Sidi Tour & Sidi Rain: All Weather Options

• Tony
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The RevZilla Gear Guys are down in sunny (and warm!) Florida at the moment at the American International Motorcycle Expo to get a good sense of the latest and greatest in the land of upcoming motorcycle gear releases. As we are getting information back here at HQ in Philly, we are working hard and fast to get that turned around and back out to you! Informed riders are the best riders. That’s how we do!

Though there is very little with regard to new tech specs or upgrades available at the moment, it has been confirmed that there will be a new Sidi Tour Rain Boot available in the near future. These are a great option for, well, as you might have inferred from the name… touring riders. The previous iteration has been hugely popular, and it is almost a certainty that Sidi, based on their style and commitment to doing great things, will not disappoint when the newest version is made available in the near future.

An entirely new option is also on its way, and this one really caught the eye of our team. The Sidi Rain Boots will be an absolutely baller option for the touring/sport touring crowd searching for a flexible, yet incredibly supportive piece of footwear for those long hours on the road. Additionally, and this is totally fantastic, the Rain Boots will come in a Hi-Viz option! How cool is that? Pretty darn cool if you ask us. Be comfy, be dry, be safe, and be seen.

There will certainly be more information to come regarding these boots and many other pieces of gear in the upcoming weeks, so stay tuned!

Have fun out there, be safe, and as always…

Enjoy the ride,

Juice

Sidi Fusion, Fusion Rain, Fusion Air Boots Review

SIDI Fusion Boots

The SIDI Boots line-up has something for every rider and riding style. Any hardcore MX dirt junky will have a hard time resisting a pair of SIDI Crossfire SRS Boots. The SIDI Adventure Gore-Tex Boot is arguably the best boot for the rider trekking across North America on their BMW GS or Triumph Tiger XC. If you are hammering your bike off the rev limiter, laying down the laps, and burning rubber at your favorite track, make sure you check out the SIDI ST Boot. Well, who's left? The street rider, commuter and sport tourer looking for a comfortable boot that offers a good amount of protection versatility. In comes the SIDI Fusion Boot series.

SIDI Fusion Air Boots

The SIDI Fusion boot line-up is designed to be SIDI's entry model full-length boot. What's really special about the SIDI Fusion is the amount of versatility you get out of a 200 dollar boot. You could be on a CBR600RR carving the canyons or the FZ1R rider commuting to work in style and one of the SIDI Fusion boots will be a great choice. Bottom line, this is a full length boot designed to tackle all different types of riding scenarios at a reasonable price.

Check out our SIDI Fusion, Fusion Air, and Fusion Rain Boots Review:



The SIDI Fusion is essentially your basic full length boot from SIDI. The Fusion is made to be able to handle the spirited sport riding, with a sport stance and cut thanks to its slimmer heel and foot-bed. You'll also notice a removable toe slider which means a track day isn't completely out of the question, though there are boots more qualified in the SIDI line up for track duty. The Fusion is made of synthetic Lorica leather, which has no imperfections and is thereby more durable and protective than traditional cowhide. On the front of the boot and rear near the Achilles tendon you'll notice stretch panels. This makes ankle movement easier and makes the boot feel a little less stiff. A shifter pad on the toe is standard throughout the SIDI boot line-up and the Fusion is no different. The malleolus (ankle bone) is protected using hard plastic protectors stitched into the boot. A big plastic deflector on the top of the boot protects the shin and a plastic heel piece protects the back of the foot. The perforated teflon-treated nylon bubble lining keeps your feet feeling comfortable in the most active of rides.

The SIDI Air Fusion is the perforated brother to the standard Fusion. The Air version is almost identical in every way with the only difference being that the air is very heavily perforated for the summer rider. If it's a 110º day in Arizona or 95º and humid in PA, this is probably a better choice over 

the standard Fusion or waterproof version. When the rain starts to fall though or when the temperature drops below 50 this boot may not be the weapon of choice. 


The SIDI Fusion Rain is obviously waterproof but has a few differences over the Fusion Air and Fusion standard. First off, you're loosing the toe slider so any chance the Fusion had at going to the track is gone with the Waterproof version. There's also a different liner in the waterproof, which is wicking, slightly insulated, and breathable. The waterproof breathable membrane is bonded to the outer shell, keeping precipitation out but allowing the foot to breathe.

