Dual Sport Boot Shootout - Gaerne, Sidi, Alpinestars, Leatt

[@IdahoDualSport208]

3:00 - Leatt 5.5/Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro 7:10 - Sidi X-Power 10:10 - Gaerne Fastback 13:15 - Gaerne SG12 16:20 - Gaerne SG22

[@2.WheeledAdventures]

Great review! Nice to have a perspective from a regular guy, not a sales pitch! Keep up the great work!

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you my friend! 😎👊🏻

[@francisconaylor8695]

This was an amazing and thorough review, please keep up the amazing work. You deserve much more popularity than you've received

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you, man. That is very much appreciated!

[@casperme6552]

Don't apologise for "not being smart", I watch a lot of KZbin and you did a good job mate. I'm looking for a pair of Trial (not trail) boots, so your video wasn't exactly what I needed, but I still enjoyed it and you have me a lot of good insights into each boot. Cheers from the UK👍

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you for the kind words. Very much appreciated. I hope you are able to find what you’re looking for! Trials boots seem to be even more of a niche design that are hard to narrow down. Thankful we have so many good options to choose from these days.

[@alexdesamsonow822]

I just picked up the Gaerne fastback, for trail riding and maybe a BDR. Haven’t used them yet, but wore them walking around the house for an hour felt very comfy. I also think they will offer great protection for singletracks and trails.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

They are a great boot. Glad you found one that works. I’m sure they’ll treat you well on the trails 👍🏻

[@samiam247]

Great video you hit all the right points. I'm an old school motocrosser and not too happy about where some of the classic brands of boots are going, most to china, Gaerne boots are still made in Italy where the best motocross gear comes from, the Gaerne designers are very intelligent, you'll notice the design of the sole, the tread on the inside is smooth which allows for a smooth transition from the peg to the shifter or brake pedal, on boots with an aggressive tread it tends to catch on the footpeg and throws your timing off when you shift, this aspect is just one of great things about Gaerne boots, they make you ride better.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you. I agree, it’s not difficult to see the difference in quality and design that the Italian boot makers put into their products. Thanks for your feedback

[@pneumaticman5927]

That’s valuable feedback. Trying to decide right now. 👍🏻

[@tomyoung2065]

Some really useful insights here that I haven't seen in other reviews. Worth the watch.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you, I’m glad it was helpful!

[@andrewdonaldford]

Useful - thanks for taking the time.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TwW1178]

This was helpful. No wasted time, and never felt like an advertisement...just genuine input. BZ.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you. I had nothing to gain by making this video, just wanted to share some information and feedback that I was hoping would help at least a few folks out. Glad this was helpful for you, thanks for watching 👊🏻

[@m_prestonian5923]

To follow up, I have had a pair of Gaerne SG10 purchased in 2008 and have now just shit the bed. Mostly the adhesives for the sole, and during a trip to Moab this August, the plastics began cracking due to the heat. So, 16 years of riding both woods racing and dual sport. Probably over 1000 hrs on the boots. The only issue I had was using over the boot pants. The boots are big around the calf and the Thor pants I generally use for inclement weather days was difficult to get over. Looking for some last years models as well.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Great testimony. My SG12’s are only 2 years old but still look brand new. Simple maintenance and cleaning goes a long way. Genuine Italian leather and premium parts make them stand out. They’ve protected me more times than I can count as well. Keep an eye out on Amazon. I see them once in a blue moon for about $350 in open box condition.

[@dyxploitation]

Really great video, no useless description, just facts 🔥 I'm a Triumph Street Twin owner who concerns A LOT about safety and will in the near future explore more about enduro (dang money..) Just cruising for now anyway, but really love the "scrambler" look and the protection of mx/enduro boots. I got flashed with ADV boots (Sidi adv 2 and G dakar), but idk seems not that solid as I'm wishing. Tried some real mx boots and couldn't really shift AT ALL as a beginner, is the G fastback a good option of it? As a girl no chance to find my size at stores and this is really throwing me off. Any recomandations? 🥲 Great channel btw, can't have enough of it!

