnt have a car to carry them with. :D First thing I noticed was how incredibly comfortable they are. Calf is alittle big but that is good for the extra shin/knee brace room, the ankle pivot is also very smooth and much easier to walk in. First thing I noticed while riding in them is that they are much taller on the toe than other boots I have worn and ridden with. I need to raise the shifter a notch or 2 up for a comfortable riding position without inadvertantly shifting.

After work one day I wore them at a small woods track and tried my hand at some jumping. Definatly much more support than my previous pair of boots. Jumping feels much smoother (granted my bike isnt really meant for jumping too much).

They look great and are extremely comfortable. I have yet to find something I dont like about them, that might come with some riding time though. Given the choice between a pair of Crossfires and these SG-10s I am very pleased in my decision, it's money well spent.


Posted by: mxlover138

I know this isn't regarding the exact topic...but I have a pair of Alpinestars Tech 6 boots and I am having trouble with the buckles. The straps do not stay snapped in place when I am fastening them and I cant decide whether I need to buy new buckles (the strap's base) or new straps.....help!


Posted by: YZ165

I'm with Farmer John and Okie, don't skimp on protective gear. You have one set of ankles, they can't be replaced. A $150 savings won't look so good if your in a wheelchair because you broke both your ankles......


Posted by: 052zy40

I would say alpinestar tech 4 at 160.00 are a great deal! not much more than an entry level boot but are great quality and built really well. They rate right up there in protection and comfort. No replaceable sole, but do you ride that much?
I would say go spend your money now..... a 160-400 dollar boot is cheap compared to a broken ankle, deductibles missed work and you get the idea.


Posted by: BBking25

arg i hate seeing this thread
it reminds me of my shiny new boots that i can't wait to get muddy i have'nt been able to ride in a month because we have to leave our bikes outta town issed:


Posted by: fredrader

Anyone tried the Shift Combat boot? I am looking at a pair but I don't know one from the other..


Posted by: rider3302

I have the SG-10 but the Fastbacks are almost identical (mxa just did a review on them) The Berik OVS and OVS PRO's are going for under $200 ( i think that Berik is just trying to get them out there so people see how good they are) definatly look at last year models for better prices.


Posted by: Chickie

You have to pick the right boot for you that is for sure. If you are not a weekend warrior I wouldn't get anything over a Tech 3 or a oneal M10 but if you are riding a lot you need to have a boot to measure up to your needs. I have Tech 6's and really like them. My next set of boots will most likely be Sidi though I just have to justify paying that money for them


Posted by: kmccune

I have to disagree with the last comment ( sorry) But you should get the best boots that you can afford, whether you are a pro or just trail ride once in awhile. Imagine, going trail riding with the family Sunday and the emergency room Sunday afternoon, then calling your boss Monday morning! And depending on your job, not working for awhile....


Posted by: zewcrew

After not riding in the dirt for about 15 years I found it necessary to update my Oneal Bullets. I found a brand new closeout pair of Tech 8s for $160 shipped to my door; gotta love those online auctions. I can't wait to ride in them, they feel so much different. Although it wouldn't take much considering the fact that the Oneals stiffened up and the internal gaiter was falling apart from dry rot


Posted by: Chickie

Quote:
Originally Posted by kmccune
I have to disagree with the last comment ( sorry) But you should get the best boots that you can afford, whether you are a pro or just trail ride once in awhile. Imagine, going trail riding with the family Sunday and the emergency room Sunday afternoon, then calling your boss Monday morning! And depending on your job, not working for awhile....



The reason why I mentioned those boots was it seemed the poster did not want to spend 400+ dollars on boots he/she barely will wear. I personally would rather buy the best that I can afford. I love my Sidi race boots and plan on getting the crossfires.


Posted by: hunt4steve

I have read a lot about boots, talked to a lot of people and have decided on the A-Star Tech 6 boots. I'm not a racer, but after you do some damage to your body, you will wish you spent a little more money on the quality boots.

I found a brand new pair of A-Star Tech 6 boots for 200 bones locally. From what I have seen on E-bay and other places, this is a great deal. Granted they are 2005 models (basically old stock), they are still A-Star Tech 6 boots. The difference between the old model and the new models is insignificant as far as the safety of the boots.


Posted by: Snowblower

This might be helpful info if you are near a retailer.

I'm a noob who's been using work boots to ride. I wised up and shelled out $ for real protection.

