How to Choose Motorcycle Boots

Boots are the piece of gear riders skimp on most — right up until they need them. Choosing a good pair is straightforward if you work through five things in order and ignore the styling until the end.

1. Certification

Look for EN 13634, the CE standard for motorcycle footwear. It tests the whole boot for abrasion, crush and torsional rigidity. A boot with that label has been tested to a motorcycle standard, not just sold as one. Some excellent boots (certain cruiser styles) skip formal certification — that's a legitimate choice, but know you're trading measured protection for style.

2. Ankle armor and sole stiffness

The two features that stop the injuries boots exist to prevent. Ankle armor on both sides guards the joint; a stiff, torsion-resistant sole stops your foot from twisting when the bike lands on it. Try to twist the sole by hand — a good boot barely gives.

3. Toe and heel reinforcement

Reinforced toe and heel cups protect against crushing and abrasion at the two points that drag first in a slide. A replaceable or reinforced shift pad on the toe is a sign of a boot built for real use.

4. Height, for your riding

Taller boots protect more of the shin and ankle; shorter boots walk better. Match the height to your riding — sport and adventure lean tall, cruiser and town riding can go shorter. See short vs tall for the trade in detail.

5. Fit and weather, last

The boot has to fit snugly with room to wiggle your toes, and break in without hot spots. A waterproof membrane is worth it if you ride in the wet, optional if you don't. Once you've got the priorities straight, the best motorcycle boots ranking applies exactly this order.