Got wet feet on your last ride? I know how bad it feels. It can be prevented – with the best waterproof motorcycle boots! Riding your motorbike for hours is a great feeling, and it does wonders for your mood, relaxing you as nothing else could. When your life is full of stress, it’s one of the best things you can do to unwind.
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Sadly, the world doesn’t always cooperate with you, and a sudden rainstorm might hit right when you’re gearing up to go.
Let’s have a look at 13 of the popular pairs you can find on the market right now and see which one is the best for you:
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Top Waterproof Motorcycle Boots on the market
Sidi Aria Goretex Black Motorcycle Touring Boots
No-slip soles are usually that in name only – you will probably still slip and slide all over the place and it won’t be pretty.
These boots from Sidi, however, deliver on the promise of soles that won’t cause slipping. They’re rock solid on both wet ground and snow, making them great for almost any weather condition imaginable.
However, while that is the standout feature, it’s far from being the only good thing about these boots.
They’re extremely comfortable as well, owing to the fully encapsulated heel cup that works well to support your foot – no more blisters!
The unique Gore-Tex membrane used to stop water from getting in is made, so it allows water and moisture to get out. You know how your feet get uncomfortably sweaty and moist on long rides? Well, this should put a stop to that.
Does this sound almost too good to be true? Well, that’s because it is – these boots are not flawless.
The zippers are a real sore point, and you will have some trouble closing them. The Velcro bands that are supposed to cover them don’t fit right either, so some water might get through.
TCX 9912W Mens Track Evo Waterproof Touring Motorcycle Boots
The main problem with most waterproof boots is how bulky they are. You feel like you’re wearing cinder blocks on your legs and that’s not what you want on a relaxing ride.
These boots avoid that problem – they feel easy to wear even though they weigh in at 6 pounds total.
They’re also quite comfortable, mostly due to their malleolus inserts and the 3 adjustable buckles, so they stick to your feet perfectly.
You can also be sure that they won’t slip from your pegs due to the special tread pattern on the soles, something that happens way too often in wet conditions.
While all of this is great, make sure to check the buckles when buying them. On some models, getting the buckles to shut correctly has been a known issue. Make sure to try shutting and opening them multiple times while at the store in order to avoid this issue.
Bates Men’s GX-8 8 Inch Ultra-Lites GTX
These are military-quality boots, meaning that they were designed to withstand a lot of punishment. Everything, from the sole to the shoelaces is extra strong and made to last through grueling marches through dozens of muddy miles.
Despite the common stereotype and the “cement construction” used to make them, these are not heavy, uncomfortable boots. They weight only two pounds, and they will make your sole feel like heaven.
While they are highly functional and comfortable, if you care a lot about the look of your boots, you’re going to be disappointed.
The design looks decent, but they scuff rather easily and are difficult to shine properly. They will never look picture-perfect, no matter how much work you put into polishing them.
Harley-Davidson Men’s Hustin Waterproof Harness Boot
If you want that true, classic-style motorcycle boot, why not go to one of the best motorcycle companies around? Truly, Harley-Davidson is a name known all around the world, and their boots should be as well.
The sleek, classic look of these boots is simple, yet effective. They’re made completely out of leather with one sleek harness to hold them in place.
They’re durable, completely waterproof, look amazing (especially when shined) and are resistant to slipping. What more could you ask for?
Well, breathability, for one thing. If you hate having wet socks after a ride, you won’t like these boots at all. The breathability is a fat old zero, and you’ll certainly feel it.
Also, you should be careful when buying them online, since the models tend to run half a size or even a full size too small. Try them out in a store to avoid running into such problems.
Bates Men’s Reyes Hi-M
Bates is a well-known brand by this point, and the reason they became popular is that they made boots which lasted for ages. These ones are no exception when it comes to that – they’re rock solid and as sturdy as they get.
They’re also known for their affordability and boy, does it show! These boots are far more affordable than most other alternatives, less than half the price of the competition! If you want a cheap boot that will last – your choice has been made already.
However, if you want truly waterproof boots, then you’re out of luck here.
Sure, they’re waterproof up to a point, but if you’re faced with heavy rainfall, or you step into a deep puddle, expect your feet to get soaked.
You’ll also feel them, all the time. They’re bulky and stiff, even when broken in so you won’t get a comfortable ride while wearing them.
The upside is that they breathe rather well, so they’re a great choice if you’re on a budget and in an area that doesn’t get heavy rainfall.
Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Waterproof Side Zip Boots
If you’re thinking you’re going to feel like a cowboy by wearing these, just based on the brand – you’ll be disappointed. But otherwise, you’ll probably be quite impressed.
These boots from Smith & Wesson are made to be affordable while maintaining a high standard of quality and it shows.
Leather and nylon are the two primary materials used in the contraction, balancing toughness with comfort. They avoid being too stiff while also staying rough enough to avoid scuff marks and other sorts of damage.
Sadly, they’re not as durable as you might think at first – the glue is the problem. They’ll start falling apart in a matter of 3 to 5 months, though they will stay waterproof even when you see signs of separation on the outside.
You’ll probably have to replace the zipper even sooner though. It’s of exceptionally poor quality, completely unbecoming of a brand of such high renown.
Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Side Zip 6″ Boots
From the same brand comes a different variant of their previous boots – these made to be even more affordable. If you’re looking to balance quality with price, this is probably the best choice out there.
