We know the feeling when you just bought your dirt bike and you just don’t have enough leftover and need some cheap boots.
Fortunately, there are some good options around. In this guide, we’ll show you where to get some cheap dirt bike boots.
Where To Get Dirt Bike Boots for Cheaper
Apart from a helmet, the only other thing you really need are good boots and some gloves. The shirt and trousers can wait for now as you save a few extra dollars. Later on you can invest in some high-quality protective gear once your budget has been sorted out.
These are some ways to get some cheap dirt bike boots:
1. Look on Gumtree, Craigslist and FB Marketplace
There are always dirt bike riders seeking to off-load their gear from last season. Better yet – sometimes their gear has been hardly worn because they have been working long hours.
You have to act quickly because there are other people just like you hunting down these deals. If you find your size and color, and the seller is close to you, then I’d make an offer on the spot and head straight over to pick ’em up.
2. Jump Inside of Facebook Groups
Inside these groups are numerous people who ride regularly. Often these dirt bike riders have an extra set of boots in their garage that just isn’t being used. This is your opportunity.
Simply enter these groups and once approved, create a post. Introduce yourself but let others know that you’re on the look out for some cheap boots to get yourself by for now. Better yet – you’ll find yourself with some new friends to go roosting with!
3. Look for Dirt Bike Boot Clearance Deals
At the end of each season, some stores including those online want to clear the shelves. This is when they’ll do clearance deals where you can get dirt bike boots for much cheaper than elsewhere.
Sometimes these boots go into outlets, both online and offline, so you don’t even need to wait until a particular time of year. It’s just that those models didn’t sell so well so they are clearing them out. These deals do sell out very quickly.
4. Ask Those Who Are Selling Their Dirt Bikes
If someone is selling their dirt bike, what does that tell you? On one hand, they could be upgrading to a new model but on the other hand, they could be getting out of the sport.
This represents a prime opportunity to pick up their boots for pretty cheap. You might even get a seriously good deal on their motorcycle too if you play your cards right!
5. Look for Deals on eBay
A smart idea is to use eBay and set a trigger for when it spots dirt bike boots for under $100. You’ll then immediately get an email where you can make a purchase on the spot.
Yes, this includes new and used boots. Setting up these automated emails is pretty straight forward and you can even set automatic notifications now on the eBay mobile app. Neat!
Closing Thoughts
There you have it! Some great ways in which you can get some cheap yet good quality boots without paying retail prices. Some riders have even picked up brand new boots for $50 because they had some minor defects and couldn’t be sold in retail stores.
How about you? Have you found any cool tricks to save a few bucks to spend on gas instead? Dirt bike riders are a crafty bunch and there are certainly some good strategies around. Dealerships also like to sell their display models for big discounts so all you need to do is ask.
Roost deflectors stop gnarly rocks and tree branches from knocking you off your dirt bike. We’ve found the 10 best models to protect your chest.
Roost deflectors really do help to make a more comfortable day out on the MX tracks or country trails. However, please note that they don’t provide adequate chest protection and aren’t rated for crashes.
If you’re searching for genuine chest protection, then check out the best dirt bike chest protectors in the market. Those are CE-rated for high-speed riders.
Let’s start these engines.
Best Roost Deflectors
The main role of a roost deflector is to stop you from low impact injuries. These include:
Tree branches that clip your shoulders and chest
Rocks and gravel that is kicked up by riders in front
Protection against rashes from your dirt bike jersey
Often these roost deflectors are simply cheap plastic. We would certainly recommend that you pay that bit extra and get quality equipment to protect you out there.
Here are the most recommend dirt bike deflectors:
1. Fox Racing 2022 R3 Roost Deflector
When you think of motocross, you think of Fox. They have certainly led the way in the industry over the years. The R3 Roost Deflector is one cool bit of gear.
They have these 3 versions noted above which are basic in their design and very affordable. We love the amount of airflow given.
Then you’ve also got the R3 for women. This model is the best roost deflector for women of all heights and sizes. All in all, some fine protection for those on a budget.
2. EVS Sports Men’s Roost Deflector
Looking for something a bit less plastic-y? Then the EVS Sports deflector is for you. The design is softer while being more professional for the weekend rider.
This is a vest design with no protection for the biceps. However, being EVS, it does provide solid protection against roost in the chest region.
As a roost protector, it’s also compatible with neck braces paired with good ventilation and a secure fit for more confidence at high speeds.
3. Leatt Unisex-Adult Chest Protector
If you know Leatt, then you know that they don’t mess around. From innovating the neck brace to protect riders from the United States to Brazil, Australia to the UK and everywhere in between, they know protection gear like the back of their hands. The 4.5 Chest Protector is no different.
Is this a cheap roost deflector? Yes, that depends. If you value your chest and want sheer comfort when riding, it’s very cheap. If your wallet is more important, then there are cheaper options in the market.
The reviews on the Leatt 4.5 are impressive and this unit weighs just 1 pound!
4. Alpinestars A-1 Roost Guard
Need a bit more protection? The Alpinestars A-1 has you covered quite well.
The shell guard on this model is actually certified to EN14021. Essentially this means you’re protected from impacts when you actually crash, not just impacts while riding at speed.
The ventilation on this model is impressive! It’s perfect for a hot and dusty track or humid area.
5. EVS Sports Chest Protector
Love your riding jersey and want others to see its epic design? Then get this bad-boy today!
The profile on this design is much lower than usual. It’s a smaller roost deflector ideal for those who want a minimal approach with something that doesn’t get in the way.
