Need your help finding cheap boots!

djpharoah · April 5th, 2009, 06:17 PM

Hey gang - my last pair of boots that I bought for the MSF finally wore out. They were cheap boots from Walmart and they served their purpose (requirement for riding and MSF). I want to now get something better for ankle protection but I also want something that is great for all day walking.

My main criteria is price - as a student buying a pair of A*s isn't really practical as well thats grocery money. Also they should be comfy for walking. I've tried the SMX series and those full length boots your foot is like a cast which is great for protection horrible for walking.

So if you guys/gals can help me find a pair of boots at like $60-70 with adequate ankle protection for street riding be it used/ebay/blowout deals etc that would be awesome. Btw I am a size EU 46 or US 11.5.

I am constantly scanning for boots but it just gets nuts as prices are really high. I know I should invest more but right now I really cant and would rather get something vs. wearing basketball shoes.

Thanks

kkim · April 5th, 2009, 06:20 PM

At that price, I doubt you'll find anything decent, new... even at closeout prices.

sometimesido · April 5th, 2009, 06:25 PM

Just a little more and,

TCX SS

djpharoah · April 5th, 2009, 06:26 PM

I'm willing to go used Kelly. I mean worst case is I get another pair of steel toe work boots.

miks · April 5th, 2009, 06:35 PM

Just save a little longer, and get yourself a decent pair. Plenty of shoes that offer decent protection around $100-150 USD.

M-Oorb · April 5th, 2009, 06:49 PM

Just a question...why do they have to serve the walking function? IMO...a motorcycle boot is made to protect your feet and ankles while riding thus giving the boots a specific function. Once you try to get more general you need to give up something...as you usually can't have the best of both worlds and still be good at both activities. I would say save up(I know how hard that is being a college student as well) and get a decent pair of motorcycle boots that do what they are supposed to do and do it well. There are certain things to skim on but protection isn't one of them. Then keep a pair of shoes in a pack while you ride so you can just change. Just my 2 cents though

kkim · April 5th, 2009, 06:59 PM

have you seen this post?

http://www.ninjette.org/forums/showp...6&postcount=56

djpharoah · April 5th, 2009, 07:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by M-Oorb

Just a question...why do they have to serve the walking function? IMO...a motorcycle boot is made to protect your feet and ankles while riding thus giving the boots a specific function. Once you try to get more general you need to give up something...as you usually can't have the best of both worlds and still be good at both activities. I would say save up(I know how hard that is being a college student as well) and get a decent pair of motorcycle boots that do what they are supposed to do and do it well. There are certain things to skim on but protection isn't one of them. Then keep a pair of shoes in a pack while you ride so you can just change. Just my 2 cents though

Well I ride to school and work daily and I'm basically on my feet the entire day. I guess a pair of insoles could help.

miks · April 5th, 2009, 07:08 PM

Bit off topic, but does anyone wear Icon boots?

Heard they were chunky and made it hard to fit your foot under the shifter.

djpharoah · April 5th, 2009, 07:16 PM

I'm currently looking at Icon too - interested in hearing about these.

Moo-wasaki · April 6th, 2009, 06:39 AM

I need a new pair...size 15

wyckedflesh · April 6th, 2009, 06:54 AM

Icon boots are made for the Stunt crowd and offer no ankle support.

Cali619 · April 6th, 2009, 07:38 AM

For canyon/freeway rides I wear my Icon Super Duty 2 Boots but if just commuting around town or not planning to do any spirited riding just cruising Ill use my hiking boots.

CaliGirl · April 6th, 2009, 01:00 PM

Try these Vega Matrix Boots.....

chinasmurf · April 6th, 2009, 03:00 PM

Like CaliGirl said, Vega from motorcyclesuperstore.com. I got them and love em, airy, protected, good $ I think now even cheaper than when I bought mine. Maybe $65 now, and looks good. Yes I walk around in them from time to time and they are comfy.

sometimesido · April 6th, 2009, 03:19 PM

it says, "Comfort-padded ankle"
does that mean the padding is only there for comfort or protection too?

chinasmurf · April 6th, 2009, 03:37 PM

You know what I'm not 100% sure but I think really for comfort. Cause when I had Alpine dirtbike boots it seems really protected. Its a good price for what it is....

muffinman · April 6th, 2009, 05:40 PM

I bought Icon Field Armor Chukka boots... should be in this week. I"ll post impressions when I get them. With my leg armor, chest armor, jacket, helmet, gloves, laptop, and textbooks I lug to class every day, I can't carry another pair of shoes.