[@ridemfast7625]

Good boots overview. Researched most of the boots you reviewed. Went with the blue Sidi x-power. Fit great, good protection, slimmer and lighter comparatively speaking for what they provide. Also, Im going to remove that steel toe piece you mentioned.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

There’s a lot to choose from, I think most of these rank fairly high depending what you’re looking for. None are bad. For the price, those blue x powers are a steal. Good call on removing the metal toe tab. I did the same on my SG12’s 👊🏻

[@dinogualandri7624]

The steel toe piece serves a purpose and you will probably reduce the life of the boot by removing it...but they are your boots 😅

[@xzouix]

About the sizing of Gaerne boots - from what I heard in other reviews, Gaerne tends to update/adjust the sizing in certain cases to get the boots fit "true to size". For instance the same boot model made in 2019 and 2021 might not have the same fit.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

That sounds reasonable considering the wide array of feedback on sizing. Thanks for this input! Definitely something to consider when shopping that boot.

[@teamground0229]

Safe with Astar Tech 5, but similar experience with frustration in shifting and braking. In analysis paralysis on what to try next. Good input, thanks.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

It is an expensive pursuit, but finding the right boot is well worth the effort. I settled with my Tech 7's for a long time because they were comfortable. It was amazing how fast my confidence and riding ability improved once getting into a boot that allowed me to really feel in control of my bike and its inputs. I would definitely look into the fastback, SG10, and SG12 if you also find the AStars to fit a bit cumbersome.

[@lmankj]

Great review

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you!

[@DonGH297]

Thank you for the information mate! I’m sold on the sg22’s. I’ll just order a size 9, as my regular size is a 9. The size chart told me to go a size down but i was hesitating. Well i’ll just trust your words and hope for the best lol!

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I would trust their word over mine! 😆 it’s hard because feet are subjective. Everybody’s foot is different. Some people size down a half size, some a full size, and some none at all. Maybe order from a site with free returns or exchanges just to be safe! I had to play that game a bit when messing around with all these boots.

[@ewetho]

Nice review!

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you! Appreciate the feedback

[@bertbarra1011]

Great video, very helpful. Thank you for posting. Please do something in the future with the audio quality, very noisy, scratchy. Otherwise everything perfect. Subscribed 👍

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thank you for the feedback! Definitely struggled with the audio on this one since it was in the garage in summer with the air handler running full blast 🙃 will work on getting better audio in the future!

[@thedavishometeam4948]

Maybe I missed it, but assuming most of these boots offer good protection and acceptable comfort, my number one concern is ability to shift gears easily. Can anyone clarify? It is the biggest challenge for me as a new/newer rider.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Hey there, when I referred to “ghost shifting” that is a term used when you accidentally hit the shift lever due to the inability to feel your controls or accurate the placement of your foot. The SG10 would be a great boot to start out with, as it provides excellent bike and control feel, while providing great durability and comfort.

[@dinogualandri7624]

Great question, I have used a lot of boots and sidis with their composite soles throughout their line(road, dual sport, trials, mx etc) are my favorites. I think the clearest answer is once properly broken in you should have no trouble with shifting unless your technique is flawed. I wear all my new boots around the house for a week or so to help break them in and make sure they fit right and are comfortable...hope this helps

[@jasonlemmond3012]

Great video man! I’m new and am causally riding but have ankle issues was thinking of the Thor blitz do you have any experience with them?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I do not - but if you are predisposed to ankle issues I definitely wouldn’t skimp on boots and go for one of the beefier options. The Gaerne Fastback would be about the minimum I’d consider, but you’ll have to try a few pairs on to see which one offers you the best fit!

