We’d all love to know whether work boots are good for motorcycle riding. Wearing work boots isn’t good for motorcycle riding; while they offer some degree of defense against injury, they lack the necessary protective features to safeguard you against the types of danger you are at risk of encountering during a motorcycle accident.

Annually there are an average of 5,579 motorcycle fatalities.

Motorcycle accidents are more fatal than car accidents because your body is the point of impact.

Though the benefit of losing a leg in a motorcycle accident is that your feet will only smell half as wrong, we’d much rather you wear the proper boots for the ride, to begin with, and keep both of your legs safe.        

Our qualified editorial body at MyBestWorkBoots strives to bring you the cutting edge of work boot intel. We put together this expert valuation on whether riding motorcycles in work boots is good, especially for your benefit.

Let’s get cracking.

What Are Work Boots?

Work boots are protective boots with more features than regular boots and are designed to defend you from specific hazards at work. A boot must meet particular criteria to be labeled as a work boot.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), footwear can only be considered a work boot if it meets compression and impact resistance standards and is certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

They should have metatarsal protection and static dissipation. They must also be puncture-resistant.

Lastly

They must shield the wearer from heat and electrical hazards. Work boots are all about protection.

Comprehending the concept of a work boot is key to distinguishing the difference between them and motorcycle boots.

What Are Motorcycle Boots?

Motorcycle boots are boots worn when riding a motorcycle and have a dual purpose. They protect your feet and legs when riding and if you have an accident. Additionally, when you arrive at your destination, they must be comfy to stroll around in, just like regular boots. 

So

While the finest motorcycle helmet brands may focus solely on the one thing they need to do well (protect your head), boot makers must balance these two essential goals and excel at both.

You’ll be pleased to know that motorcycle boots are available in various styles and sorts. 

Here are the essential qualities to seek in motorcycle boots:

• Protection against shock and vibration
• Thick (high-quality) material
• Sufficient wiggle room
• Protective toe box
• Steel shank
• Abrasion resistance
• Ankle support
• Low heels
• Anti-slip soles
• Shin protection
• String sole
• Short laces or buckles or velcro
• Adequate padding around the heel, ankles, and toes.
• Durability

If you can confirm that at least 80% of these criteria are present, you can be sure that you have a safe pair of motorcycle riding boots.

What Are the Differences Between Motorcycle Boots & Work Boots?

The differences between motorcycle boots and work boots can be explained by looking at their: 

• Cost
• Weight
• Torsion 
• Sole grip and stiffness
• Motion and flexibility
• Water resistance and ventilation

Let’s take a more in-depth look at each of these.

Cost of the Boots

Motorcycle riding boots cost more than work boots. 

They are designed with enhanced security features that come at a cost, making them the more expensive. 

Furthermore, the leather used to produce motorcycle riding boots is costly, contributing to the high cost of riding boots.

Weight of Leather Material

Genuine motorcycle boots are made of thicker, heavier leather than regular boots. 

The rugged leather is designed to protect your legs and ankles. 

On the other hand, work boots are made of lighter leather because they are subjected to less impact.

Torsion Control System

Torsion control systems in motorcycle boots prevent your feet and ankles from twisting in the event of an accident. The torsion mechanism maintains proper ankle posture even if your feet are pulled down the ground during a crash.

Aside from that

Motorcycle boots have downward and upward stopping points to keep your joints safe. 

On the other hand, work boots are not built with the same advanced capabilities because they are rarely subjected to extreme torsion loads.

Sole Grip & Stiffness

Motorcycle riding boots, as opposed to regular work boots, are specially constructed with remarkable gripping qualities. 

Because there is an excellent risk of collecting oil and diesel from roadways, their soles must be rugged and durable, increasing their toughness and durability.

On the other hand

Work boots have a softer sole because they are rarely exposed to sticky or oily surfaces.

Motion & Flexibility

Work boots have a narrower range of motion and flexibility than motorcycle riding boots. 

When changing gears, for example, the motorcycle boot will be more flexible to allow your foot to travel backward and forward. 

They also contain a flexing portion on the backs and fronts to allow your feet to move without putting strain on the leather.

Whereas

Work boots lack all of these characteristics.

Water Resistance & Ventilation

Motorcycle riding boots have more water resistance than work boots. They also have an integrated ventilation system to keep your feet cool all day.

Although water-resistant work boots are available, they lack the additional breathability of their motorcycling counterparts.

Can Work Boots Be Worn to Ride a Motorcycle? 

Work boots can be worn to ride a motorcycle, but this doesn’t mean that you should wear them for this activity, as they fall short of the particular safety features of motorcycle riding boots and leave you vulnerable to incurring injuries. 