Any "riding shoe" or riding boot is better than sneakers... someone said it best in that other thread when he/she felt as if they were tempting fate everytime they ride without proper footwear. I feel the exact same way.. but my current "race style" boots are way too stiff and uncomfortable to wear.

kkim · April 6th, 2009, 05:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by muffinman;

I feel the exact same way.. but my current "race style" boots are way too stiff and uncomfortable to wear.

You should have looked at a full height touring type boot. There are other full boot options out there besides racing boots.

I have a touring boot and although it does not offer the same protection as a full racing boot, they are comfortable enough for me to wear all day at work under my street clothes. Walking around in them is no problem.

Ichiro · April 6th, 2009, 08:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CaliGirl

Try these Vega Matrix Boots.....

I agree with CaliGirl. I've used them and while I've never had to test them in a crash, they feel solid, fairly good support, yet comfortable enough to walk in. Check around in Amazon.com though because I've seen them cheaper. I think I got mine for under $60.00. While I would agree with those who say spend more and buy the best, if your reality limits your ability to spend more, then these seem to be good for what you can spend.

sharky nrk · April 7th, 2009, 03:01 PM

just fyi - if anyone is a size 12 I have some used oxtars for sale in really good condition for cheap

kkim · April 7th, 2009, 03:03 PM

a size 12 would most likely fit him with some sole inserts in the boots, wouldn't it?

TrueFaith · April 7th, 2009, 03:14 PM

$70, but you gotta have tiny feet.

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com...Closeouts.aspx

azia · April 7th, 2009, 03:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djpharoah

I'm willing to go used Kelly. I mean worst case is I get another pair of steel toe work boots.

I thought you werent supposed to wear steel toe footwear for riding? The MSF classes here all disallow them for the course. And I have heard from other rides that they are dangerous but there seems to be debate over that.

Anyone?

TrueFaith · April 7th, 2009, 03:26 PM

You don't need steel toe boots. You're not driving a fork lift. It's the ankle protection that counts.

kkim · April 7th, 2009, 03:26 PM

um, I know there is some debate in industrial environments, but never heard it being an issue for bikes. what is the argument that they dangerous?

g21-30 · April 7th, 2009, 03:46 PM

In my MSF class, steel toed boots were OK. The only concern was that one might not be able to "feel" the shifter engaging the gear. I didn't wear them and still had a problem engaging the the gears, while shifting. Of course, I don't have that problem anymore and have used steel toes and plain toes.

TrueFaith · April 7th, 2009, 03:48 PM

Shifter "feel" is my #2 priority after protection, which is why I got A*s. Nothing worse than trying to ride with finesse wearing clunky boots.

g21-30 · April 7th, 2009, 03:49 PM

More boot options:

http://www.leatherup.com/c/Xelement-...ots/2/144.html

djpharoah · April 7th, 2009, 04:12 PM

Guys looks like I've decided to spend a bit more and get either a pair of Oxtar Evo RXs or Setup by Sidi Vision boots. Both boots are discontinued due to the renaming of the brand. Wish me luck! Cannot wait - I've been riding with sneakers the past 2 days and I hate the feeling of tempting fate. I feel so...squid like

kkim · April 7th, 2009, 04:14 PM

good move

... do you have a wide or narrow foot?

have you seen these??? http://www.ninjette.org/forums/showthread.php?t=16855

djpharoah · April 7th, 2009, 04:26 PM

I have a normal sized foot - not too wide not too narrow I guess. Also I'm getting these boots at a cheaper price than the TCX ones Kelly - thanks man.

Will post soon as to which I decide upon - currently reading reviews.

sometimesido · April 7th, 2009, 04:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djpharoah

I have a normal sized foot - not too wide not too narrow I guess. Also I'm getting these boots at a cheaper price than the TCX ones Kelly - thanks man.

Will post soon as to which I decide upon - currently reading reviews.

well, give us a link.
Help us out.

kkim · April 7th, 2009, 04:30 PM

I tried those setup boots when I was shopping for boots and in my regular size, I couldn't even get my fat foot in there. Exchanged them for one size over my normal size and I still couldn't get my foot in. I gave up and bought some Oxtar boots and they fit perfect in my normal boot size.