[@jasonlemmond3012]

@@IdahoDualSport208 I ended up w fox comp boots they were the best fit of the boots in my price range that the local stores had

[@jasonlemmond3012]

Also thank you very much for your help and please keep making quality content

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@@jasonlemmond3012well please keep us posted how they work out for you then! Always helpful to have other valuable feedback 😎

[@rafaeldalpontdossantos4562]

Great Review. I'm looking for a Gaerne GX1 here in Brazil. They comes in three types of soles. Evo, Enduro and Goodyear's. What would you choose for ADV riding?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

That’s a tough call. What is the scope of your riding? If you’re doing a fair bit of offroad, I’d go with the enduro. The enduro sole gives a decent amount of walking traction and comfort with a robust compound to give it a good lifespan. I don’t have any experience with the Goodyears, but I’d imagine they’re the best for walking around and comfort.

[@Nsane182]

I sub'd when I heard DRZ. 🤣 Nice video btw

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Haha thanks! DRZ’s will always hold a special place in my heart

[@lockerzFITTOME]

Would you recomend the Gaerne Fastback Enduro for a beginner rider who would also use them for passing the Driving license (and course)? Would they be too stiff for touring?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Yes, I personally would use them for this case. I did my endorsement course and test in my SG12, which is a bit more stiff and robust. The SG10 is a great boot for somebody who plans on spending a full day on their bike and riding 70% or more off-road. If there’s more pavement time, there’s better options suited towards that type of riding that provide a bit more comfort and weather protection. Thanks for watching!

[@gabrieltiso8537]

As someone who annihilated his ankle in December and hasn't been on the bike since I'm leaning towards the sg22. The Sidi are tempting for the price and probably enough for ADV riding though

[@IdahoDualSport208]

So ironically I took a nice low side last week at a decent clip on my ride. 320lb bike slammed down on top of my ankle and leg. Had I not been in the SG12’s or a highly protective boot, I would’ve had a broken ankle. I won’t wear anything less than that for dual sport or adv riding now.

[@gabrieltiso8537]

@@IdahoDualSport208 damn this is exactly what I needed to hear. I ride a dr650 and she's not exactly a lightweight lol. Thank you! Definite sub 🤙

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I was about 50 miles from help. It’s worth it for the peace of mind alone. The SG22 is also a great option with a bit more comfort.

[@gabrieltiso8537]

@@IdahoDualSport208 seriously! sounds like an awesome adventure. The drz is a rad machine. I had one in supermoto trim with the fcr carb. Twisty road weapon

[@IdahoDualSport208]

It’s the best no frills bike I’ve ever ridden. Versatile and reliable. Does nothing great and everything well. Really hard bike to beat for its intended purposes.

[@ridgeridermoto]

I had the same experience with the Tech 7. The front foot just felt numb, I didn't know what was going on! I ended up selling them and using my old boots... still not sure what to get next.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

It was such an odd feeling, especially because they were so comfortable. Great boots, just weren’t for me. I love the SG10 and SG12. I don’t think there are many people who have a bad thing to say about them. Keep eyes peeled on Amazon or online for sales on them. I got my pair for $310 as an open box sale.

[@ridgeridermoto]

@@IdahoDualSport208 have you tried the alpinestars corozal / toucan boots? I'm curious how they would compare to the fastback Enduro boots. And sg10/12

[@SherpaMotoAdventures]

SG22 after 30 hours of use.. hurts like F.. around the ankles.. can't walk with them far.. Somehow the jell fit inside causes real pain around my ankles.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

You’re not the first person to complain about this. Actually, the SG12 had a minority of people that complained about the same issue. There definitely is no one size fits all.

[@random-videos]

@@IdahoDualSport208will it get better? It should I get rid of them ? What does people say?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@@random-videosit depends on where the discomfort is coming from. Most good boots require a solid break in - but if it’s a matter of fitment, then no break in will remedy that discomfort. My rule of thumb is, you should be able to walk around in them for 30 minutes without needing to take them off. Minor discomfort out of the box is normal - but discomfort due to fitment is not.