Sidi Fusion Rain Boots

Behind the zipper of the Fusion Rain is a full gaiter so any water penetrating the zipper will will not get to your foot. Also the small amount of ventilation the standard Fusion had is gone. Basically what you have is a boot that is more on the touring side of the spectrum and a little less on the sport side of things. The Fusion Rain is also designed more to withstand colder and more harsh weather conditions.

SIDI has given riders three very good entry model boot options from which to choose. Sizes on all three go from 4.5 to 14.5 so there's a high chance that SIDI has a size for you. All three versions are available in black only. 

Check out more options by visiting our Motorcycle Racing Boots section at RevZilla.com.

Fast Freddie


Related:
Alpinestars SMX-Plus Race Boots Review
Puma Desmo Boots: Road Riding in Style
REV'IT! Rival H2O Boot Review
TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots Review

Alpinestars Soho Gore-Tex Boots Review

Inspired by fashion, but built for motorcycle protection, the Alpinestars Soho Gore-Tex Boots offer another option in the AStars lineup that will keep you safe on the bike, but look excellent under a pair of jeans walking around town. Alpinestars has carved out one of the most paramount reputations in the moto gear industry thanks to their consistent delivery of top-notch products for all realms and styles of riding. The Soho Gore-Tex Boots are no different and will definitely appeal to the rider who doesn't like the entire world to know he just hopped off a motorcycle.

Check out our Alpinestars Soho Gore-Tex Boots Review:

The shell of the Soho Boots is a premium full-grain Italian leather that is soft and supple and inspired by the fashion world. Backing this leather is a fully waterproof breathable Gore-Tex membrane that is guaranteed for life. If this boot ever springs a leak, contact us, Alpinestars or Gore-Tex, and the boot will be repaired or replaced with no questions asked. Gore-Tex is serious about their waterproofing and breathability, and they stand behind their product for life. Internally, the moisture-wicking comfort liner will keep your foot cool and dry all day long, and the velcro-and-zip closure is backed by a Gore-Tex gaiter to guarantee the waterproofing remains in tact.

In terms of protection, this boot has everything needed to keep you safe during all sport touring and commuting scenarios. There is reinforcement in the heel cup and toe box in addition to double density injected TPU protectors that can be found layered under the leather at the ankle, medially and laterally, in addition to a double density TPU shin plate to protect the common footpeg-to-tibia bone break in a get-off scenario. The EVA foam footbed, which is completely removable, provides a high level of shock absorption and protection from impact, while the unique 3D tread pattern on the rubber sole adds to the comfort and grip.

These boots will perform phenomenally for the sport tourer, city rider and commuter. We've heard reports from riders that these can be easily worn around town for multiple hours, at the office all day, and the comfort stays in tact. And of course, the clean design and lack of buckles and external hard parts, prevents anyone from ever knowing you've got a moto boot on.

To see more options like the Soho Gore-Tex Boots, visit our Waterproof Motorcycle Boots and Alpinestars Boots sections.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Dainese Fulcrum Gore-Tex Boots Review
REV'IT! Rival H2O Boot Review
Dainese Sechura Boots Review
Motorcycle Touring and Commuting Boot Guide

Dainese Fulcrum Gore-Tex Boots Review

The big brother to the Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots and yet another fashion-inspired motorcycle boot that is packed with performance and protective elements from Dainese, the Dainese Fulcrum Gore-Tex Boots are designed with the sport tourer and commuter in mind. Designed to hold up in multi-season all-weather riding conditions, these boots shelter from all the nasty ills that mother nature can throw at you, all the while protecting from impact and looking sleek and stylish while doing so. If you're in the market for Italian-styled boots that'll look great under a pair of jeans and hold up in a whole host of riding conditions, you'll definitely want to consider the Fulcrums.

Check out our Dainese Fulcrum Gore-Tex Boots Review:



Constructed of premium Italian cowhide that is treated for a soft and supple feel, the Fulcrum boots are extremely fashion-minded. The cowhide is backed by a Gore-Tex fully waterproof and breathable membrane that is guaranteed for life. Precipitation can't penetrate, but perspiration can escape to keep your foot cool and dry. If the waterproof breathability ever fails, it is replaced for free, no questions asked. Inside, you've got a moisture-wicking liner that furthers the overall comfort of this boot. The full length velcro panel and zipper opening is backed by a Gore-Tex gaiter to maintain the waterproofing of the Fulcrum.