It’s also very low weight too while protecting your back with its poly carbonate construction.
6. Fox Titan Kids Roost Deflector
Are you searching for the best kids dirt bike roost deflector? Injuries when riding are something that kids will inherently encounter and recommend full protective gear for kids who are either riding MX or the local dirt trails.
Fox has the Titan series and from our experience, provides a solid amount of protection from roost for children of all ages. Two things that let this model down slightly is the lack of ventilation and the higher weight than an adult chest protector.
However, at 1.4 pounds your child probably isn’t likely to notice. Plus the design is very attractive and kids are often more interested in twisting the throttle and getting into everything.
7. Fly Racing Mini Convertible II Roost Deflector
Another minimal design for adults is the Fly Racing Mini Convertible II. Because it’s available in both red and blue, both Yamaha and Honda riders can find their preference.
This model is super easy to put on and off. You’ll have easy movement while enjoying lots of comfort. The ventilation on this model is far superior than most other models.
For a cheap roost deflector that offers some good benefits, then it’s hard to look past this model.
8. Fox Racing Adult Raptor Vest
We’re going to flip the switch and go for something expensive. The Fox Racing Raptor vest comes at 2x the price of your average roost deflector.
One thing to note is the CE certification on your back. However, it does leave your chest open and if you’re looking for genuine protection, check out the alternative guide we mentioned at the top of this post.
KTM riders looking for a high quality roost deflector or chest protector tend to go for this model. It’s adjustable and being very comfortable to wear, but with less ventilation than other models in the market.
9. Fox Racing Raceframe Roost Deflector
Yes – it’s Fox twice in a row. Now we’re looking at their Raceframe roost deflector. This model is popular with mountain bike riders heading downhill just as it’s popular with trail bike and MX riders too.
The simplicity of this design paired with its ventilation ticks a lot of boxes for us. The black design really goes with everything in the market.
With dozens of reviews, users have found this one to be exactly what they were searching for.
10. Fly Racing Undercover II Pullover Roost Guard
Unlike many other options that we’ve provided in our guide to roost deflectors, this model is very different. This is basically a heavy-duty shirt that you merely put on with your jersey going on top.
There isn’t much fuss with this design. You merely put it on and your jersey then is worn as normal. Most other riders won’t even notice that you’re wearing anything.
At this time, it’s hard to source this design but if you can buy one internationally, then you’re on to a winner!
One final inclusion
We’ve got a bonus! And that’s the Troy Lee Designs black roost deflector.
Troy Lee Designs have really thought of everything here!
This is the most expensive that money can buy, but also vastly superior too!
You’ll have your chest, ribs, back, shoulders and upper arms very well covered. This model, in particular, is popular with enduro riders as they need superior protection but also want a lot of movement as well both when standing on the pegs and sitting on the saddle.
Buying Guide
So then, with so many options on the market, how do you know which one to buy? We’ve put together this buying guide to help you out.
This buying guide applies to both kids needing their own roost deflectors as well as adults too.
Ventilation
The last thing you’ll want is bad ventilation. This is only going to make you sweat more on the tracks and trails.
By having solid ventilation, you’re able to focus on riding and not getting a free sauna when riding on a hot day. Look at the roost deflectors on this list and observe how much ventilation they provide.
Materials
Almost all of these use a hard plastic design. When rocks are flying into you or you’re powering past trees at 50 miles per hour, nothing else can really deflect these impacts.
By going into a dealership, you can check just how thick these are in person and make a decision based on the level of protection you desire.
Pricing
Often it’s best to spend up for the best. The cheap Chinese options that you’ll find on eBay and Amazon simply don’t live up to expectations in the real world.
On average, dirt bike roost protectors cost around $100 for a solid unit. You might pay up to $300 for a superior model like Leatt.
Colors
Often riders want the roost deflector color to match their own riding outfit. Given the multiple color options on this list, those who are seeking orange, red, yellow or blue will find something that suits their trail bike.
A great idea is to select a black design. This way you can keep the unit when you’re upgrading to a new dirt bike next year.
Roost deflector with neck brace
It’s hard to find a roost guard that also has a neck brace built in. These are two seperate units and often from two seperate brands.
As for fitment, most roost deflectors will fit with a neck brace. It’s always best to stick with the same brands and we recommend Leatt primarily.
Hydration pack with roost deflector
What we would love to see is a roost deflect paired with a hydration pack. The closest in the market is the Leatt Hydra 4.5 which is actually a chest protector, not roost deflector.
The Fly Racing Stingray is the closest thing you’ll find here with good reviews online. We would love to see more options in the marketplace.
Where to buy
There are numerous dealerships across the country which stock exactly what you’re searching for. We recommend this approach because you’ll be able to try on a roost deflector in person.
Try on different brands: Fly, Fox Racing and Leatt. If they don’t stock these brands then you’re completely in the wrong shop.
Likewise, you can buy online. Countries like Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and South Africa have their own country-specific online stores. For those in the United States, using Amazon is the most common way to order any MX gear.
Using coupons and discounts is often a great way to save. Alternatively, look on Craigslist or Gumtree for roost deflectors as these are often cheap and with minimal use as some riders replace them each season.
In Closing
We would recommend a roost deflector if you’re wanting to avoid things from striking your body at speed. For protection when crashing at 60 miles per hour, these are woefully inadequate.
In fact, they tend to rise up and cut into the neck of a rider. This is why we recommend a chest protector instead of a roost deflector. Two very separate items.