[@mrtimhawk1]

I have wide foot,how you think the fastback would work?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I actually found the fastback to be slightly wider than the SG12. Depending on how wide, you might be better suited with the SG10. That boot is tailored for wide feet. I’d give Brian at Atomic Moto a call and give him a rundown of what sizes you normally wear, and I’m sure he could get you right on the money.

[@mrtimhawk1]

@@IdahoDualSport208 thanks for the info

[@jarrod1687]

Never heard about the sg10 being better for a wider foot, thanks for that info man, might have saved me from sore toes from buying sg12's

[@Mattventuring]

Failed to show lateral force on all but the SG12s. Also what's with all the stroking?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I like stroking.

[@Mattventuring]

@@IdahoDualSport208 Don't we all

[@stevek4449]

Ok, I have big feet, shoe size 18,4eeee wide. I think for boots I can get away with 16. Bike is KLR 650. Plan on 80-20 on vs off-road. Off being defined as gravel, forest service roads,maybe fire roads, but no stunts, jumps or single track, and some longer trips like us95 or I90 over lookout pass to Missoula, but mostly local. Good recommendations?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

That’s a tough call. I think first off, you might be limited to what you can find in that size. It’s hard to say which boot will fit you best, but for that type of riding you might be better suited looking at the Gaerne Balance. It’s got good protection and is for more of a road dominant dual sport and light adventure rider. The fact it’s leather may make it better fitting for a larger foot as well.

[@stevek4449]

@@IdahoDualSport208 yeah Gaerne only goes to 12 on their site😂

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@stevek4449 you might have to splurge on some custom Italian beauties then! 😎

[@rivernet62]

I got ADV boots for the first time a couple years ago and ended up choosing Tech 7's. Have regretted it. Sole is not stiff enough. Allows toes to bend up when the bike lands on them wrong. I'm still limping. I'm a fan of a super stiff boot. Does make shifting awkward but so does having a broken foot.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I fully agree. That’s why I have the SG12. It’s slightly less comfort, for a lot more protection. The Leatt 5.5 kind of bridges the gap between the two

[@y404mog]

Are you familiar with the Revit Expedition GTX? I recently bought a pair (scour the internet for a deal, they aren't cheap) and feel like the protection is good but they're also comfortable. More of an ADV boot than an off-road boot.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Thanks for the tip, I have not heard of these. I would be interested in finding a more ADV ready boot. I’m also really interested in the new Leatt ADV line

[@tonyrichengod9280]

I like those SG22s. Waiting on different colorways

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I agree. They’re a really nice boot, but I also would like to see some better color ways drop before pulling the trigger.

[@tedantares2751]

I tried a dozen of different makes and models. Based on reviews like this, I was convinced that for dual sport biking I need motocross boots. But it turned out, all these great looking boots are made for freaks of nature with very narrow feet and weird foot shapes. But I was lucky to discover the latest (third) iteration of the Forma Terra Evo Dry (also called Forma Terra Evo Dry X). Even though not perfect, they turned out to be the most anatomically correct boots. And they are made mostly of leather, not plastic, so they WILL break in, unlike all those fancy plastic ones that will mutilate your feet instead of you breaking them in. And they provide pretty good protection. Too bad they do not appear in this video.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I’m glad you found a boot that works for you, sounds like a great option for someone who isn’t a freak of nature like me 😎

[@Mattventuring]

If you're going off pavement you are more likely to need protection and lateral and overextension support can only be provided by plastic. Manufacturers have to make the boots narrow inside because of all the plastic on the outside otherwise the boot would be huge. Its a shame for you.

[@Sertao2013]

I heard the same thing . I'm glad I didn't listen I got the 12 in the sg10 because I'm a 11.5 and its a true 12 . You can save a lot of money with the sg10 because they are exactly the same except for the adjustable shin piece .

