More often than not, motorcycle boots are heavy, clunky, and purely functional without taking fashion into consideration. But these features are what ensure the safety of your feet, ankles, and calves should the worst things happen on two wheels. For the best motorcycle gear and chaps that can withstand scrapes, crashes, and everything in-between in any weather, stylish boots are usually regarded as secondary.
This doesn’t mean you can’t find a suitable pair of boots that are both fashionable and functional. Whether you’re a newbie rider shopping for your first motorcycle or a veteran cruiser with decades under your belt, here are our top picks for the best motorcycle boots for men in 2023.
Belstaff Endurance Motorcycle Boots
Best Classic Motorcycle Boots
Few boot brands offer the style, heritage, and quality of Belstaff. These staple motorcycle boots from the famed British bootmaker boast all the essentials, including a waxed, water-repellant, full-grain buffalo upper. The flexible Vibram rubber sole offers maximum traction and a medium-firm give for comfortable all-day wear. Reinforced construction at the heel and toe provides an extra layer of protection. Plus, they look damn cool to boot (get it?).
Taylor Stitch The Moto Boot
Best Limited Edition Motorcycle Boots
Taylor Stitch’s entire catalog is a design study in beautiful heritage apparel. The Moto Boot is no exception. The handmade motorcycle boot boasts a classic street-centric aesthetic. But thoughtful design features — including a 4-ounce Snuff waterproof suede construction, Goodyear-welted Vibram sole, and antique brass eyelets — mean they’re equally at home in the saddle, too. We especially love the no-break-in design, so they’re ready to go right out of the box. Like many Taylor Stitch products, The Moto Boot is crafted in small-batch runs, so no two are exactly alike. They’re also limited edition, so once they sell out, there's a high possibility that they may never be in stock again.
Dainese Dover Gore-Tex Shoes
Best Gore-Tex Motorcycle Boots
If full men’s motorcycle riding boots are a bit much for your riding style, Dainese has just the thing. The Italian manufacturer’s Dover Gore-Tex Riding Shoes blend future-forward streetwear looks with the protection of hardcore
Aether Moto Boot
Best Premium Motorcycle Boots
These premium motorcycle boots from perennial favorite Aether are handmade from fine vegetable-tanned leather in Portugal. The muted aesthetic takes styling cues from classic work and “Commando” boots and injects practical rider-centric features into the mix. Essentials include D30 ankle-protection pads, reinforced leather shift pads, and Vibram soles with low-profile forefoot lugs. Speed hooks at the top of each boot guarantee quick-lacing, while finger pulls make it easier to take these boots off and put them back on.
Revival X White’s Motorcycle Boots
Best Splurge Motorcycle Boots
Several years back, Revival Cycles partnered with White’s Boots (best known for high-quality logging boots) to create an heirloom-quality, street-style motorcycle boot. The result is the aptly named Revival x White’s
TCX Hero WP Boots
Best Value Motorcycle Boots
If you're ready to up your boot game from that tired old pair of Docs, TCX's Hero WP Boots deliver. The classic-meets-modern aesthetic is stylish enough for all-day wear off-bike. When you're ready to hit the road, they offer the protection of legit motorcycle boots. The full-grain vintage leather upper includes a weatherproof liner (hence the "WP") and ankle reinforcements for the perfect combination of comfort and protection.
Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots
Best Adventure-Ready Motorcycle Boots
Serious riders value practicality and protection over styling and fashion. The Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots from SIDI Boots are built for hardcore adventure riders who need the utmost in coverage and crash protection. The Gore-Tex membrane is waterproof and highly breathable, while full-grain microfiber and Cordura provide more comfortable wear in the upper. Shock-resistant heel construction, a premium Cambrelle lining, and anti-wear heat panels ensure they’re comfortable even on the longest rides.
TCX Fuel WP Boots
Best Engineer Motorcycle Boots
Another solid option from TCX Boots, the Fuel WP are a pair of engineer-style motorcycle boots with a classic silhouette that just works. The handsome, full-grain leather is timeless, so it looks great in any decade, while an oiled treatment and waterproof liner ensure they keep your feet and shins protected in virtually any condition. Adjustable buckles help guarantee a perfect fit, while solid rubber soles keep your feet planted both on and off your two-wheeler.
Do you really need motorcycle boots?
The clear answer is: Yes. Every rider should own and always wear a good pair of motorcycle boots. The most obvious reason for this is crash protection. Every part of your body should be covered with a strong, durable layer to protect your body in an accident. Road rash is a very real danger. The injuries can range from minor cuts and abrasions to deep trauma that requires surgery. Dropping a few hundred dollars on a good pair of
Another perhaps less important reason for needing motorcycle boots is weather protection. Ride long enough, and you will encounter unexpected weather. It's inevitable. That could mean getting wet, cold, or both. Often, this is a minor inconvenience. But if you live in an area with extreme weather or extreme changes in weather, however, this could result in more dangerous situations with the potential for hypothermia or heat exhaustion. Spend the extra money on a good pair of
How do men wear motorcycle boots?
Like a good pair of jeans, the best motorcycle boots can be a versatile addition to any man’s wardrobe. A limited-edition pair from, say, Belstaff or Taylor Stich can punch up a rough-and-tumble bad-ass style. Alternatively, a bold, Euro-inspired pair like those from Revival Cycles can show off your fashion sense while providing legitimate protection on the back of your two-wheeler. Consider accenting your pair of men’s
What are the best motorcycle boots for men?
Motorcycle boots vary widely in style, shape, utility, and wearability. Like most outdoor gear, the “best” motorcycle boots are those that are right for you. If you’re looking for the best men's shoes or footwear that’s versatile and comfortable on- and off-bike, consider a pair of men’s motorcycle shoes like Dainese’s Dover Gore-Tex Shoes. The best models offer the comfort of everyday boots but with extra crash and weather protection for riding days. If you value safety over style, opt for a boot with complete lower leg coverage like Belstaff’s Endurance Leather Motorcycle Boots. And, if you’re a serious, no-compromises rider, an adventure touring pair like SIDI’s Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots guarantee the utmost protection.
If you’re itching for a proper road trip on the back of your two-wheeler, consider camping along the way with one of the best motorcycle tents.
