The Best Dirtbike & Motocross Boots For 2024
We’d Know: We’ve Hands-On Tested 2500+ Pieces Of Riding Gear Since 2000
Our picks are based on boots that offer the best blend of safety/performance, function/features, and price.
Last updated October 2023 by Devan Martel.
Dirtbike & Motorcross Boots Recommendation Criteria
Perfect is the enemy of good, and in the case of off-road riding, good is often good enough. Off-road boots sacrifice in some areas to gain in others. They are more bulky than a typical boot, for example, but also offer superior weather resistance and foot and ankle protection. Boots designed to go beyond the pavement have to offer their wearer protection, comfort, and longevity.
To be included on our best off-road motorcycle boots list, we looked for boots that performed well in four key areas:
Form: hardshell fiber armors. Typically polyethylene and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) reinforcements. A fully-encapsulating ankle brace and adaptable straps can help prevent ankle torsion, hyperextension, and hyperflexion.
Fit: naturally lined interior foot layers that don’t restrict movement. Cooling, durable and comfortable fabrics. Midsoles with some form of a buffer that can act as a shock absorber and foot stabilizer for jumps, crashes, or otherwise.
Function: a thermal protectant material that safeguards against burn and rash and gives proper grip to hold the bike. Thicker rubber soles with deepened tread lines or a textured lining that would help grip into the ridges of foot pegs. Replaceable toe sliders, buckles, or service requests.
Safety: peace of mind with CE-certified gear!
About Our Recommendations
Founded in 2000, our team at wBW has collectively tested more than 2,500 helmets, jackets, boots, gloves, accessories, and more. We do not fluff reviews. A riders safety is heavily dictated by how they ride and what they wear while doing so. Our goal is to help riders make informed decisions about the gear they invest in to protect themselves.
wBW is funded by our audience. Our recommendations and reviews may contain affiliate links that earn us a small comission if you make a purchase after clicking them. This is the primary way we fund our website and pay our review team (and comes at no additional cost to you). We disclose our relationship with brands or manufacturers for transparency. For more information about our extensive review process, see our review policies.
Best Entry Level Dirtbike & Motocross Boots
Priced under $200
Fly Racing Maverik
Why?
Starting off our list are the Fly Racing Maverik Boots which offer a heap of features at a budget-friendly price point. Why? Because we believe you shouldn’t sacrifice comfort and protection just because you’re on a budget.
The Maverik Boots incorporate Fly Racing’s signature 4-stage sole design. Stage one is a perforated, plush insole resting above the second stag - an injected midsole with a lightweight and unique fishbone design. Stage three is a fishbone foam layer designed to more effectively transfer shock and vibration to the final anti-vibration molded traction sole final stage.
Key Specs
3D plastic shift panel with added grooves and texture to save your boots from premature wear
4-stage high-grip sole design
Outsole rubber compound provides high levels of grip and durability
Articulated rear ankle provides subtle flexibility while remaining supportive
Innovative single-piece plastic injected fishbone midsole
Adjustable quick-lock 3 buckle closure system
Protection & Safety
Pre-shaped molded plastic 3D shin for added impact resistance and comfort
Inner ankle panel made of durable and flexible plastic
Rubber heat shields on bike facing sides of each boot
CE Approved to EN13634:2015
Thor Blitz XP
Why?
Why sacrifice comfort and protection just because you’re on a budget?
The Thor Blitz XP Boots were designed to offer maximum support and coverage, all while maintaining a comfortable feel, for a very respectable price. The Blitz XP Boots are available in a variety of traditional and modern colorways and come complete with numerous features for your riding pleasure.
Please note that riders find these boots to run small and recommend ordering one size up. They’re also known to have a slightly narrow footbed.
Key Specs
4 fully adjustable straps allow for a custom, rider-specific fit
Metal toe cap reinforces the outsole strength
Uni-directional outsole with a steel shank insert
Injection molded positive lock buckles
Mesh liner promotes airflow
Protection & Safety
Fully synthetic calf overlays deliver premium durability and optimal grip
Injection molded medial abrasion plate with integrated shift protection
Pre-curved injection molded shin plate
Tested and certified according to standard EN 13634:2015
O’Neal Rider Pro
Why?
