Need input from Military guys/gals and/or Vets. on these boots...

[SLO-KLR]

Nice boots Mac! I'm ordering these. http://www.revzilla.com/product/alpinestars-tech-3-all-terrain-boot Looks like a pretty good bang for the buck. Good news too: Initial x-rays don't show any fractures in my ankle or foot. Amazing considering the pain but I'm starting to get mobility back in my toes and ankle but I still can't put any pressure on it. I'll be back on two-wheels this week despite what the doc and wife say.

I have been using the Tech-3's for offroad riding for about 3 years and have performed well for me.  Once they are broken in walking in them doesn't require too much extra effort.  The one shortcoming of this boot is it is not in any way shape or form even water resistant.  Your feet will get wet in even the slightest of wet conditions.

[Indiana Bones]

I'd rather wear trash-bag socks than go through this again. Ordered and on the way from Revzilla.  

[SLO-KLR]

Here's how to keep your feet dry.  I made the mistake of buying the ones w/o the seal at the top of the sock so my feet still sometimes get wet. 
http://www.botachtactical.com/sewablso.html

[Indiana Bones]

Here's how to keep your feet dry.  I made the mistake of buying the ones w/o the seal at the top of the sock so my feet still sometimes get wet.  
http://www.botachtactical.com/sewablso.html

You know how many trash bags I can buy for thirty bucks!?
But seriously those look like a great investment. Here's the Tech 3's for anyone interested. They look like they have a good heel in back which is one of the things I like about the combat/logger style boots.



    * Contoured shin plate is injected with high modulus PU for a high level of impact and abrasion resistance
    * Reinforced leather plate runs along rear of the boot
    * Extended inside and outside plate guards the side and toebox area of the boot High grip design is injected with medium/low durometer PU for excellent support and side    contact
    * Patented "ankle brace" with shock absorbing ankle padding
    * Internal plastic reinforcement on the inner side of the boot is covered by thick stamped suede for increased grip and heat resistance
    * Stitched instep flex zone
    * Action leather upper
    * Alpinestars' exclusive allterrain high grip rubber component sole with a contoured stainless steel shank and steel sole guard
    * Four buckles with memory featuring a quick release/locking system. Buckles are injected with high impact resistant technopolymer
    * Top of the boot is sealed with a Velcro strap connected to elastic stretch PVC
    * Poly fabric lining coupled with multidensity EVA
    * Removable anatomic foot bed
    * Extended gaiter helps prevent water entry

[SLO-KLR]

"* Extended gaiter helps prevent water entry"

Now that's funny!  I swear my sandles are more waterproof.

 

[Indiana Bones]

"* Extended gaiter helps prevent water entry"

Now that's funny!  I swear my sandles are more waterproof.

 

I'll see what kind of mod I can do when I get them...maybe the addition of some neoprene.

[Jimmie51]

When I was in the Marines I used to wear a pair of army jump boots.  Yes I said Army...  I hate to admit it but they had a second piece of leather over the front toe.  When I would ride to work I found they were really comfortable on the bike.  Shifting didn't bother me and I could walk really easy when off the bike.  On the down side they ran be about 100 bucks but for travel around town or day to day riding they were my choice of foot gear.  Now if I was going out on a trip then I would go with riding boots especially if I was on dirt.  I actually tried the jump boots on my four wheeler once and after about 2 hours of riding the arch of my foot and the top of my foot (from shifting) were killing me. 

Anyway check out the jump boots.  You will know them with the second piece of leather over the toe area.  Full leather boot so they were great keeping the water out.  Just be sure to polish them and take care of them.

[swjohnsey]

Corcorans. They also come in sizes up to 16.

[TrailRider]

Certain you'll never crash, "issue" uniform boots or Corcoran jump boots will do just fine!

Otherwise, Indiana Bones' experience, related in Post # 37 and following on this thread, might deserve consideration:

I learned some valuable lessons today:
1. I am not invincible.
2. Combat boots will not protect against impact blows and will allow the ankle to roll in a trail riding style crash.
3. 420 lbs of motorcycle hurts when slammed against your unprotected appendages full speed down a hill. (Weight multiplied by force loads)

Regardless, individual choice--purpose-built motorcycle boots, military boots, Wal-Mart work boots or flip-flops.

Same thing for helmets--Snell/DOT-certified headgear, costume-party "brain buckets" (as favored by some of our chopper-riding brethren), or no helmet at all.

Dress for the ride, or dress for the crash; your call!

[swjohnsey]

And be sure to use "motorcycle" oil and "motorcycle" brake fluid.

[TrailRider]

Just wondering, swjohnsey--do you spit-shine your Corcorans after each ride?

Ever worn a proper motocross boot?  Been through a crash wearing 'em?

If you truly believe the level of toe/foot/ankle/shin/leg protection is equal between, say, Corcoran jump boots and, for example, Sidi "Rain Boots," you're entitled to your opinion.

Similarly, if you believe street crashes pose no threat of toe/foot/ankle/shin/leg injury.

May you wear those clod-hoppers in good health!

 

[swjohnsey]

I don't wear my Corcorans to ride in. I seldom wore 'em when I was on active duty although I did wear 'em to jump in once at an airshow. I also don't wear my leathers for normal street riding although I do wear 'em at the track. For touring I normally wear my Roadcrafter two piece and some leg boots.

[Ford Prefect]

If you are still reading this...

I personally wear the Belleville 650 with a steal toe.  The only problem with these is they will show the shift lever on your boot in time.  If you are not actually in the military then this is not an issue, but if you are eventually you will get gigged for the black mark on your toe.  Plus in my line of work it is really handy that this happens because I can see who the fellow riders are asap and have an immediate in with them.

IF you are looking for a boot that you can wear in uniform then I would go with a boot like mine.  If you are not, and just looking for a riding boot, then I would go with a simple black all leather ten inch boot, or pony up for a real set of riding boots.  These combat boots are nice for riding, but will not protect you like an MX boot will.  On road, go with the black combat boot, off road go with an MX for sure.

Just my two bits...