The Best Motorcycle Sport Boots For 2024
We’d Know: We’ve Hands-On Tested 2500+ Pieces Of Riding Gear Since 2000
Our picks are based on boots that offer the best blend of safety/performance, function/features, and price.
Last updated November 17, 2023 by Simon Bertram.
About Our Recommendations
Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves.
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Best Entry Level Motorcycle Sport Boots
Priced under $200.
Sedici Corsa Vented
Price: $199.99
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Sedici Corsa Vented boots are a bit of a strange beast when it comes to sport boots. They are, by design, track ready, but include a feature that is often seen on motocross boots, namely an “exo-skeleton” support structure over the ankles. This is put in place to prevent torsional twisting of the foot and ankle in the event you come off the bike, to the point that the structure will sacrifice itself to prevent your ankle twisting, which is one of the most common lower leg injuries suffered by sport riders.
High flow synthetic leather and a composite sole with comfort insole make these all-day ride ready, but the slides and fully armored shin, heel, toe, and ankle areas also earn these boots track-ready certification.
Key Specs
• Take it to the track performance and protection
• Advanced external dual hinged support for increased protection and support
• Perforated microfiber upper for comfort, protection and durability
• Full length reinforced composite midsole with built in flex zones
• High flow perforations in the non-impact locations to provide maximum comfort in hot weather riding.
• Perforated accordion flex zones for increased mobility and comfort
• All new oil resistant rubber sole with new deep grip pattern for better ground traction
• Thermo-set 1pc molded heel for increased impact protection and comfort
• Air mesh lining to aid moisture wicking and breathability
• Molded rubber gear change provides extra grip Replaceable dual density alloy and TPU toe slider
• Custom molded vented shin protector with outer calf slider
• All new safety ratchet and lateral zip system for ergonomic entry and exit
• Anatomical / replaceable EVA footbed provides arch support and protects against vibrations
• Additional set of thicker EVA insoles for ½ size reduction in fit
Protection & Safety
• Anti-torsion exo-skeletal support over ankles to prevent the most common lower leg injury for sport riders.
• Reinforced TPU at toe, heel, ankle for the best impact protection
• Reflective striping subtle added to rear of boot.
Best Mid-Range Motorcycle Sport Boots
Priced $200 - $349.
Alpinestars SMX 6 V2 Vented Boots
Price: $299
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon | J&P Cycles
Why?
Alpinestars is the industry standard for mid-range full-length motorcycle sport boots. The SMX 6 is a highly protected, sleek book with a ventilated leather construction to keep you cool when ripping around the hot tarmacs. They are highly agile due to Alpinestars addition of accordion stretch paneling, and the safety features give these boot a CE certification.
Key Specs
• Boot upper incorporates innovative front, rear bellow and rear calf zones for superior levels of flexibility
• Upper constructed from microfiber for durability and abrasion resistance
• Ergonomic last for forefoot streamlining to enable greater control of the bike’s controls and for superior, wide-ranging foot profile, fit and comfort
• Air vents on the heel counter and shin plate plus breathable mesh inserts improve comfort and reduce fatigue on short and long rides
• High modulus TPU injected shin guard, calf protector, heel counter, shift pad and toe slider for improved shock protection and durability
• Double density ankle protector on medial side layered under the upper offers protection in key area
• Integrated, replaceable bi-injected TPU slider features easy screw fixing concept for quicker and easier replacement
• Innovative instep and Achilles accordion flex zone construction for superior comfort, extension, control and support
• Internal insole with the shank reinforcement integrated for support to the arch area and foot protection
• Medial side entry opening/closure system features elastic-mounted zipper with wide closure for flexibility and secure fit
• Breathable textile interior lining features anti-sliding suede reinforcement on heel area to help keep foot in position while riding
• Removable anatomic footbed includes EVA and Lycra for performance, comfort and support
• Alpinestars’ exclusive compound rubber sole promotes improved feel and grip, water dispersion and durability
Protection & Safety
• These boots are fully CE certified
• Alpinestars’ innovative TPU lateral ankle brace protection provides a bio-mechanical support between lateral top calf/shin and ankle and offers improved structural integrity, protection against impact shocks, repeated abrasion resistance, and flex support
• TPU Modules can be found in the ankle support, and added protection can be found in the shin, heel, calf, shift pad, and toe slider.
Dainese Dyno Pro D1
Price: $320
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon
Why?
Dainese makes high-end motorcycle products, and these Dyno Pro D1 boots are no exception. Inflation has bumped these boots out of our mid-range and into the high-end category but that's where they belong on quality alone. At just north of $300, these boots pack a punch. They offer all the protection most sport riders could ever need in a package that feels more like a technical high-top basketball shoe than a full-on track boot.
