If you don’t have one of the best waterproof adventure motorcycle boots, you will be in deep trouble because, on an adventure ride, there are a lot of surprising rivers you’ll be crossing. I guarantee that.
Choosing the right adventure boots for a motorcycle ride can be tricky with unpredictable weather and varied terrain. Whether you’re riding the rocky paths of a mountain or off-road, you will face all sorts of challenges. And rain or rivers? A deadly traveler. That’s why waterproof adventure boots are a must. Today, I am sharing my favorite picks based on my own research and 100+ hours of reading reviews on the internet.
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Adventure Boots
Here are my top picks based on my research and reviews:
- MSR Adventure Boots
- Forma Adventure Low Boots
- KLIM Outlander GTX Motorcycle Boots
- Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar
- TCX Street 3 Motorcycle Boots
Let’s explore them together.
MSR Adventure Boots
If you are an adventure rider, you have probably heard of MSR. The brand is known for offering quality products at an affordable price. The “MSR Adventure Boots” is one of their best items in a wide section of motorcycle gear.
The MSR Adventure Boot is designed with the serious adventure rider in mind, balancing protection and comfort for all-day use on and off the bike. Featuring a TE-POR waterproof membrane, it ensures you’ll stay dry and comfortable when the going gets rough.
The Adventure Boot is constructed using genuine full-grain leather, a steel toe shank, an anti-slip sole, replaceable buckles, injection-molded protection, and a comfortable inner liner and insole.
I’ve covered over 8,000 miles in these boots, both on and off the bike, and they really support my legs. Let me give you a short review:
Key Features and Limitations
- Material Composition: A combination of leather and synthetic materials, providing a good balance of durability and flexibility. The upper part is typically made from tough leather, which offers resistance to abrasion and impact.
- Reinforcements: Key areas such as the shin, ankle, and toe box are reinforced with hard plastic or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to offer additional protection against impacts and abrasions.
- Closure System: The boots feature a secure closure system, usually comprising adjustable buckles and Velcro straps. These closures help ensure a snug fit while allowing for quick adjustments on the go.
- Comfort and Fit: Features a cushioned insole and padded collar for all-day comfort.
- Impact Protection: The reinforced areas offer excellent impact protection, particularly around the shin and ankle.
- Heat Shield: Some models come equipped with heat-resistant panels on the inner calf area to protect your legs from the heat of the motorcycle’s exhaust and engine.
The MSR Adventure Boots can be your go-to for off-road and waterproof adventure rides without the heavyweight of traditional boots. It’s ready for adventure rides. Are you?
Product Details
- Price: $199.99
- Ratings: 4.6
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Buckle
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Colors: Brown, Black
Forma Adventure Low Boots
Next up are the Forma Adventure Low Boots, an ideal choice for adventure touring riders with larger calves. Featuring a classic leather look and a Drytex waterproof and breathable lining, these boots keep your feet dry while still allowing for excellent mobility.
The double-density sole provides great traction on the bike and offers a comfortable, non-slip surface when you’re walking. They also come with TPU inserts and reinforcements for added protection against impacts, and the sturdy GH plastic buckles are designed to stay intact even after a tip-over.
These all-around adventure boots are lightweight and comfortable, so much so that you barely notice them while riding or walking. They’re flexible and roomy enough to solve my previous issues with cramped toes. The design also has a rugged, sleek look that fits well with a variety of riding styles. Plus, they’re breathable, durable, and have added cushioning for extra comfort. The waterproof technology ensures your feet stay dry, even in wet conditions.
The Forma Adventure Low Boots really stand out with their waterproofing. I’ve ridden through rainstorms, deep puddles, and even snow, and my feet stayed completely dry.
They’re definitely built to handle a range of weather conditions, especially for riders who face unpredictable elements. However, I found the grip to be lacking in certain situations. Even though they come with special soles designed for traction, they sometimes felt a bit slippery on certain surfaces.
Key Features and Limitations
- Full-Grain Oiled Leather Upper: Durable and stylish, the full-grain oiled leather adds a touch of rugged elegance to your ride.
- Mid-Height Design: Offers the right balance of ankle support and flexibility, making it ideal for adventure touring.
- Drytex Waterproof and Breathable Lining: Keeps your feet dry and comfortable in all weather conditions, while still allowing breathability for longer rides.
- Vintage Leather Finish: Combines a classic, timeless look with modern durability for long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight Construction: Ensures ease of movement and reduces fatigue, especially on those longer adventures.
