Another great real-world review. I'd add the SIDI Adventure 2 to the list of great ADV boots, for one thing my previous ADV1s were still going strong a decade later; and as someone who crushed both heels 12 years ago (and spent 2 years learning to walk again), they are one of the few boots that easily accept custom orthotics allowing me to stand all day with minimal pain. Like so many Rev'it products, I really wanted to like the Pioneer H2Os, but hated them the moment I tried walking around my house. Got tired of everything they make falling apart in 2 years anyway.
I’ve found shin protection to be foot peg protection. Low sided one time where my shin smacked the foot peg. Had a slight tear on my riding pant, but the shin protector on the Sidi Adventurer boot saved a nasty shin bruise and possible skin puncture for the second half of my 3 week trip.
Another great review for adults - you don't treat us like idiots and point out the relative trade-offs with each of the boots. I especially liked your comment on risk. Personal assessment of risk is one of the things I fear we aren't teaching people anymore. Everything has a degree of risk and making an informed, personally appropriate decision is an important life skill. Happy to risk losing your foot? Wear sheepskin slippers - they are really comfortable.
I hear you with the Gore tex boots. They are waterproof until you pour water into them. That said, I loves me my Sidi Adventure 2 Gore Tex. They offer pretty good protection, keep your feet warm and dry when it's pissing rain all day. But they aren't motocross boots. I'm not afraid to get my adv bike dirty, but I don't mistake it for a motocross bike! Great review.
Anything will leak if subjected to enough pressure. I wear some Corozals when riding in the woods at low speed and on gravel roads. I know they are not as protective as boots like those Sidis. They are exactly what you said, “adventure boots,” namely a step down in protection but comfortable. After falling in the woods I found myself lying under my drz with the foot peg on the ankle. They did fine. The big scratch right at my ankle is a good reminder to wear protection.
That's basically the whole range of possibilities. Thanks for the great lesson on how to choose one. I'll def watch again when I go shopping for new ones!
I use Alpinestars Toucan. Three adv seasons now. Can't recommend them highly enough. I ride with atv'rs and there are significant water crossings regularly, and no leakage as long as I don't go over. Cons: squeak when walking, especially when commuting to the office. Also, no third/top strap, but a velcro attachment. So really only a two strap boot. Fits my EE feet.
Love my Toucans too, HOWEVER. They are quite a bit less protective than my dirtbike Gaerne SG12 (offroad gold standard boot). in particular, i had my 790 break my toe when it fell handlebar-first on my toebox. Also like any goretex kit, it will eventually get wet, after a day of riding in the rain it will be damp for another 3 unless you have drier or something.
Indeed. Just checked the stats and it has a sole plate, but bends like the tech 7’s in the video. Also did your head bend test and crush check... doesn’t measure up to the Sidi’s it seems. But Sidi’s seem to be too narrow for people with wide feet? Perhaps Gaerne...?
My Alpinestar Toucans have held up well! Pricey, but after riding in them for the last five ish years they still work well and I would say the price is justified.
I started with Sidi Adventure 2 boots but felt the lack of support when riding aggressive. Now I have the Alpinestars Tech7 drystar and happy with them for all sorts of riding.
I always say if Crocs could just make a work boot and a motorcycle boot, my life would be complete. Five years ago I wouldn't be caught dead wearing Crocs but now I wear nothing but Crocs when I'm home
Nice Review. You should have a look at the GAERNE SG12 also.... Its some time to feel comfortable in it, but man. does are great if you are used to them!
Thank you sir for the great info and explanations for the different levels available. Very timely for me as I move from touring and start “GS/ADV” riding.
Great video Bret.👍 Thank you for that. I have bought the Forma Terrain EVO for my offroad rides. Still in search for an offroad boot that I can wear under pants and I can walk with.