Key Specs
• Gear shifter guard
• High grip TPU inserts
• Soft inserts
• Reflective inserts
• Rubber sole
• Setscrew wrench supplied
• Flexible joints for extra walking comfort
• Speed lacing system
• Upper in microfiber
• Cowhide leather inserts
• TPU heel counter
• Shoes certified to CE – Cat. II – 89/686/EEC Directive
• Reinforced nylon toe
• Protective nylon inner hull
• Magnesium inserts on the outer side and heel
• Shock absorption insert on the heel with controlled deformation insert
• Replaceable magnesium slider (sold separately)
• Double jersey airgap liner
• Air canalization system
Protection & Safety
• These shoes are fully certified to CE – Cat. II – 89/686/EEC Directive – you can trust the official safety rating with these shoes rather than what the manufacturer may or may not claim
• These shoes have a ton of safety features and reinforced areas. The TPU heel counter, reinforced nylon tow, nylon inner haul, magnesium inserts, and shock absorption insert all culminate into a very safe boot.
Forma Freccia
Price: $229 to $249
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
Forma is one of those companies that likes to not be overly boastful about their products, which is odd considering how good most of their foot gear is. A perfect example of this are the Forma Freccia boots, which are track-ready sport boots made out of microfiber for both protection and comfort. Using a directed airflow, the boots channel air through tiny channels in the insole to send cooling air to the bottom of your foot, an area that many other boots neglect.
Add on top of that the anti-torsion ankle support, the toe sliders, the shin guar, and the easy-in zip-and-Velcro closure system, these are a bargain, as they are pretty much a version of the Forma Ice Pro Flow boots for $100 off at the high end!
Key Specs
• Microfiber upper
• Anti-slip sports rubber sole
• Ankle support system
• Injection molded plastic protections
• Polyurethane toe slider
• Calf and ankle protection
• Plastic gear pad protection
• Air ventilation pockets
• VELCRO® brand and zippered closures
• Air mesh lining
• Polyurethane nylon reinforcements
• Soft polymer padding with memory foam
• TPU Dual Flex with anti-shock felt midsole
• Anti-bacterial replaceable footbed with A.P.S. (Air Pump System)
• CE level protection
Protection & Safety
• These boots are fully certified to CE – Cat. II – 89/686/EEC Directive – you can trust the official safety rating with these boots rather than what the manufacturer may or may not claim
• The primary safety system on these boots are the anti-torsion exo-skeletal ankle supports. These are designed so that should you come off your bike at speed, they will take the the torsional impact of your feet against the ground and prevent tib-fib torsion breaks.
Best High-End Motorcycle Sport Boots
Priced over $350+.
Forma Ice Pro Flow Boots
Price: $350
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
The Forma Ice Pro Flow sport boots offer aggressive sport bike riders all of the protection that they would need on a track but with a price that makes them a doable selection for street riders or track racers. All of the technology found in the $500 plus sport boots are in the Ice Pro Flow as well as the comfort that you need for a long, but sporty ride.
At under $400, the Forma Ice Pro Flow sport boots offer riders the function, comfort and protection that is needed from a quality sport boot at a reasonable cost.
Key Specs
• CE Certified quality
• Microfiber upper
• Vented perforated microfiber
• Forma double density anti-slip race compound sole
• Anti-torsion F.C.S with incorporated anti-scratch frame
• Rear F.C.S cushioned stop for maximum safety
• Vented stainless steel toe slider
• Aggressive plastic gear pad protection
• Injection molded plastic protections
• Air intake system for personalized air circulation
• VELCRO® brand closures and zip closure
• Rear buckle pump ratchet closure
• Elasticized front fastening system with snap closing
• Plastic heel cup in reinforced nylon
• Air mesh lining
• Extra soft polymer padding with memory foam
• Polyurethane nylon reinforcements
• TPU Dual Flex mid sole
• Anti-bacterial replaceable footbed with APS
Protection & Safety
Protection is the main priority here, so let’s start off with the fact that these sport boots are CE Certified quality.
• Anti-torsion F.C.S with an anti-scratch frame
• Rear F.C.S cushioned stop for maximum safety, a vented stainless steel toe slider
• Plastic gear pad for added protection
• Injection molded plastic protectors in the impact prone locations around the foot and ankle.
• Plastic heel cup is reinforced with nylon for added durability and integrity
• Double density anti-slip race compound sole for great grip on the pegs and stability when reaching for the ground
Dainese Torque 3 Air Out Boots
Price: $450
Where to Buy: RevZilla | Amazon
Why?
The Dainese Torque 3 Air Out Boots are a perforated version of the regular Torque 3, making them much cooler and better equipped for warm weather riding. With motorcycle boots being so constricting due to the tight fit for maximum safety, the added airflow is much appreciated.
They are highly protective and built with premium materials to ensure a long lifetime of use.
