Offroad Adventure Boots: selecting the best ADV boot for you

Made for riders joining me for training, this is a tutorial on how to identify and select a proper ADV (Adventure) riding boot for actual offroad and off pavement riding.
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Forma Enduro
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[@DigitalJeremy]

Listen up new riders: the information Bret gives here is GOLD. I say that after a right ankle fracture, and later a left tibial fracture. WEAR PROPER BOOTS.

[@mullins6429]

Couldn’t agree more.

[@emilyk-m9z]

I fractured my ankles wear an adventure boot - no ankle protection at the start of off-road riding. Since then, I got Tech 7 alpinestar. Falling many times since. Ankle 👌. Also expensive lessen for me too.

[@mullins6429]

@@emilyk-m9z yes mate, adventure boots are a joke. I’ve got Tech sevens as well for when I start riding again.

[@deantellulater9785]

Great video always enjoy your information. What kind of kneepads would you recommend the ones I have go down into the boot and cover my shin. Wondering if the boots are too loose and not get the side-by-side or twisting support. But they are double articulating, which makes them comfortable to sit and stand back up. Thank you for the awesome videos.

[@tapkinas]

to be fair, insurance can buy good boots AFTER you break some bones 😀

[@willbaker920]

Tech 7s for me. Long story short, I went down...rolling in road.... guy behind me riding a DRZ400 runs over my leg. He ran over the top part of my boot. Leg hurt but no broken bones. Last year one guy in our group was wearing work boots riding in CO. He broke his foot on Ophir Pass when his bike starting tipping over and the peg landed square on the top of his foot when he tried to save it. Now, we won't take anybody off pavement without full on boots. Lesson learned.

[@rkpalmerjr]

I'm sitting here watching this while recovering from a broken ankle I got while wearing my Forma "Adventure" Low boots. Wish this video was out and I saw it 6 months ago...

[@teneridertravels]

Hope you'll be back on the bike soon - had a similar experience with Forma ADV Tourer, which might be even softer. Luckily I was not fast and only hit the toes quite hard.

[@olenilsen4660]

What would you have changed? I´m watching this now, regarding your comment, and I still might prefer a low cut boot... It´s not gonna happen to me, right? Well, to be true, I don´t really ride that hard either. If I was doing a lot of single track, I´d go for a stiffer boot. But there´s really a lot of personal preferences here! What matters to me, is do I have friends around or not? The single most important thing: will anyone miss you if you lag behind? Time is important with most injuries, so when riding alone, I hardly ride gravel roads, let alone offroad tracks. (I live in Norway, so it might be a week or more until somebody comes around). Also, I think leg injuries are a lot different to head injuries. Skulls should not fracture at all, that is bad. How bad is it when a leg fractures? Will a twisting fracture be worse than a clean snap in either direction? How high up your leg do you want that fracture? Would you rather keep your leg intact and sacrifice a knee? Well, I just think there is a world of options for us to bust our knuckles. I know for sure that I want any fracture to appear away from my joints. Because fixing those are complicated at best, but often not doable.

[@thathue]

Still recovering from a minor ankle fracture, the bike's rear brake pedal went through my high cut riding leather boots. Still got injured but i think the high cut boots helped

[@RenManinJapan]

I ride with same boots….Japan mountain roads are gravel and rocks…I’ve washed out with no issues on the Forma low…but having shin guards and knee protection…

[@rkpalmerjr]

@@olenilsen4660 That's a good question. 6 months ago if I had watched this I very well might still have bought the low cut boot as a calculated risk because... 1) I don't ride MX 2) I ride a "small", "lightweight" CRF300L 3) I want to be comfortable 4) It'll never happen to me right? I clean snapped my right fibula in an ADV clinic when I skid the rear wheel and lost it at low speed when coming to a stop on some slick grass. True, a more experienced rider would've avoided that fall altogether. I figure if I was wearing a true enduro or dirt boot though, maybe I would've ended up with just an ankle sprain or a minor fracture instead. The way I look at it in hindsight is the simplest of falls is all it takes and riding on anything that isn't pavement is going to increase the likelihood of "laying er' down". I'll be riding with enduro/dirt boots anytime I plan on going off-pavement from now on. Your question about how high up the leg do you want that fracture is something I've thought about though and it does have me wondering if @BretTkacs has any thoughts on this. @BretTkacs do think taller boots increase lower leg protection at the potential expense of your knees?

[@ironmanbox]

I purchased my first off-road (ADV) bike about a year ago. I knew nothing about gear for ADV riding. Went to the dealer and purchased some Forma Adventure slippers because they were so comfortable. Then I started reading about guys with all kinds of foot/ankle/leg injuries while wearing "Adventure" boots. I didn't even know "MX" boots were an option until I saw one of your earlier videos on boots. I immediately went out and purchased the Sidi CF 3s and now only wear those when riding my ADV bike, even if it is "just a gravel road." Thank you.

[@trailrunnermike]

Me also. I have a pair of Sidi CF 3 TAs arriving tomorrow. I’m getting back to riding after 30+ years away. This video was what sealed the deal for me a few weeks ago when I decided I am going take safety very seriously. Thank you Brett!

[@ironmanbox]

@@trailrunnermike You will love them, but not at first. They take a while to get used to because they are so stiff, and you do lose some feel for the foot controls. They squeak like heck when walking. The are not waterproof (waterproof socks work) and hot like hell. But you will love the knowledge that your lower legs have the best protection possible. The stiff sole make them very comfortable when standing. I pack another pair of shoes when I want to be off the bike for a while. I ride mostly solo so I want to be sure if my bike can't make it out, I will be able to at least walk for help. Even if you don't ride along, leg injuries can really be debilitating.