I've been using the Tera 1st generation for almost 5 years. Ride the bike to work every day and play in the desert when I can. IMO they are quite good for what they are and for the price and as a bonus I can say I have a pair of Italian leather boots 😁😁😁😁
I just bought a pair of Alpinestar Tech 7 Enduros. I went with these over the Drystar version for the reasons you gave, waterproof boots don't breath that well and take longer to dry out. To counter that I got some Seal Skinz waterproof socks. I haven't had a chance to test it out just yet since its currently 6F and won't be getting much warmer anytime soon.
Wonder if you'll have the same problem with breathability with the waterproof socks? I should be able to answer this question myself as I have the same socks but just haven't gotten around to trying them. Also haven't bought my boots yet, still shopping. The Tech 7's are high on my list, but not sure whether I'd do the Enduro or DryStar yet. Appreciate your input.
@@Road_Rash1 Goretex socks are lifesavers when used correctly. I can even use my tech 3 for ski-biking with those socks! Few quick tips: -Goretex is really worth it for the breathability. -Take 1 pair of boots that dries well or 2 pairs (1 summer and 1 goretex for colder temps) -If it's hot and you'll be working a bit, take them off and save them for the ride out with dry socks.
@@michelwaknin9893 Depends on what you mean by little. They are kind a like walking in Ski boots....I'd recommend Forma Adventure boots if you want decent protection ( less than the Tech 7s) and comfortable to walk a bit in.
Good to see Sidi on the list. Twice! They don't get the credit they deserve. They make great street boots too, with an almost perfect balance of style, function, and durability.
Oh shit, man, I'm telling you, keep your work on, you're good on it ;) I'm watching your videos like crazy and it's 3am now and I must be up at 7am LOL
Really good review. I like you mention if they go easily under your riding pants and the steel shanks make SO much of a difference being up on the pegs all day. Thank you for your expertise!!!
@@leongous of course everything is subjective, but the upper boot encloses with a large velcro strap and the armor locks use toothed belts that would be easy to swap out for something longer. I don't have massive calves or anything, but I think anyone up to a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle should be fine.
I have learnt it the hard way with several ankle injuries. The tech 7 (without drystar) are the only boots I’m wearing nowadays. They are working surprisingly well in heat and even in rain or puddles. I chose also some water proof socks like the sealskins.
@@michelwaknin9893 From what I read hot in summer, but also if you ride through water and somehow get water inside, you will have wet feet all day and they are hard to dry... I do think a regular boot + waterproof sock combo is the smart way to go.
Thanks for another great video Bret. Your expert opinions and advice is always very much appreciated. Any chance you could do an updated one of these? I’ve been enjoying my Revit Expedition boots. But agree that a thinner shin would be nice (not a deal breaker though), and sadly mine have had the odd leak here and there when going through large puddles, etc. I’m considering upgrading to the newer GTX version, but would like to compare to the SIDI, Aplinestars and even the new Klim alternatives. Thanks again.
I see a lot of people love the tech 7, I looked into the Forma and Alpinestars. I ended up with the Corozal as I wanted something I could walk around in and have them on all day. In the future I'd like to get a short of the Corozal or Forma and get the 7 to push my limits.
Toucans and Sidi are my boots of choice. Got my first Sidi in 1972! Never had a problem with waterproofed boots with the new ones. They never got wet on the inside! I haven't bought boots in my last 80,000 miles but my concern is about sole replacement!! Some brands/models the soles can be replaced with OEM or similar. Depending on what country you are in! In the USA in particular very few places will replace soles but it takes time, lost of time. There are countries where you will find a cobbler that will work and replace OEM soles with better products! Great video. Cheers
The Sidi Crossfire looks perfect for me. Unfortunately their website doesn't show any availability in the USA and they will not take new orders from USA. Edit; excellent presentation, I sub'd. Thank you for not playing crappy background music while you're talking!
I would add Alpinestars tech 3 for low cost outstanding protection. Day to day riding and adv Ariat Rig Tek or Big Rig. So comfortable and supportive I can stand on the pegs all day. Cheers! You are greatly appreciated!