Today, (Presidents day) I bought a pair of Fox F3s from America's motorsports retail store in Nashville, TN for $199 before tax and I really like them. No presidents day sale like I hoped for, but the the 07 model has already been replaced with a new 07 model. They are discounted at retailers about $130 because of the new model, if you can still find your size. - My store had about 1 of each size left 9-12. - I got the last sz 13

I didn't really know what I was buying; the boots just fit good and were solid so I bought em. Got home and realized I got a deal.

They are higher on e bay - I found em for $329 & up buy it now; and auctions bidding up over $200 already.

see Item number: 120086794704


Posted by: hunt4steve

Even the A* Tech boots used are a good deal, as long as they aren't too beat up.


Posted by: GUNFTR

Meet the occasional play rider who usually just drops in to read here but never posts.

I bought an inexpensive pair of Fox Trackers. First, they do provide more protection than a pair of work boots. However, they are not as comfortable as a well worn set of work boots. So it was work boots I was wearing 5 weeks ago while I was play riding with my brother in a recently cleared field near his home. I came down wrong over a very small jump and took my left foot off the peg and smacked my foot into the dirt heel first. That was February 17th.

It has now been 5 weeks, and the bill for the first ER visit was over 6000 dollars. The second visit to the hospital 10 days later for the surgery to piece my heel back together with titanium plates and screws is well over 20,000 and I haven't even seen the bill for the surgeon yet. The total bill will top $35,000 I am sure. I cannot bear weight on the foot for another 4-5 weeks, will have to rehab it for weeks to build up the strength in the leg again, and likely will not be trying to ride again until June.

And when I do, it will be while wearing a nice new pair of Sidi or Gaerne boots that fit well and protect me to the fullest. Yes, cheaper boots offer more protection than "work boots", but only if they are worn every time. Thankfully, my share of this bill will only be in the 2000 dollar range thanks to some good medical insurance.

Looking back, if I had known this was in my immediate future, I would have gladly paid $500 for a good pair of boots if it would have spared me this intense pain and 3 months of down time. If you don't have good medical insurance and if you don't have good disability insurance, you could end up paying twenty, thirty-thousand or more if you need an ortho surgeon...

If that doesn't make someone feel like spending an extra $100 or $200 toward their riding boots, I don't know what will.


Posted by: hunt4steve

Quote:
Originally Posted by GUNFTR
Meet the occasional play rider who usually just drops in to read here but never posts.

I bought an inexpensive pair of Fox Trackers. First, they do provide more protection than a pair of work boots. However, they are not as comfortable as a well worn set of work boots. So it was work boots I was wearing 5 weeks ago while I was play riding with my brother in a recently cleared field near his home. I came down wrong over a very small jump and took my left foot off the peg and smacked my foot into the dirt heel first. That was February 17th.

It has now been 5 weeks, and the bill for the first ER visit was over 6000 dollars. The second visit to the hospital 10 days later for the surgery to piece my heel back together with titanium plates and screws is well over 20,000 and I haven't even seen the bill for the surgeon yet. The total bill will top $35,000 I am sure. I cannot bear weight on the foot for another 4-5 weeks, will have to rehab it for weeks to build up the strength in the leg again, and likely will not be trying to ride again until June.

And when I do, it will be while wearing a nice new pair of Sidi or Gaerne boots that fit well and protect me to the fullest. Yes, cheaper boots offer more protection than "work boots", but only if they are worn every time. Thankfully, my share of this bill will only be in the 2000 dollar range thanks to some good medical insurance.

Looking back, if I had known this was in my immediate future, I would have gladly paid $500 for a good pair of boots if it would have spared me this intense pain and 3 months of down time. If you don't have good medical insurance and if you don't have good disability insurance, you could end up paying twenty, thirty-thousand or more if you need an ortho surgeon...

If that doesn't make someone feel like spending an extra $100 or $200 toward their riding boots, I don't know what will.


This is the best factual example anybody can use to convince anybody to get better boots.


Posted by: 244racer

I have alpinestars tech 7s they are very comfotable and they just feel like they preotect me very well they hold up great to i had cheap boots and i will never get another pair of chaep boots


Posted by: flyingfuzzball

i have some alpinestar tech 3 and some tech 10

i like em both. the tech 3's i dont use as much just cuz i got the 10's for a very good price (almost free from my friend's dad's store) and things always feel better when they are free


Posted by: FunkyD

Quote:
Originally Posted by fredrader
Anyone tried the Shift Combat boot? I am looking at a pair but I don't know one from the other..