[@MrPmyche]

As a new ADV rider I went down and got my leg caught under my hard pannier. My "Adventure" boots let my ankle twist so far it resulted in a torus (or twist) fracture of the left fibula. Before I could even ride again I got a pair of Sidi Crossfire 3s and swapped the panniers to soft bags. The mistake I'd made was cost and comfort. The Adventure boots felt great and I was saving money by not stepping up to full "Dirt" boots. Turns out medical bills are quite a bit more than the cost of good boots.

[@BretTkacs]

Rough story

[@JagLite]

Brian at Atomic Moto is where I buy my boots too. Very helpful and he can recommend what will work best for you. Great video Bret.

[@hibob841]

I'm incredibly grateful that I watched some of Bret's (and others') videos on this subject *before* I started venturing off-pavement. On my very first outing, I ended up with an Africa Twin and its luggage on top of my foot, on a dirt road halfway up Palomar mountain. Because I listened to the experts and went with MX boots (and soft luggage!) I was able to continue my trip with nothing worse than a busted turn signal and a slightly sore ankle. My Tech-3's did their job. I upgraded anyway!

[@BeGoneForGood]

I switched up my off road selection based on your advice a couple of years ago. Comfort used to be my goal and I have learned to sacrifice a little bit of comfort in order to secure a significant amount of safety. It took a bit of getting used to but I am happy with the changeover.

[@racesla]

I really believe you can have both these day's, my Forma Predators 2.0s are bullet proof as far as protection goes and are the most comfortable boot I've worn.

[@1001CP]

As Brett points out here, if you are standing off road that full steel shank makes such a difference in stability and control as well as it seems you are standing on full footboards instead of pegs. The ability to stand for long periods quite easily WITH the protection you need. At the end of the day you will really notice the difference in your legs. You can actually enjoy walking around after a long and challenging ride! If I am just cruisin' on the hwy my ADV bike to see sights then my road oriented boots are fine. Off road needs true off road boots as said here. You are banging off road and need that protection. Being sidelined with foot/leg injuries is just terrible.

[@Porsche996driver]

Thanks Bret - all great points to consider. I need two new pairs of boots! 👌🏼

[@codysletvik8802]

Such incredibly important information. You are making men and women riding so much safer with each video. Just letting you know, you really are hitting your goal with every upload!

[@BinsenzoBean]

Just got my bike and learning that I don't have the proper gear to start with. Long time rider but first time off pavement. Thanks, Bret!!

[@tangoechobravo5817]

Very informative - broke my leg in two places a year ago - tibia and fibula - wearing touring boots - slow speed crash. Just ordered the Crossfire's. Thank you.

[@brianprice2036]

Lots of GREAT technical info and advice here Brett, broken down and clearly relayed. You're providing a huge benefit to ADV riders with this kind of education, something the industry is lacking. Especially like what you say in the segment starting at 11:10.....worth replaying!! Compliments!!

[@chrisphillips0000]

Bought the Tech 7s after watching an older video. During my first ride with them, I hated them but then after 5-6 rides got used to them and now love them.

[@oliviergirouard4216]

Wow! I think I just watched a 17 minute ´one take/no cut’ video with intelligent content. Bravo!

[@BretTkacs]

Other than b-roll fills yes you did. It was the 4th take only because I wanted to keep it close to 15min and the other three were true rants... 🤣

[@DARIVSARCHITECTVS]

I like my Forma Adventure boots, made in Romania. Saved my ankles from breaking from heavy impact twice. They may not be the most protective but they are really comfortable and you can walk comfortably in them. I can operate the controls on my BMW R1150GS ADV and feel them. Shifting and braking with confidence and control are important to me and these boots allow that.

[@RohemN]

As someone that's starting to go off-road, this is great info. I had my first off-road experience a few days ago and I went with my normal riding boots, but I was already looking for decent off-road boots. Now I know what to look for.

[@YSPDJapan]

600 dollar boots that last 5 years are better than 300 dollar boots and a trip to the ER. Buy once, spend for top of the line, and then just know you won't break your feet off road. It's a no brainer from me and I ride SIDI Crossfire 3s.

[@cloud9847]

I'm looking to do roughly 70/30 and need a good boot for it. I currently have Forma Adventure Lows for my pavement riding and I love them. I'm happy to hear that I'm on the right path by understanding that using them off road isn't the way to go.

[@Jack-yl7cc]

This is some great info! I learned the hard way that ankle injuries can really take a long time to heal after one bad fall left me with Chronic Ankle Instability which took years to mostly recover from.

[@anidiotonboard6539]

I own and use both the Forma Adventure and Alpinestar tec 3. I always always wear my tec 3 off road. I only use my formas on road. I recently had my foot taken off my peg in a rut and dragged under my center stand. Had I have been wearing my Forma adventures, I certainly would have busted my ankle/foot. My tec 3 did their job and protected me. What Bret says here is true to form and some of the best free advice you can get anywhere. Keep en coming my man. Keep em coming.

[@wiseoldman5841]

Had an off-road get off in the catskills, where I landed 60 feet downhill onto a pile of river rock. A blind curve loaded with road salt didn't help. BmwR1200rs landed on my ankles and pinned me. Was wearing Alpinestars premium Supertech R boots. Absolutely no damage to my feet. Even though a road racing boot, they kept my ankles from being crushed. You actually do get what you pay for. Listen to Bret! Stay away from the marketing hype and do your research.

[@LuckyLuke79a]

Because of an earlier video by you on that topic I already replaced my Toucans with Gaerne SG22. The break-in was brutal, but now they fit snug and I feel really comfortable on the bike. So thank you for making these videos. They make a difference. ❤ I also got myself knee braces and a lighter bike (701). Enduro traveling is now much more fun. 😃

[@wearealllost8907]

What's wrong with the toucans. There's also a good boot.