Key Specs
• Perforated D-Stone main construction
• D-Axial ankle protection system
• Replaceable magnesium sliders on the outer toe and heel
• Internal speed lacing system
• Nylon outer heel slider
• Protective nylon inner hull and toe reinforcement
• Gear shifter guard at toe
• High grip TPU inserts for improved bike feel
• Setscrew wrench included
• Zippered closure at back
• Air canalization system
• Double jersey air gap liner
• Meets CE – Cat. II – EN 13634 boot certification
Protection & Safety
• These boots meet CE – Cat. II – EN 13634 boot certification through the full 360 protection
• The magnesium sliders located on the toe and heel areas are fully replaceable
• The nylon inner hull and toe reinforcement provides a higher level of impact resistance
AlpineStars SuperTech R
Price: $549
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
A lot of manufacturers will claim that their boots are powersports derived, bringing racing protection to everyday sport riders. AlpineStars has eschewed the whole word “derived,” and has simply put their racing boots on the market at a price that, once you look at everything the boot does, is a bargain.
The boot comes in two parts, with an inner “bootie” you put on first that is a 3D mesh to provide full shin and ankle support. You then slip your feet in the booties into the main boot chassis itself. That chassis features ventilated flex areas, toes/ankle/heel sliders, full shin armor, reinforced main impact areas, and a comfort zip closure with an adjustable fold-over TPU armored flap for ultimate protection.
This is the boot for the rider that wants to be able to ride on the street and the track, and not have to buy 20 separate pairs of boots to do so. These are fully rated, track-ready racing boots, that are also comfortable enough to be your everyday street boot.
Key Specs
• Main upper material constructed using microfiber for optimum abrasion resistance and flexibility
• New front flex area for improved impact abrasion
• New front flex area increases ventilation and airflow
• Redesigned rear bellow in stretch microfiber for improved natural front and back movement
• Redesigned top gaiter in microfiber material with TPU over injection
• New synthetic microfiber panel on medial side for enhanced abrasion resistance and improved feeling
• New TPU shifter for increased protection on lower medial side
• New TPU shin plate has been redesigned for greater impact absorption performance
• New replaceable shin slider for additional abrasion resistance
• New TPU stretch panel design with zip for an easier entry and exit and a closer fit
• Hook and loop closure secures the puller zip remains in position
• Micro adjustable ratchet closure on top of boot for an optimized fit
• Replaceable co-injected TPU/aluminum toe slider with an easy screw system
• Replaceable heel plate slider offers increased sliding performance and protection in the case of crash
• Sole constructed using a lightweight rubber compound for excellent grip on the pegs
• Separate bio-mechanical inner bootie made by 3D mesh material for greater structure
• Inner bootie is equipped with a new external toe area with a soft TPU reinforcement
• Bootie provides impact protection and additional ankle padding for greater protection, stability and cushioning
Protection & Safety
• Full CE powersports PPE rating, meaning they are cleared to be used as race boots. Multiple armored layers, as well as slider, support the foot and ankle in even the most extreme of leans
• Visibility comes from subtle reflective strips on the rear of the boot
SIDI Mag-1
Price: $425
Where to Buy: RevZilla
Why?
In the world of sport boots, a lot of companies will market their boots as "High tech" or "the latest advancement in boot technology." Of course, most of the time that's an iteration of previous technologies, but SIDI have actually advanced boot tech with the Mag-1.
The key feature of the Mag-1 is the internal brace system. Made from carbon fiber, the brace sits along the verticals on either side of your ankles and lower leg, connected by an external brace that is physically screwed to each. This provides superior anti-torsion and crucially anti-lateral movement in the boot, protecting you from ankle breaks or tib-fib fractures if you come off the bike at great speed.
The Mag part of Mag-1 comes from the magnetic closure system, which uses a micrometric adjuster with a steel wire over a magnetic hook and clip, This allows for the perfect fit to be achieved, and once it's set, it stays set until you back off the adjuster to open the boot. These boots were designed and engineered with test riding by several of SIDI's sponsored World SBK and MotoGP riders, so you are getting true race-grade tech in a streamlined boot for the street and track.
Key Specs
• Arch and Achilles areas are covered with Sidi’s exclusive elastic textile and injection molded polyurethane comfort panels
• Arch area utilizes two TPUbands next to the TECNO-3 magnetic closures for a maximum support and wrap of the arches
• Asymmetric and shaped shock absorbing heel cup, smooth and flat inside for more adherence with the bike, with shock absorbing system in the back and outside
• The shell and the shock absorbing system are replaceable through a screw and an interlocking system
• Nylon inner sole with removable arch support pad
• Replaceable external shin, heel and toe sliders
• Nylon inner sole
• Dual compound sole
• High stress areas are double stitched
• TPU shift pad
• Perforated, Teflon treated nylon inner lining with Cambrelle lining in the toe area
• Recessed screws used to attach replaceable parts so as to not damage bike
• Toe slider made from nylon reinforced with fiberglass
• Toe Slider features air intake and alloy insert
• Adjustable calf on the Sidi Mag-1 Boots can accommodate riders with up to an 15-inch calf diameter when measured 11.5-inches up from the bottom of the heel
Protection & Safety
• Full track-ready powersports PPE certification. These are race-grade boots, developed with replaceable parts including the shin, toe, and ankle slide areas. As well, the toe slider feature an air intake and alloy backing so even if the TPU wears down or breaks off, you still have protection.
