These boots felt comfortable right out of the gate-no break-in required!
I received today and they are lightweight and comfortable out of the box ad exactly how they are described. These are perfect for the type of riding I will be using them for 80% touring 20% dirt . Atomic Moto has never steered me wrong Thanks again Bombers!
This is the second pair of boots I have bought from Atomic. I watched all the sizing videos and it helped me choose the right size the first time.
Customer service is excellent, had a slight shipping problem, they were on it and had it fixed immediately
Gaerne balance fit great, comfortable and quality material.
go ahead and put that order in! Dave R
I've worn the Gaerne Balance boots for the past 4 years. They are extremely comfortable, but due to the lack of a shift pad they began to leak after a year. I put a couple layers of Tuff Toe where the shifter meets the boot, that lasted a couple years. Now the boots leak again and it's time to retire them.
My next boots will have Gore-Tex and a shift pad.
The usual review of the GBO's says: "Super comfortable, high-quality materials and construction, but limited protection." I agree with all that. I bought them for knocking-about, light hiking, and my pandemic daily woods walk. The asterisk: I WOULD NOT RIDE IN THEM, due to the limited protection. A plastic shin plate and ankle padding don't make for a protective boot. Atomic-Moto sells plenty of more-protective boots, at least twelve at a lower price point than the GBO's. Don't wait until you are in the ER to decide that your boots aren't up to the job.
Random observations: Often touted as having a wide toe box, I am happy to report that they fit my narrow-ish (C/D width) feet just fine. The sizing seems accurate; I ordered my usual 14/49 size, and they are fine. Straps are fiddly, and the buckles pop open now and then until you get them adjusted properly. Not a deal breaker. It's useful to know that the upper alloy strap holder pivots to help align the strap and buckle. My Dickies dungarees fit over just fine, or tuck in. Can't comment on the waterproof membrane, as I live in Mary Austin's "Land of Little Rain." Before you order these, remember the Bombers' dictum: "Wear as much boot as you are willing to tolerate." If these are all you can tolerate, be sure you ride a bike you can pick up with one hand (trials? pedal?). Mull it over, get BP's input, and you won't go wrong. The one asterisk is your own, though.
Great light feeling boot, have worn around the house for break in haven't rode in them yet but suspect they will be a good choice, Will submit after break in and ride.
So far so good! I've ridden with them in the dry and in the wet. Gortex seems to be doing its job. the boots are quite comfortable right out of the box. Seems like they might run a bit big, my size 13 are a full inch longer than my size 13 Alpinstars. I thought about replacing with size 12 but I like the way they feel on my feet so much I didn't do it. The wider boot combined with the stitching around the sole took a bit to get used to compared to the slim Alpinstars. had to adjust my shifter, which helped.
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!