[@weteringoost1]

Came here after breaking my foot while dropping my bike on top of it while wearing touring boots. Looking for some more protection for the stupid mistakes we all make time to time. Thank you for your great video again

[@advmotoskillz]

Great information! I especially like the part when you mention how important it is to find for limits when riding. I always like to say “find your limits and train past them”.👍🏻

[@DmitriyAdv]

Great video! It's really hard to explain these differences because "adventure" boots visually look so similar to proper off-road boots. It's when you actually have them in your hands that you notice the difference. I always tell people to put the boots on, then stomp on one with the other. If your foot hurts from that, imagine what a 200+lb of pointy metal falling on it will do. For what it's worth, my Gaerne SG12 boots are some of the most comfortable footwear I have. Once you get used to the dimensions and a bit of extra weight, it's seamless, especially on the bike. I can spend 12 hours in it without the slightest bit of discomfort. The level or protection is crazy too. One of my favorite anecdotes is how riders use their boots for traction at a hard enduro - by sticking the toes under the dirtbike tires.

[@scottgoddard3497]

I'm 47. I've been off road/mx and Enduro for 41 years. Was running when I was younger man in top 5 in national Enduro. My go to boot for performance and price is the Alpine star tech 7.. I've recently purchased an adventure bike and will keep running those boots. Also it's my first road registered motorcycle. So I'm learning that too.

[@gdelarama4256]

SIDI BOOTS freaking save me from what could have been a nasty foot injury

[@scottgoddard3497]

To expensive

[@gdelarama4256]

@@scottgoddard3497 its pricy but it does it job to protect you and help avoid major injuries. I'd rather invest in these premium boots than buy a $200 subpar boots. Dont skimp on your protection

[@gdelarama4256]

@@scottgoddard3497 true, they're pricey but the sidi boots are built like a tank. I have the sidi crossfires TA and it saved me from nasty foot injuries.

[@ironmanbox]

I bought my first ADV bike a couple years ago. I didn't have any off-road boats so my local dealer had the Forma Adventure Slippers. They were super comfortable so I grabbed them not really knowing any better. After watching this I bought the Sidi Crossfire 3s and can't believe how much I was risking my feet/ankle/leg wearing the Formas. I only wish they were waterproof, but waterproof socks address that issue. BTW, I took your training in VA, and highly recommend to anyone considering. Thank you.

[@BretTkacs]

Check out the Sidi X-Power Enduro boots next time around

[@fabienpics]

Thank you for all the information. I just upgraded from Alpinestars Toucan.. to tech 7.....and is a total new technique for shifting...... 👍

[@F1since79]

I went down hard (my fault) 6/25. I suffered a clean, non-displaced fracture of my fibula at the ankle. I also broke my left second metacarpal, but that was a bit of a fluke. I was able to ride the 20 miles to the ER and walk in the door. My fracture should heal in 5 weeks with no cast, no surgery. I was wearing Sidi X-3s. They saved my ankle from a a much worse injury. With those low cut boots, I would have had floppy foot, needed an ambulance to get out, needed to figure out how to get my bike out, needed surgery, and more like 5 months of recovery. On the WYBDR last year, I encountered a rider wearing light hiking boots. No effing way. Buy and wear real dirt boots, folks.

[@49Roadmaster]

Thanks Bret for another great video. Great food for thought.

[@tommeyer6033]

It really astounds me how adamant people are about not needed proper off road, motocross or enduro style boots when riding off pavement. Thanks for recommending Brian. He is the best authority on motorcycle specific off pavement footwear. Thank you. (I wear Sidi Power X… super stiff boots, and yeah I miss second gear every now and then. Oh no 😐) 😉

[@jothain]

Well I'm one of the people that think average high street footwear is good enough off pavement. Meaning gravel with less than say fist sized rocks. They're plenty rigid imo for that. However going offroad things begin to change. But no one should ride anything even on gravel with low street footwear or hiking boots whatever.

[@ckkrons2338]

@@jothain I thought that too before I broke my fibula on a gravel road in Forma Adventures. Riding 35 miles home with a broken shifter leg sucks. Watch again at 6:00 .

[@jothain]

@@ckkrons2338 What kind of footwear you had?

[@robertojeronimo7959]

Congratulations from Brazil! Excellent video! The information is very good and will help beginners and experienced riders alike!

[@SalverTere]

I fully agree with that! Good boots are one of the important stuff for a motorcycle tour. I'm currently in Turkey and we do a lot of street tour but sometimes we have gravel and it makes me feel save to wear the Sidi Crossfire. When i know i will do a 100% street tour i wear my Alpinestars Tucan. The sidi i have now for about 5 years and they protect me on about 100tkm. Still good, no problems! I wear Jacket a Alpinestars Halo, trousers is revit canyon - for Turkey and for me a really good combination. We had temperatures from 12° up to 35° Celsius. Lets see how it works in Georgia! Thanks for this nice video! Ride safe!

[@MotoCocoTV]

Hey Bret! Another Great Video! I'm so thankful for your earlier Boots Videos, as I went straight for an Enduro style Boot. Your Training is Top Notch and It is highly recommend! My Boots Saved me a TON! And continue to do so! THANK YOU for all your non biased reviews!

[@brunosoudy5811]

Je n'avais jamais vu une démonstration aussi bien faite avec des conseils avisés. Merci

[@MrD-moto]

Really helpful video. I was wearing a Sidi Adventure 2 boot off-road recently, went for a “dab” to keep balance, caught foot in dirt, twist! Felt like my leg was about to break, but got away with a limp for 10 days. Not going off-road again without a motocross boot.

[@jasonseigfried8941]

As someone with a damaged and weak left ankle good boots was a priority. Ended up with some tcx drifter full height boots and love them

[@rick-hm3ji]

Coincidentally, when I re-entered off road riding on my dual sport 5 years ago with the intent to ride the MABDR, I called Atomic-Moto (and may even have spoken to the guy you mentioned). I was leaning towards the brown Forma adventure boot but when he found out that my main iterest was offroad, the Atomic-Moto guy immediately steered me to the Sidi X-3 MX boot. I have to say that it felt weird at first not being able to feel the shift or rear brake levers, but I quickly got used to it and it became second nature. Your analysis is spot on and those boots certainly do enhance my confidence and feeling of control and safety. Great video.