First things first: I like your objective and to the point video's! For me the SIDI crossfire proofs to be the best choice. Ride a GSA 1200, apparently to hard because this summer I crash it and dropped down 15m from a roadside cliff. Broke my back on to spots (W4/5), but had no further injuries especially my legs were OK. I noticed the Crossfires took a good beating but are good to go!
Before I bought my first pair of boots I poured over a ton of face plant threads on ADVrider. There were a significant amount of foot injuries. Anecdotal or not every person who hurt there foot seemed to be in an "Adventure" boot and wished they were wearing a pair Sidi Crossfire's. That's what I purchased. I only ride with them. 6 years later and I now know from my own experience. Bret is spot on about the Crossfire's. Saved my feet on multiple occasions!
I really like the Falco Avantuer boots . They do bend more than the first two you reviewed . I took my boot and tried bending it across my noggin and it has some play . But it does have good crush protection with internal metal at the ankle and stiff articulation that goes halfway or so up the boot . The newer models are not resoleable . I am glad I have the one that can be resoled . Just have to put more miles under my belt . Thanks for the video , always look forward to them !
Thanks for the comparison! Always great to get some input by other experienced riders before buying new gear! I prefer the Gaerne SG12 over the Sidi Crossfire because they are flat on the inside (the outer shell that points towards the bike). I already fell over way too often because something on the inside of the boot got stuck on the footpeg... The Sidis are way more water resistant than the Gaerne though! Wet feet even after small puddles in the Gaerne. For easy terrain on the big bike and long road tours I really like the *Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex*! They are very comfortable, breathable and waterproof. I wore them for 2 weeks on Corsica (>30°C) and also in heavy rain close to the freezing point. IMO they are very well balanced. They also exist in a shorter version for commuting for example.
I'm a fan of Alpinestars because they have a nice wide toe-box... I wear a wide to extra-wide shoe and I never feel cramped in my Tech 7 Enduro Drystars.
I ride a 250L, mostly logging roads. I wear the Forma boots. They are not full height, probably similar to that last boot shown. They are waterproof. I'm in Oregon so we do get some rain and snow. I love how Brett pointed out the shape of the toe. I never thought about that. The more shallow toe makes a lot of sense for shifting. I've heard Gaerne makes a great boot, never had any though. What does everyone else wear?
As always... watching your video's is always time well spent. Your opinion of the Sidi Adventure 2 ? I opted for them. Very protective. Waterproof, comfortable, almost no break-in. A little tall in the foot (you need to adjust your gear shifter). A little heavy tho. PS - went and checked out your web page. The header is hilarious. Finally, a shot of you standing with your helmet under your arm and no hat in sight. Yes people ! Helmet off and no hat in sight !! I'm sure all those curious souls who constantly note your swift and smooth helmet to hat transitions will race over there to check that out !
Great review and perspective on the different types of ADV boots. Looks like you got some new wheels. Most excellent! What happened to the KTM 790 adventure R??
@@BretTkacs 🤕👎 That must be frustrating. I know you’ve ridden BMW for years. Could you speak to the GS reliability compared to KTM? In the Consumer Reports reliability survey from 2014, BMW scored very well on owner satisfaction but a 1/3 chance of having a problem (from data based on 4,424 reader responses regarding 4,680 motorcycles bought new from 2009-2012).
I had a question all lined up for you but you answered it with the last boot. Glad I watched the whole video first. Thanks. FYI my question was if you ride back and forth to work everyday or a trip to the store would you wear a full motocross boot?
@Dan Manthe the Adventure is a great boot other than the very flexible sole. The Forma Terra Evo is a similar boot, but more rigid in the sole and laterally.
