Motocross Boots Cost [My Boot Preferences]
Aside from the helmet, motocross boots are of equal importance when it comes to safety apparel any rider should have. Boots can range in cost but most boots will do a good job with protection. Yet, comfort and quality need to be taken into account.
Motorcross boots generally cost between ~$100 to $500. More professional boots can cost up to $600+. Here’s a list of boots that I would recommend to most people that you can get for around $100 – $300.
What are motocross boots and what are their benefits?
As you are well aware, this sport requires a whole lot of finesse, concentration, strength, and most importantly, protective gear. As mentioned above, motocross boots come second next to helmets in the list of protective gear a rider should own.
Your feet, calves, and ankles suffer the most in this high-adrenaline sport, which is why these motocross boots offer the best protection. Sure, they are not exactly the most comfortable gear to wear, but they offer ample protection for your lower legs and feet.
What makes the motocross boots vital protective gear?
- Your legs and feet could get slammed against boulders, trees, the hot engine of the bike, and other motocross riders.
- Riders normally use their feet when they want to prevent falling or when they are turning on a sharp corner, in which high-speed impact normally falls on the feet.
- Motocross boots offer optimum protection against injuries, especially when you drive in the dirt, in rough areas, and in almost any situation on a dirt bike. (More than two dozen bones make up your ankles and feet, and they need all the protection and comfort.)
What are motocross boots made of?
Normally, motocross boots are made of either metal or plastic, and sometimes a combination of various kinds of composite materials. While some boots offer protection with their aluminum and steel plates finish, they can be a bit heavy. Boots made of plastic are lighter but can still offer the same amount of protection.
You should be informed, however, that some riders prefer not to have steel plates, as they can be very uncomfortable to wear. In addition, boots that are made of synthetic materials offer durability but it comes at a higher price. Lastly, there are also boots made of rubber, which are oil resistant and easy to take on and off.
What are the essential factors to consider when choosing motocross boots?
There are many factors that need to be considered when choosing the best motocross boots, which include the following:
1. Material and quality
Protection is the primary purpose of wearing motocross boots, which is why the materials used to make a pair is very important. It can be crafted from a mixture of composite materials including leather, which is resistant to abrasion and is breathable. You also have the option of selecting cheap boots with lighter materials but they might not be able to offer the protection you need.
A lot of modern motocross boots now use steel as reinforcement to the toe and heel guards. The steel provides maximum protection to your lower legs and feet but can add a little more weight to the boots. Lastly, low-cost plastic-armored boots do not offer the same protection as those steel-armored motocross boots.
2. Size
Choosing the right size of motocross boots is also important, so it will be hassle-free to slide your feet in and out of the boots. We recommend that you check with the manufacturer’s size chart before you buy. To avoid confusion, you should take note that American companies use inches while European companies use centimeters.
3. Warranty
The product’s warranty is generally already built into the price of the motocross boots, which is why every buyer should take advantage of this feature. Most motocross boots come with the standard 2-year warranty while some manufacturers offer extended warranty to cover damages from high-impact crashes.
4. Level of expertise
Another important factor when choosing motocross boots is your experience or level of expertise. You will find that there are various pairs of motocross boots that cater to different levels of riding experience, may it be beginner, intermediate, or expert level. You would not want to wear boots that are not on your level, as they can be very uncomfortable for you.
5. Price
While your budget is an important factor when choosing motocross boots, you should not settle for cheaply made boots that offer low-quality features. You should select the boots that meet your expectations while also considering the price your budget allows. In addition, each feature, pro, and con must be evaluated to give you an idea about which of them is a great bang for your buck.
Top 5 picks for the best motocross boots
In this section, we will be talking about the top 5 choices for the best motocross boots. Take some time to evaluate the product features, pros, and cons so you can narrow down your choices. You will be able to learn more about the product and in a way, you can determine which features are the most important for your needs.
1. O’Neal 0325-110 Rider Boots
If you are a beginner, the O’Neal Rider Boots are a must-try. This model comes with a complete design overhaul, along with an easy-to-use 4 buckle closure system. What’s great about these boots are the protection features it provides: synthetic leather heat shields, metal toe caps, and molded plastic shin. Its performance and great visuals make these boots a fan favorite.
The O’Neal Rider Boots feature an air mesh interior, heel support, and cushioned insole. It also comes with a rear pull tab for additional leverage. Its sole is equipped with a traction-heavy pattern, which makes it also ideal for gripping. In case you lose a buckle or a strap, worry no more, as replacements should be available.
