What more can we say on the Gaerne Balance Oiled Boot- We get the call at least once a week: I have a DXKRLGZS 400/650/800/950/1200. Do you have a boot that is softer than an MX boot, but has more protection than a street touring boot? Something that will keep me from breaking my ankle but will let me walk? We do, and it is one of the best boots in the world: The Gaerne Balance.
(NOTE: For a video review of the Balance Oiled Boots, click on the "VIDEO" tab above.)DS and ADV riding may not seem strenuous. However, the bikes themselves are a lot heavier, and they are still ridden on surfaces where sudden loss of traction is common. And this brings a familiar occurrence: Lose the rear, plant your foot. Bike weighs 300 - 500 pounds. If you are wearing a boot with insufficient ankle support, you're toast.
We gush over Gaerne Balance boots so much because they blend super high quality materials - this cannot be overstated - with great fit, good protection, and just enough flex to comfortably wear and walk in, all day.
The Balance are made from MX boot leather, which is about 30% thicker than street boot leather. They have sturdy buckles and enough height to clamp onto your lower leg firmly. These factors distribute twisting force up through the boot structure. A plastic shin plate reduces the amount of fold / distortion in the leather, stiffening it further. On the other hand, they are light in weight and have a soft, easy-to-walk-in sole. They split the middle ground perfectly between street boots and MX boots.
Gaerne probably has the best fit in the world, and the comfort of these is outstanding. The entire upper of the boot is made from 5 pieces, so very few seams. This allows the boot to crease without pressure points. Best of all, they have a wide toebox, and are great for people with wide feet (unlike Sidi's...).
There are two versions of the Balance: this is the Oiled version, with an oiled leather that is a little softer, and features a waterproof liner. There is also the Pro Tech version, which uses standard leather, is a little stiffer, non-waterproof, and costs about $100 less. Both are BOMBER recommended.
- Super-high quality full grain oil-tanned leather - probably the best boot leather in the world
- Wide toebox - great for wide footed riders
- 3 alloy replaceable buckles
- Waterproof / breathable Drytech liner
- Gum rubber sole for grip and easy walking