We’re always on the hunt for motorcycle gear that balances protection with low-key aesthetics. If you’re the same, there’s a good chance that you’ve skimped on riding footwear before. Motorcycle boots tend to look like, well, motorcycle boots—and, unlike a jacket, they usually stay on when you reach your destination.
We’ve rounded up five motorcycle riding sneakers that’ll appeal to sneakerheads, or anyone that’s after motorcycle-specific footwear with a casual vibe. If you’re currently riding in a pair of Vans SK8-Hi or Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, you might want to look into these instead.
Icon Carga Fresh from the mad scientists at Icon Motosports, the Icon Carga is a dead ringer for a high top skate sneaker. Priced at $125, it comes in black, black or black, the only distinction being the black, white or gum-colored sole on each version. Flip the Carga over, and you’d swear you’re looking at a traditional Vans ‘waffle’ sole—except this one is oil- and slip-resistant.
The Carga’s upper is genuine suede leather, with cushioned in-soled, low profile D30 inserts at the ankles and reinforced shifter overlays. The closure is a simple lace-up system, and the only branding is Icon’s signature ‘i’ graphic on the outside of each shoe. Simple, yet effective. [More]
Rev’It! Kick The Rev’It! Kick is another riding shoe aimed directly at motorcyclists that like skateboarding and/or skateboard fashion. The look is a little more detailed, with layered panelling and a padded collar. The uppers are suede—oil and waxed for longevity—with laces up front and a nifty pull tab around the back.
For the environmentally conscious, the Kick’s sole is made from 20% recycled materials. Hidden details include an OrthoLite insole, and Rev’It!’s proprietary SEESOFT protectors at the ankles. As for colors, your choices are black with a white sole, or dark green with a speckled gum sole, both at $199.99. [More]
TCX Ikasu WP If you prefer footwear that’s a little more fashion forward, and you regularly ride in the rain, consider the TCX Ikasu WP. The Ikasu’s upper is a mix of reflective textiles and suede inserts, backed by a waterproof membrane to keep you dry. A front zipper gets your foot in and out; the look is sure to be polarizing, but it is practical.
An OrthoLite insole does duty inside, with a D30 inserts at the ankle and added protection at the toe and heel. The sole comes from Groundtrax, and there’s a molded polymer insert in the shoe that adds transverse rigidity. The idea is to add enough rigidity to improve protection, without making the Ikasu too stiff to walk in.
If you like the look of the TCX Ikasu, but ride in warmer weather, there’s an ‘Air’ version as well. Either version will set you back €179,99 in Europe, or $199.99 in the States. [More]
John Doe Neo If dirty white sneakers are your thing, the John Doe Neo is worth a look. Using a combination of leather, suede and canvas, it’s one of the few riding-specific shoes that comes in white—although you can get it in black too. Laces up front give it a casual look, with a zipper on the side for quick access.
John Doe punts the Neo as both breathable and water repellant, and have added a gusset around the tongue. Protection comes via John Doe’s XTM-Fiber—an abrasion-resistant material woven into the uppers. Ankle, toe and heel reinforcements help, and the sole is slip-, oil- and vibration-resistant. Yours for €169 [about $185]. [More]
Alpinestars Speedforce Rounding out our list is the Alpinestars Speedforce—a riding shoe that’s styled sort of like a high-top trail running shoe. Available in all-black, black and white, or black with red accents, the $239.95 Speedforce is an all-textile affair. The upper uses a mix of abrasion- and tear-resistant fabrics, with a neoprene-like sock liner for comfort.
There are TPU protectors at the ankle, reinforced heel and toe counters, and a hidden shifter pad inside the shoe; a neat detail. An OrthoLite insole insole adds comfort, while a combination of a stiffened midsole, TPU shanks and a special built-in frame increases rigidity for better performance and protection on the bike. [More]
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