Pros:
- Ideal for beginners
- Easy to get in and out of
- Offers maximum support and protection for your feet
- Durable
- Ideal for walking
Cons:
- Not made of memory foam
- Might be too tight for some
Overall
If you are a beginner looking for high-quality motocross boots that has outstanding support and protection features, this might be a great option for you.
2. Gaerne Balance Pro-Tech Motocross Boots
Designed for more experienced riders, the Gaerne Balance Pro-Tech boots provide optimum flexibility and outstanding grip. Its brown color is already visually appealing and it also offers ample ankle and foot protection. What sets it apart from the rest is that they are extremely durable, soft, waterproof, and crafted with oiled leather.
You will find these boots very comfortable to wear and walk in because of the gum rubber sole. It features 3 alloy replaceable buckles that also provide an impeccable grip, making sure that the boots fit perfectly on your feet. In addition, its wide-toe box is an advantage, especially for wide-footed riders.
Pros:
- Ideal for more experienced motocross riders
- Comfortable to wear and walk-in
- Provides outstanding foot and ankle protection
- Constructed with oiled leather
- Durable and waterproof
- Comes with 3 replaceable buckles
Cons:
- The leather might feel stiff
- The clasps easily pop open when not adjusted to the right fit
Overall
Specifically designed for experienced riders, the Gaerne motocross boots are a great choice due to their waterproof and oiled leather construction.
3. Forma Adventure Off-Road Motorcycle Boots
The Forma motocross boots are crafted with full-grain, as well as oil-treated leather, and feature a high-density component rubber sole and molded plastic protection. While it is made of plastic, it provides the maximum protection you can find in a nicely designed boot. It comes with a gear pad protection made of plastic and adjustable Velcro.
What makes these boots included in our top 5 is that it has replaceable and adjustable plastic buckles. The inner portion has a breathable and waterproof Drytex lining, as well as molded plastic protection for your shin and ankle. It also features ankle reinforcements, a lightweight sole design, extra soft polymer padding with memory foam, and an anti-bacterial footbed with an air pump system.
Pros:
- Waterproof and breathable
- Provides protection for your ankle and shin
- Comes with polymer padding with memory foam
- Equipped with replaceable and adjustable plastic buckles
- Made with lightweight plastic
- Comfortable to wear
Cons:
- The footbed may be flimsy
- Insoles are thin
Overall
You may think that due to its plastic construction, it will not be able to take a beating. However, if you’re not a heavy rider, you might want to try this one out.
4. AXO Drone Boots
Another great motocross boot designed for beginners is the AXO Drone motocross boots. They are constructed from high-quality, safe, abrasion-resistant, and durable materials, specifically selected because of their weight, value, and strength attributes. It comes with a wide-toe box, which offers extra comfort to your ankles and feet.
Its synthetic materials have been proven to endure normal wear and tear due to this high-impact sports activity. It also can retain its shape for a long period. Another great feature of the AXO Drone boots is the foam gaiter, which prevents dirt from entering the insides of the boot. It also is equipped with a mesh lining, offering a non-slip interior.
Pros:
- Comes with 4 replaceable molded buckles
- Features a non-slip interior
- Equipped with a barrier that prevents dirt from entering the boots
- Durable and abrasion resistant
- Has a wide-toe box
- Made of synthetic materials
- Strong and lightweight
Cons:
- Might be difficult to walk in
- Buckles are challenging to snap
Overall
The AXO Drone boots are one of the most comfortable motocross boots out on the market. However, it might give you a hard time walking around while wearing it.
5. O’Neal Element Men’s Boots
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If you want durable motocross boots, then you should give O’Neal Element boots a try. As advertised, it can endure and stand up to any challenges you may face on the racing track. These boots are specifically designed to offer comfort and support, so you can have complete focus on your ride.
It is easy to use and it features adjustable buckles and an air mesh interior with a metal shank, and a synthetic leather heat shield for protection. It is a relief that both beginners and expert riders prefer these boots because of the feel and look they offer.
What makes these motocross boots nice is their Goodyear welt soles for durable construction. The manufacturer also keeps its buyers’ comfort in mind with heel support and padding. Great for track, trail, and ATV riding.
Pros:
- Provides good protection and comfort
- Durable and comfortable
- Features injection molded plastic shin
- Easy to use
- Used by both beginners and professionals
- Available replacement straps
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Soles may have durability issues
Overall
It may have some of the features you want for motocross boots; however, it may not last too long in motocross situations.
Conclusion
You can get the perfect pair of boots if you are knowledgeable about what features you need and what you don’t. When choosing the best motocross boots, make sure that you have evaluated each model, including their features, pros, and cons. In addition, take note of the essential factors that need to be considered such as durability, comfort, protection, and overall value for your money.
