Alpinestars SMX Boots
Alpinestars can boast the fact that they are one of, if not the leading manufacturer for motorbike leathers and as such bring to us simply gorgeous apparel that almost anyone would want to own. The Alpinestars SMX boots are no exception. They come in three main forms, the Plus, the R and the 5. Let’s take a closer look.
Alpinestars SMX Plus
First up we have the Plus version. This is the highest spec out of the Alpinestars SMX boots and it is only second to the Supertech R across the whole of the boots range. It is geared more towards the race and track day scene, but it is more than capable of being used out on the road.
An important aspect of any motorcycle boot is its ability to stop twisting or over flexing of the ankle in any direction. The Plus version of the Alpinestars SMX boot is fitted with dual moulded ankle protection that extends up the calf to protect against knocks, but also to give the boot an element of stiffness which will help prevent extreme twisting or flexing. The heel plate extends around the outsides of the boot and up to the lower parts of the ankle and also contains a shock absorbing padded insert which go together to protect the rear of the foot and ankle from further knocks.
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Shin protection comes in the way of high modulus PU plastic for top quality impact and abrasion resistance. Toe sliders are made of the same material and are removable, which means when they inevitably wear down they can be replaced.
From a comfort perspective it is a very nice place to be. The inside of the boot is made up of cell foam covered with a breathable material, so it is both comfy and well ventilated. To strap the boot up you use the Kevlar constructed lace on the inside of the boot, followed by a vertical zip up the outside, finally a ratchet strap fits into a buckle integrated into the calf slider at the back of the boot. So it’s fair to say that it won’t be coming off in a hurry in the event of an off.
The feature list is a large one for this boot, so to save boring you I wont list them all, but just know that although you are paying a lot (and some of it for the brand name), when you look at the intricacies Alpinestars have gone into, like the ventilation systems in the shin and heel, or the specially moulded soles for added peg feel, it’s clear to see you certainly are getting a lot of boot for your money.
Alpinestars SMX R
Next in line in the Alpinestars SMX boots range is the R. This boot contains much of the features that make the Plus such an amazing boot, but some of the features on the R are toned down a touch, such as the way the heel protection is constructed, and the finer details of how the boot is made up. This has been done to give it a more all rounder feel with more emphasis on comfort, but also to help bring the price down. It’s considerably cheaper than the Plus so in the value stakes it looks a little better. It’s an excellent compromise if you feel £200+ is a little too steep for motorcycle boots.
Alpinestars SMX 5
Finally we have what I would call the budget option in the Alpinestars SMX range, the 5. Once again we have another large step down in price from the R to the 5 and there are a few more differences to show for it. Gone is the dual moulded ankle protection and the fancy fastening systems, instead you have a zip that runs up the inside of the boot and a Velcro flap to close over the top. Heel protection is much the same as the R version, as is the toe sliders and flexible materials. You’re still getting a lot of Alpinestars finesse in the construction, just not all of the fancy features. For those looking for a lower budget Alpinestars boot, I give to you, the SMX 5.
Conclusion
The Alpinestars SMX boots are not new on the scene, but there is a reason why they are still with us. They offer the best of the best in terms of quality, practicality and comfort for a price that isn’t miles off what they’re worth (ok maybe a tiny portion goes on the name), not only that but they look bloody gorgeous. If you can afford them, it would be rude not to buy them.