After reading everyone's comments, it's clear that everyone's style and needs are different. Personally, I went for performance first. By this I mean... I needed a boot that would allow me to go over and under the shifter without ANY extra bulk, which would impede my ability to change gears. So... I needed a boot with a sole that was not lugged (like hiking boots and work boots are). Also, I needed a sole that gripped the ground in ANY type of road condition.... because I'll admit it... there have been a couple of times when I put my foot down at a stop light/stop sign, or worse yet... a gas station (where the pavement is smooth and often oily) and my foot slipped and almost dropped my baby.
Since I'm a novice rider, I've had the trial and error process of going to the local motorcycle shop and asking what they suggest. This ended up with me returning a pair of boots!
Specifically, I purchased First Gear Kilamanjaros (sp?). I found them too stiff and more suited to street bikes--they wouldn't allow for me to bend my foot forward to get it under the shifter. My next experience was Redwing Shoes. Like I said earlier... everyone has their specific styles and needs; however, personally, I found Redwings to be too cumbersome (i.e., not being able to get my foot over and under the shifter. I'm not criticizing Redwings--they make TOP NOTCH work boots. So... those of you who have them and enjoy them... right on!
One day I came across Cruiserworks boots--a bit pricey (in the $200 range), but they were exactly what I was looking for. I bought the side zip (the regular height, not the short height) because pulling on boots is cumbersome for me. I like it because I can simply slip my foot into the boot, while grapping ahold of the boot strap for leverage, and then ZIP!... I'm ready to rock!
They are comfortable to walk in, they keep my feet warm and dry, and they grip like the pavement and the boot are one. I like them because they are flexible, yet sturdy. Quite simply, they feel like a part of my body. The most important feature of my boots is the flexibility, the thin sole, and the grip on the pavement.
Cruiserworks side zip boots are hands down THE best motorcycle boot that I have tried on. I'm the type of guy that would rather purchase equipment of the highest efficency, rather than buy something that would compromise my safety. Plus, they look presentable in case you want to go to dinner after a long ride--you want to put on a nice shirt, good jeans, and look good. Don't get me wrong, they aren't a fashion statement (i.e., you cannot wear them with dress pants and pull that look off!). They are comfortable to walk in, which is in direct contrast to the ski boot feeling of some of the other boots out there.
But again... Performance was key for me--thin sole (so I could shift without getting my foot stuck), flexible for walking, AND they are VERY sturdy. I have NO DOUBT that my feet are protected (as protected as they can be) in the event that I take a spill.
If you are contemplating purchasing Cruiserworks boots, feel free to drop me a line and I'll answer any questions that you may have.
Be well and ride safe...
Jason