The previous O’Neal Rider boots were among the highest rated budget boots money could buy. At wBW, we like when riding gear punches above its weight in the value for money department.
Now, the Rider Pro boots serve as an evolution of those same boots, with high stability, easy adjustment, enhanced and reinforced protection, and better protection against engine heat via new synthetic materials.
A solid choice for the budget oriented rider.
Key Specs
Injection molded plastic plates protect against impacts
Increased stability thanks to metal and nylon reinforcements inside the sole
Easy opening and closing with four easily adjustable buckles
Metal toe and sole protection on the front of the boot
Enhanced comfort thanks to the air mesh interior/generous reinforcement of the heel and padded insole
Heat protection inside through high-quality synthetic materials
Ideal for all areas of use (MX, Enduro, Trail, ATV, etc.)
Replacement straps and buckles available
Exceeds the EN13634: 2017 standards
Protection & Safety
Armored TPU shins
Ankle and toe guards made of TPU
Toe and sole reinforced with metal to deflect impacts and provide additional stability
Best Mid-Range Dirtbike & Motocross Boots
Priced $200 - $350
O'Neil Sierra WP Pro
Why?
Designed for those who cant resist riding in the rain, the O’Neal Sierra WP Pro boots are 100% waterproof. Rain or shine, street or dirt, these boots were meant to go anywhere.
Stay protected with internal and external TPU protection, an anatomically shaped TPU heel cup, and a TPU molded shin plate. The exterior is made with full grain leather for superior abrasion resistance, with a nylon inner sole with a steel shank.
Key Specs
Designed for the adventure and touring rider
Lined with a waterproof membrane
High grip rubber sole, anti-slip
Robust metal quick-action buckles for a perfect fit
Nylon inner sole with steel shank
Removable footbed with anti-sweat treatment
Replacement parts available
Protection & Safety
TPU molded shin plate
Internal and external TPU protection
Anatomically shaped TPU heel cup
Upper made by full grain leather and suede microfiber
Alpinestars Tech 3
Why?
Rated by Revzilla as their “staff pick,” the Alpinestars Tech 3 boots offer great protection at an entry-level price point. The three buckle design provides secure even pressure, and though the buckles are plastic, they have proven quite robust.
The toebox gains additional TPU protection over the previous version of the Tech 3. One the inner area of the boot Alpinestars utilizes a bio-mechanical medial blade system, allowing for good front rear flex and giving support and protection to the ankle.
This boot also has many great color combos and sizes, going right up to a 16.
Key Specs
Durable Microfiber synthetic upper
Burn guard and calf guard
Air mesh lining for comfort and breathability
Adjustable four buckle closure system
Internal composite insole board provides stability and support
Fox POSITAC rubber on the outsole
Available in half sizes
TPU plating on the shin, toe cap, heel cap, and calf guard
Resoleable rubber outsole
Protection & Safety
Innovative one-piece TPU injected dual compound foot shell, reinforced by a metal shank inside a co-injected toe reinforcement
Contoured TPU calf protector plate, TPU higher medial protector, TPU outer lateral ankle and TPU heel counter offer support and resistance to impacts
CE certified to EN 13634:2010
TCX X-Helium
Why?
The X-Helium is designed from the get go to be both a competition ready boot, as well as an affordable trail and dirt boot for the hobby consumer.
The ruggedized high-grip sole was developed with input from Michelin and using Michelin rubber, which is inlaid with a TPU inlaid plate to distribute vertical force over a large area. This improves the rider’s grip on pegs and distributes impacts over a wider area.
The toe cap is comfort-lined full steel protection, while the shin, calf, and heel are protected by CE certified TPU armor.
The ankle is also surrounded by a TPU guard, preventing lateral rotation and protecting against strikes to the malleolus.