[@IdahoDualSport208]

It’s a great boot for sure. I think the 10 is heavily overlooked, and for no good reason at all.

[@tiger6102]

I am confused. So which boot you would keep if you are only allowed to keep one pair.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

For me personally, I would take the SG12. However, that’s not the boot for everyone understandably. The SG12 offers premium protection, is comfortable and gives me the most confidence on the bike. The SG10 is very similar and offered at almost half the price, it just lacks some of the premium protection parts offered on the SG12. I currently swap between the Leatt 5.5 and SG12 depending on the ride, and/or terrain. All of the boots mentioned here are great, it just matters on how they fit you, what your budget is, and what your intended use is. In my opinion, the SG12 can’t be beat as the best do it all boot, unless you’re spending a lot of time off the bike walking around.

[@AtomicMoto]

Thanks for the name check Christian!!

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Ofcourse! You were pivotal in my decision process of finding the “one” boot 👊🏻

[@betaboy1100]

Would you say the sg 22 is the top pick?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

They sure are nice. I think if you’re a competitive rider or ride at a high level, it’s likely the best performing boot. However, the price point is pretty high so it’s hard to choose over the SG12. If they were same cost, yes, SG22 without a doubt.

[@davids11131113]

Damn that music at the start made me think my computer was broken

[@IdahoDualSport208]

😂😂

[@nickmduran7310]

I had the same issue with the tech 7s, bike feel insecurities 😕

[@IdahoDualSport208]

It’s a bummer cause they are extremely comfortable.

[@davids11131113]

Forma Terra EVO low……I got a pair they’re the best out there.

[@RevansNightmare]

I just returned my tech 7 enduros because I couldn’t get the boot under my shifter. I have a smaller foot, size 9, but I found myself a nervous wreck while operating the bike.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

It’s really interesting, and I have not found anyone else who had the same issues I did with the boot. It’s a shame, because they’re extremely comfortable and well made - but I hated how much I could NOT regulate my shift and brake lever with those boots well. I was extremely clumsy in them.

[@RevansNightmare]

Which boot do you think had the lowest toe profile and allow for easy shifting.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@RevansNightmare definitely the SG10 or SG12. I have been sticking with the SG12 for a while, and switch between it and the Leatt 5.5 depending on the terrain and ride. I really like the SG10 for the price point though, still plenty protective, comfortable (especially after adding an aftermarket insole) and very durable. Great bike feel out of both those boots.

[@tortuga7160]

I just picked up my first dual sport, yamaha xt250. Took my first offroad ride today out in emette, and i hated the feel of the boots (o'niel rider boots). There was no feedback like my feet were numb. Is that normal? feeling like i cheaped out on my boots now.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Believe it or not, I also started in that boot. While they provide good protection, they do give very little feel and feedback. I wouldn’t say they’re cheap, but especially when you are trying to develop as a rider, you need every bit of confidence you can get. For a newer rider, I’d suggest something like the tech 3 or Leatt 4.5, depending on your budget. They’re still a motocross style boot that provide good protection, but are much more comfortable, and will give you a lot better feel of the bike and it’s controls. I went from the O’Neal to the Leatt 4.5 and had good luck, then progressed into the Tech 7 enduro after that. As I mentioned in the video, something about the shape of my foot and the shape of the Alpinestars don’t mesh. I get the same lack of feel with them. The Leatt I do not. I am now in the SG12 for almost all riding. I still wear my Leatt 5.5 for the gnarly and rocky stuff. If you can, I’d 100% invest in the fastback enduro by Gaerne if it’s in the budget. That’s a great dual sport boot that offers a lot of the same features and comfort of the SG12, for a fraction of the price.

[@tortuga7160]

@@IdahoDualSport208 Excellent feedback and information! I'll check those boots you mentioned out. Hopefully cyclegear has them to try on. I'm in idaho as well! (kuna)

[@IdahoDualSport208]

If they don’t, Dennis Kirk offers free returns on all gear orders. They’ve been great to use, and ship fast.