For protection, thermoformed inserts can be found medially and laterally at the ankle while hard composite protection is at the shin to prevent that all-too-common footpeg-to-shin injury in sport touring scenarios. Both the toe box and heel cup are reinforced and there is a TPU shifter guard for durability. For comfort and ergonomics, elasticated bellows are placed in strategic locations to allow for full range of motion and flexibility on the bike. Finally, the rubber sole is manufactured by Skywalk, a third-party company that only makes soles. They are known for being technical, high-grip, non-slip and providing enough comfort to walk around for a while off the bike.

If you're on the hunt this season for a stylish sport touring boot that will perform extremely well across the board, the Fulcrum Gore-Tex boots should definitely be a consideration. Check out more choices by visiting our Dainese Boots and Sport Touring Boots sections.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Dainese Pannier D-WP Boots Review
Dainese Sechura Boots Review
Dainese Longbow D-WP Boots Review
Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review

Dainese Pannier D-WP Boots Review

Inspired by features and appearance found in the Dainese sport and race boot world, the Dainese Pannier D-WP Boots bring to the table slick looks and premium functionality for the all-season all-weather sport touring rider. Dainese continues to innovate with industry-changing designs and fresh concepts that build upon what has already been established in each segment of the market. With the Pannier, you get all-weather performance, protection, style and a great deal of comfort. It looks like another grand slam for Dainese.

Check out our Dainese Pannier D-WP Boots Review:

Externally, the Pannier features a premium cowhide leather construction with high-tenacity polyamide fabric inserts that act both for mobility and also to provide a slight degree of airflow into this boot. Elasticated leather bellows at the instep and elasticated textile at the sides of the boot also contribute to the solid range of motion and overall mobility of this boot. There are suede insert toe and shifter reinforcements  that add another level of durability and also grip in a key area. One of the key features of the Pannier is the D-Dry waterproof breathable membrane that is bonded to the shell. This maintains the dryness and coolness of the foot, keeping all precipitation out but allowing perspiration to escape through the membrane.

Hard part protectors can be found in multiple strategic zones of this boot. At the shin, a TPU plate protects from an extremely common injury in sport touring scenarios, which is slipping off the footpeg and ending up with a broken tibia. There is a TPU heel counter, hard nylon heel cup and toe box, and TPU inserts at the medial and lateral malleolus for ankle protection. The sole is a Skywalk sole, a third-party-specialist manufactured sole that is high-grip, non-slip and durable. Below the ankle on the inside of each boot is also a high-grip TPU insert that will allow you to interface with the fairings of your sport touring bike. Internally, the airgap liner will help keep your foot cool and dry all day long by wicking moisture away.

The Pannier also features a race-inspired closure system with a rear zipper that is also backed by the D-Dry membrane to ensure continued waterproofing. These boots are available in black only, from sizes 39 through 47 Euro. We are highly impressed by what we see from the brand new Pannier. To see all the options within this segment, visit our Sport Touring & ADV Motorcycle Boots segment.

-RetroZilla

Previously:
Sidi Clever Air Boots Review
TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots Review
Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review
Dainese Longbow D-WP Boots Review

REV'IT! Rival H2O Boot review

The waterproof boot market is a segment in the motorcycle gear industry that is constantly evolving and improving. Over years REV'IT boots have always found themselves on the top of the waterproof boot market. The REV'IT! Rival H2O Boots, has definitely become a fan favorite as well an office favorite from the RevZilla staff. It's one of the most comfortable, durable, and best looking waterproof boots at its price point. It does lack some of the hi-tech components of the REV'IT! Apache H2O but offers many of the same features for a price point that does not break the bank. This boot is built for the extreme distance rider who plans to put a ton of miles on their bikes at a time and is looking for something that can provide a high level of
protection and comfort. The mid-two hundred dollar price tag
puts this boot in the mid-range of ADV riding boots.

Check out our REV'IT! Rival H2O Boots Review:

What makes this boot unique is the amount of comfort provided. The Skywalk sole is made of differentiated densities of rubber which makes it stiff enough to provide the rider with a high level of ruggedness and comfort. Thanks to the height of the boot and the thermoplastic built into the shin, The boot feels very supportive. The inside liner of the boot is made of a very comfortable and soft moisture-wicking breathable fabric. The comfort level of this boot is really what helps make the Rival H2O such a popular choice.