GL... smart move to get some decent riding boots for foot protection.

djpharoah · April 7th, 2009, 04:40 PM

Will post the link once I decide - gotta make sure my size is there

.

Kelly - I've heard Oxtars were some amazing boots - in line with Sidis, A*s etc... what you think?

kkim · April 7th, 2009, 04:44 PM

Yes, they are very well made and of high quality. Mine are made in Romania.

Beware... the Setups, even though they are SIDI, are made in the far east... China or Taiwan, IIRC.

BTW... Oxtar is now renamed TCX.... same boots, just a different name company.

djpharoah · April 7th, 2009, 05:01 PM

Yeah - decide to pull the trigger on the Oxtars for 2 reasons - much better ankle support and reviews, real leather and titanium sliders (track days) and they match my Teknic jacket. I also just found out about the Setups being made in Indonesia/Thailand etc.

Also I believe A*s sued Oxtar as their name/logo is very similar to A*s so they became TCX.

djpharoah · April 7th, 2009, 05:08 PM

I'm more than likely going with the Oxtars due to them being a better brand+better/more features. However I do stay on campus quite a bit and am wondering how comfy it will be to walk in those boots.

Strider · April 7th, 2009, 05:14 PM

New Enough has the TCX on sale ...
http://www.newenough.com/closeouts/b...cle_boots.html (I believe your size is still available)
Mind you , it's more than the amount you stated you want to spend djpharoah , but feet/ankle protection has to be taken very seriously ...

justmy2cents

djpharoah · April 7th, 2009, 05:16 PM

Thanks Alan - Kelly already gave me the link. I'm passing on those to get an older discontinued model but a higher level one.

April 5th, 2009, 06:17 PM	#1
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	Need your help finding cheap boots! Hey gang - my last pair of boots that I bought for the MSF finally wore out. They were cheap boots from Walmart and they served their purpose (requirement for riding and MSF). I want to now get something better for ankle protection but I also want something that is great for all day walking. My main criteria is price - as a student buying a pair of A*s isn't really practical as well thats grocery money. Also they should be comfy for walking. I've tried the SMX series and those full length boots your foot is like a cast which is great for protection horrible for walking. So if you guys/gals can help me find a pair of boots at like $60-70 with adequate ankle protection for street riding be it used/ebay/blowout deals etc that would be awesome. Btw I am a size EU 46 or US 11.5. I am constantly scanning for boots but it just gets nuts as prices are really high. I know I should invest more but right now I really cant and would rather get something vs. wearing basketball shoes. Thanks

April 5th, 2009, 06:25 PM	#3
sometimesido ninjette.org sage Name: Chris Location: Norcross, GA Join Date: Mar 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2006 250R Posts: 772 Blog Entries: 14	Just a little more and, TCX SS __________________________________________________ my flickr™

April 5th, 2009, 06:35 PM	#5
miks I'm lovin' it. Name: Mike Location: Melb, Australia Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '09 Black 250R Posts: A lot.	Just save a little longer, and get yourself a decent pair. Plenty of shoes that offer decent protection around $100-150 USD. __________________________________________________ Son: When I grow up I want to ride a motorbike. Father: You can't do both son.

April 5th, 2009, 07:08 PM	#9
miks I'm lovin' it. Name: Mike Location: Melb, Australia Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '09 Black 250R Posts: A lot.	Bit off topic, but does anyone wear Icon boots? Heard they were chunky and made it hard to fit your foot under the shifter. __________________________________________________ Son: When I grow up I want to ride a motorbike. Father: You can't do both son.

April 6th, 2009, 01:00 PM	#14
CaliGirl Curiosity is a Killer Name: CG Location: So Cal Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 08 Ninja 250 Posts: 102	Try these Vega Matrix Boots..... __________________________________________________

April 5th, 2009, 06:20 PM	#2
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	At that price, I doubt you'll find anything decent, new... even at closeout prices.

April 5th, 2009, 06:26 PM	#4
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	I'm willing to go used Kelly. I mean worst case is I get another pair of steel toe work boots.

