New York Chapter "W"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association

Rochester, NY

Rider Education Information by Gary Mandak

Riding Educator, New York Chapter "W"

Agony Of Da-Feet

When we think of riding our motorcycles, two of the most important items on our motorcycles are our tires as they are only things between us and the pavement. Two things that support the bike and us are our feet. We should look for boots or shoes that best support our needs by the type of riding we do and offer maximum protection.

 Height

The minimum height of boots should be ankle height for maximum protection in case of a get off. If we were to slide, our pant legs would raise up and the only thing protection for our legs are the boots. Most motorcycle specific boots are 10" or taller in height for protection to your ankles, feet and legs.

Material

Boots are made from different types of material such as leather, synthetic material or a combination of breathable type materials. Leather comes from cows, the synthetic leather does not come from synthetic cows but materials that have the look and feel of leather but are more water resistant. This is important in real world riding conditions. If you ride in very hot weather, you may consider breathable type material because the more waterproof the boots are rated, the hotter they tend to be. Never get leather soled boots are they are very slippery in wet conditions. Save the cowboy boots for the ranch or after hours off the bike. Be careful of boots with laces as they can become hung up on your shifter or brake pedal. This stunt can be amusing to watch but very dangerous as your bike can fall on your hogtied leg causing serious injury. If you find the boots you like with laces, make sure you double tie them and tuck them inside your boots.

Environment

Where are you going to wear your boots? If only for riding and very little walking, then the soles of the boots can be stiffer which is better protection for your feet and ankles. Sneakers are great to walk in but offer little protection as they are flexible and can slip off the pegs. The racing type boots offer the best protection with the skid plates and hard material but are very difficult to walk in. If you ride and pose by your bike to look kewl, these types of boots may fit your fashion needs. As an added bonus they are very colorful and can be color coordinated to your bike or riding gear. These bling boots are especially popular by racer types if they forgot their sandals. If you tour and want maximum protection, you should wear boots that are appropriate for your riding style and bring walking shoes as well.

When shopping for your boots, be realistic on the type of riding you actually do. Don't worry how good you will look in them, but rather how well they will protect you with your type of riding. Take into consideration how often you ride in cold, hot or rainy weather and how often you will walk around after your ride and buy the boots to fit your real world needs. Try them on and walk around for a while to make sure they are the correct fit and feel comfortable. Remember; do want boots for protection or a fashion statement? If you chose fashion over protection, you may experience the "Agony Of Da-Feet"!

Practice Safe Riding,

Gary Mandak

Chapter "W" Educator