I have a few pairs of riding boots that I enjoy for most day-to-day riding, but when I signed up for a class with California Superbike School, I realized none of them were appropriate for a true trackday. I needed something with more protection suited for track-style riding, but I also wanted something comfortable enough to wear on street rides. From the description on the website, it seemed the Alpinestars Stella SMX-6 V2 Motorcycle Boots would fit the ticket.
The Stella SMX-6 V2 motorcycle boots includes many protective features that provide support, utility, and peace of mind. The upper is constructed from advanced microfiber for abrasion resistance. When pulling the boots out of the box, I first noticed their TPU-injected shin guards. Occasionally my foot will slip off one of the pegs and knock my shins into controls, so I was happy to have protection in this key area.
The boots also include shift pads to protect the material from frequent contact with the shifter, and the sliders on the outside toe are replaceable. The toe box provides added protection, as does the hard heel cup. There’s also a TPU lateral ankle brace for structural integrity and to prevent the ankle from moving in ways it’s not supposed to. There’s an additional ankle protector inside as well.
With all these protective pieces, it’s easy to imagine these boots might not provide enough flexibility for comfort. Alpinestars solves that problem with accordion-style flex zones above the heel and across the front. This construction allows the boots to flex enough to offer freedom of movement while the protective parts restrict the rider’s feet and ankles from moving too far or in unnatural directions.
The boots feature a wide and long hook-and-loop fastener with a zipper under the hook-and-loop flap for getting into and out of them. Given how wide the boots open, it’s quick and easy to slide my feet in or out when needed. While wearing them, the hook-and-loop has held up well and never feels as if it’s pulling apart while riding or walking.
The boots also feature a compound rubber sole with an intricate tread pattern that kept my feet from slipping off the pegs while riding and provided enough grip to easily walk around in the paddock.
See all of Rider‘s apparel reviews here.
These Stella SMX-6 V2 boots were a great choice for someone like me who wants top-level protection and capability for occasional trackdays while maintaining comfort and flexibility for street rides. After my day at California Superbike School, I was plenty tired and sore, but my feet and ankles were not. As I’d hoped when ordering them, the boots are comfortable enough to make for good street-riding footwear as well.
The Alpinestars Stella SMX-6 V2 Boots are available in women’s sizes 36-43. Alpinestars also offers a vented version and men’s SMX-6 V2 boots.
The post Alpinestars Stella SMX-6 V2 Motorcycle Boots Review appeared first on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com