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.
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.
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.
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.
The Dainese Bruce Gore-Tex Jacket and Pants provide the all-weather all-season weatherproofing that is necessary for long-distance touring rides. They also are made in the classic Dainese vein: motorcycle protection meets high style. Let's face it, Dainese is basically the Armani of the motorcycle world. You'll be protected and comfortable, with the fashion to match.
The outer shell of the Bruce Jacket and Pants is a high-denier Cordura Comfort fabric that offers high abrasion resistance. Bonded to that shell is a Gore-Tex membrane, completely waterproof and windproof, and providing the highest level of breathability of any waterproof membrane on the market. The shell is also treated with durable water repellent which ensures that water will bead up and roll off and dry extremely quickly. The main connection zipper on the jacket is protected by a double waterproof strip with a rain gutter system to keep water out. Within this outfit is CE rated protection in the shoulders, elbows and knees, and there are pockets in the chest and back to house CE rated protection. There are additional foam pad protectors in the hips for protection.
Let's talk temperature versatility on this outfit. When it's cold outside, the removable quilted thermal liners in the jacket and pants will provide good insulation. There is also a thermal collar to insulate your neck. When the mercury rises, you can quickly remove both the liners and open up the ventilation panels. There are vents on the chest and thighs that will flow a good amount of air while riding. For ergonomics, there is accordion stretch paneling at the backs of the arms, fronts of knees, and the shoulders that wraps under the torso for ease of movement. Micro-reflective paneling throughout the jacket and pants ensures night time visibility while multiple adjustment zones, including wrist, waist (on jacket and pants) and neck means you can achieve the perfect touring fit.