We wear safety gear to defend ourselves against potential hazards, not look good. Although a motorcycle outfit is quite remarkable, and some people want to wear them regardless, they are essentially designed and used for the rider’s safety. 

Always remember

The boot has to be the most crucial protective accessory available. Motorcycle accidents are more fatal than car accidents because the impact lands directly on the body.

While motorcycle riding boots should be our top priority, they aren’t always available at our local retailer. As a result, we must explore alternatives. Work boots are one of the most popular alternatives.

So

You’ve decided to ride in a pair of work boots. But are they up to the task? Will they provide the same level of protection as motorcycle boots? Let us have a look.

Motorcycle boots have numerous protection features that qualify them for the job. They have a protective toe box, shin protection, a steel shank, slip-resistant outsoles, sturdy materials, and soles.

Also

They’re also made to withstand abrasion. 

Is your work boot equipped with these features? If so, you are free to ride your favorite motorcycle. Otherwise, don’t!

The general guideline is that it is OK if your work boots include features similar to riding boots. Otherwise, no way! Don’t ride a motorcycle in them.

Motorcycle riding shouldn’t be done in regular work boots.

Pros of Riding in Motorcycle Boots

The pros of riding in motorcycle boots are:

• They provide full ankle and foot support.
• The need to look exceptionally good.
• They have good traction and are safe and oil resistant.
• They protect you against impact and open wounds.
• They resist the effects of bad weather.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these in more detail.

Provides Full Ankle & Foot Support

Motorcycle riding boots provide full ankle and foot support; this is necessary because when you stop riding, you technically balance your weight and that of your motorcycle. 

You’ll also need good motorcycle boots to keep your balance and be comfy.

Your feet may also be subjected to substantial twisting or contouring, necessitating ankle protection and the preservation of your feet and footwear, particularly during a crash. In this situation, the boots’ solid ankle support cuts the chance of ankle injury by 53%.

It should be noted 

The one-hand and heel technique is the most incredible way to determine whether your footwear will protect you in an accident. Twist and push hard with one hand on the toe and the other on the heel. Does it take on a shape that appears capable of withstanding your foot? 

It’s as simple as it sounds!

The Need to Look Exceptionally Good

Let’s face it: we all want to look exceptionally good every time we ride our motorcycles, contributing considerably to instilling confidence in us. 

A decent style complements a rider’s equipment, especially if you wear motorcycle riding boots.

Nothing beats a pair of high-quality riding boots!

Good Traction, Safe & Oil Resistant

Motorcycle riding boots must have good traction and be safe and oil resistant for security purposes.

When you lose control of your motorcycle, your instinct will tell you to drop your feet down to the ground to gain balance. To do this well, you’ll need the proper motorcycle boots with strong traction to help you grasp the road quickly.

This is especially important when it’s raining if there’s a lot of water or oil on the tarmac.

Furthermore

Good motorcycle boots don’t interfere with your bike’s brakes, pegs, and shifters, among other components. This is due to the lack of loops, laces, flaps, or hooks that can snag on the bike and cause an embarrassing drop or loss of control.

Keep this in mind when looking for less expensive alternatives.

Protects You Against Impact & Open Wound

A good pair of motorcycle riding boots will protect you from impact and open wounds. 

Riding in any type of boot reduces the chance of open wound injuries by 73%, whereas riding in motorcycle boots minimizes the risk by 90% – substantially more significant.

While riding

Your feet are constantly exposed, putting them prone to injury. 

As a result, motorcycle boots are reinforced – typically with steel – and designed to protect the various bones from extreme weight or immediate object contact, which might puncture your feet.

This significantly reduces the possibility of harm.

Resists the Effects of Bad Weather

Quality motorcycle boots resist the effects of bad weather, whereas riding without the proper footwear exposes you to adverse weather conditions.

In the winter, overexposure to cold air and snow can cause your feet to become numb, but in the summer, excessive sweating can cause unnecessary slippage of your feet.

Remember

Although motorcycle boots have many qualities in common with high-quality work boots, the small nuances distinguish them. 

Cons of Riding in Motorcycle Boots

On the downside, carrying your big, thick motorcycle boots or packing a second pair of boots if you commute to work while riding may be an annoyance, if not a hassle.

Some boots contain laces that can entangle the bike’s moving parts when riding. 

Furthermore, the hooks at the top of most laced boots might snag while mounting or dismounting.

However

You can avoid this by selecting a pair with a different closure mechanism, such as the velcro fastening system.

However tricky as it may be, it’s vital to safeguard your feet from road hazards when out on the track. Your feet are essential body parts, and you’ll be glad you went the extra mile by wearing motorcycle boots.

What Should You Look For in Motorcycle Boots?

What you should look for in motorcycle boots are:

• Cost
• Material
• Type
• Height
• Soles
• Replaceable parts
• The fit
• Construction
• Closures

Let’s unpack each of these a bit more.