[@mjl8115]

2 years ago without any experience I bought Tech 7 for my enduro wandering. It is very comfortable despite the fact it is very stiff to me. I didn't expect there are even more stiff boots on the market. But whatever I find Tech 7 comfy, safety, durable and good quality. I chose them after fitting with another ones, that I don't remember the brand. But Tech 7's was so nice that I fell in love immediately. Whatever you choose, boots are very important in off-road situations. Stay cool. Cheers.

[@Petesmotoadventure]

Another great video. I have friends that are getting into adv riding and I can’t stress to them enough about getting good boots. I have so many boots for different reasons. On my recent trip to Alaska I used the SIDI adventure. Needed a compromise between protection and comfort and waterproofing.

[@davidc1961utube]

Good info on the tech and level of protection. My issue with SIDI boots is that they are all so narrow it seems like they are made for folks with 4 toes when I have 5! If only they made boots with narrow heels and wide toeboxes... To me, the ADV boots are adequate for road riding up to and including maintained gravel and logging roads. As soon as you hit doubletrack, I feel like enduro or MX boots are the right choice. Therefore almost all GS and Multistrada riders will be fine in ADV boots, but most dual sport riders need MX or enduro boots. Dress for the slide, not for the ride! Finally, the term off-road seems to mean different things to different folks. I use pavement, off pavement, double track and single track to categorize riding surfaces, but that is just me. Cheers!

[@aaronschwartz4583]

Gaerne for wider feet

[@nickr5051]

Sidi Crossfire 2/3 TA ARE wide toe box and standard heel.

[@davidc1961utube]

@@nickr5051 I will have to try some of those. It has been a good 5-7 years since I tried a Sidi boot on. Maybe they are different now.

[@kenjisan7970]

I have the Crossfire 2’s and have what my wife call “duck feet”: wide in front with a narrow heel but the Crossfire fit me just fine and are comfortable.

[@davidc1961utube]

@@kenjisan7970 mine have been described as shaped like a slice of pie. Soft pointy heel and wide crusty toes, LOL

[@ninaadnirgudkar7752]

Im new to adventure riding. I own a ktm adv 390. Love your channel. Learnt a lot from you. Love from India

[@BretTkacs]

A big smile and wave to India!

[@steveb4517]

Bret, I always hoped to find an offroad boot that had a tang sticking out of the sole to the inside of the big toe. I find that I always want to shift with the edge of the sole - so I don't need to torque the boot forward to get under the shifter and back to get over. A funny little tang sticking out an extra 1/4" next to the big toe would engage the shifter perfectly - and make for minimal foot movement in technical terrain!

[@teneridertravels]

"Red flag when it says Adventure" - spot on Bret! I had my toe hit quite hard on such boots when my foot hit the ground at super low speed. Immediately after this experience, I've watched your last video on boots and switched to Sidi Crossfire SRS for anything but street riding. Some folks think these are pro level boots and thus not needed for an average or beginning rider - thanks for pointing out that especially beginners (like me) need top protection!

[@BretTkacs]

I would argue that the beginner needs it more than the pro. Who falls/crashes more often?

[@n03m9]

I chose security over comfort since I crushed my foot last time. Every damn time I meet other bikers I hear the "oh, squeaky squeaky that must suck". Well, I wish to keep in one piece.

[@newenglandscrambler2262]

I'm a Forma boot owner. And I (along with my sprained feet) 100% agree that those boots don't belong in the dirt. Excellent touring boots though. Super comfy and very waterproof. Great in a slide. Not great twisting an ankle or smashing a foot on the rocks.

[@seba7422]

Motocross and enduro champions wearing Forma's wouldn't agree with you.

[@advredbikes]

Fabulous advice Brett, the last part of this video was the best," we pay the price for the boots so we are not in the ER or ambulance", thank you Brett.

[@WoodlandsArchive]

Thanks buddy! I run with Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar, love them. Saved me on some occasions. Only downside is - hot as hell in summer. This video provided me with very useful information. Food for thought! I will be looking differently for my next purchase, thanks to you.

[@miclinda256]

Mine only keep the rain outside for 2 ouers 🤔 i now ! Its not Gore tex, But still…….

[@rivernet62]

Spot on brother. I have Tech 7s which seems like a solid boot, but I took serious injury due to the flex in the mid sole. I credit them with minimizing the damage so I could ride out, but I would rather have avoided the 2 months recovery period.

[@tron121]

tech 7 Enduro? normal tech 7s are moto boots, I'm on my third pair ;)

[@jaimemetcher388]

Like tron121 says, Tech 7s (not Tech 7 Enduro) are MX boots, they have less flex than the CrossFire. They are miserable to walk in though, I can see why people are tempted to go for the greater flex.

[@mike.thomas]

@@jaimemetcher388 Weird thing to me is my T7 Enduros in size 12 don't flex anywhere as much as what Bret shows. It really surprised me when he flexed his. But he's probably got way more use out of his and has broken them in more (?).

[@jaimemetcher388]

@@mike.thomas Yeah, mine are relatively new too, I'm not going to be happy if they end up that floppy any time soon. According to the specs they do have a steel shank and certainly from the heel up to the ball of the foot they are completely rigid. Maybe the shank can break or move? Dunno.

[@mike.thomas]

@@jaimemetcher388 At the rate I go, they will not break down anytime soon ;-).

[@scottmiller4516]

Great info Bret, Thanks

[@jthelakes147]

Very interesting. I went to the Forma boot site in Europe and the USA site. No warnings on the European site about the “1% off road riding” but yes there they were in the USA.

