Three Types of Motorcycle Boots
Often clothes are worn today as part of a fashion statement or part of the latest fashion craze. Examples of this type of apparel include blue jeans. Jacob Davis along with Levi Strauss endeavored to strengthen the work clothes worn by men of their day by inserting rivets on the pants at the points where the most wear and tear took place. Today, designer jeans are a “must have” item in today’s wardrobes, but originally were never intended to be for show, but for work
The same could be said of today’s motorcycle boot. The motorcycle boot was never intended to be a fashion statement but fulfilled a number of practical functions. The motorcycle boot generally is made out of leather and has a shorter heel. This heel is designed so that the motorcyclist can maintain control while on the bike. In addition, the motorcycle boot is made out of dense leather. This heavy leather provides a safety factor for the lower extremities, including protection against the hot exhaust system. There are many types of boots worn today by serious motorcyclists, including touring boots, racing boots, and engineer boots.
Touring Boots
The touring boots are a specific motorcycle boot that is designed for the motorcyclist who travels on asphalt. These boots provide less protection than racing boots. Touring boots average in height from 10 to 14 inches tall. They are manufactured from various materials that may include leather, plastic, various metallic substances and other synthetic components. As a touring boot they are designed with the comfort of the motorcyclist in mind.
Other features included on this particular motorcycle boot may include velcro straps that allow for the rider to adjust the tightness of the boot. The use of velcro also aids the wearer of this particular style of motorcycle boot in easily removing or donning the touring boot. Touring boots are typically black in color with the heels being one half inch or less in height.
Racing Boots
Racing boots are another variety of motorcycle boot. These boots are designed for the motorcyclist who competes on a racetrack. The protection afforded by this boot is generally greater than that which is afforded by the touring boot. This is due to the fact that most racing happens on an asphalt surface and sometimes racing on a dirt track.
This protection includes a hard protective exterior. Like the touring boot, the racing boot is made from a combination of materials, which may include leather, plastic, metal, and other synthetic material. Additionally, a protective plate may be included in the boot to protect the lower leg.
Engineer Boots
One other motorcycle boot that is designed for the protection of the motorcyclist is the engineer boot. These boots are greater in height, ranging anywhere from 10 to 18 inches high. These boots are also made from dense leather and generally incorporate a protective steel toe with a metal rod in the heel. This motorcycle boot also has adjustable straps attached to ensure that the area around the ankle and the top of the boot fits tight. This type of motorcycle boot is synonymous with the “biker” look.