Let us know in the comments which one you prefer.
For us, we’d always prefer to be on full throttle!
We’re going to look at the best dirt bike chest protectors available in the market. Essentially, what chest protectors can protect you from injury.
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Because we all love going out on a weekend adventure on our dirt bikes. Whether it’s the local forest, the open deserts or a multi-day trek, there is nothing better than the sound of a 4-stroke.
The sounds, the fun and the spills we have. It all lends to a great weekend.
But we also run the risk of injury. Such crashes can have serious consequences.
For those short on time, here are the best options around town:
There are numerous types of dirt bike protection equipment that money can buy, so we’ll have a closer look at what can protect your chest from a dirt bike crash.
Some are cheap and some are expensive. It really depends on how you value your body.
Let’s begin.
Best Adult Dirt Bike Chest Protectors
It’s always good to get a solid fit. You don’t want a chest protector that isn’t snug around your body. This list is for adults and soon we’ll create a list for kids too.
Quick note: a roost protector is very different. You can check out the best roost protectors available too. Essentially, chest protectors require CE verification to genuinely protect you.
As with anything, get yourself with a solid brand. Here are the best dirt bike chest protectors available now:
If you’re looking for the Rolls Royce of dirt bike chest protection then you’ve found it. Leatt, much like their neck braces, is ahead of the pack for design, comfort and most importantly, rider protection.
Is this cheap? Certainly not. But does it give you solid protection? Definitely.
This is akin to an adventure motorcycling jacket than a dirt biking jacket. Certainly if you rock up to this to the race track on weekends, you’re bound to get some funny looks.
But then, stack your bike and you’re more than likely able to pick up your bike and keep riding again.
What we love:
Multiple industry certifications
Hard shell is paired with soft form which is ventilated for hots days
Anti-odor control given the amount of mesh wicking in use
Lightweight compared to typical adventure motorcycling jackets
Fits with Leatt’s popular neck braces
What could improve:
The price. These are very expensive to buy globally.
Colors. Only available in black which gets hot in summer.
You can wear the Leatt 5.5 Pro under or above your dirt bike jersey, however many riders choose not to wear a jersey at all with this.
Here we have another CE certificed chest protector from Alpinestars. It’s much more minimalist and simple in the design, protecting only the chest and back regions while providing plenty of surface area for your body to breathe.
You could effectively elbow someone in the chest and they’d barely feel it. The foam is soft while the hard plastic is flexible and contours to help you get tight around the corners, whether that’s an MX track or local trails.
This is the type of dirt bike chest protector that you’d wear if you just want some basic protection for the “Oh shit!” moment that you’ll eventually have.
What we love:
The price! This is seriously affordable and the cheap pricing of this chest protector is ideal for motocross and trail bike riders globally.
Easy to fit and adjust. Slips on in 5 seconds and you can start riding away without much effort.
Heaps of ventilation making this one ideal for summer riding in the desert or in humid locations.
Very lightweight. Hardly feels like you’re wearing chest protection.
What could improve:
Only available in black/red which looks like a 90’s style design.
The straps could be thicker to help spread the load more.
Leatt has a more minimalist design to the 5.5 Pro that we started this list with. The hard shell design of the 4.5 allows you to wear your dirt bike jersey and a chest protector at the same time.
Like most of Leatt’s designs, this guard is compatible with their range of neck braces. And this one certainly wins in the design aesthetics.
For riders who predominantly ride in the warmer months, then this is a solid choice. You’ll also get some solid protection on your shoulders unlike the Fox model noted above.
What we love:
Extremely good ventilation. You’re less likely to get sweat lines with this.
Tested to the maximum! Both by CD and Leatt’s own internal testing team.
Very lightweight while also proving solid flank protection too.
If you’re looking for proper shoulder, elbow and chest protection while also being breathable, then the Fox Racing Titan is the way to go. This really is a solid battle suit for race tracks of the trails with a bunch of friends.
It’s very ventilated and is design to be worn all day long. We recommend that you wear this above your jersey to avoid rashes from the itchy fabric.
If you’re a woman searching for a dirt bike chest protector, then this is the model you’re most likely going to purchase.
The best part is that, unlike many of these dirt bike chest protectors, this one has a zipper! This makes it so much easier to take on and off quickly.
What we love:
Full protection. This isn’t just protecting your chest but elbows and shoulders too.
Range of colors available. Most manufacturers run a single color. With Fox, they have this available in a fluorescent color or red.
The pricing is extremely good compared to Leatt. You can often buy these for under $160 USD.
What could improve:
The black color has a purple undertone to it.
Could look less like a storm-trooper and more like a dirt bike protector
Armour jackets are the best form of dirt biking chest protection without costing a fortune. Another key upside is that they often protect the elbows as well while being more rigid in the back region.
There have been many good reviews regarding the products that we’ve noted here. The Alpinestars Bionic is one of those such products to help you out.
We love the bad-ass look of these while being certified to protect you. The kidney belt certainly goes a long way to provide a snug fit.
Other things we love:
The design matches KTM, Yamaha and Honda dirt bike riders
Very breathable fabric. It’s less dense than most other manufacturers
Rock-solid breast protection when you’re riding your trail bike
The low pricing makes this the best value available in the market
Leatt is back on this list again! This time it’s a dirt bike chest protector and hydration pack combination. In fact, the backpack area has 10L of storage.
You see, we’re big on adventuring around. Going on a decent ride? Then you’re going to want to pack a rain jacket. This is hard to do without panniers.
