We are always on The hunt for motorcycle gear balances protection with low aesthetics. If you’re the same way, chances are you’ve skipped the footwear when riding a horse. Motorcycle boots tend to look like, well, motorbike boots—and, unlike jackets, they usually stay where you are when you reach your destination.
We’ve rounded up five pairs of motorcycling sneakers that will appeal to sneakers enthusiasts or anyone who’s after motorcycling shoes with a casual style. If you currently wear a pair of Vans SK8-Hi or Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, you may want to consider these instead.
Carga symbol New from the mad scientists at Icon Motosports, the Icon Carga is a deadly bellboy for a premium pair of skate sneakers. Priced at $125, it comes in black, black, or black, the only difference being the black, white, or gum color soles on each version. Turn the Carga upside down and you’ll swear you’re looking at a traditional Vans ‘waffle’ sole—except this one is oil and slip resistant.
The Carga upper is genuine suede, with low-profile D30 pads in the padded ankle insole and reinforced gearshift overlays. The closure is a simple lacing system and the only branding is Icon’s signature ‘i’ on the outside of each shoe. Simple but effective. [More]
Rev’It! Stone Rev’It! The Kick is another type of riding shoe aimed directly at motorcyclists who enjoy skateboarding and/or skateboarding fashion. The look is a bit more detailed, with layered panels and a padded collar. The upper is suede—oiled and polished for longevity—with a front laces and convenient zip around the back.
For the environmentally conscious, Kick’s sole is made from 20% recycled materials. Hidden details include an OrthoLite insole and Rev’It’s exclusive SEESOFT protector! at the ankle. As for color, you can choose from black with a white sole or dark blue with a speckled rubber sole, both priced at $199.99. [More]
TCX Ikasu WP If you like a little more fashionable footwear and you often go out in the rain, consider the TCX Ikasu WP. The Ikasu upper is a combination of reflective textile and suede lining, supported by a waterproof membrane to keep you dry. Front zipper lets you slip your feet in and out; The look will certainly be polarizing, but it is reality.
An OrthoLite insole does the job inside, with a D30 midsole at the ankle and extra protection in the toe and heel. The sole comes from Groundtrax and has a molded polymer insert in the shoe that adds lateral stiffness. The idea is to add enough stiffness to improve protection without making the Ikasu too stiff to enter.
If you like the look of TCX Ikasu, but drive in warmer weather, there’s a Version ‘Air’ also. Both versions are priced at €179.99 in Europe or $199.99 in the US. [More]
John Doe Neo If dirty white sneakers are your thing, the John Doe Neo is well worth considering. Using a combination of leather, suede, and canvas, this is one of the few riding shoes that comes in white—although you Maybe get it in black too. Front lanyard for a casual look, zips on the side for quick access.
John Doe thinks the Neo is both breathable and waterproof, and has added a pad around the tongue. Protection comes from John Doe’s XTM-Fiber—a wear-resistant material woven into the upper. Reinforcements at the ankle, toe and heel help, and the sole is slip-resistant, oil-resistant, and vibration-resistant. Yours for €169 [about $185]. [More]
Speed Force Alpinestars Rounding out our list is the Alpinestars Speedforce—a riding shoe that looks like a premium trail running shoe. Available in all-black, black and white, or black with red accents, the $239.95 Speedforce is an all-woven product. The upper uses a blend of abrasion and tear-resistant fabrics, with a neoprene-like sock lining for comfort.
There are TPU ankle guards, reinforced heel and toe counters, and a gearshift pad hidden inside the shoe; neat detail. An OrthoLite insole adds comfort, while a combination of a sturdy midsole, TPU holder and a special integrated frame increases stiffness for better performance and protection on the bike. [More]