[@alexandremartins5147]

Just on ankle protection, gaerne fastbacks or leatt 5.5?

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@alexandremartins5147 shoot. That’s a tough call. The Leatt 5.5’s are burly. You can tell they’re built for the worst MX crashes, however the SG12’s are extremely stout and also bombproof. The fastbacks lack a little bit of the protection that the SG12 and 5.5 offer. The profiles are very different, and I personally prefer the SG12’s for most rides.

[@codywy5579]

You just sold Fastbacks ... Thank you!

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Those are a great boot. Enjoy and let me know how they work out for you!

[@dinogualandri7624]

I think his review is adequate and some folks are making what seems to be negative comments on his opinions...I only want to help him with vocabulary like these ones...its just these(and stop) and you used ironically when you actually meant coincidentally. I appreciated your take on what you had in front of you.

[@_Bryant.R]

Jesus did you buy all those boots?! I feel very poor right now haha.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I did. I had already owned the Leatt 5.5 and the Tech 7 Enduro, but I ordered the rest to compare, and only kept 1 of them. If I could afford to keep all of them, I would have! 😅

[@truth-Hurts375]

Just go and buy the Gearne Fastback !!!

[@IdahoDualSport208]

That’s a really good boot. Especially considering the price point. Easily tied at the top with a few other favorites.

[@kx501]

Weight? I will tell you those Gaerns are very heavy, the Sidis are the lightest.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Weight wasn’t something I factored in this case, only because it isn’t something that will sway my personal decision. But I will try to include information like that in the future, thanks for the feedback.

[@tedantares2751]

Here is my advice to you: when reviewing boots or shoes, always show what the boot/shoe looks like from the above and from the bottom and show your feet too. All people have different feet, and what is comfortable to you may be uncomfortable to others. I guess your feet are very narrow, otherwise you would complain of these boots as too narrow in the foot part

[@IdahoDualSport208]

I think I was pretty transparent in that regard. Of course all feet are different, that is why I mentioned certain boots fitting wider than others, etc. I can’t tell you what’s right for you, only you can do that. There’s tons of good information out there on all of these boots that dives into deep detail on fit, components, design and so forth. Sorry this one didn’t help you out.

[@tedantares2751]

Yes, at some point you showed your super narrow feet. This explains why you like all these boots made for freaks of nature, in my opinion. Not only are they very narrow, they are also narrow in the the middle part of the foot where most people have their feet the widests. The best boots are those that fit. But you don't seem to understand that. And you don't understand that all feet are different.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@@tedantares2751thanks for stopping by Ted. Have a great night 👍🏻

[@racecastle]

Gotta have tread on a DS or ADV boot. This dude is sus. BTW, my Toucans started falling apart early.

[@IdahoDualSport208]

Do you? I suppose if you’re getting off the bike and hiking a lot that could play into your decision. An enduro sole has been plenty for me, and generally outperforms most boots with more tread in terms of riding off-road. Cool thing about the higher end Italian boots is that you can resole them as you’d like.

[@racecastle]

@IdahoDualSport208 true, what would I know, I've only been doing this 50 yrs... and yes, tread on boots is needed after a crash, while helping others up a hill, and for a million other reasons... if you rode ds or adv it is only common sense... keep using mx boots for ds bro... you deserve them... :)

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@@racecastlesounds like you’ve already figured out what works for you. That’s the beautiful thing about opinions 👍🏻

[@racecastle]

@@IdahoDualSport208 I just gotta know... when you got hiking, do you wear cowboy boots? 🤠

[@IdahoDualSport208]

@@racecastleactually, Crocs. 4WD mode when climbing and back to 2WD while cruising 🤘🏻

[@jimbefit3073]

Wrh is with all these damm acronym's.. your not helping!

[@m_prestonian5923]

great review