RUST magazine: RUST #45

NEW PRODUCT
Stuff
ALPINESTARS TECH 7
DRYSTAR ENDURO BOOT
Contact: www.alpinestars.com
RRP: $419.95
I
can’t help but think of these new Tech 7s from Alpinestars as adventure
boots, or perhaps more accurately as extreme adventure boots. I’m
probably like quite a few adventure riders here, guys who like going
a little more off-piste when it comes to choice of adventure trails, riding
where a standard adventure boot just doesn’t feel to have the strength and
protection to deal with the hard stuff on a big bike, but at the same time
find motocross or enduro boots lack that one much-needed adventure
facet – waterproofing. I’ve ridden in some great locations like Thailand and
Madagascar in motocross boots, happy for the protection (when riding a
Triumph Tiger 1200 and BMW R 1200 GS) but suffered from chronic trench
foot on account the boots were letting in water at every possible occasion.
So these Tech 7 Drystar boots kind of answer a prayer. At last, motocross
levels of protection, a grippy enduro sole and waterproofing thanks to the
water-resistant but breathable Drystar membrane. And that attention to
keeping the water out extends to details like a higher gaitor (the web between
the front and side of the boot when you open it) so these boots should be
good for water/river crossings too (up to a certain depth of course).
I like the standard Tech 7s as they come without the bother of the inner
bootie that say the Tech 8s and 10s feature, so are quick and easy to put on
(the latest buckle design is the best yet) yet are very comfortable given the
soft polyfoam padding. Now with the Drystar membrane added they’re
looking even more likely to be my go-to boot for adventure riding. Only one
complaint – can we have these boots in the same cool funky colours as the
rest of the Tech 7 range please? I mean, just black?
C’mon Alpinestars… JB
92
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