Being a REV'IT boot, the quality of waterproofing is very well done. The water resistant zipper is backed by a waterproof gaiter and REV'IT! took every precaution to make sure that no water will enter through any of the stitched seams which are always a weak point. There's an impressive Velcro zipper pull to prevent the zipper from becoming undone during longer rides. The beauty of this boot really is in the details. The stitching is beautifully done and the craftsmanship on this boot is high quality.

If black is your favorite color then you're in luck because that's the only color choice. The unisex design is made to be comfortable for both male and female riders and is available in sizes 36-47Euro which is roughly 4.5 to 13US

Check out our entire range of Waterproof Motorcycle Boots at RevZilla.com for more choices.

Fast Freddie

Previously:
2011 Motorcycle Boot Guides
TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots Review
Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review
Sidi Laguna Gore-Tex Boots Review

Dainese Longbow D-WP Boots Review

The Dainese Longbow D-WP Boots may provide the greatest value-to-dollar ratio of any sport and ADV touring boots in the Dainese lineup. Classic Italian style from Dainese, premium construction materials, high levels of impact and abrasion resistance, and a high degree of comfort all define this premium boot from Dainese. Plus, it just looks awesome.

Check out our Dainese Longbow D-WP Boots Review:

The Dainese Longbow D WP Boots are constructed from premium full-grain Italian cowhide with strategically placed D-Stone inserts. D-Stone is a highly abrasion resistant fabric, proprietary to Dainese, offering levels of protection comparable to leather but it is highly flexible thanks to the elasticated nylon facing. Sort of a best-of-both-worlds situation with D-Stone. Sandwiched between the shell and the liner is a fully waterproof breathable D-WP membrane that stops all precipitation dead in its tracks before it hits the foot. It also allows your foot to breathe to help prevent any clammy discomfort in long-distance touring scenarios. Everybody knows there is nothing worse than that. The comfort liner works in conjunction with this membrane, wicking sweat and keeping the foot cool and dry.

Safety elements are certainly not lacking on this boot. Thermoformed hard part inserts can be found at the shin, the toe and the heel, while the ankle is protected medially and laterally by hard nylon armor. There is also a rubberized hard shifter guard on both boots. An accordion D-Stone stretch panel at the front of the boot provides excellent range of motion while the adjustable velcro strap at the calf combined with the zip and velcro closure system helps to accommodate a range of calf sizes. The Skywalk rubber sole is one of the industry's finest: high-grip, non-slip, anti-oil and stiff. A key element is the waterproof gaiter that backs the entry zip. Zippers are always a weak point and without this waterproof gaiter, this would be an easy point for water to penetrate.

To see more choices, visit our Dainese Boots and Waterproof Motorcycle Boots sections at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Sidi Laguna Gore-Tex Boots Review
Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review
Alpinestars Ridge Waterproof Boots Review
Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots Review

TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots Review

Far and away the most popular boot in the TCX Boots lineup, the TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots are extremely popular in the Sport Touring community. For 2011, TCX gave these boots an overhaul, vastly improving the style and streamlining the design. These boots will perform great on the bike in long-distance touring and cruiser situations, but they are sleek enough to look good under a pair of jeans
(as you'll see in the video) when you're walking around town.

Check out our TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots Review:

The TCX X-Five Plus Boots are a premium full grain leather upper with a Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane. What you're getting is an Italian-styled leather boot that protects you from all forms of precipitation but allows the foot to breathe and perspiration to escape away from the skin. Gore-Tex is the most breathable of air waterproof membranes, and the waterproofing element is guaranteed for life. Internally, the moisture-wicking comfort liner furthers the breathability by pulling perspiration away from the skin and helping it to pass through the Gore membrane. The anti-slip, oil and petroleum resistant rubber sole is high-grip but allows enough flex that you won't be uncomfortable off the bike and walking around.

For protection, the X-Five Plus has a reinforced TPU shin plate to protect against the extremely common injury of breakage of the tibia when it comes in contact with the foot peg in a get-off situation. The X-Five Plus also features anti-impact hard part lateral malleolus protection that will also act as a slider and TPU medial malleolus protection. The toe box is reinforced with hard part protection and the PU high-grip shifter panel is double stitched for durability. Flex bellows at the lower shin and back of calf allow for uncompromised movement on the bike while the padding in the rear of the calf provides extra protection. Finally, the zip and velcro panel closure system is backed by a full-length inner gaiter that maintains the waterproofing of this boot.

