Hey there - I have geared up pretty much everything I need now except footwear. I live in Seattle area, and commuting daily - so the biggest issue is WATER protection. I've been riding with stuff like tennis shoes - and it's obviously not ideal :)

Any tips & wisdom of what to get and what to avoid? Or can a newbie like me just walk in to a motorcycle store and pick something out?

Any help appreciated. Thanks!

Don't know what your budget is, but Sidi makes a number of motorcycle boots with a gore-tex liner in them. http://www.sidisport.com/

I've used Sidi cycling shoes for years. They hold up very well, and most of the parts are replaceable on them. Also using a pair of Sidi Strata Rain boots now, and though they're a bit old they still work very well. Very comfortable, and appropriate for use on a motorcycle. It's not exactly CHEAP gear, but you do get what you pay for. They have protection on them to save your ankles/shins/heels in a fall, thin, but good grippy smooth soles for excllent feel on the pegs/shifter/brakes. Re-inforced toe cover for shifting, and zippers so no laces to worry about catching on things. Again, since most of the parts (armour/soles etc...) are replaceable on them, once you get them broken in and fitting your foot, you can keep them a long time.

Some food for thought anyway. Have fun shopping!

[QUOTE=Martin Lindhe
Any tips & wisdom of what to get and what to avoid? Or can a newbie like me just walk in to a motorcycle store and pick something out?

Any help appreciated. Thanks![/QUOTE]

Yes, you pretty much can, and it would be the best idea if one is near. I got lucky buying online, because not only quality but sizing comes into play. I agree, SIDI is top shelf, I ride them on the bicycle. For motorcycling, I was less concerned about top of the line and went with value for the lowest bucks. I have Vegas slip on waterproofs, and Icon Super Duty 2 laceup short boots. The Vegas are probably weak in ankle protection, but excellent touring boots otherwise. The Super Duty 2 are super stiff, should be near bulletproof tough. I like them both, would recommend either. I found both on sale at the same price, $68. Very happy with the value for the dollar.:)

+1 on Sidi products. These offer great protection and keep my feet dry and comfortable.

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/36/115/ITEM/Sidi-Way-Rain-Boots.aspx

Support a vendor who supports this Forum.

Riders Discount in the Vendor section has some boots (Alpinestars) that look very nice, waterproof as well!

I wish they would post the prices though, that's annoying and good marketing
at the same time!:sorry::D

Sidi make excellent boots. I have the Sidi On Road boot with GoreTex liner. You can wade in foot deep water and not get wet feet but my feet don't seem to sweat too much in them in the 90F weather either.

http://www.newenough.com/street/boots/waterproof_racing_boots/
http://www.newenough.com/street/boots/waterproof_sport_street_touring_boots/

TCX X-Five (aka Oxtar Matrix Gore-Tex):

http://www.newenough.com/street/boots/waterproof_sport_street_touring_boots/tcx/x_five_touring_motorcycle_boots.html

Gustavo

i have my fave, but i don't have your feet. i suggest you walk into a store with a wide selection and figure which brand your feet prefer. all the big companies make a waterproof model and they probably won't suck.

I've got a pair of Cruiserworks boots, I've had for 6 years....they are totally waterproof, and I've walked miles in them.

I also have a pair of Alpinestars Ridge boots, also waterproof, but walking a long distance in them is a little tougher than the Cruiserworks.

I won't buy anything that's not waterproof, I hate wet feet....

Thanks to a tip from another member, I bought the Icon Super Duty 2 boots for $68 at Motorcyclesuperstore.com. This is a great price. I don't ride in the rain so I don't know if they're waterproof or not. But they are supportive and comfortable and have ankle protection. Besides Ridersdiscount.com and Competition Accessories' website, other places where you might find discounts are bikebandit.com, leatherup.com and jafrum.com

TCX X-Five (aka Oxtar Matrix Gore-Tex):

http://www.newenough.com/street/boots/waterproof_sport_street_touring_boots/tcx/x_five_touring_motorcycle_boots.html

Gustavo

I have the gen 1.0 version of these, still going strong after 5 dry, comfortable years.

Thanks all - I ended up simply walking in to my local Kawasaki dealer and got me a pair of Alpinestars Ridge for $129 that they recommended for good bang for buck, comfy and waterproof. Seem great so far!

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/ProductImages/OG/2009_Alpinestars_Ridge_Waterproof_Boot_Black.jpg
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/36/17137/ITEM/Alpinestars-Ridge-Waterproof-Boot.aspx