Cost

Because motorcycle riding is so dangerous, the cost of protective boots should be factored into your budget. 

Make sure you don’t spend all your money on a bike just to run out of money when it comes to dressing appropriately for your safety.

Material

When striking the asphalt, most boots are composed of canvas or soft leather that isn’t very sturdy. To ensure a high level of abrasion resistance, pick motorcycle boots constructed of significantly thicker leather.

Consider a heat-resistant material as well. The best materials are aramid fiber and Kevlar, while rubber and leather are typically excellent. 

Standard materials, such as Nylon, transmit heat quickly yet are not ineffective. Furthermore, the material is more abrasion resistant and breathable.

Indeed

A decent, soft material is unquestionably related to a lower risk of injury. When sliding, it guards against abrasions and lacerations.

Type

When shopping for a great pair of motorcycle boots, it is critical to consider your unique needs – what your type is. 

There are boots explicitly developed for certain types of riding, like motocross, off-roading, or racing.

Choose a style with Kevlar, steel, or other protective linings, as well as enough structural strength to prevent your foot and ankle from crashing, wrenching, or twisting in the event of a crash.

Height

To provide adequate protection, a motorcycle boot height must come up over the ankle and have a stable structure at the top to provide essential support.

A high-top work boot is stiffer and less comfortable than one that goes only up to your ankle, and it does, however, offer significantly more protection.

Some problems that might develop when your foot becomes trapped after a fall are fractures, sprains, and damaged ankles. 

Be warned

This motion can break, sprain, or injure your ankle if the boot does not give enough support.

Soles

When riding, you need a sole that gives the appropriate amount of grip for the type of riding you’re doing. A softer sole grips the foot peg better, but it wears out much faster. On the other hand, a stiffer sole will last longer but provide less traction.

To avoid crashing, ensure the soles are oil-resistant, especially if you’re biking in damp conditions.

Replaceable Parts

Some boots include replaceable parts to ensure that racers get the most incredible fit possible. 

Furthermore, these fittings can be removed to be cleaned or aired out.

A pair of motorcycle riding boots with detachable and interchangeable components, such as toe-sliders, is also available. 

One of the best features of these boots is that, rather than purchasing a new pair, you may replace worn components at any time.

The Fit

When buying motorcycle boots online, consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart to ensure the correct fit. 

Motorcycle boot sizes range widely. Because many good motorcycle boots are made in Europe, you may need to convert your US to an EU size.

Many European boots are narrower in fit. 

Another factor to consider is to take into account the type of socks you’ll be wearing while riding.

Construction

When shopping for motorcycle boots, keep an eye out for the construction. 

Double or triple stitching is found on the best boots, and the stitching keeps them together even if they are separated in an accident.

Considering how the sole is linked to the boot is also vital. A glued-on sole will not last as long or be as robust in a crash. 

Boots with sewn-on soles protect your feet better and last longer than those with glued-on soles.

Closures

Different boot closures have pros and cons; choose the ones best suited for your purpose.

Lace is popular because it is simple to remove and provides a precise fit. They can, however, snap or untie while riding, and the hooks at the top of many laced boots might grab on components of the bike while mounting or dismounting.

Velcro, buckles, and various closures are extensively used in motorcycle footwear. These closures are commonly seen on race boots to ensure that the boot remains intact during a high-speed collision.

Technically

Velcro and buckles provide a significantly more secure fit than laces.

What Are the Main Type of Riding Boots?

The main types of riding boots are: 

• Cruising boots
• Touring boots
• Commuter boots
• Off-roading boots
• Racing boots

Let’s take a peek at each of these.

Cruising Boots

Cruising boots are the pinnacle of safety and security. 

They have thick padding and protect your legs from danger. 

They also have slip-resistant soles and are flexible. 

In addition, they have a steel shank, anti-torsion soles, and heel cups.

Touring Boots

Touring boots are popular among motorcyclists that enjoy long rides. 

They are appropriate for any kind of weather. 

These are also among the most secure riding boots available.

Commuter Boots

Commuter boots are designed for use on commuter bikes. 

They have slip-resistant soles, durable material, a sturdy toe box, and ankle support. 

They are a fantastic buy for city dwellers who ride motorcycles.

Off-Roading Boots

Off-roading boots are for those who enjoy going off-road for a thrill. 

Because off-roaders ride on rocky and rugged terrains, these boots are designed with extra safety measures that cover the entire foot, from the toes to the knee. 

Racing Boots

Racing boots are specifically for track racing, with ample ankle, foot, and leg protection. 

Professional racers primarily use this boot.

What Are the Features in Motorcycle Boots You Can Do Without?

