Sidi Canyon Gore-Tex Boots $300
The Sidi Canyon Gore-Tex may be the perfect motorcycle boot. Despite its heavy-duty construction, break-in time was next to nothing. The outer is made of top-grain leather, with sections that have a rough nubuck-type finish and large shift patches on each boot. The boots close with two sizable Velcro tabs on the outside of the leg plus a quick-release ratcheting buckle-like on a ski boot-across the instep. The nice combination of Velcro and buckle provides easy on-and-off of the boots as well as comfortably securing them to your foot. The Canyons are not as narrow as other Italian boots I've tried, running large enough to fit a variety of average-sized feet. The thick lug soles provide excellent grip on the street and on the pegs, and a natural feel off the bike when walking. Inside there is heel, ankle and toe protection, with a rigid nylon innersole and a nylon plate and internal padding over the vulnerable shin area. There are also unobtrusive safety reflectors on the instep, outside and back of the ankle.
The Gore-Tex membrane is the only thing that makes the boots not quite year-round perfect-on hot days my feet were getting steamed without any ventilation. That said, I haven't found any such thing as a true year-round boot. The Canyon Gore-Tex Boots earn my highest endorsement with excellent construction, protection, style and comfort. -EK
5 stars
motonation.com