Waterproof Motorcycle Boots

Sometimes you will ride your motorcycle in the rain. I don't think anyone enjoys riding in a full on down pour or monsoon, and there are certainly safety issues, but as a friend once said, "real motorcycle riders ride in the rain."

Unfortunately the term "waterproof" is thrown around a bit loosely when it comes to "waterproof motorcycle boots." Some will handle a drizzle or light rain for a little while, while soon will do much better.

Also be aware of the terms water repellent and water resistant, which are not the same as waterproof. Water repellent, whether it applies to motorcycle boots or other apparel, typically means the surface is designed so that water will tend to bead and roll off instead of soaking in, usually done via a surface coating This may be helpful in a light rain but will fairly quickly get overwhelmed and soaked. Water resistant means the fabric is tightly woven so water doesn't penetrate as easily and is better than water repellent, but certainly not waterproof. By the way, water repellent (a surface coating) and water resistant (tightly woven fabric) can be combined together.

Now water resistant or water repellent boots may be enough for casual riders.

Motorcycle Cruiser magazine ran twelve boots through the paces, including a bathtub test were boots were placed in ankle deep water for up to 12 hours!

Here are the top Waterproof Motorcycle boots based on their tests.

Sidi On Road Sympatex Boots: These rated the best, period. "The only boot among our contenders that actually deserves to be advertised as 100 percent waterproof," Motorcycle Cruiser said. They were in the tub for twelve hours with any dampness inside!

They are a good looking black top grain leather boot, with Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane and a multi Velcro closure system. A top notch boot.

BMW Gore-Tex Boots came in second, getting very slightly and almost imperceptibly damp after 12 hours in the tub. These are a zippered side entry boot with a sturdy hook-and-loop overflap.

BMW makes top notch boots, but you might have some difficulty finding them. I did.

Triumph Gore-Tex Boots: Number three in the test, although all Gore-Tex boots did well.

This is a great looking and extremely well built waterproof motorcycle boot of full grain leather with a breathable and waterproof Gore-Tex lining. A zipper closure system, plastic molded shin plate, internal Heel and toe counter, and a rear reflector for visibility.

All three of these boots are great. I suggest you click here and read the full report on waterproof motorcycle boots (and not so waterproof ones).