Luckily, Leatt has solved this problem for riders. You can store food and a jacket in here. If you’re going camping, then you might be able to fit in some basic gear like a small tent and sleeping bag and snacks. At the same time, you’re also protecting your chest region from impacts.
Chest Protection
Yes
Back Protection
Yes
Water Storage
Yes – 2 Litres
Gear Storage
Yes – 10 Litres
Expensive
Yes
GPX 4.5 Hydra Chest Protector
Just like the CamelBak series, you can change which side the hydration tube comes from. Neat!
What we love:
CE tested to provide great chest protection while also being a backpack
Can integrate with your neck brace
Has a waterproof cell phone pouch and compartment for tools.
Plenty of ventilation to reduce the amount of sweating that you’ll be doing.
What could improve:
The white color design will get diry pretty quickly
Looking for something more rad? The high visibility Raceframe from Fox is exactly what you’re looking for. You can wear this under or above the jersey.
This is the slimmest chest protector that we’ve come across. Unfortunately, that comes at a high price too. But if you’re going pro, then this is for you.
The Fox Raceframe series is common on dirt bike race tracks and enduro events globally. Certainly this isn’t something for beginners.
What we love:
Very ergonomic and lightweight. Superior materials used in construction.
Hard plastic design means you’re less likely to sweat than compared to foam.
Very slim so other riders won’t really notice that you’re wearing it.
What could improve:
That color! Some people love it while most people hate it. It’s more-so for kids and teenage riders.
The price could be cheaper.
Note: Fox has 2 versions of this protector. One is certified as chest protection and the other is merely a rock and debris deflector.
Buying Guide
Now that we’ve seen the 7 best dirt bike chest protectors, let’s look at some of the intrinsic characteristics you should be looking for when shopping around.
Because chances are this is your 1st time in the market. You just aren’t sure if this is right for you at this time.
Removable arm guards
Some of the protectors we’ve noted in this guide allow you to remove the arm guards. This is certainly helpful if you’re confident enough to ride without them.
Flexible plastics
While hard plastics will do a better job of protecting you during a dirt bike crash, you also want some flexibility. This is going to give you better control and confidence in corners.
Weight
There is nothing worse than a heavy chest protector and this is a key reason why kids like their normal dirt bike protective gear, but won’t put on any chest protection plate. With advancements in technology, you can easily find units under 5lbs in the market.
Colors
You’ll notice in this guide that we would love to see more manufacturers provide greater color choices. It seems that black is back! If you can find colors in Yamaha blue, KTM orange or Honda red, then that will match your bike and outfit on the track.
Ventilation
While you want to protect your body, you also don’t want a free sauna when riding aggressively through tracks and trails on a hot summer’s day. Essentially, we recommend a dirt bike protector for your chest which blends protection with airflow. This is less important for cold climate riders.
Types of dirt bike chest protectors
Did you know that there are multiple types on the market? Knowing what separates each style is important for your buying decisions.
You’ve basically got 2 types:
Vest-style chest protectors. These look like an impact protection vest that you’ll see policemen or security guards wear, or even your local hiker.
Full jacket-style protection. These are a light version of adventure motorcycling jackets and designed for the trail/MX/enduro rider.
We often recommend the later. The vest-style jackets just don’t provide enough protection, but at the same time, are better than nothing at all.
Industry certifications for dirt bike chest protection
At the start of this product comparison, we noted that there are differences between roost protectors and chest protectors. The former really just stops rocks and tree branches from scaring your skin.
In order to be certified, companies need to apply and get CE certification. This is prEN1621-3 Chest Protection with no significant gaps in the coverage area. This is a light certification. There are 3 levels of protection offered, with adventure motorbike jackets almost always offering the most.
You can also get EN1621-2 for the back and EN1621-1 for your shoulder.
Leatt tends to go the extra mile and that’s represented in the significantly higher cost.
Closing off
We hope this buyers guide and comparison gives you some insights into what is available in the market right now. Because you ought to protect yourself when out on the trails.
Have you had a positive or negative experience when crashing with dirt bike chest protectors? Then let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
We’ve created a buying guide showcasing the best adventure motorcycle boots available to buy in 2020. Let us help you find the best boots today.
You simply can’t get away with an ordinary set of work boots if you’re serious about adventure motorcycling and touring around. Spending up for a decent set of boots is the best way to go.
They need to be rock-solid as your feet as the part of your body that’s the closest to the ground. When you crash (and you will inherently crash), what you choose to wear on your feet needs to live up to your expectations.
As a brand, our expectations are high. So we’re going to share with you what we believe are the best adventure motorbike boots available in 2020. 🕵️♀️
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Adventure Motorcycling Boots Buying Guide
Let’s start with some front-end research. That is – seeing what’s in the market and trying it on. For any pair of adventure motorcycle boots, it’s always the best idea to head into a dealership and try a few different models on.
The right fitment and feel is literally everything and you generally don’t find many dual sport riders choosing to buy their boots online for this reason.
In our experience, you won’t actually feel comfortable in the boots initially. It’s an odd feeling and you’ll feel a bit constrained as you walk around. This is normal! Boots always take a few hours to ‘break in’ but some boots stay uncomfortable for a long time, especially the cheap ones.
Brand
You should always stick with the mainstream brands. Avoid anything that looks too cheap online. Always go into a dealership and avoid buying boots online.