Key Specs
Michelin Hybrid MX sole
PU internal plate to increase grip on bike frame
Micro adjustable, ergonomically designed aluminum buckles
Microfiber upper
Padded front and ankle areas
Air Tech breathable lining
Interior microfiber heat guard
Shin plate
Steel toe cap
PU heel and ankle guards
PU toe guard
CE certified
Protection & Safety
Steel toe guard with protective liner inside for comfort
Reinforced dispersion armored sole
CE level TPU armor on the shin, calf, heel, and ankle
Anti-twisting reinforcement around the ankle to prevent lateral injuries
Best High-End Dirtbike & Motocross Boots
Priced over $350+.
Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro
Why?
The Tech 7 Enduro boot belongs in the “ridiculously over-engineered” category, and we love it when boots fall into that category!
Instead of a stiff exo-skeletal pivot system, the Tech 7 Enduro has been designed to have a malleolus pivot that uses a shifting plate system, giving far wider malleolus protection while also making the boot lighter.
A newly redesigned sole gives superior grip, and the CE level TPU armor for the shin, calf, ankle, heel and toe is all designed to give the rider maximum tactile response with maximum protection.
Alpinestars boots are a mainstay on our motorcycle gear guide lists because they offer a good blend of safety, longevity, and value for money; the Tech 7's are no exception to that.
Key Specs
Upper constructed from innovative microfiber material that is flexible and abrasion resistant (upper material is reinforced with PU for high levels of water-resistance and durability and improved weight-saving performance)
Specifically designed compound sole provides ATV and Enduro riders superior durability, grip, feel, and a high level of structural rigidity
Sole and footpeg insert are replaceable
Alpinestars developed TPU shin plate and medial protection are constructed from one single part for greater structural integrity and stability. The anatomically profiled shin plate features a dual closure system with an internal microfiber flap attached with a VELCRO® brand fastener for a precise fit closure, while the rugged and durable shin plate is attached securely with a precision adjustable buckle
Wide entry aperture for convenience, allowing wide-ranging calf fit adjustment and support
TPU medial side panel incorporates an advanced honeycomb rubber insert and is designed for excellent grip against the bike while guarding against impact
Innovative buckle closure system includes high-impact aluminium bridge closures, with memory settings and a quick release/locking system with self-aligning design for easy, precise closure and improved riding performance. All buckles are replaceable
Contoured calf protector plate is injected with high modulus polymer for impact resistance and incorporates Alpinestars’ developed blade flex system for greater precision control and movement, plus added protection for heel and Achilles tendon (it also helps prevent hyperflexion)
New TPU ankle protection system incorporating a biomechanical link between the middle and bottom sections of the boot, helping prevent damage to the leg by providing progressive force relief for torsional forces
Redesigned instep and Achilles accordion flex zones construction for superior comfort, control and support
Incorporating an innovative one-piece injected dual compound foot shell with co-injected hard toe protector and integrated steel shank
Shell is highly resistant to abrasion and impact, adding to the boot’s overall durability and streamlining
Extended microfiber gaiter helps prevent excessive water and dirt entry
Internal 3D lining includes anti-slide microfiber suede on the heel to help keep foot in position
Soft foam reinforcement on ankles and collar for long lasting comfort and shock absorption
New, dual compound, removable anatomic footbed includes EVA and Lycra top for comfort and support ensures even weight distribution and reinforced heel
CE certified
Protection & Safety
Malleolus plate protection system allows for ankle pivot without extra weight, as well as allows for the ankle and leg to press against the bike for tight turning without causing any injury or impact strain
TPU armor on shin, calf, heel, ankle outer, toes
Reinforced, shank inlaid high grip sole
Fox Racing Instinct 2.0
Why?
This year the Fox Racing Instinct Boots have received a fresh new redesign that’s guaranteed to improve over the last. The Instinct 2 boots are pro-level dirt bike boots that offer a premium experience from day 1.