April 5th, 2009, 06:49 PM	#6
M-Oorb ninjette.org sage Name: Matt Location: South East Florida/Rutgers University Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2008 250r (Fastest Color) Posts: 914	Just a question...why do they have to serve the walking function? IMO...a motorcycle boot is made to protect your feet and ankles while riding thus giving the boots a specific function. Once you try to get more general you need to give up something...as you usually can't have the best of both worlds and still be good at both activities. I would say save up(I know how hard that is being a college student as well) and get a decent pair of motorcycle boots that do what they are supposed to do and do it well. There are certain things to skim on but protection isn't one of them. Then keep a pair of shoes in a pack while you ride so you can just change. Just my 2 cents though

April 5th, 2009, 06:59 PM	#7
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	have you seen this post? http://www.ninjette.org/forums/showp...6&postcount=56

April 5th, 2009, 07:16 PM	#10
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	I'm currently looking at Icon too - interested in hearing about these.

April 6th, 2009, 06:39 AM	#11
Moo-wasaki ninjette.org member Name: Yes Location: Webster Join Date: Mar 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2008 Ninja 250 Posts: 46	I need a new pair...size 15

April 6th, 2009, 06:54 AM	#12
wyckedflesh ninjette.org guru Name: Mikel Location: Valley of the Sun Join Date: Mar 2009 Motorcycle(s): '09 Blue Kawasaki KLE650 Versys, '95 Ducati 900SS/CR (undergoing track conversion) Posts: 287	Icon boots are made for the Stunt crowd and offer no ankle support.

April 6th, 2009, 07:38 AM	#13
Cali619 Giggity Giggity Name: Ryam Location: San Diego Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): 08 ninja 250R aka Hiryu Posts: 481	For canyon/freeway rides I wear my Icon Super Duty 2 Boots but if just commuting around town or not planning to do any spirited riding just cruising Ill use my hiking boots.

April 6th, 2009, 03:00 PM	#15
chinasmurf ninjette.org member Name: Diana Location: Long Island, NY Join Date: Apr 2009 Motorcycle(s): 250r Ninja 2008 Posts: 104	Like CaliGirl said, Vega from motorcyclesuperstore.com. I got them and love em, airy, protected, good $ I think now even cheaper than when I bought mine. Maybe $65 now, and looks good. Yes I walk around in them from time to time and they are comfy.

April 6th, 2009, 03:19 PM	#16
sometimesido ninjette.org sage Name: Chris Location: Norcross, GA Join Date: Mar 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2006 250R Posts: 772 Blog Entries: 14	it says, "Comfort-padded ankle" does that mean the padding is only there for comfort or protection too? __________________________________________________ my flickr™

April 6th, 2009, 03:37 PM	#17
chinasmurf ninjette.org member Name: Diana Location: Long Island, NY Join Date: Apr 2009 Motorcycle(s): 250r Ninja 2008 Posts: 104	You know what I'm not 100% sure but I think really for comfort. Cause when I had Alpine dirtbike boots it seems really protected. Its a good price for what it is....

April 6th, 2009, 05:40 PM	#18
muffinman ninjette.org guru Name: Arthur Location: USA Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): '08 250R (sold), '05 ZX6R / 636 Posts: 355	I bought Icon Field Armor Chukka boots... should be in this week. I"ll post impressions when I get them. With my leg armor, chest armor, jacket, helmet, gloves, laptop, and textbooks I lug to class every day, I can't carry another pair of shoes. Any "riding shoe" or riding boot is better than sneakers... someone said it best in that other thread when he/she felt as if they were tempting fate everytime they ride without proper footwear. I feel the exact same way.. but my current "race style" boots are way too stiff and uncomfortable to wear.

April 7th, 2009, 03:01 PM	#21
sharky nrk Fighting Texas Aggie '05 Name: Neil Location: Hutto, TX Join Date: Feb 2009 Motorcycle(s): '07 ZX6R, '08 Versys, '09 250R Track, '93 F2/F3 Track Posts: A lot.	just fyi - if anyone is a size 12 I have some used oxtars for sale in really good condition for cheap

April 7th, 2009, 03:03 PM	#22
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	a size 12 would most likely fit him with some sole inserts in the boots, wouldn't it?

April 7th, 2009, 03:14 PM	#23
TrueFaith ninjette.org sage Name: Wayne Location: Brookfield, MA Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Honda CBR250R Posts: 585	$70, but you gotta have tiny feet. http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com...Closeouts.aspx

April 7th, 2009, 03:26 PM	#25
TrueFaith ninjette.org sage Name: Wayne Location: Brookfield, MA Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Honda CBR250R Posts: 585	You don't need steel toe boots. You're not driving a fork lift. It's the ankle protection that counts.

