After much research and even a purchase and return (from Amazon) of an O’Neal Element I went with the Boulder Comp as recommended by Atomic staff. I found out that I have very little room for a boot with a higher toe box because of my shift lever. The Boulder Comp was better, although I did have to adjust shift lever. Shifting is far from idea but manageable. I wear a 10 1/2 in most shoes and ordered size 11 in the comp. The fit is good. The bottom portion is very stiff with hot spots on the top of my arches. The top upper portion has good flex and is comfortable. Buckle system seems good, functional and sturdy. The material on these is synthetic. I imagine with time the foot area should loosen up for better flex. The boots should offer good toe, heel and lateral support. The build quality appears to be very solid and they are not made in Chine, big plus for me. I would have rather gone with a fully leather boot but they were sold out. Brian at Atomic is outstanding and really knows boots. They were ordered and delivered in less than 5 business days. If the bottom half of the boot loosens over time, then you would be hard pressed to find a better boot at this price point.
Great padding around the ankle. I have a wide foot and these fit great.
A benchmark boot lives up to the hype. OK, we know that Gaerne makes a premium motorcycle boot, and the Balance Oiled are, if not their apex offering, pretty darn close to it. It is genuinely hard to describe how beautiful these boots are until you hold them in your hand. Everything about them oozes quality and attention to detail. At the same time, these boots are clean and simple. Everything you need and nothing you don't. Instantly comfortable and the gum rubber sole is awesome on and off the bike. I didn't purchase these for off-road use because they don't offer the requisite level of protection for anything more than a fire road. For me, these are an urban or weekend street boot that feels good, looks good and does everything I need it to. And boy are they a looker. People who know nothing about motorcycling comment on these boots. The consensus is that they are "wicked cool".
The Gaerne Oiled Leather Balance boots are a pretty complete package out of the box, but swapping out the OEM insoles for these babies is a very nice upgrade. Super comfortable and takes an already awesome pair of boots to the next level.
Fit was true to size. Very comfortable so far. Havenot hit any water yet so not sure how waterproof they are. Very happy with the purchase so far. Would recommend them.
You guys are always fair and consistent. Good company to deal with.