[@12thtime]

I'm sure that was added by the corporate lawyers trying to avoid a future lawsuit in the USA. Not as much risk of that in Europe.

[@jthelakes147]

@@12thtime Absolutely!

[@hamfixer]

Could not agree with this more! As someone who though they were protected in Tech-3s and ended up crushing my foot and breaking multiple bones clipping a boulder at 20-30 kph, I got a whole new perspective on how at risk your feet/lower legs are. Been using SG12s the last two years and they make a huge difference in protection, confidence and reduced foot fatigue and I can grip the bike much better. While the SGs and Crossfires aren't cheap, they will last a lot longer than any of my other boots and the investment in the protection is well worth it!

[@BretTkacs]

The SG12 is a hell of a boot

[@teneridertravels]

Agree 100% - the added grip alone is worth upgrading to such boots! Switching to Crossfires made a huge difference in bike control for me.

[@lasse9706]

@@teneridertravelswould you say the Crossfire boots give you more control than the SG12’s?

[@teneridertravels]

@lasse9706 I can't say that, have never ridden the SG-12. But the Crossfires give me more control over the bike than the Atojos because their upper section offers more grip.

[@lasse9706]

Thank you@@teneridertravels

[@stephan8427]

This is a very interesting discussion and informative (as always) video. For me the issue is that I ride long distance adventure ride. I just completed a 30 day 6,500 mile ride to Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. I was able to avoid any serious offroad, but on prior trips there were segments I would have wanted to do that included some off pavement of varying difficulty (eg Copper Canyon). My priority is adventuring, exploring, seeing things and that involves getting off the bike to see sites. It is not realistic or practical to bring multiple boots for varying terrains, and you cannot realistically take off your riding boots and put on hiking boots and expect your riding boots to still be there when you return. So for me, I have to choose boots that offer a degree of protection, allow me to ride more challenging terrain when the situation requires it, and is comfortable enough to work as a hiking boot as well.

[@airadaimagery692]

So what do you use?

[@stephan8427]

@@airadaimagery692 I had been using Alpinestars Corazols. I broke my leg on the IDBDR using those, not sure if other boots would have done any better. So now Im not sure whether to get those again or try something else. Bret mentioned the Forma Evo X boots here in these comments so I may try those. On my ride through Mexico etc I just work sketcher workboots with steel toes since I was not doing any (on purpose) off road

[@wearealllost8907]

​@@stephan8427sorry to hear that! I think about the Toucans from Alpinestars. I have the same Probleme! Want a boot with good protection but also wanna walk around sometimes and see some stuff. Really don't know.. There are so so many opinions out there and too much boots to chose. My head 🤯 But, can you explain what happen with you foot? How it happened? So many talk about injuries but nobody tells how... Wanna learn something and maybe avoid it with a better boot choice.

[@stephan8427]

@@wearealllost8907 I was riding a pretty easy gravel road when I lost control of the front, it went sideways, and I tried to keep myself from falling by putting my foot down, but it got caught under the rear pannier (soft luggage) and despite what everyone says, soft luggage that has a bunch of stuff in it, is quite rigid, so my bones snapped.

[@camiloverland]

I totally agree with you! I do have Forma ADV boots (long ones) for about a year (14k kms so far), my very first boots with my first motorcycle and they serve the multipurpose I need when I ride my bike through highway, then desert crossing, do some hiking and daily drive or even after office party! I've been in some hairy situations where the Forma ADV performed very well. I don't see myself doing long trip with very stiff boots, I guess you gotta assume some risks in order to be comfortable.

[@randylevine3535]

This is the best, most informative video on the opinionated topic of adventure boot selection. Brett's comments on boot selection are right on the mark. Unfortunately, he misses one point: adventure riding is not just offroad riding. My experience of big bike adventure riding is more like 70 - 80% paved roads and the rest offroad in various conditions from hard packed gravel to sand, muck and rocks. If you are trailering your bike to go offroad, get a small, light offroad or dual purpose machine. If you ride thousands of kms, exploring along the way, you want a larger displacement machine and personally I do not see being tortured by Frankenboots to best ensure protection for the 20-30% of time offroad. A lot of the offroading I do on a trip is spontaneous and not planned. Had I packed the Formas and brought street boots, would I have changed whenever leaving the pavement? Not likely. And packing boots this size is no easy task. In June I rode my Moto Guzzi Stelvio 10,000 kms return Vancouver, BC to Murphys, CA in a circuitous route, on and off road, to take Brett's course (beyond excellent and should be mandatory by the way). I was going to take my Forma Terrain EVO HPS offroad boots but the fact is that they are just too big and too uncomfortable for the 70-80%. Before I left, my wife bought me a pair of Alpinestar Corozals. Before buying them, I looked at Forma adventure boots which, as Brett points out, are really just road boots for touring and offer no offroad capabilities. On my trip the Corozals proved comfortable to walk in and wear all day, worked well in temperatures down to 4C and up to 37C. The real test came on the way home. Riding through about 60Kms of offroad in northern California took us through a muck patch that had the bike squirming like a wasp was up its rear until I wiped out trying to avoid a swamp. The Guzzi, full of fuel and gear making it about 750lbs landed on me, pinning my left leg under it with my foot turned perpendicular to the bike and my foot dug into the mud, so the entire weight of this tank of a bike was held up and resting on my twisted foot. I have no doubt that had I bought the Forma adventure boots my ankle would need to be fused, my foot would be broken in a number of places and I have no idea how I would have gotten out the 20 kms to pavement, let alone retrieved the bike. Being in the US, this easy to occur mishap would have cost many thousands of dollars. The Corozals saved me from any damage other than some mild swelling that night (gone by morning) and a little black bruise on the toe nail of my big toe. Well worth the $500 (CAD incl tax). So, although I agree with what Brett says, personally I do not find those enduro or motocross boots feasible for adventure touring even if they do offer the most protection. Use Brett's testing to find a quality high boot that you can do some walking in on your way to offroading. Stay away from Forma adventure boots as the real adventure may take place in the hospital. My experience leaves me endorsing Corozals and its high end brother, Toucans, or anything else with at least their stiffness and protection.