• Carbon fiber shaft support internalizes the exo-skeletal structure of many sport boots, while also providing key lateral protection as well so your feet don't rotate along the Z or X axis of movement, just the Y so you can still shift and brake.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sport Motorcycle Boots
What is the definition of a sport motorcycle boot versus other types of full height boots?
The purest definition of a sport riding boot compared to things such as ADV, motocross, and regular touring boots is that they are optimized for use on sportbikes. This often includes a pronounced forward angle in the boot shaft, heavy duty armoring on the sides of the ankle, shin guard armor, and quite often, double closure systems to ensure they are firmly on your feet.
What is the difference between a “street” sport boot and a “track” sport boot?
While all sport boots need to be CE certified to be considered as protective equipment, for a boot to be considered a track boot, it needs to carry a CE Powersports rating. Most of the time, this is codified as CE – Cat. II – 89/686/EEC, but there are several powersports ratings depending on where you are in the world. Basically, look for anti-torsional exo-skeletal supports, aggressive but aerodynamic armoring, and track boots will very often have zip closure with a secondary locking closure like a clasp or a BOA dial to cinch the boot tight.
Can I use sport riding boots every day for things like commuting, errands, the like?
Due to the shaping of sport boots to have a forward leaning shaft, they might be uncomfortable to walk in for extended periods of time. You can definitely use sport boots for commuting, but having a pair of work shoes in your seat bag or backpack to put on once the commute is over is how many commuters of sportbikes do it!
Are sport motorcycle boots the safest type of boot out there?
This is a bit of a tricky one to answer, as they are the safest type of boot for their stated purpose, but would not work nearly as well for off-roading as an ADV or Motocross boot. That said, sport boots often feature excellent support for the ankle, including anti-torsional structures inside and outside of the boot. As well, track rated boots might be needed by your local track day organization before you are allowed to go out riding, due to their specific design to offer maximum high speed protection.
Should I wear my sport motorcycle boots over or under my riding pants?
That really depends on the style of sport boot you have. A sport boot that is touring oriented will usually fit under 95% of the riding pants out there. On the flipside, a track oriented sport boot is designed to fit over the leg of a leather race suit. For most street sport boots, either works.
What materials are sport riding boots made of?
The most common material used is microfiber, a type of synthetic leather that has excellent abrasion resistance. The sole and “chassis” of the boot is quite often some form of rubber or nylon, and the armor and anti-torsion structures are almost always high grade TPU.
What To Think About When Shopping For Sport Motorcycle Boots
Purpose-built riding boots, especially for sport bike riders, are an often overlooked and crucial piece of gear. While some riders will look at regular shoes and say “That’ll work just fine,” the truth is that those “normal” shoes don’t have any abrasion resistance whatsoever nor do they have any anti-torsion features. Your feet, ankles, and lower legs are also a very complex part of the body, and injuries down there can be life-altering, sometimes to the point of not being able to ride again.
For this reason, if you ride a sportbike, you need adequate foot protection. Even a short boot will help prevent the most common types of injuries such as sprains, torn ligaments, and bone breaks in your feet. When looking for a sport boot, there are three major considerations to pay attention to: Materials, closure type, and armor/exoskeleton.
Materials: For sport boots, the best materials available are full-grain leather and synthetic leather, aka microfiber. These materials offer excellent abrasion resistance, can be perforated or ventilated to keep your feet cool, and also provide a solid mounting point for armor.
Closure Type: Most, if not all, sport boots will have what is known as a dual closure. This often means a strong zip that is then covered with a flap on the side of a boot and secured either through velcro, a BOA cable system, or ratchet-style clasps. On short boots, you might only have the zip on the side, or very rarely, have to lace them up like normal shoes.
Armor/Exoskeleton: The primary functions of a sport boot that covers your foot, ankle, and lower legs are a) to protect your feet and shins from incidental impacts from road debris and b) in the event of a crash to keep your feet protected and pointing forward, aka anti-torsion. The second of those functions is why many sport boots now feature some type of external semi-rigid or rigid armor over the ankle. This support is there so that, for example, if your toe catches the ground when landing from being launched off your bike, the exoskeleton forces your foot to remain pointing forward to the point of sacrificing itself to prevent ankle and lower leg breaks.
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