How do I choose my trail riding boots?

Choosing a pair of trail boots can be a headache. More protective than for on-road use and more comfortable than for cross-country, this hybrid boot is a key piece of equipment for the adventurous biker who wants to be at ease on roads and trails. The challenge for everyday use? To combine comfort, protection and flexibility. In this article, we give you the criteria you need to evaluate to find the right shoe for you, whether you're an occasional trail rider or a backcountry adventurer.

A bit of semantics is in order. What does "trail" mean? In English, the term "trail" means "path". In fact, its use in French for motorcycling is a little biased, if not downright reductive. This notion is clearer among British bikers, who call it "Dual Sport". And it's even clearer in Germany with the famous BMW GS, which stands for "Gelände/Straße" or "off-road/road". The message is clear. Trail riding means riding a motorcycle on asphalt AND on ungroomed trails. So trail motorcycle boots have to protect you in both situations.

A waterproof outer membrane

There's no room for compromise here: your trail boot has to be waterproof. It's all about keeping your feet dry, whether you're riding in the rain, slogging through the mud, or crossing water-logged ruts. What technology achieves this little miracle of waterproofing? The Goretex membrane, both waterproof and breathable. Falco also offers High-Tex, which does the job just as well.

But be careful! Since these materials are not based on druidic incantations or unicorn dust, your boot will turn into a swimming pool if the water level rises above the top of your boot during fords. We've warned you!

A level of protection adapted to your use

Your use will determine the robustness of your boot. Bear in mind that the boot's upright format in itself provides good protection for your malleolus. What's next? Even if you're an occasional TT rider, it's important that your ankle doesn't get twisted. That's why you need to pay close attention to the support provided. So, for more touring-oriented models, you'll find Velcro flaps or tightenings with the Boa system.

The more you're on the trail, the greater the risk of twisting, hence the emergence of buckle fasteners. 1 buckle for light off-roading, 2 buckles for heavier off-roading and up to 4 buckles for enduro and cross models. These devices wrap you up as snugly as a cast, while being a little more practical in use.

What about reinforcements? What's the bare minimum? Good toe protection keeps your toes safe when your vicious bike lands right on your hallux. As for the heel, it's essential to protect it to avoid fracturing the calcaneus when you suddenly lose your balance and land on a sharp rock. In a nutshell? The basics are good general support, extra protection for the malleolus and reinforcements at the ball of the foot and heel.

Are you planning more frequent off-road outings? Want to try out some tricky single track? Then it's essential to opt for serious shin protection. Because even if the fibula isn't a very useful bone, it's never pleasant to break it on a hidden branch. And if the calf is a rather sheltered area, it's a good idea to protect it when your crabbing in the mud becomes more regular.

Flexibility or protection?

Trail boots present a paradox. The more you move towards enduro riding, the more your feet need to be protected, while at the same time gaining in mobility. Can you see the problem? Protection and flexibility are rarely compatible. Fortunately for us, equipment manufacturers have found the solution: the pivot. This ankle joint, also known as the DSF at Rev'It, offers maximum freedom of movement while preventing tendons from over-extending. If Achilles had been an enduro rider, he would no doubt have opted for this device.

A sole to match your tires

The principle to keep in mind: match your soles to your rubbers. What does this mean? It means that if you're going to be pushing your bike down a slushy path, you'd better have studded boots. Of course, having the right shoes also means you'll have solid support on your foot pegs without the risk of slipping when riding in the wet.

The best of the best? Models with replaceable soles. Yes, they do exist! And they allow you to keep the same grip on every outing.

Respect your feet's morphology

Let's face it: Cinderella doesn't have a monopoly on the unique foot. Your arches also deserve shoes adapted to their morphology. Our advice? Don't get stuck on one brand. It may not be right for you. Gaerne, for example, is generally suitable for wide feet. So, before investing in just one pair of boots, put on several.

What about Boa? This lacing system offers an easy, precise fit that adapts to the shape of your foot. It's not a panacea, but it's a welcome adjustment variable.

The right budget for your needs

Precisely targeting your use will help you avoid the wrong budget. What do you mean by this? All reinforcements, protections and devices to protect your feet have a cost. So, if you rarely ride off-road, it's not a good idea to opt for an enduro boot with polymer reinforcements, accordion-flex leather, DSF articulation system and other space-age technology.

For just €200, you can get a versatile pair of boots that will allow you to get your feet wet on the trails, while protecting you perfectly on the road.

Are you looking for extra protection for regular or technical TT outings? A budget of €330 will give you access to a comfortable, durable and safe product for your armpits.

What about the long-distance adventurer in search of the ultimate shoe? In this particular case, there isn't really a typical budget. From €300 to €680, it's up to the adventurer in question to decide.

How do you choose from this plethora of models? We've selected 3 models for you by category (soft, protective, committed) with 3 price levels. What do they have in common? They're waterproof, all-weather and designed for everyday use.

Lightweight all-terrain touring boots: 80% road, 20% trail

These models are perfect for the touring-oriented biker who allows himself occasional outings on the open road. They offer unrivalled comfort for all-weather road riding. Protection? Thanks to malleolus, ankle, heel and selector reinforcements, you can venture off the beaten track with peace of mind. And as you move up the range, you'll enjoy even greater comfort, thanks to Ortholite sole technology and the Boa closure system.

----> Falco Avantour 2

----> Sidi Canyon 2 Gore-Tex

----> Gaerne G MIDLAND GORE-TEX

Committed trail boots for regular off-road use: 40% road, 60% trail

Increased protection, reinforced support, greater flexibility: these boots are designed for more off-road-oriented use. They feature shin reinforcement rods, buckle fastening systems, and a set of yokes that allow you to hop along happily on your bike. Above all, budget will determine the boot's overall quality, and therefore its lifespan.

----> Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro Drystar

----> Klim Adventure GTX

----> Rev'it Expedition Gore-Tex

Committed trail boots for long-distance adventurers combine optimum comfort with enhanced protection: 50% road, 50% trail.

That's what trail riding is all about! This Swiss army knife of boots meets the challenge of offering a high level of protection, while offering maximum comfort. A kind of tree-proof slipper. The objective? To be worn every day, in all weathers and on all surfaces. With names like "Dakar", "Adventure" and "Expedition", the message is clear. These models are dedicated to motorcycle adventurers. Pricing is directly proportional to the level of finish.

----> Gaerne G-Dakar

----> Sidi Adventure 2 Goretex

----> Alpinestars Toucan Goretex

We hope this article has helped you choose the perfect pair of trail boots. The problem? Now you're going to have to justify that purchase! And yeah, if it says Dakar or Adventure on your boot, it's not for touring the periphery. Need some inspiration? Take a look at the adventures of Michel, who is himself a great lover of mud, ruts and spicy enduro.

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