[@wyootto264]

I ride everywhere in Gaerne SG12’s. In fact, I just returned home on Sunday from a 3,000 mile road trip wearing my SG12’s. I have 4 other pairs of boots that just collect dust.

[@dennismccrohan2319]

Just did Cleman mountain plus all of section 3 of the WABDR this week. My right ankle is pretty sore at the moment, but not broken. This despite having my right leg being trapped under the bike 3 times in two days. All thanks to the Tech 7s I bought after watching this video!

[@mitchwinder1204]

I tried a pair of Forma Adventures. Wasn’t long before my bedroom slippers had more protection and support. So I went back to my Gaerne Balance Oiled on my V-Strom. (Gravel is as off-road as I ever get on a big bike.) I also have a pair of Klim Outlanders to try for street use. For true off-road on my 450L I’ve just retired my TCX X-Heliums with a pair of Sidi X-3s. (I raced many years in the predecessor of that boot.)

[@anxiousappliance]

I've owned the Forma adv, and have owned the Sidi adv for years. There is a world of difference between the two. That said, I had a tip over with an ankle sandwich - 500ls of bike - ankle, rock: The formas supported the bike and had no injuries. No doubt this is good advice, and criteria to be kept in the front of your mind when making a selection, but the other aspect is : gear is only safe if you are wearing it, and you have to know what you're going to put on for a ride - as Atomic Moto says - the most boot you can handle. This comes with experience - and money - . Curious about those Sidis though. I'm teased for being an atgatt superhero, but actually everything I wear is super comfy. Probably some compromises, but I'm happy to slap it on and hit the road.

[@onemilemore541]

Thanks Bret! I almost bought the Sidi Adventure 2 thinking it was the right choice for off road. Glad I didn’t. What you’re teaching makes a lot of sense 👍🏻 Please keep sharing your wisdom. I for one, need it.

[@philgoogle1535]

I did buy the Sidi Adventure 2s 3 years ago as my first boot. If the SG12s fit I'll be buying them. If not, then its the Tech 7s.

[@ukaszusielski3606]

Gaerne Fastback Endurance. Coming from RST Raid boot is like discovering the driving once more. Diferent world. No flex at all in midsole.

[@Remarksman]

I always learn something from your videos, even when I thought I pretty much knew what you were going to say 😂 Really good points at the end about why good boots cost more.

[@mithunkartha]

Thanks. Have learnt a lot by watching your videos and of course practising.

[@sandysmith7485]

Good info. I love my Fox Instinet Offroads. A little pricey but they feel great. Ride safe my 2 wheel friends.

[@grayknight836]

I would love 🖤 to see a Hybrid between the bad ass yet super stiff 🎿 Crossfires and the Adventure boots 🥾 ! Would also like to see a more modern sleeker tread pattern, instead of the 80s work boot tread pattern.

[@Matthew-wn8oq]

Alpinestars Toucan

[@EnriqueReyesJrREALTOR]

Thanks for being to the point. Great explanation.

[@Rezon8ing]

I had a pair of Alpinestar Corozal "Adventure" boots. While practicing slow tight turns on a muddy surface my foot slipped off the right peg. As a result the bike and I toppled over, causing my right foot to be pinned under the frame. Only took about 30-40 seconds to extract my foot from under the bike. I practiced for a little while longer, then continued my ride. Wasn't until I got home that I realised I had a massive hematoma on my ankle. An injury that could have been easily prevented had I been wearing the correct boots with better lateral support. I now never go off road without my Tech 7 Drystar Enduro boots, much, much more protection.

[@deltabravo1257]

FINALLY! Someone that has my same theory on boots! I have three bikes: 2002 DRZ 400S that I've had since 2006. 2019 KTM 450 EXC-F, and a 2022 T7 that hasn't seen the dirt yet. At the moment I have a pair of aging, nearly worn out Sidi Flex Force boots that are probably 20+ years old. They are similar to the Crossfire 3, just a really early version if the MX style boots with the pivot point. I wear them regardless of what type of riding I do, or which bike I'm riding. My plan is to replace them with a pair of Crossfire 3 TA boots like you have. To me, foot and ankle protection is of the utmost importance, so like you, that's why I want a stiff/rigid boot. Who cares if it's inconvenient to walk in them. TA = Traditional Application (I think). It means they have a replaceable sole by getting parts and having a shoe/boot repair shop work their magic. Sidi SRS is "sole replacement system" which means an owner can replace the sole.

[@LuisGarcia-rt4hr]

Great video. Thanks. I was about to go for Sidi boots but now I’m doubting with the all new Gaerne SG 22. What do you think? Thanks again!

[@andrewpeter6128]

All good information. Accurate and true. Can you comment on the challenge of traveling while wearing these boots? For example, walking up the mountain, walking down the trail to a waterfall, walking around a colonial town square, etc. I’m not arguing against the safety aspect, but I do wonder if “safe” is always viable.

[@timlubbers2884]

This is my issue with the whole boot debate. I long term travel (5-7 months at a clip) and I can say that there’s a difference between running around on gravel for the weekend and living in the boot adventure touring for 6+ months . I have done all but 2 BDR’s and routes where it’s days of nonstop gravel and never found an issue with my formas . Of course knowing how to ride helps … ✌🏻

[@mike.thomas]

Being on a motorcycle involves risk, period, as we all know. And protective gear is no guarantee, either. It’s up to each rider to decide their risk vs comfort tolerance. Personally, if I’m planning to be on a low-traction surface for any amount of time and am not going to ride super conservatively, well I dress for it, from chest protector to Astars Tech7 boots, and probably knee braces, and I realize and accept I’m not going to be hiking. Hell, walking into the brush to take a whiz can be a challenge. But that’s me, and I like to feel like I’ve done what I can to prevent or reduce injury while having fun (took me a while to come back from three broken ribs and a badly separated shoulder last year, and it adjusted my priorities a bit.)