Great video thanks. I started out 4 years ago with low comfy boots, then got some higher Comfy ADV boots, then got some Alpinestars Corozal, then ended up with Alpinestars Tech 7. Over time I eventually realised after a few minor spills that you need a decent boot if you do a lot of off road riding. Maybe Sidi crossfires will be next. Cheers
For everyday riding and off road do u think corozal has enough protection. I hesitate between corozal and tech7. I laso need waterproff. What do u advice?
@@michelwaknin9893 I think the Corozal boots give a moderately good level of protection. Not as stiff as Tech 7, but still quite solid. They only have 2 buckles, but Tech 7 have 4 buckles. I still wear my Corozal for Adventure riding on my KTM 690. Advantage is they are much more water proof. But the Tech 7 are more robust and better for harder technical riding and I always wear these when riding my Husky 501.
I'm new to this ADV thing and I'd read that the number one injury was foot and lower leg. And that motocross boots were highly recommended. My job depends on me being mobile. No desk job here. Sidi Crossfire 3's are what I chose and I love them so far.
I bought the Sidi Crossfire 3s yesterday at a great deal. Amazing boot, I'm sure it's the most protective boot you can get your hands on. The hinge works really well. Unfortunately they didn't fit my foot, got serious pain in my right foot. I guess the next natural step is the tech 7s. Not sure if I want them to be waterproof as that tends to dry out much slower.
Thank you so much for a very informative review! I recently purchased the SIDI X-3, the fit (sz13) is spot on and the build quality looks to be great. Are they stiff? You bet! But, the protection level is super good and should last me many a mile! In my mind, the Sidi checks most boxes for me!!
I like my Forma All Terrain hinged boots. Very comfortable for all day wear, hiking soles and great motocross protection smashing my feet into rocks and nasty shin level tree branches. SIDI is way too narrow in the toebox for my feet to feel good, otherwise they would be my choice. When I started getting more serious offroad, my first motocross Gaerne hinged boots worked out fine for enduro rides, just no hiking sole. . I need a wide toebox so Gaerne and Forma are always my first choice. Please stay away from those wannabe rugged looking adventure boots which look cool, but don't have motocross type armor...Forma even makes some of these too. Great video. Cheers!
After the PSS ADV tour last year each night I would take off my waterproof EVO-Terra and they would smell to high heaven due to no venting. I think I need more boots for the different things we do on the bikes. I haven't found the one boot solution yet. When I ride to work say from University Place to Olympia in the rain, I need that waterproof boot or my feet will be wet all day while at work. Riding off-road is a totally other animal.--Jim
I just bought the SIDI adventure 2. They seem ok for ankle protection. My other adv boots did not do anything for me when I dropped my klr on my ankle. Good thing it didn't break, due to falling on sand.
Hey Bret, I love your videos. Someday I hope to make it to one of your training camps. I'm a new rider. I live in upstate NY and plan to haul my TW200 to some trails when it gets too cold to hit the roads. I just bought a pair of Sidi Crossfire 3's based on your recommendation. My concern is that for riding the dirt roads around my house, the boot's rigidity may introduce some risk because I may be slower getting to the shifter &/or rear brake. I'll probably keep the boots for woods riding, but do you think they are appropriate for a new rider to wear on the road? If not, any recommendations? I'm looking at the Klim Outlander GTX Boots.
Great review. Bought the Alpine Star Toucans for long multiple day off-road adventure riding. Stiff sole, shin protection, hinged at the ankle, crush protection, Gortex waterproof (critical for Northern Canada riding and do not have to carry boot covers), and most importantly they are wider than the Sidi which I find are too narrow. Down side to the Toucan? Price.
Great video. Would like your opinion of the Forma adv boots. Not as much protection as your first two in the video but I feel much better than the SIDI trials boot. Plus the price point is very reasonable. As you can guess I own a pair and love them. I understand their are trade offs so I went with the Forma since they were so comfortable out of the box.
Regarding Sidi Adventure (goretex). It's beefier street high boot, I agree. Or it's 'light adventure', like my motorcycle (vstrom 650). Some time ago after my bike landed on my leg, I was super happy that my calf is better protected than, say, Rev'it H2O.
