AGV Boots

I know a lot of people don't see the need for specialized motorcycle boots. "A pair of leather workboots is enough," is the conventional wisdom. But as one who has pinched his ankle between a guard rail and an engine case, I am a firm believer in motorcycle boots.

There are basically 2 kinds of motorcycle boots out there. Touring boots, which in most cases are high leather boots with some additional features (waterproofing, shifter area reinforcement) and racing boots, which in most cases have a good amount of amour. The AGV boots are of the latter type.

Big selling points (to me) of these boots are:

• Flat sole that allows unlimited foot placement on the pegs.
• Speed lacing system that allows a customized fit.
• Armour on the inside and the outside of the ankle.
• Contoured vents that funnel air into the boot.
• And if you're really brave - replaceable toe sliders.

The speed lacing is a real plus in my opinion. Most boots use a single full length zipper and a velcroed flap to secure the boot. If you have an average ankle/calf then you'll probably get a good fit. If you don't then you're out of luck. AGV uses a speed lacing system instead of the zipper which allows a customized fit. Slip your foot in, pull the string, slide the rope lock down and slam the flap down. Three seconds and your boot is secure.

The side air vents are also nice, but if you're like me you'll soon loose the supplied air vent plugs. Believe me, when the temperature drops you want to plug up those vents. In my case instead of buying new plugs I started using used ear plugs.

The downside of motorcycle vs workboots is that motorcycle boots aren't the greatest boots for walking around in once you reach your destination. But I'm willing to put up with that in exchange for the added protection. I just throw a pair of tennies in the hardbags and I'm a happy camper.

The soles are a little on the soft side and if you do a lot of walking around in them you may find that you're in need of sole replacements. The "official" line from AGV is that the soles aren't replaceable. This is not entirely true. The soles are glued on and with a little effort on your part you can remove the soles and glue on a new set. I was able to talk AGV into selling me a replacent set of soles for around $20 - shipped all the way from Italy.

Would I buy these boots again? In a heartbeat, although for my next pair of boots I'm thinking of cranking the protection up a notch and going to a pair of Sidi Tae-Flex motocross boots.