Unfortunately, Chinese sellers have realized the potential of selling really cheap ADV boots online that appear fantastic, but unfortunately don’t live up to expectations in the real world. Many of those sellers have never gone adventure motorcycling either which is unfortunate and their brands won’t last more than 6 months in the marketplace.
Brands that we can recommend are Alpinestars, Sidi, Fox, TCX, Forma, Rev’It, O’neal. Even Harley-Davidson would be a great brand to trust.
Price
Our advice is simple – Pay up for quality. You certainly don’t want to buy the cheapest adventure motorcycle boots in the market. These will fall apart after just 3 months. If you’re struggling with your budget, then you can often find a great used pair on Craigslist, eBay or Gumtree.
Often for new boots, you can expect to pay from $300 to $500 for a great set. You can expect these to last for at least 7 years if you do several trips per year. For the global tourer, you’ll get around 2 years out of a set of boots.
Splash Resistance
There isn’t really such a thing as waterproof adventure motorcycling boots. Even the best claims in marketing fall short here. Once the water is in from the top during a river crossing, the water will be stuck inside.
Therefore, what you’ll want to look for is splash resistance. Observe the materials at the front of the boots and if they actively deflect the water. Also, the seem where the fasters connect should be sealed properly.
Rider Protection
Naturally, this is the most important part. You’ll want to be protected from injuries, both big and small. Protection comes in various forms:
Great ankle support for days in the saddle
Super strong ‘toe box’ that can be ridden over
Very tough shin protection but with some flexibility
Looking online at photos makes it hard to evaluate how popular boots differ, so again, it’s best to head into dealerships.
Secure buckles
If there is one thing that is going to break…it’s going to be the boot buckles.
And if they don’t break, then you will have them loosen at least once.
Well, at least with the cheap models. The more expensive buckles tend to go the distance.
When you compare boots in the dealership, pay close attention to the buckles. The designs are different and some spread the load differently across the boot.
Lastly, you can choose 2 or 3 buckles with adventure motorcycling boots.
With 2 buckles, the load isn’t so spread and so you have slightly more flexibility.
With 3 buckles, you’ll lose rigidity but will feel as though the boots are truly protecting you.
In the past, boots were mainly 3-buckle designs until the 2-buckle design was made stronger with the advancement of materials available.
Sizing
For most adventure motorcycle boots, the size is very important. You’re going to own these for a long time, so you’ll want to pick a reasonable size.
Manufacturers don’t often make these in half sizes. Always go for a size higher if you’re concerned and you can use an insert to make up for the slight movement on the inside.
Again – head into a dealership to try on some boots first.
Best Adventure Motorcycle Boots
Let’s look at these awesome boots worthy of your consideration right now:
These might have a strange name but that’s their only downside! The Alpinestars Toucan Gore-Tex is a softer and lighter MX boot which we believe are perfect for adventures. After all, you don’t want to be wearing 20lbs of boots all day long.
While these only come in black, you’ll be able to use these boots on both dual-sport and adventure motorcycles, or even just your dirt bike on weekends. They have GoreTex as a breathable liner which offers very good splash resistance and some protection during mild water crossings.
The buckles on these boots are from the famous Alpinestars Tech series, so you’ll have the same sort of reliability and sturdiness.
With this being the best boot in the market, it’s also expensive too at $500 USD per pair.
This is another best-in-class boot. Sidi used to be the #1 adventure motorbike boot in the world until recently with the Adventure 2 model.
Unlike MX boots, these are much stronger. You’ll find that it takes a while to actually ‘bed in’ to your feet shape.
Features:
Goretex lined which reduces the likelihood of water entering
Two-buckle design but with wide spreads to reduce digging in
Available in both black and brown. Personally, we love the brown.
The Sidi Adventure has a cult-like following. Often riders will replace these with another pair because they live up to expectations as we can see from online reviews.
If you want full grain leather boots for your adventure motorcycle, then you’ve found them! While not as popular, the Tech-T boots are definitely more of a motocross boot but with a 3-buckle design.
They have made the font and rear accordion stretch zones which lead to more flexibility while providing solid support. Essentially, it’s more ergonomic for the rider for hours in the saddle.
The rubber grips are thicker than most other boots in the market meaning these will last for years before running thin. Also, the extra-wide toe protectors make gear shifting a breeze.
Aimed at adventure riders, the TCX Drifter has solid reviews and certainly goes away from the MX-style that Alpinestars brings to the market.
We love the old-style design paired with the padding. For those who want more of a traditional approach, especially if you’re moving between a range of motorbikes.
This is another 3-buckle design with solid adjustments. And in fact, the entire boot is more solid than more other boots but with that, comes with it a lack of flexibility. This will take some time to wear in but when you do, the protection.
Yes, another Alpinestars! This time we’re back to the motocross aisle.
Because motocross boots have a lot of flexibility so you can breathe. There is no reason that you can’t use a motocross boot for adventure riding, expect for their lack of big protection.
Now of all the boots in the ‘Tech’ series, Alpinestars have done very well.
As this boot was designed for racing and enduros, it’s less of an MX boot and definitely suited towards weekend adventures and short trips.
The TCX Men’s Baja is certainly a decent boot for the tourer and is a shorter boot than usual. Some riders prefer the smaller profile, especially if they are spending the majority of their trip on the highways.
Because the boots are inherently smaller, the cost of production is a lot less. Therefore the TCX Men’s boots are quite affordable for adventure riding.
Surpringsly, the weight of these boots is a bit on the high side at 4.5 pounds. Some full-size MX boots can be found under 4lbs so it’s quite interesting.