I was wondering about those too, and the msr mxt.


Posted by: chris_1001

I tried the Fox Trackers and they were pretty uncomfortable... Then I broke my toe in them... So after some research, I got the Gaerne's and WOW, what a differeance!!!!!! Best boot by far! and worth the extra $. When I went riding with 20 or so other guys in the woods, I think half of the people had the Gaerne's...

See what GUNFTR said above... Spend now or spend later. Your feet are worth it!


Posted by: GUNFTR

You may remember my earlier post… here is an update:

• Heel shattering injury February 17.
• Surgery to repair with titanium February 27.
• Return to work April 3 on crutches.
• Rehab began end of April.
• Walking without crutches in late May (after 4 wks rehab).
• Finished rehab in latter weeks of June.
• Riding street again in July
• Going to finally hit the dirt again in August I hope (6 months later!!!)


Posted by: GUNFTR

Went shopping for new boots in July after selling my slightly used Fox Trackers for $75. I had been back on the street several times and it was time to start thinking dirt again.

Price was no object in this search. Comfort, support, and protection were utmost in mind. I tried on Gaerne, Sidi, Fox F3, and the entire Alpinestar line. I squatted, jumped up and down, walked, put on and took off, I was driving the guy at the counter crazy. They had the Tech 6s marked down to $219 due to the new Tech 7s being introduced this year. My wife asked about the 7s and the guy said he'd sell me a pair of the 7s for $225 instead of the $259 MSRP.

I ended up going to 3 different dealers before the day was done in order to try on all the upper end boots I could locate within 30 miles.


Posted by: GUNFTR

After all was said and done it came down to the Sidi Crossfire or the Alpinestar Tech 7. Due to the limited range of flexion in the foot I really could not get my feet into the bootie models (A-Star 8 & 10). Both the Crossfire and Tech 7 felt the same regarding support. The Gaerne felt like it let my ankle flex a little too much.

I decided to go with the Tech 7 for several reasons. They felt light, yet very solid. They did not have a ton of extra plastic armor screwed into the outside with screws that could come loose or get lost, and they didn't have a lot of panels on the inside that could get hooked on the bike. Plus a lot of magazines and web sites are giving the Tech 7s favorable comparisons to the Tech 10s. Basically a Tech 10 without the bootie. The 7s are extremely comfortable to wear and fit perfectly without any pinch points or hot spots. The buckles are solid. I like the molded sole without any lip to catch on anything. For my particular injury, I am thankful they are not hinged. Even though the ankle itself was not injured, it has yet to regain full range and I want it to happen over time, not due to unplanned impact in the dirt.


Posted by: GUNFTR

So now we are on to chapter two. I attended the National at Washougal over the weekend and watched Villapoto, Townley and Dungey shred the track, saw Short, Windham, Ferry, Windham and Stewart roost major dirt. What a total KICK!!! Came home and got around to some minor improvements on the CR and KDX. Started one up and revved it a good long while. Man it sounded good.

Sometime in the next few weeks I'll be attempting to actually ride in the dirt again. After about 16 visits for Physical Therapy at around $200 a pop, I'm walking pretty good (i.e. no more crutches), but still slightly limping and have small issues with going down stairs. I'm now ready to climb back on that horse. It's been 6 months.

Incidentally, the CRF150F that I was riding “to demonstrate for my wife how easy it was to ride” when I crushed the heel, well that bike has now been sold. I lost no money on that deal due to the smokin’ deal I got when I bought it. But I think the small size of the bike may have contributed to the injury. It's just not meant for real jumping of any sort unless you upgrade the suspension.

As for boots, buy the best you can afford, and wear them all the time. You can even hurt your foot or leg just kick starting a bike without the proper protection.

Everyone ride safe.


Posted by: medwaste

GUNFTR-Hit the dirt now. Riding will stretch and strengthen those ligaments faster than any exercise and it will lift you spiritually. 7 mos. ago I crushed tib/fib., now have 18 pins and 2 plates. I understand where you are at in the healing process. You will continue to get stronger and more flexible, that limp will go away and you'll fly down those stairs. I used the pain levels when riding to gage my physical recovery. Of course, don't start with the big jumps but get out there. Your psyche needs it.


Posted by: GUNFTR

I hit the dirt slowly yesterday, basically just getting reaquainted with the bike and the new boots. Man that felt good, but I realized how woefully out of shape I got after six months... Wow. time to begin working out again.