Updated over the previous model is a new patented buckle closure system for increased comfort, a patented hinge lockout that stops motion before hyperextension, Fox ULTRATAC rubber compound for grip on the outsole and lower/mid/upper burn guard, and much more.
Protection is at the forefront of the design with a TPU shin plate, toe cap, heel cap, calf guard and burn guard. Fox has also incorporated a composite nylon-fiberglass cuff that secures and protects the ankle, as well as stability in the ball of the foot.
Key Specs
All-new ULTRATAC compound, on the outsole and inner side of boot, provides the highest level of grip
New patented forged metal buckle system provides a durable, secure closure, and precise fit
Air mesh treated Microban antimicrobial liner helps control odor
Patented composite nylon-fiberglass insole board provides stability in the heel and flex in the ball of the foot
Resoleable outsole for a longer lasting boot even after wear and tear
Microfiber synthetic leather upper for superior fit, flex, and durability
Sleek medial design (inner side of the boot) keeps you in close contact with the bike
Less volume in the toe box for easy shifting and a sleeker overall profile
Composite nylon-fiberglass cuff secures and protects the ankle
Low ride chassis brings the foot closer to the footpeg for an enhanced feel
Protection & Safety
TPU plating on shin, toe cap, heel cap and calf guard gives the rider our fullest coverage.
Anti-shock midsole and heel pad provides impact resistance, stability and support on the foot peg
Patented hinge lockout stops motion before hyperextension and improves back and forth mobility
Sidi Crossfire 3 SRS
Why?
Whoever said money can’t buy happiness clear has never worn a pair of the SIDI Crossfire 3 SRS Boots. This highly-respected line has evolved once again but this time with a complete redesign from the Crossfire 2’s with the exception of the cam lock buckles and straps carrying over.
Some notable changes include a larger inner gaiter that's able to accommodate a wider range of calf sizes, a suede heat protection-grip panel on the upper inside of the gaiter, a redesigned Dual Flex ankle system that prevents movement beyond anatomical limits, and so much more.
Aside from new features, the Crossfire 3 SRS Boots promise to be the most durable and serviceable boots on the motocross market. SIDI use of hardware instead of stitching makes virtually every part on the boot replaceable.
Key Specs
New sole boat features a more cupped and thicker design so the rider’s foot rests deeper into the sole system
New Dovetail SR anti-skid rubber sole covers the arch area of the sole and is replaceable using hand tools
Toe and heel areas on the Dovetail SR sole are now a permanent part
Laminated Technomicro base material in all areas
Slim, cool non-bootie design
Calf plate system features an inner double adjustment that expands to fit the largest calf or knee brace system
Nylon insole
Inner heat shield made of high grip material
Removable arch support
Replaceable, sleek, micro adjustable cam lock buckle system with memory retention nylon straps
All buckles move independently of each other and have just one fixed point for easy closure
Lower buckle guards help protect against opening due to an impact
Complete central strap system can be easily replaced and is available in two sizes
Lined with anti-abrasion Cambrelle in the foot area for comfort
Replaceable inner kick starter/foot peg nylon guard on the inside area of both boots
Boot leg is fully assembled with screws, is stitch-free and entirely replaceable
Protection & Safety
Toe area covered in protective plastic
New ankle pivot system designed to have a hard limit of foot/ankle hyperextension
New rigid, shock resistant, anatomically shaped heel hold the riders foot firm and thus resists twisting while offering added protection
Malleolus external plastic guard with ergonomic closed cell foam padding internally to enhance protection of those tender small foot bones
Innovative Dual Flex System upper offers the industry’s best fit, especially with knee braces
Replaceable shin plate
Frequently Asked Questions About Off-Road Motorcycle Boots
How do dirtbike & motocross motorcycle boots differ from ADV boots?
The biggest difference between adventure boots and dirtbike/motocross boots are that the latter feature hard armor on the exterior. ADV boots keep most of their armoring internal to allow for full length waterproofing. Dirt and motocross boots are designed to take a beating and provide protection above all other considerations.