Now TCX markets this as a street boot, especially suggesting that this is for bitumen use. However, we know several people using these comfortably on gravel tracks. The biggest challenge is the lack of grip.
If you want a pair of boots which are both well suited to riding to and from work, but also will provide you with confidence on a multi-day adventure, then this is a solid choice.
This boot is seriously tough-looking and popular among global travellers on two-wheels. This boot is oiled leather meaning it’s going to last multiple years, paired with the microfiber and suede chassis.
Features:
TPU shin and calf plates providing excellent resistance
Soft foam around the ankles and collar for long riding days
Layered toe box and heel counter. Not just a single layer.
Very lightweight design for a leather boot.
This is a good quality boot that’s perfect for water crossings and rainy adventure days.
This is certainly a popular boot for the adventure and touring enthusiast. You’ll get solid protection, especially in the shin area while having over-sized buckles.
The reviews on these boots are very positive. Where these ‘shine’ are the price, because these are very affordable. You’ll be getting a few extra tanks of gas in with the money you save on these.
These are leaning on the heavy side but if it’s sheer protection that you’re chasing, then these are one of the best in this class.
We promise this is the last Alpinestars boot on this list! In fact, it’s hard to put this one in the same category as it’s a shorter boot for those that don’t want the bulky design which is typical of dirt bike boots.
These are PU coated leather with a 2-buckle design. You’ll notice that these buckles are more spread out than typically full-sized boots.
For those that don’t like the ‘trapped’ feeling of big boots, then the Belize boots from Alpinestars make a solid choice as the many positive reviews describe.
Most people praise these boots and have them higher on the list. And now, these are a great boot but we’ve had to rank them a little lower. They are quite heavy and rigid with more of a street-oriented look. For dual-sport riders, the Forma Adventure boots are a solid choice.
They certainly look more vintage and the buckles themselves remind us of the boots of the 90’s. There is less support in the ankle region and fewer ergonomics, but that’s made up for with the full-grain oil leather design to keep water away from your socks.
What really sets these boots apart is the price. Very affordable for a full-size adventure boot and available in both black and brown, with most riders choosing brown. Current ratings on Amazon are 4.6 stars and 200+ customer testimonials. More info here (non-affiliate link)
One of the most popular dirt bike boots in the market is the O’Neal Logo Rider with hundreds (if not thousands) of positive reviews online. These lend themselves well to both trail riding and enduro riding.
Now, some adventure and dual-sport riders have realized the potential of these boots. In fact, some say these are the best dual-sport motorcycle boots in the market because the price is affordable while the boots offer solid ergonomics and protection.
Unlike other boots on this list, there are 4-buckles with these boots. This means the load is more spread across the boot as opposed to having 2 focus points.
What makes these boots stand out is the MX-inspired front toe cap and the air mesh interior. These boots aren’t waterproof but for riding in hot weather, adventure riders have enjoyed these boots for years.
You can even buy used versions of the O’Neal Men’s Logo Rider boot on Amazon, however the new price represents great value for money.
These adventure boots have a true Yellowstone vibe. If you’re riding a quad bike, then these are a good motorcycle boot for hunting.
Now, these boots aren’t that popular actually and Forma hasn’t released that many to the market. But we love these for their ergonomic looks and hipster feel.
If you want to head into the mountains and actually do some walking around too without feeling like a storm-trooper, then these are a rock-solid choice (pun intended).
Yeah, we know what you’re thinking “But these are a road bike boot! Why did you include this on your list” And that’s true, they are indeed a road boot.
Now for the dual-sport rider who wants something that looks nice in the city since they rarely reach the gravel tracks, then these are a solid choice.
Indeed a touring boot, the Sidi Aria Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots are quite popular with highway-dwellers. For those who want an adventure boot without buckles, these make a great pair. It’s perfect for the daily commute and the occasional adventure into the mountains.
These are both vented and waterproof at the same time with velcro and a zipper system instead of buckles. There is enough grip that you could use these on a dual-sport bike such as a BMW, but we’d be hesitant to use these on a dirt-inspired adventure motorcycle.
We’re still standing by our belief that some motocross boots make very good adventure boots. Gaerne has figured this out with the Balance series.
There aren’t that many companies that do the transition from MX to dual-sport or adventure riding properly. With these boots, they certainly have.
The full-grain oiled leather means they’ll last several years paired with shin guards and a 3-piece alloy buckle system. You can also buy replacement buckles if you need.
What’s great about these boots are the soles. Just thick enough to give you some solid grip while being flat enough to provide confidence while standing on the pegs.
Now these aren’t cheap at all. It also takes a while to wear in the leather, but once you do, you’ll have a pair that could take you around the state, around the country or even around the world.
The BMW enthusiasts would slaughter us if we didn’t include one of their boots. The team at Motorad have created the Venture Grip line which we’re impressed with. They are also one of the few companies that make their own motorcycle boot covers.
We love modern style and rich-look of these boots which is synonymous with the European BMW brand. However, among adventure riding communities, these aren’t that popular and you generally won’t buy these online. Dealerships around the country and indeed around the world stock these.
If you’re looking for a dealership near you, then check out the BMW Motorad website.
Kore is a new company offering adventure motorcycle boots at a cheap price. In our experience, anything this cheap often doesn’t last years as the reviews highlight.
You won’t find these boots in dealerships, only online at this stage. The design is basic and lacks the research and development aspects of the bigger brands.