[@camiloverland]

I think thats the biggest point in the trade-off. If you are mostly an offroader weekender, I would think stiffer boots are the go, but when you ride and also do more activities, the boots become a challenge. My own experience are the Forma ADV, I can ride for several hours of mixed adventures on/off road, do a 2km hiking trail and come back without much problems or tired. Also they are easy to wear and light. I do think at the end is up to each one what is the priority, but for sure anything out of the urban radio should be rode with long boots.

[@mikemills5144]

I got sucked in about 5 years ago by the sales person on the floor and got the Sidi Adv 2 boots (yes they squeek), then last year I wanted an everyday road riding boot and went with the Terra Evo Lows. Love those boots and would buy them again in a heartbeat. Not for offroad though.

[@SKgeostrat]

I'm using a Gaerne MX boot, even if I only ride down to fill up with gas. Accidents leading to broken bones or even worse happen all the time, particularly if you are a new rider. The discomfort you may feel using an MX boot is minor compared to the pain of having a 250KG motorcycle fall on your tibia or ancle, beleive me, I've been there, done that. I never ride without full protection, including boots and helmet.

[@verdonrocksphotography3510]

Very nice, love my SG 12 and now new SG22 looks excellent, awesome explanations why really people should upgrade, cheers V!

[@UndCon]

Great as usual by Bret! - however - I think we need a clear definition for offroad. For example, here in Sweden it is prohibited to go off the road. Land is protected by law and you are only allowed to ride on made roads (gravel, forest, fire-roads and so on) When traffic stopped long time ago and nature is taking over the road again it is most likely not allowed. We are not allowed to ride on a trail into the woods. So for us offroad not paved. In other countries where you can ride wherever you wan to it is quite obvious.

[@pjakszentis]

You are absolutely right on proper boots. If you travel solo, a broken ankle can be a matter of life or death. Just think of lifting the bike one-footed. In my opinion and experience, you should choose the boot for the ride and the typical accident scenarios. With proper protection you might swear for the drop and may be some scratch to the bike, but you can go on. Yes, protection should not limit you movements while riding and the more comfort at the same protection level the better. Some other topic might be worth talking about. I see quite a lot adventure riders wearing their 3-4 seasons black gore tex textiles even in real hot climate. That increases drastically the risk of dehydration and fatigue, resulting in loss of concentration and an increased risk of mistakes/accidents. As you Bret typically wear lightly colored/grey gear, tell the newbies why. I personally prefer light variable gear like KLIM DAKAR or, much better in really hot climate, MOJAVE. If needed, I have a road cycling light gore jacket to put under that gear for essential protection. I use my RUKKA gore-tex gear only if lots of rain is to be expected and the temperature will be below 15 °C. Or for commuting to work, but that is typically not adventure riding

[@icedog75]

Great piece...wish I'd seen this earlier. Clearly while my Alpinestars Belize boots are great for touring they would be the wrong choice for even moderate dirt/gravel riding. Nothing wrong with having specific boots for specific conditions...time for the more appropriate pair.

[@triguywon9938]

Atomic Moto is amazing, before placing my order I spoke to Brian Price the boot wizard for 20 minutes. He placed me in the perfect fitting boot for my feet, ankles, and calfs.

[@jacobmcvay123]

I always wear full MX boots even around town. Just feels more comfortable and clearly more protection than a street boot. And then never have to get used to anything else. One great boot (prob AS tech 7s) and just get used to it and use them always. Boom. Never worry bout boots what to wear or when to wear ever again.

[@marcberland5951]

Hehe, was in the market for a pair of boots a few months ago. Even though I don‘t realy ride off road (yet?), I went for the cf3s. Was also consulting some of your older videos :) Now I feels confirmed again with my decision. Max protection as a beginner was my key idea behind it. What I can say about it: For me, they were more comfortable then the tech 7 (weird buckle placement). Also the buckles are great / easy to use. I also changed some of them to shorter than stock to better fit (not having so much slack inside the boot).

[@thedownwardmachine]

You could get around the whole shifter and rear brake feel issue by getting an Africa Twin DCT and doing the parking brake lever conversion.

[@Michael_Shay]

I fractured 3 bones in my foot in a lowspeed crash wearing alpinestars corozals because I thought they were good. That costed about $1k in medical bills, and this wasn't an extreme case by any means. I bought Tech 7 Enduros for $250 by getting past seasons colors and using a coupon. I think I spent less on the Tech 7s than I did on the corozals when I originally got them.

[@tadeuszradziminski4697]

What about Revit Expedition GTX? Do they provide sufficient level of protection (as presented by Bret in one of the previous films, few years ago)? I would appreciate Bret’s comment 😊

[@MontanaBooniesRider]

Unfortunately for people with small feet it's sometimes hard to find boots that have the protection needed along with a size that fits. I started out with a Forma Lady Adventure boot and wore them for a couple years. I knew I wanted better protection before I went on a tour in Baja but couldn't find a boot that fit in time so took those. I had a crash in a dry riverbed that resulted in a severe crush injury (per doctor) to my upper ankle/shin. 7 months later and I can still feel a hard lump there. I think I was a hair's breadth away from a fracture, I took that as a sign I really needed to protect my feet better. Our guide wore Tech 7s and swore by them, I ordered a set and love them. I just finished an 1800 mile on and offroad trip with them. Just need to find a way to get them to stop squeaking! 😆

[@mike.thomas]

I tried de-squeaking with graphite and silicone. Seems to always come back. Now I just treat it as part of the experience 😆.