The TCX X-Five Plus Gore-Tex Boots have been one of the bestsellers in the past within the sport touring community and this new style design should only continue its success. To see similar boots, visit our Waterproof Motorcycle Boots and our Sport Touring Boots sections at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Related:
TCX Boots 2011 Overview
Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots Review
Sidi Laguna Gore-Tex Boots Review
Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review

Teknic Chicane Waterproof Street Boots Review

When we first got a look at the brand new Teknic Chicane Waterproof Street Boots, we immediately knew that they were going to quickly climb the ranks of our favorite riding shoes. Teknic pulled out all the stops for the Chicanes, loading them with features and protective elements that are completely unheard of at this price point. Designed for aggressive street and sport riding, the Teknic Chicane Street Boots are certainly going to be in standout in their realm for 2011.

Check out our Teknic Chicane Waterproof Street Boots Review:

The Chicanes are a synthetic leather and microfiber upper construction. Synthetic leather is actually more expensive than traditional cowhide, due to the fact that it is completely flawless when manufactured. It provides a great deal of abrasion resistance and protection. Inside, the boots are lined with a moisture-wicking polyamide interior that allows the foot to breathe and moisture to evaporate away. Between the liner and the upper is the Powerskin waterproof breathable membrane, keeping all precipitation out, but letting hot air escape from the skin. The anatomical footbed is also completely removable while strategic perforation in the exterior flows air into the boots on hot days.

On to the protective elements of this boot. There is a replaceable aluminum/nylon toe slider, injected PU ankle protectors medially and laterally, an injected anti-crush heel cup that covers an enormous part of the heel providing a ton of protection, and a double injected rubber sole with an anti-crush shank. The sole is also extremely durable, high-grip and anti-slip. At the inner side of each boot is a suede grip panel for interfacing with the bike, and at the top of the toe box is an injected shifter panel. The quick-lacing closure system is protected by a velcro panel that also acts as a tightness adjuster. Available in black and white, we think the new Teknic Chicane Waterproof Street Boots will be a home run in 2011.

To see similar gear, check out our Waterproof Motorcycle Boots and Motorcycle Riding Shoes sections.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Dainese Quito Riding Shoes Review
Shift Fuel and Kicker Riding Shoes Review
Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots Review
Alpinestars Ridge Waterproof Boots Review

Sidi Laguna Gore-Tex Boots Review

Italian style from Sidi Boots, touring fitment and sleek design, and the most breathable of all waterproof membranes, Gore-Tex; these are the cornerstones of the brand new for 2011 Sidi Laguna Gore-Tex Boots. The Lagunas provide yet another boot to complement the other Sidi Gore-Tex options, the On Roads and Canyons (and soon to be Adventure Gore-Tex), and in my opinion have the slickest, most streamlined design.

Check out our Sidi Laguna Gore-Tex Boots Review:

The big deal here is that these boots are Gore-Tex. What does that mean? With the Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane, you are guaranteed the highest level of breathability of any waterproof membrane. Why? Gore-Tex membranes have 9 billion pores per square inch and every one of these pores are 20,000 times smaller than a droplet of water. This means they keep all water out, but allow moisture vapors from the body to escape through. Gore pioneered this technology and they are still the best in the game at keeping you dry and comfortable at the same time. Gore-Tex also guarantees their waterproofing for the life of the product. As long as these boots are reasonably cared for, if they ever start leaking water, Gore will repair or replace them for free. Gore-Tex sets these boots apart from the pack.

Let's get into the details of how these boots are constructed. The upper construction is a combination of top grain leather and Cordura inserts, which provides a mix of abrasion resistance and comfort. There are multiple elements that offer protection from impact. Plastic hard parts can be found in the heel, ankle, and toe in addition to a padded nylon shin plate. There is a leather shift/brake pad atop the toe box for durability and the boots are double-stitched in high-stress areas. The sole on the Laguna Gore-Tex boots is Sidi's non-slip high-grip touring outsole with a firm nylon inner sole. There is also removable arch support for comfort and reflective paneling above the heels for visibility. The velcro and zipper closure system is backed by a full length gaiter that ensures no water can penetrate the boots.

