Question 1

What does EN 13634 mean on motorcycle boots, and does it actually matter?

Accepted Answer

EN 13634 is the European safety standard for motorcycle footwear, and yes — it matters enormously. A boot carrying this mark has been independently tested for abrasion resistance, cut resistance, ankle rigidity and heel impact absorption. Each property is rated Level 1 or Level 2. A boot without this certification has not been tested to any recognised safety standard, regardless of how it's marketed. For any riding beyond a slow urban crawl, EN 13634 Level 1 is the minimum; Level 2 ratings across the board are what you want for motorway or track use.

Question 2

Are Alpinestars motorcycle boots worth the price compared to cheaper alternatives?

Accepted Answer

For most riders, yes — particularly in the mid-range from 106 £ to 160 £. Alpinestars' construction quality, ankle cup engineering and sole compounds are genuinely ahead of budget alternatives at equivalent price points. The brand's replaceable shifter pad systems also extend boot life considerably, making the cost-per-year calculation more favourable than it first appears. That said, their entry-level lines are not dramatically better than decent budget boots — the real Alpinestars advantage kicks in from the mid-range upwards.

Question 3

Can I use motorcycle boots for walking around, or are they only practical on the bike?

Accepted Answer

It depends entirely on the boot type. Short motorcycle boots and riding shoes from Alpinestars' street range are designed to look and walk like regular footwear — you'd barely know they were protective. Full-length race or adventure boots, on the other hand, have rigid ankle cups and stiff soles that make walking uncomfortable over any distance. If you commute and need to walk to an office, prioritise a short boot or riding shoe with EN 13634 certification rather than a tall touring boot.

Question 4

How do I get the right size in Alpinestars boots — do they come up large or small?

Accepted Answer

Alpinestars boots generally run true to EU sizing, but the fit varies by line. Their sport and race boots tend to run narrow, which can be an issue for wider feet — sizing up half a size is common advice. Their street and touring lines are more accommodating. Always check the specific model's sizing guide and, where possible, try before you buy. UK retailers like Sportsbikeshop and Fowlers often have floor stock. If ordering online, confirm the retailer's return policy before purchasing, as boot sizing can be unpredictable.

Question 5

Is Gore-Tex waterproofing in motorcycle boots really necessary for UK riding?

Accepted Answer

For year-round UK riding, a Gore-Tex or equivalent membrane is strongly recommended — not just useful. A water-resistant treatment will keep feet dry in light showers but fails in sustained rain, which is a near-daily reality for British commuters between October and April. Gore-Tex boots typically start from around 160 £ in this catalogue. The breathability trade-off (they can feel warm in summer) is a minor inconvenience compared to arriving at work with soaked feet. If you only ride in summer, a treated boot is adequate.

Question 6

What's the biggest mistake riders make when buying motorcycle boots?

Accepted Answer

Prioritising looks over certification — buying a boot that resembles a motorcycle boot without checking for EN 13634 marking. Fashion-oriented riding shoes from non-specialist brands are the worst offenders: they look protective but offer little more than a standard trainer in a crash. The second most common mistake is buying boots that are too stiff for the type of riding intended. A full race boot on a daily commute means you'll stop wearing them within a week because they're impractical to walk in — and a boot left at home protects nobody.

Question 7

How long should a good pair of motorcycle boots last before needing replacement?

Accepted Answer

A quality pair of Alpinestars boots used for regular commuting should last three to five years with proper care. The shifter pad is typically the first wear point — on boots with replaceable pads, you can extend overall life significantly by swapping this component. Sole delamination and waterproof membrane degradation are the other common failure modes. Inspect the ankle cup annually: if the structural rigidity has softened noticeably, the boot's protective capability has diminished even if it looks fine externally. Don't ride on boots where the ankle support has collapsed.

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