[@backontwowheels9469]

Very interesting and mildly disappointing, only because at 5’6” and 60 years old, adventure bikes are a bit to tall, so I need to have a boot that allows me to put the balls of my feet down. If i was to wear the motorcross style boot I would have no flex and would need to get right off the seat to reach the floor (even on the road). I am sure it could be argued that I could wear a street boot while riding on the road, which I do, then if i want to go off road, I change my boots, however if you are exploring are you going to keep changing your boots as you change from tarmac to off-road and vice-versa. I have recently got rid of the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally-pro and brought a speedmaster, which is nice for cruising the tarmac (not as fast as the tiger though). I would still like to get a small capacity duel sport to go off road with, but the same applies they are all very tall and the best boots don’t flex. 🤔

[@BlastMaster3000]

I was wearing my tech 7's for the first time offroad and they saved my ankle. Fully loaded GSA landed on my ankle and the tech 7's just shrugged it off. If I had been wearing my "Adventure" boots, I'd be dealing with a broken ankle.

[@LRangerdriver]

Watching this with my foot up and healing because I went down in a low speed tip over wearing the Forma Adventure Low boot. Just like Brett says, best to wear a real off-road boot.

[@PeteCourtney-f8m]

On 30 April 2023, I broke the right leg in 2 places and shattered the ankle after hitting a kangaroo at 80 kph on a 2 lane blacktop. Wearing mid length 'adventure boots'. When I eventually can ride again, I will only wear motocross boots. Great article. Cheers, Pete.

[@philgoogle1535]

Thanks Bret. A very useful discussion.

[@MeerkatADV]

Used Tech 7s for a while but living in them got old, and no waterproofing. Been using the Toucans for the last two years and super impressed by them, protective but waterproof and more comfortable walking around and in them all day.

[@BretTkacs]

The Tech 7 Enduro comes as a waterproof boot... Just an FYI

[@MeerkatADV]

@BretTkacs it does now. Unfortunately the drystar wasn't an option then.

[@S.Dreamer]

You make it clear !! So, the issue comes in when we are going on a 50-50 to 70-30(% on-off) small or big tour and the dirt boot will be too discomfort. Moreover, i haven't understood the level off protection a fairly soft enduro boot can offer on a pavement ride, as most of the sites say "ce approved" but not the 4 points rating (1/2/2/2 etc )

[@MattLitkeRacing]

I only have experience with the Gaerne Fastback Enduro out of the boots on your chart. It is very stiff also pretty comfortable to me

[@RidinDirty86]

Hi Bret! Great content, as always. I wanted to chime in on enduro vs mx (at least in regard to Alpinestars). The only difference between the mx and enduro version of the tech 7 is the sole/tread. The enduro has enough tread to actually walk a hill. The MX boots have a smoother tread to allow riders to put their foot down in turns. Also, the enduro has the drystar waterproof liner.

[@BretTkacs]

I am aware of that however based on the midsole support I categorize the Tech 7 as an Enduro boot. I am on my 3rd pair.

[@RidinDirty86]

@@BretTkacs that makes sense. I haven’t done any MX riding, so I’ll take your word for it. I love mine. Any tips for getting rid of the ridiculous squeaking/creaking on a newer pair?

[@jaimemetcher388]

@@BretTkacs In the video I can see the toe flex, but the midsole looks like it's not moving at all (?)

[@jaimemetcher388]

@@RidinDirty86 Lube! Silicone spray on the hinges doesn't eliminate the squeak but it tames it down a lot.

[@hardworkingamerican8847]

Really like the Falco Avantuer boots I bought 4 years ago . That was the last year they made a replaceable outsole for them .

[@mike.thomas]

Just FYI, Alpinestars makes two versions of the Tech7. The “regular” one and the “enduro” one. So if they fit you, you can choose between those two (fit is tough for me due to a high instep and wide forefoot). Mine are the enduro flavor with the dry star liner. The shank on mine doesn’t seem anywhere near as flexible as Bret’s, and they’re size 12 🤷🏻‍♂️. They are clunky, yes, but like a clunky cloud on your feet - very comfy.

[@BretTkacs]

The ones I have in the video are the "Enduro" version

[@mike.thomas]

@@BretTkacs I imagine yours have seen more hard use than mine! :-D

[@enduromotorradtouren]

Lots of information, very well presented. Thanks for your channel, Günter/Nürnberg

[@tymobyrne4451]

I have sidi's adventure boot, compared to my Sidi dirt boots the difference is huge in terms of everything. The sidi adventure's are my street boots now.

[@nexgenvxv6652]

I had a recent offroad crash wearing Sidi Gore2, and they did such a poor job. Funny enough I've watched this vid prior my trip, and wanted to buy Leatt 4.5 Hydradri. The back of my leg was rammed by soft pannier(luckily soft not Alu cases) into the rocks, causing quite big indentation in my achilles tendon. Only by pure luck it wasn't raptured, but heavily bruised. Now I'm on the hunt for a boot that will provide sufficient protection. No more so called Adventure boots for me. 😅

[@marcoluoma3770]

Thanks, good info. Boots, like everything else in biking, are a compromise. For those of us who ride long days on roads and off-road, and hiking a while to see a waterfall, motocross boots just won’t work.

[@BretTkacs]

It's all a choice 😉👍

[@aerowenn433]

I'd used Alpinestars exclusively for enduro bike and even some MX track days years ago. They bought my loyalty a few times, but one in particular the bike fell on me downhill and dragged across my leg. It hurt, badly, but I wasn't injured really. Just a bruise. The peg had torn into my ankle area and ripped into my Astars but didn't get to my skin. If I hadn't had those boots on, I'm pretty sure that would have mangled my ankle. I wasn't even doing something risky, just lost balance on a hill. Get good boots people.