In the range of 3/4 sport touring motorcycle boots at this price point, you won't find many that offer a higher degree of features and waterproof functionality. Check out our entire range of Waterproof Motorcycle Boots at RevZilla.com for more choices. We think these are one of the best in the class.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots Review
Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review
Alpinestars Scout Waterproof Boots Review
Alpinestars Boots for Fall 2010

Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots Review

The complement to the Icon Patrol Waterproof Jacket and Pants outfit, the Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots are part of the brand new Icon all-season all-weather waterproof Patrol series. Primed to combat all of the elements with aggressive style and functionality, the Patrol gear is the most technically advanced product that Icon has produced to date. With Icon's attention to detail in every piece of gear they release and their advanced technologies that go into their waterproof gear, the Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots are sure to be a big hit amongst the Icon sport touring loyalists.

Here is our Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots Review:

The Icon Patrol Waterproof Boots begin with a durable leather chassis that is bonded with a completely waterproof breathable membrane, blocking all precipitation from penetrating but allowing perspiration to escape away from your foot. This allows the foot to be completely comfortable and dry during the worst weather conditions. Brand new for Fall 2010 Icon Gear, there is a brand new sole system which features a slip-resistant rubber outsole, a footpeg arch to interface with the pegs, and a foam midsole for comfort. There is also an axialmetric steel shank built into the sole for durability and support. For protective measures, there is internal ankle armor cockpit and a reinforced toebox that is topped with shifter interface nubs to grip on to gear changes.

The speed lacing system is low profile and protected by a leather panel that covers the laces. This system is secured by a dual aluminum positive-lock buckle retention system that locks everything into place. You'll also find strategically-placed temperfoam injections for added protection. The feature set on the Patrol Boots is rounded out with the heat-resistant microsuede panel on the inside of each boot to prevent damage in the event of contact with the bike's pipes.

To see more, visit our Waterproof Motorcycle Boots and Sport Touring Boots sections at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Related:
Icon Patrol Waterproof Jacket and Pants Video Review
Icon Patrol All-Weather Gear
Fall 2010 Icon Waterproof Textile Gear Guide

Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review

Built for all-season all-weather sport touring, the brand new Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots are a stylish and functional mid-calf boot to take on all of Mother Nature's ill wills. We know what to expect from Dainese at this point: protection, comfort and style in the same package. These gloves will perform no matter what the weather conditions.

Here is our Dainese Nighthawk Gore-Tex Boots Review:

A full cowhide leather exterior with elasticated suede inserts is the upper construction of the Dainese Nighthawk Boots. Beneath this rugged exterior lies the Gore-Tex waterproof and windproof membrane to combat all foul weather situations. Gore-Tex offers the most breathability of any waterproof membrane that is available, keeping all wetness out, but allowing your perspiration to escape through, keeping you not only dry but cool and comfortable as well. Gore-Tex is also guaranteed waterproof for life; if it ever leaks, Gore-Tex will replace or repair it for free. The Nighthawk features a Skywalk sole, a premier rubber sole not frequently seen in the motorcycle industry: durable, flexible, non-slip, and extremely comfortable.

For protection, there is a thermoformed plastic insert to protect the tibia in addition to medial and lateral hard nylon ankle guards. The toebox is reinforced with thermoformed inserts and there is a TPU gear shifter guard. There is slight perforation in strategic regions of the boot that flows air but retains the waterproof elements of the Nighthawk. Inside, the foot and leg remain comfortable in all conditions thanks to the moisture-wicking comfort nylon lining. The closure is a single velcro cuff with a zipper that is fully backed by a waterproof gaiter. The Nighthawks also feature reflective ticks for night-time visibility. Overall, a standout choice for the all-season all-weather sport touring motorcycle rider.

To see the competition, visit our Sport Touring & ADV Boots section and our Waterproof Motorcycle Boots section.

-RetroZilla
Alpinestars Boots for Fall 2010
Sidi Adventure Rain Boots HD Video Review
Alpinestars Scout Waterproof Boots Review

Sidi Adventure Rain Boots HD Video Review

The Sidi Adventure Rain Boot debuted early in 2010 and immediately received a warm welcome from the ADV Touring crowd. When it's Sidi you know it's going to be quality and comfort across the board. The Adventure Rain is another model in a long line of motorcycle boots that Sidi has created for the last 40 years. They keep you dry, cool, comfortable and protected with designs and technologies that are arguably the best in the industry. The Sidi Adventure Rain Motorcycle Boot is no stray.