Usually we wouldn’t show an upcoming brand among the big players but this is a good example which highlights why cheap adventure motorcycle boots will cost you more in the long run.
However, if you’re only riding trails occasionally then these can be a good choice. For hammering your way through the mountains, spend that little bit extra on a quality brand.
For the lowest profile adventure motorcycle boots in the world, it’s hard to go past the O’Neal Short boots. These are closer to a shoe or road boot than a trail-oriented boot, but there is no reason why you couldn’t bring these on to the tracks.
What we love is that, despite the low price and simple design, they really have tought of everything. The buckles are very sturdy, the padding is strong and there is an MX-inspired toe cap. Both enduro and adventure riders will like these boots because they are light while giving you some reasonable protection.
For trips to and from the office, you’ll also find these easy to put on. Then when it comes time for a weekend ride off the beaten track, the grip and aesthetics will leave a lasting impression, as will the price.
Yes, we did it. Another enduro/MX boot made this list. We believe this is a mighty-fine boot that provides very good protection right up to the knees. If you’re tied of tree branches scraping your shins then pick up one of these tall boots.
Being Fox, they derive their inspiration from motocross but with an adventure feel. If you’re the weekend warrior who just does day trips, then you’ll love these. The protection they give is very strong and probably the toughest adventure boots in the market today.
What you won’t get is the typical characteristics found in dual-sport boots. These are lighter and have a lightweight plastic feel. When a 500-pound fully loaded adventure bike falls on your ankle, you’re bound to feel it.
If you’re riding small adventure bikes, then this is certainly a great choice.
Some of our readers prefer to stick to the highways and bitumen. With the Sidi Armada, the Gore-Tex touring boots provide ample protection on the road paired with a modern look.
Yes, you can take these off road and on to gravel tracks. However, they aren’t generally geared for this and isn’t one of the top choices on the market at all. For most owners, these boots won’t see the dirt at all.
Those who ride dual-sport bikes like BMW’s and Triumph’s will like this bike as it matches the general look and feel of their motorcycles. And they typically ride the highways and backroads. That’s still an adventure, right?
We’re finishing this list off with a decent wet of low adventure boots. Because we’ve seen others who progressively go from best to worst. Instead, we’ve left easily one of the best adventure motorcycling boots until the very end.
The price on these are in the range of a full-size adventure motorcycling boot, but Forma has made up for this with the features. THere is some serious value for money here.
It has ‘unbreakable’ GH plastic buckles paired with a nice vintage finish. The grip is more dual-sport inspired as opposed to a true adventure or MX boot. It pairs ergonomics with a simple design while being comfortable enough to go for a quick hike. These can be a little too rigid initially.
Still, Forma has done very well with these. The Adventure Low boots have many praises from customers who have left high reviews online. A waterproof boot for under $200 USD is hard to come by.
In closing
So that’s the 20 best boots for adventure motorcyclists in the market today. There are certainly cheaper options out there but buying a great quality boot will last several years.
Have you got a good or bad experience with any of the boots above? Then we’d love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below.
It’s time to have a serious discussion about the safety and dangers of dirt bikes for both adults and children as it can be dangerous.
Dirt Bike Dangers and Risks are real
Don’t ignore the media headlines or advice from good people. What they proclaim about the dangers of dirt bikes is certainly true:
While riders who wear the right protection are intrinsically safer, the sport itself can still be dangerous. Dirt bikes are a leading cause of injury in the high adrenaline world due to the relative affordability of these high-performance machines. Adults and children are certainly at risk at temporary or life-long injuries.
We’ve made such a tough statement to raise a point: The dangers are real. Dirt bikes operate at high speeds through technical terrain with riders often reluctant to fully protect themselves.
However, risks also come with other activities too. Driving your car, walking down the sidewalk and going for a swim at your local beach. For many, dirt biking exceeds their risk tolerance. This is a key reason why many kids today are kept inside and are playing video games instead of enjoying the world around them.
Racing vs casual riding
We believe that the risk of serious injury is reduced by those who casually ride trails and do adventure riding than compared to racing. Whether racing for enduro or motocross, the risks increase because of the speeds and demands placed on the riders to win.
However, with so much riding experience, such riders are able to anticipate hazards much sooner. And given their higher risk-taking, they typically wear more protective gear than other riders including a neck brace.
Those who ride casually on weekends or do a round-the-world tour generally take things much easier. There is no restriction on time so they are able to attack each hazard such as hill climbs and river crossings with more careful planning.
Essentially, those who race are more aware of the dangers of dirt bikes. But they put themselves into harm’s way and if they do crash, often the outcome is messy.
Statistics on the dangers of dirt bikes
We decided to do some research to back up our claims. These statistics will likely help you become aware that, while dirt bike riding is dangerous, it’s even more dangerous to own a quad bike.
Teenagers are most likely to get admitted to hospital in Victoria, Australia: “Off-road motorcycling hospital admissions peaked in age group 15–19 years, whereas on-road motorcycling hospital admissions peaked in the age group 25–29 years” Source: http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au
Anyone who races or does jumping or other stunt work is likely to be injured in a crash eventually.
Most frequent Dirt Biking Injuries
When you’re riding, you’re most commonly going to come across uneven terrain, other riders or simply crash when landing a jump. You’ll likely suffer from an arm, leg, head or neck injury which is why we recommend purchasing the best protection that you can afford.