- Adventure Double Density Anti-Slip Rubber Sole: Provides superior grip on your bike and a stable, slip-resistant surface for walking off the bike.
- Plastic Gear Pad Protection: Shields the area around your gear shifter from wear and tear for extended boot life.
- Unbreakable GH Plastic Buckles: Designed to withstand impact, these durable buckles ensure long-lasting security.
- Ankle TPU Internal Moulded Plastic Protection: Enhances ankle protection against impacts and abrasions for safer rides.
- Special Nylon Midsole with Steel Shank: Provides added support and rigidity, giving you a more stable and confident ride.
- Anti-Bacterial Replaceable Footbed with APS (Air Pump System): Keeps your feet fresh and odor-free while offering easy replacement for long-term use.
- CE Certified: Meets rigorous safety standards, giving you peace of mind during your adventures.
Product Details
- Price: $239.00
- Ratings: 4.5
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Buckle
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Colors: Brown, Black
KLIM Outlander GTX Motorcycle Boots
The latest release of the Klim Outlander GTX boots brings a well-rounded set of improvements to the previous version, making it a better option for riders seeking both comfort and performance. With an increased price of around $300 (up from $280), the changes in design and material justify the slight bump.
One of the standout changes is the move from synthetic leather to Nubuck suede, giving the boots a more premium feel without sacrificing durability. Klim also switched from D3O to XRD foam around the tongue and ankle areas, providing excellent protection with a more flexible, comfortable fit.
BOA Lacing System
A major feature of the Klim Outlander GTX is its BOA lacing system. With this system, you simply pull up to loosen the boot and push down to tighten for a perfect fit. This design eliminates the hassle of dangling laces, which could get caught in your bike’s chain or other moving parts, adding a layer of safety and convenience.
Key Features and Limitations
- Waterproof Gore-Tex Membrane: The GTX label stands for Gore-Tex, ensuring these boots remain waterproof. Ideal for on and off the bike, they provide a solid hiking style as well.
- Improved Design: Klim has refined the style of the Outlander, losing the bulky toe box of the earlier version and introducing a sleeker look. The asymmetric shift pad on the left boot offers added durability and grip for smooth shifting, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
- Sizes: Available in sizes 7 to 14, these boots fit true to size. However, Klim does not offer half sizes, which may pose a challenge for some. If you’re in-between sizes, consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit.
- Toe and Heel Protection: Reinforced toe boxes and a streamlined heel cup offer strong protection. The boot’s updated reflective elements blend seamlessly into the design, offering visibility without compromising style.
- Sole: The Hyper Grip sole, rated 6 out of 10 in stiffness, is designed for versatility, allowing for comfort whether you’re standing on the pegs or walking around. The revised lug pattern is less aggressive but more strategically placed, offering better grip and allowing mud and water to escape easily.
Product Details
- Price: $299.00
- Ratings: 4.6
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Nubuck suede
- Sole: Hyper Grip sole
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Colors: Blacked out, brown, or an asphalt and red combo
Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar
When it comes to finding the perfect balance between comfort, protection, and control, the Alpinestars Tech 7 boots stand out as one of the top choices for off-road riders. Whether you’re tackling rock gardens or taking on long ADV rides, the Tech 7 boots offer an incredible combination of features to support your ride. I’ll break down the key features of both the Enduro and non-Enduro versions, and why they might just be the perfect fit for you.
Key Differences: Enduro vs. Non-Enduro Versions
The Alpinestars Tech 7 comes in both Enduro and non-Enduro versions. The main difference lies in the sole design. The Enduro version has a chunkier sole, providing more grip and better feel in challenging terrains, especially when navigating through rock gardens or muddy trails. In contrast, the non-Enduro version is more streamlined for smoother terrains.
For those seeking even more versatility, there’s also the Enduro Drystar version, which comes with an added waterproof gaiter for extra protection against the elements. The waterproof option is perfect for riders who frequently encounter wet conditions, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable throughout your ride.
Waterproof Drystar Version
For those who prioritize waterproofing, the Enduro Drystar boots are an excellent option. The waterproof gaiter extends higher on the boot, providing full waterproofing for rides in wet conditions. This makes the Drystar version a great choice for ADV riders who often encounter muddy trails or streams.
Key Features and Limitations
- Enduro Sole Option: The Enduro version features a chunky, durable sole designed for extra grip and traction, especially in rough, uneven terrains like rock gardens.
