I need to buy some 'reasonable' boots, but never have any feeling with the heavier full boot with the toecap almost like a work boot. I prefer the more robust half boot/gym boot type like this Alpine Star I'm considering. Has anyone used these or similar? You know they won't get wet, my main interest is in the gear lever 'feel'. Cheers! https://www.sportsbikeshop.co.uk/motorcycle_parts/content_prod/347950
I've had these slightly more robust AStars smx1's for a few years now. V comfy but still sturdy enough to get positive gear feel. Ideal for under jeans and easy for walking in too.
Thanks Lozzy. I knew you were a rap for Alpine Stars, but I couldn't remember what you wore. Cheers also to Alan. The SMX looks to have a higher front (toe cap) than the one I've pictured, but they are ten quid cheaper. Think I'll go for the Fastback although I'm not sure whether to jump in now or wait for the next 10% off weekend!
I can see the attraction and each to their own, but I value my ankles too much. In the event of an accident I would prefer a full boot to hold things together.
Yep, fully agree with you, BR. I guess we often play with fire when it comes to safety and self-preservation. No doubt the full boot offers much more, but these are still 'reasonably' protective and a step up from the even lighter ones I am wearing now.
I have these exact boots Nigel..... FASTBACK but with some day glo yellow astars logos and a grey sole. They're so comfy but I only wear them with jeans on short rides. I also have some Sidi streetburner ankle boots which have a bit more protection, heel guards, toe sliders but I can't seem to break them in and they're a bitch to walk in. Again only for short rides but that's your bag anyway haha
What is the difference between a short ride or long one, you could still fall off Surely the big difference is are you going to walk a long way or not
Short ride will obviously reduces the chances of being involved in an accident in the law of averages......for example if I go out for 5 minutes I am less likely to get hit by a car. If I go out for 5 hours I am more likely to get hit by a car/or fall off. So......in conclusion, in our heads we feel we will be ok if we are 'just popping out for a short ride' so I'll wear my ankle boots. In't that right @nigelrb !!
All incidents and accidents I’ve been involved in have occurred within a 15 mile radius. So I could take a pair of short boots with me and change into them after 20 miles. As long as I remember to change back when I get closer to home.
When you get to Nigels age you can afford to take a risk or two as you already have umpteen decades chalked off
Sorry, Paulo, I can't agree here. I was going to tackle the 'short versus long ride' protection attitude after your first post, but uncharacteristically, I chose not to stir the pot. I see it quite different, and despite being one preferring short boots believe that the 'incidence of injury' and NOT the 'quantum of distance' should be the prime factor here. One can just as easily be hit or fall off when 'just popping out' or doing a 30-mile loop, as when doing a 2-hour trek. I think we should be concerned for protection no matter what. You are quite correct though with your statement: 'in our heads we feel we will be ok if we are 'just popping out for a short ride' and that can be to our detriment. I am sure we've all done the same thing. Only a week ago I rode the MV around some local streets with no helmet - purely to listen for engine noises. Both illegal and stupid, but that is our mindset - I'm just going up the road, nothing will happen. Of course we get back to the 'to each their own', BUT, whenever and wherever we are on a bike we are susceptible to the risk of injury whether through our own over confidence or other driver.
Quite an uncanny and some might say 'insulting' comment. But you really have nailed it, Charlie. I'm not sure of the attitude of other 'older' members, and whilst I agree that life is precious, I often have the thought that if something disastrous/tragic did happen, I would not be overly concerned. To some this might sound negative and a tad morbid, but as a single person with no family 'responsibilities' I do not have the emotive barrier of leaving people behind. I hope others might chip in here with their thoughts. I do wonder if I'm on my own with this or if other(s) might think similarly?
Hmm you've got me thinking now Nigel..... Myself as a young man......ahem..... With four young children, I do sometimes say to myself 'be careful here Paulo' you need to make it home today. Hell..... Next time I go out I'm wearing full on ice hockey gear...... And that's on top of full length boots and my leathers!!
Nigel take a look at the Daytona range, they do a couple of short boots which are excellent not as fancy or sporty looking as the alpinestars but they are very comfy and will last many years. The police motorcyclists wear Daytona for a reason https://www.daytona.de/en/boots/withgoretex
Thanks for that. Will look later. I'm taking a bit of a lie down for a short while due to my being overcome with emotion at the sight of @raphael actually agreeing with me.
Yes indeed Lozzy, I was a fan of Alpinestars until they swapped their manufacturing plant to china, I swapped to Daytona a few years ago and now I would not wear anything else