You are right, riding will be the best medicine. Time to make time for riding every month... someday i will attempt some air time...


Posted by: quikondirt

Sure they cost a pretty penny, but no other boot compares to them on the market. Flexibity, comfort, and the best safety available. Its funny when you compare an expensive Astars boots and ask if you are just paying for the logo. Of course you are just paying for the logo, same with Fox and they still make cheap boots. Buy the best and cry once.


Posted by: Sapper33

I picked up a set of A* Tech 7's yesterday, and so far so good. They fit like a glove out of the box and seemed totally broken in within an hour or less.

I'm pretty sure they've saved my feet already, as I felt myself kick the rear tire a few times in corners


Posted by: GUNFTR

After trying every model that Fox offers, including what Bubba and Ricky supposedly wear, I can tell you that Alpinestars are in a whole other league than Fox. The buckles are better, the interiors are better, and judging from the feedback of the dealers I asked, they get a lot of returns and or breakage on the Fox boots. Not so with Alpinestar.

I tried on the Crossfire and while it did provide sure protection from rolling your ankle sideways, and good protection from impact all over, the hinged design allowed too much movement up and down for my ankle, to where it felt like in a foot dragging situation, I might be able to hyper-extend my ankle.

That may well be due to the stiffness and vulnerable feeling of my own ankle. For now, the Tech 7's appear to offer the best overall protection regardless of cost. Once I regain full range of motion and regain confidence in the foot/ankle, I may again try out the Sidi boots, but for now I'm very happy with my purchase of the Alpinestars.


Posted by: Sapper33

I picked up a set of new A* Tech 7's a while ago. Sadly only been out once with them so far(or at all...dammit).

They are really comfy, felt great right out of the box, and were totally broken in within an hour. Plus I'm pretty sure they've saved my feet already, I could feel my foot nicking the back tire a few times coming out of corners (yes, I'm pretty sure I'm doing something wrong, but I'm new...).


Posted by: RedRyder

Recently bought a pair of Alpinestars Tech 3 boots online, and although I've only ridden 4-5 times with them, they feel solid. Last pair I of boots I had were some blue and purple Thor boots I found new in an indoor flea market (looked like they were made in the mid '90s). The Thor boots were Italian made and fit me well, but they began to leak and the soles seperated (wore them for 3 years though). Stayed latched good, although they were a bit too stiff for walking while on the trail.
My new Tech 3s feel really good, and with the AT sole, are better than my last boots when I off the bike clearing trail. Buckles are more robust, but the inward-facing first buckle pops open from time to time- I'm so in the zone when I ride I don't even realize it until I'm stopped
Bottom line Tech 3s : $150.00 buckles pop open every now and then, otherwise no problem.
Thor mystery boots: $50.00 slick sole, not very waterproof, stiff fit, lasted 3 years before unusable (Got my money's worth).
Alpinestars feel better, and if they hold up well, they're what I'll stick with in the future.


Posted by: TheGDog

I am very picky about my feet. If there is any little slightly uncomfortable thing about my socks or the inside of a shoe... these feet of mine WILL form a blister.

That having been said... I am VERY pleased with these FOX Pro-Forma boots. Very comfy and easy to adjust each latch quickly for perfect fit. These are supposed to be the same boots that James Stewart wears... and if they are... I can tell you he wears'em for a good reason. Not only that... they are not overly heavy at all.

Another thing I like about'em is that the toe is not all abnormally thick and tall requiring me to re-position the gear-shift on the spindle. Add to that that these boots... right from the git go... did not require much force to shift-up. that's a big plus over the span of the whole day.

Plus... make SURE you get some with the plastic covering the shifting toe at the very least. Don't EVEN buy a boot without at least THAT.

My $.02


Posted by: RMZRyder

I got some Alpinestar Tech 10"s online for $349. I have'nt got to try them out yet. I had a pair of Gearne fast backs but the emt's cut them off of me when I broke my leg


Posted by: GUNFTR

Did you like the Fastbacks? That was the other boot I thought I might really like but no local dealers carried them and I didn't want to do the mail order thing... So I ended up with the A-Stars... still happy too, but wondering how the Fastbacks might measure up...