The construction is also leather mixed with nylon; they’re comfortable and flexible. You won’t even feel that you’re wearing them, something that can’t be said for most boots at this price point.
If you’re a traditionalist, though, you won’t like the fact that these are just 6-inch boots and not the real deal.
They’re also poorly ventilated and, combined with the poor waterproofing; your feet will almost surely get wet, one way or the other. If you intend on riding in heavy rainfall, these are not for you.
QOMOLANGMA Men’s Waterproof Leather Motorcycle Combat Ankle Boots
These boots look a lot like sneakers and feel like that as well – which is not a bad thing, despite what some people might say. You get the comfort of a sneaker combined with the sturdiness of a boot.
For such a low price, they’re fairly sturdy, though you might see some splitting after a few months of constant use. Chinese construction at its best, as you might guess from the brand name.
The waterproofing is spotty at best – sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. You might find your feet wet from a small splash of water or dive into a huge puddle without a drop getting through. You just never know.
Also, make sure to order one size larger – otherwise, they’ll be too tight for you.
FORMA FOADVBN45 Adventure Off-Road Motorcycle Boot
FORMA has been known to make some high-quality motorcycle boots, and they live up to their reputation with this pair.
The first thing you’ll notice about them is the look – they’re simply gorgeous, from top to bottom. With a bit of professional shine and polish, they look even better.
However, they’re not just good lookers – they perform great on the road. Completely impervious to water, highly resistant to all sorts of damage and with a feel like a dream, they are an amazing companion on a long road.
Unfortunately, there are some problems that aren’t visible at first.
For starters, the insoles are practically useless – they’re as thin as cardboard, and you’d do well by throwing them out.
The buckles are also a bit suspect. They seem good on first glance, but when you inspect them a bit better, you’ll notice that the plastic used to make them is flimsy, and they’re held together by cheap screws.
Still, with a little bit of work, these boots more than justify their high price point.
Maelstrom Men’s TAC FORCE 8 Inch Waterproof Military Tactical Work Boot with Zipper
Like almost all Maelstrom boots, affordability is at the forefront here, without compromising the overall quality.
Their look is quite basic, but beneath that hides a great, comfortable and sturdy construction that uses full grain leather. They can also look quite nice when polished up a bit.
The waterproofing doesn’t let a drop come through unless you’re knee deep in water – and by that point, no boot will protect you. They can also take a ton of punishment and come through as good as new.
So, what’s the catch? There always seems to be one when the price is this low, and this is no exception.
Well, the part that’s skimped on here are the soles, which are not slip resistant at all, and the laces, which are poor and come off easily. Both of those things are extremely dangerous on a ride through the rain so you should weigh the pros and cons carefully before buying this pair.
Maelstrom Men’s PATROL 6″ Tactical Duty Work Boot with Zipper
Here’s another product from Maelstrom, even cheaper than the last! This pair is not strictly made for people riding on motorbikes and more targeted for law enforcement, but it still works well enough.
The upside is that they’re fairly comfortable and light, completely slip resistant, and the waterproofing holds up for the most part. They even look well when polished, though they’re nothing special.
The problems that exist here are not visible at first – and are mostly down to the internal stitching and the mold.
Firstly – order a size up, or they’ll be too tight for your foot. The front seems to be too tight no matter what and if you have wide feet and big toes, you’re going to be in for a lot of pain.
Secondly, the internal stitching is a bit suspect, and the inside padding will start to come off soon after you buy them, so you might feel some scraping and itching. Be aware of that when buying them.
Harley-Davidson Men’s Vance Waterproof Leather FXRG Motorcycle Boots
If there’s one thing that people constantly malign Harley-Davidson for is that all of their product are too expensive. With these boots, they clearly set out to prove them wrong once and for all.
They’re made out of full-grain leather for supreme comfort, and they look amazing – as good as some of their much more expensive boots. With proper care, they’re even gorgeous.
Comfort is not something that was compromised on either – they feel great, not to stiff or too loose and the fit is nearly perfect. However, getting them off can be troublesome, since you’ll have to untie the laces – the zipper doesn’t open them enough.
Another understated problem is their bulkiness – if you have a smaller bike, you’ll probably struggle to reach the shift lever. Make sure they fit your bike before you buy them.
Tourmaster Response WP 2.0 Mens Road Boots
Tourmaster is a brand that became well-known for making reliable products and these boots are clear proof of that. They do exactly what they’re supposed to – they will keep your feet warm and dry no matter the conditions.
As for the feel, it’s more akin to sneakers – you’ll feel like you’re able to freely move your feet, which will certainly come in handy during long rides.
What isn’t so great is the amount of sweat that will build up. Yes, these shoes are not known for their breathability.
They’re also not known for being wide, just like most other Tourmaster models. People with big feet should watch out when buying them.
Besides that, the laces are also poor – but they can be replaced without too much hassle, so that’s not a huge problem at least.
Conclusion
If you’re intending to ride out in foul weather, having a good pair of comfortable waterproof boots is a must. It’s a matter of safety – both for you and other people on the road.
With that said, you will never be able to find a perfect boot – each one will have some niggling problems here and there, especially if looking classy while staying dry is important to you.
You should never be looking for the perfect boots, though. Look for ones that fit your needs the best and stick with them, while staying within your budget. With some luck, you’ll find what you’re looking for, and we hope the models we presented here will be a good starting point in your search.