By nature, Sidi motorcycle boots are designed to be the best on the market, regardless of the cost it requires for them to be manufactured. And the quality shows from the top-end all the way down to the minute details. For the Sidi Adventure Rain, they took the best elements of touring boots and combined them with the most superior off-road features to create ultimate Adventure Touring boot.

The Adventure Rain is constructed from lorica synthetic leather with split-grain leather inner panels for anti-wear and anti-heat resilience. The sole is composed of soft rubber, allowing it to be rugged and offer maximum grip. The heel is anatomically-shaped, shock resistant and rigid for maximum lateral protection. The Cambrelle polyamide moisture wicking liner pulls perspiration away from the foot, keeping you cool and dry during long adventure rides. Sidi's proprietary waterproof breathable membrane (illustrated in the image) furthers this process by allowing moisture to pass through from your foot but keeping all rain and precipitation out of the boot and away from your foot. TPU shin protection coupled with other hard parts maintains the safety and protection of your foot and shin. The closure utilizes a CamLock style buckle system making getting in and out of this boot even easier. Set it and forget it, Ron Popeil style.

I could go on. But we all know Sidi. We all know they stand for industry-leading quality and have for years and years. I think you'll like these boots. We at RevZilla certainly do.

Check out all of our waterproof motorcycle boots at RevZilla.com.

-RetroZilla

Don't miss related waterproof motorcycle boot blog posts:

Alpinestars Scout Waterproof Boots

Sidi Adventure Rain Boot Hi-Res Photos

REV'IT! Apache H2O Boots

Alpinestars Ridge Waterproof Boot

Designed for the motorcycle rider seeking gear that is as stylish as it is protective, the Alpinestars Ridge Waterproof Boot keeps your feet and ankles safe, but also looks great when you step off the bike. Utilizing the most advanced Alpinestars safety and design technologies, the Ridge offers maximum comfort, protection and style all at a price point that's right under $130.

Manufacturing motorcycle gear for nearly 50 years, Alpinestars has established itself as a leader in the industry in terms of protection and style for serious sportbike riders and racers. They settle for nothing less than the finest in Italian workmanship, utilizing the finest in materials and innovative technologies. The same holds true for the Alpinestars Ridge Waterproof Boot. This 3/4 length boot is built for ADV Touring and city riding, and looks great under a pair of jeans. That's a great deal of versatility for a boot that you simply don't find at this price point.

Let me go over some of the specs on this boot. The outer construction is fully-coated Italian leather atop a 100% waterproof breathable membrane that will keep your foot dry in rainy conditions but allow perspiration to escape through, keeping your foot cool and comfortable. There is an injection-molded PU heel counter which supports and protects the heel with plasticized disks that protect the ankle. The newly designed midsole contours to the shape of the foot and utilizes a structured steel shank reinforcement and internal toe counters for protection. All of the protective elements have achieved CE certification.

For creature comforts, AStars added achilles flex zones for ankle comfort and a removable anatomic footbed with multi-density EVA foam padding. Basically, the thickness and rigidity of the foam is variable depending on the area of the foot. This ensures a snug yet super-comfortable fit. There is also a velcro adjuster at the instep for that added level of comfort.

To compare this boot with its competitors, visit the waterproof motorcycle boots section of RevZilla.com. We think this boot offers great value and versatility for its price point.

Keep it safe, keep it stylish.

-RetroZilla

Alpinestars Scout Waterproof Boots: Brand New ADV Touring Boots

New for 2010, the Alpinestars Scout Waterproof Boots. We got it, we reviewed it, we like it. Check out the detailed video.

This boot stacks up really well against any of the best-of-class Adventure Touring boots from other top brands like Sidi and REV'IT!. Featuring a fully leather coated PU outer construction with a 100% waterproof performance membrane, what really impresses about this boot is the innovative double-injected TPU protection in the ankle cockpit Alpinestars utilizes. Basically, the hardness and thickness of the TPU is variable to allow protection and flexibility in one streamlined piece of material resulting in superior safety and comfort. We dig `em.

If you want to weigh these against the other options out there, check out our selection of waterproof motorcycle boots at RevZilla.com.

Two Wheels Down,

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