Posted by: RMZRyder

The fastbacks were the best boot I have ever owned until I got my Tech 10's. You cant go wrong with the fastbacks the were comfortable very protective and were broke in by 3 rides. But when it was wet out my feet always got really wet. The tech 10's keep my feet drier and are even more comfortable and I feel like I can take a baseball bat swing any where on my feet. The break in period seemed to be non existant. They are worth the total price of $364 plus shipping.


Posted by: Pauloxxi

I'm just a beginner here and can not tell much. I got the Fox tracker, which is the low end, only $139.00. I think they will protect me enough since I'm not really in to go FAST.
My hard time is being to get the feeling and control of the bike wearing these things... These boots are really thick, hard and heavy and I wonder if I had pay more for something better I would have a "softer" product and "easier"?!?!?!?!?!
I know this is the typical dumb question, for many of you, but it really intrigates me the fact that those boots are so hard and bulky.
Appreciate your inputs


Posted by: ShoujoKakumei

Pauloxxi - I have the same problem with my Tech 3s, what's been helping is walking around in them a lot to kind of loosen out some of the stiffness. A friend of mine suggested kicking hard objects, but he's also the guy who had me try to ride his 450 when I'd never been on a motorcycle before, so I don't know about taking his advice.. *lol*


Posted by: tjswigger

I recently took a major hit to my left leg.I was t-boned and the other riders front wheel hit me right on the boot,ankle to knee my leg literally turned deep purple in a way I have never experienced before. I was wearing tech 8's . I am absolutely, positively sure the boots saved my season.Besides the protection offered, you can by replacement parts. Heels,soles,buckles etc...I bought these during the 2000 season.
I'm sure a cheaper quality boot would offer about as much protection as a pair of high top running shoes after this many seasons of abuse.My next pair will be only top of the line!!!


Posted by: motocross3

Pay out the cash and get the good boots. A year ago i was wearing hunting boots and riding. Then i wrecked on my fourwheeler and totaled it and fractured my knee and 6 months later got a dirtbike and all the gear and fox boots and went off a jump and front tire blew out and it went sideways and fell on me and the swing arm was laying right on my ankle and it swelled but was not broken thanks to the boots.


Posted by: wake_rider

I've ridden with a pair of tech 7's and hated them. They killed the bone on the outside of my foot and they also dug in really hard to my ankle bone. It was to the point that I'd wear them for 30 min then I had to stop just because those areas were killing me. I sold those off and used what I made back from them and bought myself a pair of Thor Quadrants. They have seemed to protect me fairly well, but have torn up pretty quickly. I ride weekly for about 5 hours per ride and I've owned the boots for slightly more than a year, but I've just about worn all the way through the sole of the boot on both the peg area and the rear brake area. So, if your budget is low right now and you don't ride a lot then they might be a good fit for you because they have done a more than fair job of protection.

That being said.... My next set of boots will definitely be the Sidi Crossfires with the toecap. I don't like the molded sole boot, so I want to find the ones with the stitched sole and metal toecap. I love the fact that basically everything is replaceable and those boots feel like there isn't an unprotected spot on them. They are tanks when it comes to the protection, but still very light/durable/comfortable. I can't wait to be able to buy a set of those...


Posted by: irhxcbcziuzxs

ok, so tech 7's vs Gaerne's SG10 vs Fastback?


Posted by: 2strokerfun

The biggest factor in my choice of boots is fit. Some brands, Alpinestars being one of them, just do not fit my foot right when I try them on.


Posted by: Dirtymotonut

Just won my nice Sidi Crossfires on e-bay for $192.50 after reading all about boots on this poll forum. Retailed for $475.00. Can't wait to see if they are all everyone says! Had Fox trackers but punched holes through the sides from the foot pegs and kept loosing the buckle straps. So more after I get the new ones and see how they work out......chose white hope they get dirt fast.....


Posted by: jake760

I like my Alpinestars, not quite worth the price, but they do fit better and seem more solid than my old Fly boots.


Posted by: Dirtymotonut

Got my Sidi's and am dissapointed. They are too small even when I ordered a sized bigger. So order a size larger than you need if you have wide feet. I have yet to wear them for a ride as my feet go numb after just walking in them and they really squeak when walking but are easy to walk around in. Also very difficult to replace the ankle clip when it popped off, took almost a half hour of plyers and a screw driver to get it on so maybe they made them this way to make you take them in to the shop for repairs? Plastic on sides scar easy but great as you can buy new ones and easy to replace. I don't think they are worth $475.00 new myself. I like my old used Fox trackers.



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