Riding Technique--New Boots

[Little_John]

I bought new riding boots yesterday and I'm having the hardest time riding in them. I normally ride in military combat boots and these new boots are VERY different.
So, to the question...I can't really shift in these boots, I'd have to have my foot on the leading edge of the foot peg and pointing nearly straight down in order to get this boot under the shifter. Aside from that I can't tell what gear I'm in, I end up shifting with the edge of the boot and it doesn't transmit the click of the gear very well.
Should I move the shifter up so I can get under it, should I just get use to it or will it be better when I get the boots broke in good? Should I buy a longer shifter?
Any suggestions would be great.

Little John

 

[TWRT]

I would move the shifter up, as long as it has enough upward movement to upshift. I have an aftermarket shifter that seems to give me a little more room. As the boots break in and you get used to them, you will get more feeling of the controls. Once you see the extra protection and improved riding ablility mx boots give, you will be getting all sorts of new equipment (knee guards, chest protector, riding pants, jersy, elbow pads, etc... the list goes on....)

 

[cr2504life]

I just got new boots too. I found it really hard to get used to but i think i will get used to shifting. They have much better support and protection that work boots do. :)

 

[Anssi]

If you think your boots are rigid and big, you should try Tech 8s. They feel like huge concrete blocks after even another MX boot. That's why I use them.

Move the shifter (I have size 12 Tech 8s and can shift and brake just fine).

 

[Shig]

Since I just switched from Tech 8s to Fox Forma Pro's, I'm in the same boat. Definitely adjust your shift lever so you can get your boot under it. Rest assured, the boots will become more flexible after a few rides and you will instinctively learn where the controls are. Adjusting to new boots is such a common hassle that the salesman that sold me my new boots commented on how I would be "spending a day of torture getting used to the new boots".

 

[Little_John]

Thanks for all the help. I'll move the shifter up a notch or two and spend some time getting used to riding in these boots.
Has anyone used saddle soap or the like to help break in their MX Boots or will that damage them?

 

[NGE]

I thought the same thing when I got boots for the first time.... it was about three good long frustrating rides (I decided not to move the shifter) and I was shifting as good as ever... but with more confidence about putting my feet down

 

[Little_John]

Thanks for all the help folks. I really appreciate the advice and the personal experiences.

I've moved my shifter, just a touch, but haven't had a chance to ride yet (All work and no play makes John a dull boy).

Thanks again folks.

 

[Jeff Gilbert]

What works for me when getting new boots is to put them on and get them wet. Find something to do like mowing the yard while still wearing the wet boots, it's a good workout and it will help the boots break in plus the yard gets mowed.

 

[Little_John]

Very nice idea. I've heard getting them wet helps. I actually went riding yesterday and rode in them the whole time. Like NGE said, I've got more confidence putting my feet down, plus it seems easier staying glued to the pegs.

Thanks again folks.

 

[shamanboy]

I would just break them in what i do when i get new boots is throw them in a tub of water for awhile then let them dry out that will break them in good but if u can wait i would just take it easy for a day and u should break them in by walking and riding in them.