If you are a true motorcycle enthusiast, you will know how important it is to protect your body while riding. Besides basic gear like a helmet and jacket, motorcycle shoes are one of the key elements for your safety. In this article we will explore the features and essential considerations to keep in mind, when looking for safe motorcycle shoes. So, get ready to learn everything you need to know to keep your feet safe on the road!
Durable materials for reliable protection
The choice of materials for motorcycle shoes is crucial to ensure reliable protection while riding. Look for models made from durable and robust materials capable of withstanding the stresses and impacts typical of the motorcycle environment. Here are some of the most common materials used for safe motorcycle shoes.
Leather
Leather is one of the most traditional and reliable materials for motorcycle shoes. It’s known for its resistance to abrasion, breathability and waterproof properties, making it an excellent choice in providing the foot with both protection in case of falls or impacts and the utmost comfort. These characteristics make leather a natural choice for motorcycle footwear.
Reinforced Synthetic Materials and Innovative Technical Fabrics
In addition to leather, high-performance synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, or polyurethane are often used. These materials are designed to offer increased impact, cut and abrasion resistance while maintaining a relatively lightweight. They are often combined with mesh or breathable fabrics to ensure good ventilation.
Plastic Inserts
For even greater protection, many motorcycle shoes come with rigid plastic inserts. These inserts reinforce critical areas such as the toe, heel, ankles, and, where applicable, the gear shift area, providing an additional barrier against impacts and collisions.
Waterproof and Breathable Membranes
Consider the presence of waterproof and breathable membranes in motorcycle shoes. These membranes create a protective barrier against external water and moisture while keeping your feet dry even in adverse weather conditions. At the same time, they allow internal breathability, enabling heat and moisture to escape, keeping your feet cool and comfortable.
Integrated limb and ankle protections
Safe motorcycle shoes should offer integrated limb and ankle protections as these are particularly vulnerable areas in case of accidents or falls. The presence of appropriate protections can significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries.
The most common protections are made from plastic materials like polyurethane. These lightweight yet sturdy materials offer effective protection. Protections are strategically placed around the heel, toe, ankles and any other sensitive areas.
The protections should fit securely around your foot and ankles, offering additional stability without restricting mobility. It’s essential to note that integrated protections are not an absolute guarantee against injuries, but they can provide valuable extra protection. When trying on a pair of shoes make sure the protections are comfortable and fit your foot correctly. The correct placement of protections ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Recognized Safety Certifications
When it comes to buying safe motorcycle shoes, it’s important to look for models that have obtained recognized safety certifications. These certifications confirm that the shoes meet specific safety standards and have undergone rigorous testing.
CE Certification
One of the most common certifications in the motorcycle footwear industry is the CE marking. The CE marking indicates that the shoes comply with european safety standards. A shoe with a CE marking can provide you with greater peace of mind, knowing that it has been assessed and approved according to established safety requirements.
EN 13634 certification
In order to meet CE marking requirements, protective motorcycle footwear must pass the tests outlined in standard EN 13634 for motorcycle footwear certification. This certification defines safety requirements for motorcycle shoes, including tests for abrasion resistance, upper cut resistance, as well as the transverse rigidity of the whole footwear. Shoes and boots that meet the EN 13634 standard offer greater safety and can provide extra peace of mind while riding.
Grip and Stability for Optimal Control
When riding a motorcycle control and stability are essential to ensure your safety. Safe motorcycle shoes should offer excellent grip and stability, allowing you to maneuver the motorcycle safely on different road surfaces.
The key factor contributing to the grip of motorcycle shoes is the sole. Look for soles made of vulcanized rubber, as they can provide reliable traction on various surfaces, such as asphalt or other potentially slippery surfaces. Ensure that the sole has an aggressive profile and tread pattern that guarantees grip.
In addition to grip, stability is equally important. Look for shoes that offer a solid construction to ensure maximum stability of your foot on the motorcycle footpeg. You can find motorcycle shoes with structural reinforcements around the ankle or side panels that provide additional support.
During purchase, it is advisable to try on the shoes and walk or even get on the motorcycle to evaluate their grip and stability. Feel free to seek advice from industry professionals or read reviews from other motorcyclists to get a more accurate idea of shoe performance in terms of grip and stability.
Remember that grip and stability can vary depending on road and weather conditions. Always consider the prevailing riding conditions of your journeys and look for shoes that suit your specific needs. Road safety is essential: good grip and stability in motorcycle shoes can help you maintain control in every situation.
Conclusion
While riding a motorcycle your feet are exposed to various risks, but with the right precautions you can protect them effectively.
We have explored several crucial aspects to consider when searching for safe motorcycle shoes. From durable materials to integrated protections, recognized safety certifications, grip, and stability: each element contributes to your safety on the road.
It is important to remember that there are specialized brands that offer high-quality and safe motorcycle shoes. An example of such footwear is Xpd. Xpd shoes are the result of two decades of experience in motorcycle racing. Since 2000 Xpd has been worn by the top riders in MotoGP and Superbike, using data collected during races to continuously improve their products for the market.
Xpd footwear is rigorously tested in every aspect to offer the highest possible protection. They are made with the finest materials, ensuring strength, durability and comfort. Integrated protections are strategically placed to protect vulnerable areas and the boots come with recognized safety certifications, confirming their commitment to rider safety.
Your safety is our priority, so don’t underestimate the importance of safe and protective motorcycle shoes. Take care of yourself and enjoy the thrill of traveling on your motorcycle, knowing you have made the right choice for your protection. Safe riding!