- Dual Hinge System: Provides enhanced flexibility while maintaining excellent torsional and lateral protection. This ensures a good balance of comfort and safety.
- TPU Reinforcement: Hard TPU protection around the toe box, shin, and other critical areas for superior impact and abrasion resistance.
- Adjustable Aluminum Buckles: Four aluminum buckles allow for easy adjustments and a secure, customized fit. These are durable and simple to use.
- Waterproof Drystar Option: The Drystar version offers full waterproofing with a high waterproof gaiter, making it ideal for wet riding conditions.
- Medial Grip Panel: The inside of the boot features a grip panel for better bike control, especially useful for motocross and off-road applications.
- Comfortable Fit: Generally runs a half-size large, making it easier to find a good fit. The interior has a 3D mesh liner to keep feet ventilated and dry.
- Price Point: The Drystar and Enduro versions are more expensive than the non-Enduro model, with the waterproof model costing a bit more for the added feature. This might be a concern for those on a budget.
Product Details: Enduro Drystar
- Price (Enduro Drystar): $479.00
- Ratings: 4.6
- Sole Material: Chunky
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Color: Black/White
TCX Street 3 Motorcycle Boots
The TCX Street 3 is the third iteration of TCX’s popular street boot series. TCX is a pioneer in creating a niche for motorcycle trainers within the motorcycle gear market.
These boots blend the light, casual style of a sneaker with the protective features needed for motorcycling—a fusion that sounds paradoxical but works brilliantly on the Street 3.
The TCX Street 3 is styled like a classic sneaker, reminiscent of the iconic Converse look. Available in both men’s and women’s versions, these boots strike the perfect balance between technical functionality and casual style.
The men’s dark green boots feature a nubuck upper, while the black and brown versions feature full-grain leather. Women’s styles combine textiles with nubuck for a sophisticated look. The boots also feature different sole designs, with the men’s pair offering a rugged finish, while the women’s has a sleek, bright white sole.
Key Features and Limitations
- CE-Approved Protection: Ensures the boots meet the necessary safety standards for riding.
- GroundTrax Durable Sole: This anti-slip sole offers superior grip, which you can even feel in hand. It also has enough tread to handle a variety of surfaces.
- Z-Plate Shank: A steel shank is integrated into the sole, providing lateral stability without restricting forward flex, protecting your foot from unwanted movements.
- T-Dry Waterproof Lining: TCX’s in-house waterproof membrane ensures the boots keep you dry in wet conditions. While not as breathable as Gore-Tex, the T-Dry lining is perfect for typical UK weather, which often leans toward the wet side.
Product Details
- Price: $108.21–$188.35
- Ratings: 4.8
- Shaft Height: Kurzschaft
- Outer Material: Leather
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Men’s Colors: Brown, Black, and Dark Green
- Women’s Colors: Black/White and Black/Gray
So, Which Adventure Boots Should You Take?
It’s a tricky question, as each option has its strengths and limitations. For example, the TCX Street 3 Motorcycle Boots is a budget-friendly choice but falls short on waterproofing for long hours. The Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar is the best pick for serious hikers, but it comes with a high price tag.
I would suggest considering your personal needs and preferences to choose the best option for you. Hopefully, you’ll find the perfect adventure riding boots for your ride. For better understanding, I am adding a summary table for you guys.
| Boot Model | Price | Waterproofing | Key Features | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSR Adventure Boots | $199.99 | Waterproof (TE-POR) | Genuine leather, reinforced areas for protection, comfortable insole, anti-slip sole, replaceable buckles | Slightly bulky, not the best grip for wet surfaces |
| Forma Adventure Low Boots | $239.00 | Waterproof (Drytex) | Full-grain leather, lightweight, anti-slip rubber sole, TPU protection, durable buckles | Lacks grip on certain surfaces |
| KLIM Outlander GTX Boots | $299.00 | Waterproof (Gore-Tex) | BOA lacing system, Nubuck suede, XRD foam, hyper grip sole, sleek design | No half sizes available, mid-range price |
| Alpinestars Tech 7 Drystar | $479.00 | Waterproof (Drystar) | Enduro sole for extra grip, dual hinge system, TPU reinforcement, aluminum buckles | High price, slightly large fit |
| TCX Street 3 Boots | $108.21 – $188.35 | Waterproof (T-Dry) | CE-approved, GroundTrax sole, Z-Plate shank, casual sneaker style | Less breathable, lower level of waterproofing for extended wet conditions |