If you’re looking for Gore-Tex motorcycle boots, it’s probably because you don’t like wet feet.
Gore-Tex is the name in waterproof breathable membranes. It’s a quality material and Gore don’t let just anyone use it; the products using Gore-Tex have to be made in a certain way and pass Gore’s standards.
So, in short, you’re not getting the cheapest waterproof boot if it’s made using Gore-Tex but you can be confident it’s going to be up to the job.
There are other membranes that are very similar to Gore-Tex, for example, Alpinestars have their own version; Drystar, Dainese have D-Dry, Spidi have H2Out but most of the premium manufacturers will also make products using Gore-Tex as they know it’s good and it’s a name people are looking for.
Of course, you don’t need Gore-Tex to keep your feet dry. There are plenty of really good regular waterproof motorcycle boots on the market and they’ll no doubt be cheaper than these Gore-Tex versions. However, if you don’t mind shelling out a little more, then Gore-Tex is the way to go.
Table of Contents
For this waterproof motorcycle boots review, we found 88 pairs of motorcycle boots that use Gore-Tex. We’ve picked a pair for each riding style that we think ticks all the boxes.
CE Approval for Motorcycle Boots
Any motorcycle boots or shoes need to be tested to the CE Standard if they’re to be sold in the UK (or Europe).
This standard is now EN13634:2017. The following factors are tested in order for a standard to be granted: Height, Abrasion and Cut Resistance and Transverse Rigidity (what happens when it’s squashed).
Each area is given a Level 1 or Level 2 grade. As you can see in the image above, this is shown on the CE label. The three number twos denote the boot reached the highest score. A short boot can only score a 1 in the height test but it can score 2 in the other tests.
The label may also show other features that the boot offers, including:
- WR – Water resistance
- FO – soles resistance to fuel or oil
- IPA – Ankle impact protection
- IPS – Shin impact protection
- SRC – Anti-slip sole
It’s worth looking for this label in the boots you’re interested in, to get a better understanding of it’s level of protection and properties.
Our Best Gore-Tex Boots
Using our criteria above, we’ve short-listed the boots that we think are worth your attention and ultimately, your money.
We’ve been through the spec, read the user reviews and taken into account pricing to pick some of the best Gore-Tex motorbike boots you can buy.
We’ve listed a boot for every different category; from Sportsbike riders, to commuters, Adventure-bikers to those who want the most comfortable Gore-Tex motorcycle boots available.
So as the saying goes: fill your boots!
High performance, feel and durability
With a microfibre upper for durability and abrasion resistance, plus a breathable Gore-Tex lining, these boots are made for comfort. Alpinestars have packed these boots with high-quality protective features including TPU lateral ankle brace supports, shin guard, double density ankle protection and internal toe-box for impact protection. These boots aren’t as rigid as they sound; there’s instep and Achilles accordion flex zones, side entry for easy removal, suede inner lining to prevent slipping and a removable anatomic footbed.
Waterproof, durable, flexible
Complete with a heel, shin, and ankle protection system, these full-grain leather boots have a water-resistant Gore-Tex inner breathable membrane for all-day comfort. With secure Velcro strap closures and additional buckles for the ultimate fit. Elastic panels on the calf allow a fit to any shape so these boots do not rub. To support your instep, the Adventure 2 has removable arch support. Available in sizes 5 to 12.
All-weather boots with a sporty look
The Performer boot is designed for racers and road users alike and constructed from Technomicro material with a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane. The shaped and fixed shin plate and calf area have air channels for maximum cooling. Protection comes in the form of metatarsus external protection, inner and outer ankle caps, arch support, heel cup and replaceable toe slider. For durability, double-stitched joins and a DuPont polymer toe shift mean these boots will last.
Comfortable, well-built, good protection
A popular boot for touring, The Daytona Road Star is built for long road trips and walking when you’re off your bike. Available in a wide fitting option for extra comfort in sizes 6.5 to 13. Made from full hydrophobic cowhide with a waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex climatic membrane for the ultimate protection from the elements. The boots also come with good crash protection: plastic ankle protection inside and out, broader shin protection padded with latex foam and synthetic reinforced inner sole with a hot-dip galvanised steel inlay.
A great blend of feel and comfort
Suitable for all weather conditions, Alpinestars Web Gore-Tex boots have a simplistic all-black design with various reinforcements to protect the rider. Featuring an internal support heel and toe counter, multi-density EVA padding, and rear reflective inserts, these boots are CE certified. The water-resistant full-grain leather upper is sturdy and durable while the waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex lining is precisely what you need to keep your feet cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Women’s Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots
There aren’t all that many Gore-Tex women’s boots on the market, we could only find 10 different pairs. You could always order a unisex version in a smaller size – but we’ve picked the boots below as they’re designed and cut with ladies proportions in mind. You shouldn’t have to compromise, so if you can, go for a women’s fit motorcycle boot.
Waterproof, comfortable, 2.5cm raised inner sole
First things first, yes they do have a hefty price tag but these are boots for life. The heel and raised insole gives you an additional and all-important extra few centimetres, making slow speed control that bit more manageable. There’s a full-length entry zip, multiple Velcro calf adjustment and shin protection. The go-to ladies motorcycle boot.
Gore-Tex motorcycle boots FAQs
Do they make short Gore-Tex motorcycle boots?
Yes they do. We’ve not included them in our review as their low height hinders them in terms of outright waterproofing. On a long ride, water will get in via the ankle.
Do they make Gore-Tex boots that aren’t black?
There aren’t many around. We found a couple of pairs like these ones which have fluro yellow flashes but black seems to be the defacto colour for waterproof motorcycle boots.
Can you fix a tear in a wax cotton jacket?
If you allow the cotton to dry out it is less supple and will be at a greater risk of tearing. If your jacket does tear, you will be able to get a new patch sewn on. However, it is not likely that this area will be fully waterproof.
Sources
Thanks to the following websites which helped us research and write this Gore-Tex motorcycle boots review
