Oneal hardwear boots and gear

[e.myers]

Getting ready to purchase a new bike and thought I might be able to get a good package deal on some riding gear.
I haven't seen anything posted about the oneal hardwear boots specifically and was wondering if anyone had opinions. Also think I'm leaning towards Oneal hardwear pants and shirt.
Other boots I'm considering are the Alpinestar M6 and the AXO RC-5. I believe the AXO's and the Oneals have aluminum buckles and this is one of the reasons I'm leaning towards them because I'm a little leary of too much plastic (in a boot at any rate).
Any input appreciated.
Thanks,
Eddie

 

[Arby]

I have a pair of Oneal Hardwear boots. I have worn them about a dozen
times. I really like these boots. The only problem I am having is with the
plastic straps. One cold morning this winter I busted two straps off the same
boot. I imagine I hit a tree with the boot and since temps were freezing
the plastic must have been more apt to bust. Anyway I have been having a
hard time getting replacements. My dealer hasnt had any luck,,,I have emailed Oneal without any response. So other than this the boots are very
comfortable and offer plenty of protection. I like them about as well as my
Tech 8s.

Hope that helps!

 

[e.myers]

Thanks, and yeah that certainly helps.
I've only seen the boots in pictures but I thought the buckles were
aluminum. I guess this means the buckles themselves are aluminum
but the "closer" parts are still plastic.? What are you describing as the strap
thats busting?

 

[Arby]

the strap is the part that wraps across your foot that the buckle latches to.

 

[zio]

Read this DRN review by Mully. It has me thinking I'll replace my masochistic Fox Trackers with them soon. http://dirtrider.net/drn_tested/boots/oneal_hardware.html

 

[e.myers]

Zio-
Thanks for the link. The review makes them sound pretty good all in all.
Only part that bothers me is "the little tear" and how he harps on the buckles needing a lock. Do you have any idea if the soles can be replaced? Seems like I read on the AXO RC-5's that the peg part of the sole is replacable (maybe without having to get someone who knows how to sew on soles involved $$$).
Anyone any experience with replacing soles?