Do I need to wear specific riding pants with these boots?
Most dirtbike and motocross boots have been designed to have thin motocross pants tucked into them, with the rider being armored through the use of knee pads, hip guards, and the like under those pants. That said, these boots will generally fit under adventure pants.
What types of materials are dirt & motocross motorcycle boots commonly made of?
By far the most common material used in 2023 is microfiber, a synthetic leather that has very good abrasion and impact resistance, and due to the way it is made, is extremely resilient to suffering multiple impacts while keeping structural integrity. Armor is most often TPU, with some manufacturers also using polyethylene.
Are these off-road boots suitable for any off-road use?
You can use dirtbike and motocross boots for enduro, adventure touring, ADV, and trail riding. Most off-road competition powersports also list fully armored boots like these as minimum requirements to be considered as properly protected for participation.
Are dirtbike & motocross boots waterproof?
As a general rule, no they are not. Due to the effort needed to participate in off-road powersports, ventilation, breathability, and protection are paramount. As well, with having the armor externally mounted for the most part, there is no available layer for a waterproof membrane. There are some boots that use a removable bootie to provide some waterproofing, but they are very rare and are often used for multi-day motorcycle rally races.
Is there a break-in period with dirbike & motocross motorcycle boots?
More so than with many other styles of boots, dirt and motocross boots do have a break-in period as they come from the factory quite stiff. They are also very rigid in the transition from the foot cover to the uppers, which is by design to provide anti-torsional protection, but with suitable break in, you will get a bit more movement there without sacrificing protection.
What To Look For In Motocross Boots
Dirt bike and motocross boots are are designed to protect the legs and feet from all types of incidents: high falls, sliding across abrasive surfaces, strong force torsional rotation, vertical impacts from the pegs into the sole.
Design: These are also some of the tallest boots you can get in all of motorcycling, designed to cover most of the lower leg while allowing for your knee flexion without interference. They are also very heavily armored, more so even than ADV boots, and are made to withstand significant impacts on each armored surface from the smallest of pebbles to having another motocross or supercross bike ride over them.
Materials: Motocross and dirt bike boots are almost always highly perforated synthetic leather, quite often microfiber, with major sections covered in hard TPU armor backed by impact foam, sometimes non-Newtonian to provide a secondary layer of armor. This perforation is that due to the significant effort needed to ride in motocross, the foot needs to be kept cool and dry, and by that very feature, no motocross boots are naturally waterproof.
Features: Even the cheapest, most budget oriented motocross boot will feature a high grip sole, usually multilayer with some form of impact protection built in, as well as having a shank of some type. Every motocross boot worth a damn will also have a very robust anti-torsional feature at the ankle, either exoskeletal TPU or some form of side to side bracing. Closures are almost always heavy duty buckles with impact protection on the buckles themselves so they don’t spring open during a crash.
Certification: Even with all of that out of the way, there is one thing that you absolutely must ensure your boot has, and that is a CE EN 13634 certification. A good boot will get a Level 1 and A or AA rating, while the best boots will have a Level 2 and AA or AAA rating. The tag displaying these ratings must be placed near the top of the leg shaft, so that they are easily visible and easy to check. If you are shopping for boots and don’t see a CE tag in the leg at all, don’t buy those boots.
All of the boots recommended above meet or exceed CE EN 13634 Level 1 certifications and are at the very least A rated.
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We disclose our affiliate relationships—We make money via advertising and affiliate relationships on our website. It’s how we pay our team and invest in things like sending Jim to Italy. And Japan. And France… wait… why do we always send Jim places?
We obsessively hands-on test—We wear and ride with gear before reviewing it, and we update reviews down the line if our opinions change. We look at real-world situations because that’s the world we live in.
We’re objective—Good gear is good gear, regardless of who made it.
We’re value-focused—Why pay $500 if something for $250 is just as good? Our review scores and recommendations reflect best value. Brand only goes so far—the gear has to stand on its own.
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