What would be your thoughts on the Gaerne and Forma Enduro boots? I have wide feet, so cannot comfortably fit in Sidi or Alpinestars. I enjoyed your other video of boots, which included these two makes, hence my interest in why they're missing from this list.
Hey Brett would be great to do another comparison with the new revit discovery gtx ver 2. I had the ver 1 for 35000km and loved them the ver 2 is even better with it being much easier to get your foot in and out of the boot. Done about 12000km in them so far and no issues. Would love to see your take and see if they stack up against SG10 or SG 12?
I'll just my thoughts on the Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro Drystar. I've had them for just about a year now. Very comfortable (probably the most comfortable of the pure MX boots I'd tried on) and the fit is roughly half a size bigger than my other Alpinestars (touring) boots. They are waterproof, but up to a point. IMO the Drystar is not as good as Gore-Tex. I've had them soak through after long, wet days. If you're relying on these to keep you dry, I'd still pair them with Gore-Tex socks for backup. Crush protection is very good, I've gone for a 50' slide (wet wooden bridge) with a foot under my Africa Twin and honestly didn't notice until I tried standing up. Overall, I'm very happy with them and would 100% recommend them. I think you'd have serious trouble finding a comparable boot at this pricepoint.
@@michelwaknin9893 walking a bit is fine (mine squeak from dirt in the hinges) but make no mistake, you're not going on a hike with these. Walking into a store/gas station is fine, but the reduced ankle mobility really starts to get annoying on stairs or hills
Great review Brett! What do you think about the SG-12’s vs sidi’s for mostly off-road riding? I’m a newer rider and have learned so much from your videos. thanks!
Check out the channel "RockyMountainATV" They're similar in size to Revzilla but specialize in off road stuff. Tons of high quality videos and they actually make comparison videos against top tier boots and all kinds of gear. I got the Sidi Crossfire 3's instead of the SG-12's. Reasons - 1) I have 2 other sidi boots for road that I love (Roarrs and Mag-1's); 2) sidi is known for having the best crush-proof sole in the business. That stiff sole makes it very easy on your foot muscles; I always stand and I'll go and do a 2 hour ride in the dirt, all standing, and have no foot soreness. 3) Ankle protection. The reason I got them was because I crashed in my road-oriented boots off road and twisted my ankle after my 600 lb ADV bike fell on it at 25 mph. The SIDI's have a plastic stop to prevent hyper flex or supination. This is not on the crossfire 2's but those are still good (listed in this video). Ultimately, both boots are amazing. I'd argue it comes down to style and your foot width, so watch reviews by that channel because they cover that in detail. Also, make sure you have at least knee braces. When you crash, your feet will be fine but your knees/shins are still unprotected. I've never hurt my knees/shins because I had knee guards. After that crash I got knee braces to minimize the twisting, which boots nor braces do not help with. Let me know if you have any other Q's
You DO want that crash protection @ 5:35 especially with Beemers. GS's are quite capable of breaking fibula's in 1/2 w/those gad dank protruding cylinders. Don't ask me how I know.
I have the Forma Adventure Lows, very comfortable and seems to have great ankle protection, obviously not the same level as a tall boot. Only complaint is the toe box is too bulky and makes shifting a bit of a guess game.
@@exparrot9074 I also have Forma Adventure Lows and had to raise the gear shift by about 1cm to accommodate the toe box. Ireally like them for comfort on and off the bike but I'd be interested to know if they're robust enough for off-roading.
Great timing for this clip. My Revit Royale H2O are not really up to my riding style and turned out not to be completely waterproof. So in the market for new boots. Also excellent sound .. ;-) ( wink wink)
The best buy on the market for an ADV touring boot is the BMW Venture Grip ($300 for GTX and leather) or if you want more dirt focus the Alpinestars Tech 7 are a solid performer