Gaerne SG-12 Enduro Boots
For the harder stuff I wear Forma's Predator MX boots, but they're (understandably) too stiff when you know you'll be in lighter conditions and may need to help pick up bikes throughout the day. I had been downshifting to Sidi Adventure and Gaerne trials boots, but those aren't protective enough for unpredictable twin track. Enter the Sidi X-Power SC. 4-buckle security, plenty wide toe box (I can't handle Crossfires), and a good balance of TPU and fabric to offer moderate protection while retaining trail maneuverability and comfort. They even do a great job keeping 6-ish inches of muddy water out - I can personally attest to it. No, they're not GoreTex waterproof for adventure rides, and no they're not going to save your feet from a nasty rock strike, but they're similar to a Tech 7 and will readily handle sticks and mild falls while not wearing you down all day like a "ski boot" can. I'd call them a fantastic value when on sale. Tip: consider orthotics or a D3O sole for extra comfort!
Coming out of Gaerne Fastback Endurance boots which, even after extensive break in, never fit my feet comfortably. The SIDI's fit me really well and stay comfortable even after hours on the pegs (My longest ride was about 3 hours but most of it standing). The narrower heel holds my ankle and foot snugly but comfortably. The roomier toe accommodates my wider forefeet and also allows some foot expansion during a long ride. Design is just right, lots of protection but incorporated without making the boots big, heavy and clunky. That makes these really confidence inspiring on the bike as you get good feel for the controls, without sacrificing the protection that you're wearing these for. I don't walk much in my riding boots but did go a short distance on a trail wearing the SIDI's. They aren't uncomfortable but if you plan on doing any more than minimal walking around, bring a pair of walking shoes with you. The materials seem excellent and look like they will last. Personally, I don't see much downside to the glued soles (vs. a stitched on sole) as by the time they wear out, I'll likely be ready for new boots anyway. While everything about these boots seems pretty first class, only time will tell if they will provide longevity. Out of the box, my left boot had a sharp staple protruding enough to go all the way through the insole and poke my heel. An easy fix but something to watch out for. Overall, after a week of riding in these, I am very happy. The X Power SC's provide great protection while not being ungainly to wear. They fit super comfortably and have (other than the staple) since they came out of the box. At $100 off, these seem like an honest bargain.
I gave Atomic Moto a call to get their feedback on potential boot options. After a long chat with Brian, I settled on the Gaerne and couldn’t be happier. It’s a big step up from my A-stars adventure boot. Took a couple rides to get used to the boot but it feels great now!
Bought this boot to encase my feet for riding - due to extensive foot surgeries I do not want to EVER suffer injury/impact/abrasion to my feet or ankles so I searched for boots that offered above average support. The CE Rating on this boot is 2-2-2-2. The ratings are hard to learn from manufacturer and dealer websites for some reason. 2 is the highest rating, 1 is the lower rating, and 0 is essentially going barefoot. The 4 buckles will keep the boot on my foot with no doubts (protection isn't any good if the boot flies off the foot. Police find riders boots and shoes often missing both on impact and abrasion crashes). The side-bend support is very good in these boots which was important to me. The sole is rigid which is another key attribute so if you go toe down your boot/foot doesn't rip backward and if you go toe up into the ground the sole won't rip off or twist the ankle to mush. The side panel and front panel are plenty adequate for ankle crush protection and smash resistance/protection if an object is hit. This is the first product I've owned Made in Romania and I am well impressed. The buckles are nifty and durable. Comfort?? They are comfy now but took a good 20 hours of walking about, flexing, bending, stairs etc. to get comfortable. I jam a softball down into the ankle area when I'm not wearing them to encourage the plastic boot plating to conform to a shape similar to my foot. These are structured stiff boot and required break-in for me. I keep the top 2 buckles buckled tight when I'm not wearing them to encourage the uppersto take on a cylindrical shape rather than being flat which makes the shafts more comfy on my calves/shins. Happy I bought them - they are very protective yet comfortable enough to walk around in and wear all-day and on multi-day rides. I am able to insert custom orthotics in for improved arch support and comfort. Toe box is thick so a bit of adjustment to my gear shift linkage was helpful. Glad I bought them and I'd buy them again. They are warm but not hot. Talk to Brian for exact sizing/fit. He (and I)recommend a size larger so that if ever you crash your toes don't smash into the inside end of the boot. A shot of silicone spray makes them easy to slip into (talcum powder could work too if needed). No negatives to comment on. They are solid protections, fairly comfortable, stylish I suppose and do what I want them to do. I wear them under my riding/touring pants - it's a snug fit but does fit. I don't like riding without them. I highly recommend you wear protective boots when riding ANY motorcycle not just off-road or adventure. Be safe!
They do seem like a good boot, overall I like them but have 4 issues. Main and biggest is the strap length, the straps in all positions are just way too short. Next I ordered a 14/49 and they are still pretty narrow. Third issue is they should mention treating the leather on the boot before first use or just do it from factory. A lot of wear where where the straps rub the leather, and they are not very water resistant. Lastly, I bought these because I thought that they would be a good balance of control, feel and protection. They are pretty much like every other boot where you cannot really feel the controls much at all. I am not a fan of the plastic molding in a toe box.
This all being said I do like the boot. I am hoping that they last if few seasons. I can't say I feel they offer a ton more protection or substantial gain over something like an O'Neill Ryder boot. But for three times the cost. I'm hoping I get three times to use, as the cheaper boots tend to only last a season or two.