April 7th, 2009, 03:46 PM	#27
g21-30 ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Sam Location: Northern Virginia Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250R 2009 Posts: A lot.	In my MSF class, steel toed boots were OK. The only concern was that one might not be able to "feel" the shifter engaging the gear. I didn't wear them and still had a problem engaging the the gears, while shifting. Of course, I don't have that problem anymore and have used steel toes and plain toes.

April 7th, 2009, 03:48 PM	#28
TrueFaith ninjette.org sage Name: Wayne Location: Brookfield, MA Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): 2011 Honda CBR250R Posts: 585	Shifter "feel" is my #2 priority after protection, which is why I got A*s. Nothing worse than trying to ride with finesse wearing clunky boots.

April 7th, 2009, 03:49 PM	#29
g21-30 ninjette.org certified postwhore Name: Sam Location: Northern Virginia Join Date: Nov 2008 Motorcycle(s): Ninja 250R 2009 Posts: A lot.	More boot options: http://www.leatherup.com/c/Xelement-...ots/2/144.html

April 7th, 2009, 04:12 PM	#30
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	Guys looks like I've decided to spend a bit more and get either a pair of Oxtar Evo RXs or Setup by Sidi Vision boots. Both boots are discontinued due to the renaming of the brand. Wish me luck! Cannot wait - I've been riding with sneakers the past 2 days and I hate the feeling of tempting fate. I feel so...squid like

April 7th, 2009, 04:14 PM	#31
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	good move ... do you have a wide or narrow foot? have you seen these??? http://www.ninjette.org/forums/showthread.php?t=16855

April 7th, 2009, 04:26 PM	#32
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	I have a normal sized foot - not too wide not too narrow I guess. Also I'm getting these boots at a cheaper price than the TCX ones Kelly - thanks man. Will post soon as to which I decide upon - currently reading reviews.

April 7th, 2009, 04:30 PM	#34
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	I tried those setup boots when I was shopping for boots and in my regular size, I couldn't even get my fat foot in there. Exchanged them for one size over my normal size and I still couldn't get my foot in. I gave up and bought some Oxtar boots and they fit perfect in my normal boot size. GL... smart move to get some decent riding boots for foot protection.

April 7th, 2009, 04:40 PM	#35
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	Will post the link once I decide - gotta make sure my size is there . Kelly - I've heard Oxtars were some amazing boots - in line with Sidis, A*s etc... what you think?

April 7th, 2009, 04:44 PM	#36
kkim Join Date: Nov 2008 Posts: Too much.	Yes, they are very well made and of high quality. Mine are made in Romania. Beware... the Setups, even though they are SIDI, are made in the far east... China or Taiwan, IIRC. BTW... Oxtar is now renamed TCX.... same boots, just a different name company.

April 7th, 2009, 05:01 PM	#37
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	Yeah - decide to pull the trigger on the Oxtars for 2 reasons - much better ankle support and reviews, real leather and titanium sliders (track days) and they match my Teknic jacket. I also just found out about the Setups being made in Indonesia/Thailand etc. Also I believe As sued Oxtar as their name/logo is very similar to As so they became TCX.

April 7th, 2009, 05:08 PM	#38
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	I'm more than likely going with the Oxtars due to them being a better brand+better/more features. However I do stay on campus quite a bit and am wondering how comfy it will be to walk in those boots.

April 7th, 2009, 05:14 PM	#39
Strider Back on the Black! Name: Alan Location: Gastonia, North Carolina Join Date: Jan 2009 Motorcycle(s): 2006 Kawasaki Ninja EX250 (Black) Posts: 831	New Enough has the TCX on sale ... http://www.newenough.com/closeouts/b...cle_boots.html (I believe your size is still available) Mind you , it's more than the amount you stated you want to spend djpharoah , but feet/ankle protection has to be taken very seriously ... justmy2cents

April 7th, 2009, 05:16 PM	#40
djpharoah \m/ Name: Mesh Location: Irvine, CA Join Date: Dec 2008 Motorcycle(s): CBR600F3 Smokin Joes Posts: 138	Thanks Alan - Kelly already gave me the link. I'm passing on those to get an older discontinued model but a higher level one.

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