Aerostich Combat Riding Boots

Aerostich Combat Riding Boots

CW EVALUATION

Not your mother's combat boots...

IT'S NO COINCIDENCE THAT AEROSTICH I founder and inveterate tinkerer Andy Goldfine has traveled across Siberia on a BMW GS. It takes a wide-rang ing motorcyclist and adventurer to bring you heavy-duty footwear such as Aerostich's Combat Touring Boots.

Specially made by Italian bootmaker Sidi for Goldfine, the Combat Touring Boots aim to civilize motocross-boot technology for street or dual-purpose use. They utilize a classic MX design, with an inner speed-lace-with-cordlock covered by a leather flap. At the arch, the flap is pulled tight with a micro-adjustable buckle (much like ski boots) and, at the top, the flap seals with velcro. Consequently, you can slip the boots on and have them snugged-up in seconds.

Separating the Combat Boots from standard moto fare are simple black styling, comfortably padded leather lining, reflective Scotchlite panels be-

hind the ankles and the absence of shin and toe guards. But like MX boots, the Aerostich footwear is initially quite stiff, requiring time or mink oil to soften to a comfortable fit. And while the absence of shin guards is intended to make the boots readily fit under your pants, you'll need wide leg openings to achieve this. Jeans that fit over skinny road race boots won't necessarily make it over the Combats.

DETAILS

Aerostich 8 South 18th Ave. West Duluth, MN 55806 800/222-1994 www.aerostich.com Price..........$247

Ups A Slipping into these boots is quicker than putting on most sneakers A Smooth, motocross-style sole great for foot-down sliding on fireroads

Downs ▼ Thick leather and MX characteristics require lengthy break-in ▼ Too wide to fit under some jeans

In exchange, though, the boots offer support and protection not found with the thin leather of most street boots. They make perfectly ac ceptable footwear for off-road explor ing just short of motocross, and are just the thing for your next trip across the rutted dirt roads of Siberia.