Here are the injuries that dirt bike riders commonly receive:
1. Broken wrist
When you fall off, typically it’s your wrists that hit the ground first. Because they are trying to stop the force of your fall, they are also handling a lot of your moving body weight. You can expect up to 2 months off riding while you wait for these to heal with much of this time spent away from the hospital. Wrists are critical for effective clutch, brake and throttle control so don’t rush to recovery time by jumping back on your motorcycle too soon.
2. Broken Collarbone
We would need more than 2 hands to count the number of collarbone breakages we’ve heard of during the years. Broken collarbones hurt the most and are due to riders outstretching their arms during a crash. This is human-nature and little can be done in that 2-second gap between losing control and hitting the ground. Physiotherapists generally are called upon to help dirt bike riders who partake in competitions to heal faster. For the casual trail rider, this isn’t really necessary.
3. Broken ribs
Dirt bikes often cause broken ribs because riders aren’t protecting themselves with a chest guard. While these guards won’t 100% protect your chest area, they will certainly help spread the load. Broken ribs are often caused by handlebars digging into the ribs on impact or the rider falling on to large rocks and logs. Quad bikes often are more dangerous because their heavier weight generally inflicts more damage to the rib cage upon impact.
4. Dislocated shoulders
Luckily one of the easier things to fix, dirt bike riders often dislocate shoulders which will require a trip to the hospital. The intense pain is likely to have any rider off their bike for a few weeks while recover takes place. Luckily, no long term pain commonly occurs with this but riders certainly don’t look forward to ever experiencing this again.
5. Rolled ankles
We’re still surprised that people will jump on a dirt bike without any boots on, especially when there are some very affordable options on the market. Dislocated ankles typically occur when riders choose running shoes, sandals or even hiking boots which don’t provide adequate protection. Even if you don’t dislocate an ankle, these dirt bike riding boots do provide protection against hot engines and tree branches on the trails.
6. Broken neck and back
Easily the worst injury that a dirt bike rider can experience is a broken neck or back. These life long injuries affect both the rider and their carer for years, potentially resulting in having the rest of your life in a wheelchair or simply with limited mobility. Ask any rider either on the race track or local trails and their #1 fear is a broken neck or back. This often spells the end of their riding forever.
Making dirt bike riding safer
While you might be attracted to the stunts that you see on TV, the reality is that it takes years of consistent practice to achieve these. No doubt these riders had to suffer from many crashes in the process.
Dirt bike riding is physically demanding and those who have limited fitness may find adventure riding to be more relaxing.
We can recommend offroad riders to always have:
A full-sized helmet. Ensure it’s DOT-approved and if you buy a used one, ensure it hasn’t got any notable cracks. Always pay up for the best out there.
Matching goggles for the helmet. By having matching goggles, you’re able to protect your eyes when riding and when taking a fall from the riding seat.
Very good quality boots. Avoid anything that’s too cheap as they won’t be comfortable to wear for the long term and offer limited safety features.
Impact-reducing gloves. Look for gloves that have abrasion-resistant materials and spend up for high quality. The price difference is very minimal.
Jersey and pants. Don’t wear old long-sleeved clothing that was passed down from generations. Instead, invest in some genuine MX riding gear.
Elbow and knee pads. Definitely the best way to prevent any significant injury are elbow and knee pads. These are very inexpensive and easy to wear.
Chest protector. As we noted above, having a chest guard can reduce the likelihood of broken ribs. This is one of the worst dirt biking injuries to experience.
Neck brace. If you want to avoid spending the rest of your life in a wheelchair, then invest in a neck brace. These have become commonplace at MX tracks.
By having this gear, you won’t completely eliminate the dangers of dirt bikes and regular riding, but you’ll certainly feel more confident. And if you do crash, you can almost always dust yourself off and keep riding. If you ride with friends, you can be more relied upon with no one having to worry about you so much.
Teenagers are the most susceptible
Are you reading this in the hope of convincing your child to give up their dirt bike riding dreams? Many parents are well-intentioned and the statistics show that teenagers are most at-risk based on offroad motorcycling accident trends.
For that reason, you really need to do your best to protect them. If they choose to ride, they should only be riding in areas where help is readily available. You could also ride with them and help them to ride in a more responsible manner.
Motocross clubs appear to be all about speed, but these days safety is their #1 priority. They want their riders to be safe and will direct children to wear all of their protection gear while teaching them how to avoid collisions with other riders.
Just remember that children bounce easier than adults. If you’re concerned about the weight of the dirt bike causing them an injury, then consider an electric MX bike instead. It appears, upon analyzing the data, that most accidents occur by teenagers who head out riding without wearing any protective gear, not even a helmet.
Is it still worth it?
We’ve had to have this tough discussion and hope that we haven’t scared you from the sport. At the end of the day, everything we do is risky. From driving down the street to going for a hike in the woods. We have to analyze our risk tolerance and respond accordingly.
Many riders understand the risks and dangers involved with dirt biking. As a result, they invest in safety equipment to provide more confidence and protection when racing or merely on the local riding tracks.
Most riders will experience a crash every few months. For many, they simply dust themselves off and learn from the experience. Some will be hospitalized and fewer still will have life-altering experiences.
Therefore, riding a dirt bike is worth it if you can accept the risks involved. The risks are real but actual injuries can be vastly reduced through rider training and protective gear, plus choosing the right dirt bike for you.
Some riders who have ridden for 20+ years are yet to even break a bone. They choose to ride conservatively while protecting themselves. Typically, it’s those riding irresponsibly with no protective gear that is going to injure themselves the most.
