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Many ADV Riders recently saw (and graciously weighed‑in on) a post on an ADV forum, seeking advice for the right boots for the leap from pavement‑focused touring to back‑country ADV riding. The deeper I dug, the murkier the boot‑swamp became—until several of them urged me to seek the counsel of "Brian at Atomic Moto". One phone call later, Brian had patiently mapped my “must‑haves” (real ankle protection, hike‑able sole, enough room for thick winter socks) to SIDI’s X‑Power Enduro. If you were one of the folks urging me toward Brian count me firmly in your camp now.
Need‑to‑know specs
Construction & materials: laminated Technomicro microfiber throughout—SIDI’s synthetic that’s lighter, more water‑resistant, and tougher to stretch than leather
Atomic-Moto
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Protection suite: dual‑axis mechanical ankle hinge with hard stops to curb hyper‑extension, rigid shock‑resistant heel cup, full‑wrap plastic toe box, and an inner heat shield with high‑grip texture
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Closure & fit: four replaceable cam‑lock buckles on memory‑retention straps; adjustable calf plate accommodates knee‑braces or burlier calves
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Sole: lugged “Davos” welted TA sole—stitched on like a stout hiking boot, great off‑bike traction and resolable by a cobbler
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Weight: published at ≈ 3.6 lb per boot in US 9 (expect a hair more in my EU 45)
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Sizing: I went with my normal EU 45 and the length/width feel bang‑on; SIDI lists the X‑Power as a “normal to slightly wide” last
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Out‑of‑the‑box feel
Sliding a foot in, I had that reassuring “mini‑exoskeleton” hug without hotspots. Even brand‑new the hinge lets the boot flex naturally when you crouch beside the bike, yet the lateral stiffness tells your ankles, “I’ve got you.” The cam‑locks are a joy—after one quick micro‑adjust I could snug the boot from wispy KLIM Coolmax liners all the way to my fattest winter Merinos + waterproof over‑socks with zero drama. Walkability? Think beefy backpacking boot: the welted lugged sole rolls better than most motocross‑derived footwear, and gravel parking lots suddenly feel less like marbles underfoot.
First ride notes
My maiden rip was a 50‑mile mixed surface shakedown. Predictably, the taller toe box meant bumping the shifter up two splines, but once done, upshifts were crisp. Feel on the pegs is muted compared to my street boots, yet precise enough to spot brake‑pedal bites. Standing on the pegs, the rigid mid‑foot eliminates that “arching‑over‑a‑railing” fatigue I used to get. And yes—my wife likes knowing that those articulated ankle braces are doing more than my old café‑style kicks ever could.
Early quibbles
Stiffness: they’re freer than a true MX boot but still clangy and board‑like for the first hour; expect a break‑in curve.
Synthetic upper: Technomicro’s advantages are clear, but if you love the smell of oiled leather, you’ll miss it—and the boots squeak a little in a quiet garage.
Weight: lighter than many hinged competitors, yet still a step up from ADV “sneaker‑boots.” Worth it for the armor, in my book.
Looking ahead
So far, the X‑Powers tick every box: secure, adjust‑on‑the‑fly fit, hike‑worthy sole, and protection that breeds confidence for both rider and pit‑crew (read: spouse). I’ll post a longer‑term verdict after a summer of WABDR scouting and this fall’s Black Hills Rally for Rangers, plus a cold‑wet Pacific‑Northwest winter test.
I have been wearing Sidi Crossfire TA's for many years. I was considering changing to one of Sidi's new models, but after a very helpful talk with Brian, I settled back on the Crossfire 3 TA. It has a few updates from my previous version--the toe box is roomier and the ankle fit is different, but they promise to be the perfect boot for the kind of riding I do.
It was time for a new all weather jacket and I decided to upgrade to no liner. Atomic Moto/Brian was most helpful, as usual. We discussed my bike (R1200gs), riding preferences (lots of forest & farm roads...dirt & gravel, multi-day, camping), age, and sizing. He helped go thru the many options and choose between the options. Excellent service!
The fit is trim with room for a puffy underneath and plenty of sleeve length for my long arms. Not sure I will use the multitude of pockets but there are many options. Appears very well made with quality features - yes, it is a Klim.
I have been out for two day rides. Very comfortable on the bike. Two comments on the zippers: the forearm zippers feel stiff and long, poking into the bend of my elbow. I hope they 'soften' up. Second, I was pleased how easily the zippers opened while riding (the zippers on my Carlsbad pants require much more effort). The airflow on a 78 degree day was very good. Thanks Atomic Moto!
I’m in my 3rd season with these boots and they are still holding up very well. Zero complaints and super comfortable!
Glad I purchased these boots! I was considering Forma Adventure boots but I was concerned about the tall sole for my intended use. I won’t be hiking in the Dakar boot but it’s certainly comfortable enough for short walking. Worth considering if you don’t require a riding boot more aimed at hiking.