If you’ve been around people who love to spend time on their motorcycle’s, then biker boots are bound to be nearby. They are a key component of the dress and style that exemplifies what that biker’s are about. The great thing about today’s biker boots is that they come in a wide variety of styles. Finding a pair that are stylish enough to wear out on a weekend trek down the highway, but yet are still fashionable enough enough to wear to work on Monday morning, is not a problem.

Biker boots have long been associated with a “bad boy” image for guys. And for ladies, one could say a “bad girl” image. These days, you don’t have to be a rough and tumble person to be able to wear stylish boots. Biker boots have become widely accepted by mainstream society, and in many walks of life.

The biker boot’s of today are made from thick leather to help protect the biker’s legs from the knees down. Boots range in height from the ankles to the knees, and have a low heel which allows for greater handling and control of the motorcycle. Most contain materials made to absorb shock, and may incorporate metals and plastics, or other composite substrates.

Start of the Modern Boot

The first boots produced that started a movement toward what would soon emerge as precursors to biker boots, were originally made for loggers by the Chippewa Shoe Company, around 1901, and were referred to as “engineering boots.” Then the Belstaff Company created what were really the first true modern biker boots, back in 1924. At that time they quickly become the footwear of choice for many aviator as well as bikers. They were revered for their rough durable exterior and water resistant nature.

General Boot Overview

Touring boots, are made to ride on hard surfaces like streets and highways, rather than racetracks. Motocross boots, are designed for off-road racing and riding and typically have composite plating covering the shin to help protect the rider from flying debris. They are much stiffer than a touring boots, to help avert injury in cases of accidents. Most Motocross boots are close to knee high. Racing boots, are similar to touring boots, and are made for riding on hard surfaces, as well as tracks. Harness boots, are made to shield a rider from the heat of the exhaust pipes, and from injury if the leg or foot comes in contact with engine in case of an accident. They are clearly distinguishable from other types of biker boots, by the metal rings on either side of the boot’s ankle area.