The features in motorcycle boots you can do without are their unusual toe cap design, side zippers, decorative plates, and speed hooks. 

Let’s examine these features briefly.

Unusual Toe Cap 

The unusual toe cap design on motorcycle boots disrupts the natural mobility of the toes, giving you a constricted feeling.

Side Zippers

Side zippers on motorcycle boots are supposed to make it easier to slip in and out of them, but these are a feature you could do without.

Decorative Plates

The decorative plates provide no purpose other than decoration. Extra weight can be a significant issue at times.

Speed Hooks

Speed hooks are intended to perform the same function as side zippers, but they are not as effective as many people would like to believe. 

Are Steel Toe Boots Good for Motorcycle Riding?

Steel toe boots are okay for motorcycle riding but not good since they lack foot protection provided by motorcycle boots, specifically created to offer the best in terms of providing optimal safety, comfort, and operation of the motorcycle pegs.

Before we continue

Let’s review some basics about steel toe boots.

Nonetheless, steel toe boots will provide adequate protection compared to riding with regular shoes and boots. 

They may also be less expensive than motorcycle boots and shoes. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re without drawbacks and difficulties.

Note that

Steel toe boots have the disadvantage of being heavier and less comfortable than conventional boots. However, they’re usually not heavier than motorcycle boots.

Steel toe boots can cause a lot of discomfort in some people, especially if they aren’t a suitable fit and haven’t been properly broken in. 

The steel toe box can irritate the toes at times.

Remember

Even while steel toe boots developed today differ from those manufactured years ago, steel toe boots are still less comfortable than motorcycle boots.

Steel toe boots are not waterproof, so they will rust if you ride in the rain and get them wet frequently. In this case, you should look for waterproof boots with a stainless steel toe box.

Some may be concerned about wearing steel toe boots in the cold. If you wear excellent, warm socks, you should have no problems wearing steel toe boots in the winter. 

Insulated steel toe boots will typically provide additional protection against the cold. Steel toe boots that haven’t been adequately protected will keep your feet even colder.

It’s also worth noting

If you have a habit of catching the shifter peg with the back of the steel toe box, you might have some issues. This can make shifting and finding the right gear more difficult.

On the whole, we’d recommend using motorcycle riding boots to ride with as opposed to steel toe work boots to stay on the safe side.

Are Steel Toe Boots Safe for Motorcycle Riding?

Steel toe boots aren’t safe for motorcycle riding because they lack the sophisticated protective features that motorcycle riding boots are enhanced to keep you safe in the event of an accident. 

Steel toe boots are helpful in circumstances when you might drop something on your feet. Steel toe boots don’t provide as much ankle, and shin protection or protection against sole bending as motorcycle boots do.

But that’s not all

Steel toe boots are frequently required in numerous manual labor occupations, particularly in industries where workers are likely to have objects fall on, crush, or pierce their feet.

Steel toe boots are also resistant to slips, falls, wounds, burns, and punctures.

Steel toe boots are intended to protect, but how safe are they when riding a motorcycle?

Motorcycle riding boots are impact-resistant, split-resistant, and abrasion-resistant. They also protect the rider’s ankle.

Another point to keep in mind

Steel toe boots are made to withstand a lot of pressure and heavy impacts. Those requirements are usually printed on the label of steel toe boots.

Many steel toe boots will have an impact resistance rating of 50 to 75 and a compression rating of 50 to 75 pounds. 

Both of these are crucial because they indicate the level of protection provided by the boot. 

75 pounds of compression resistance, for example, corresponds to 2,500 pounds of compression. 

Astounding isn’t it

This is quite near to the weight of an average automobile (a little more than 2,800 pounds) and far more than the weight of most motorcycles (between 300 to 700 pounds on average).

Some steel toe boots have been tested to endure up to 6,000 pounds of strain.

Interestingly

Steel toe boots are expressly made for workers who may need to ride a motorcycle at work and provide ankle protection.

Furthermore, some steel toe boots may give further anti-slip resistance.

All of this may lead one to believe that steel toe boots provide excellent protection and may be suitable for motorcycle riding; however, this is not necessarily the case.

However

There is one caveat: steel toe boots were never designed for high-speed motorcycle riding.

Steel toe boots often have laces, which are dangerous for motorcycle use since they might become entangled in the pegs or chain.

While many people have been concerned that the steel toe would cut their toes upon impact, this is regarded as a myth that has been disproven.

Keep in mind

There are a couple of crucial factors to consider here.

Steel toe boots protect your feet in a vertical crush situation where anything can be dumped from above.

However, the forces and dynamics of a motorcycle crash can vary greatly. 

The impact and pressure from a motorbike crash are frequently not limited to coming from the top, and twisting the leg and ankle is also common.

Additionally

The shoe’s sole can also be bent so far after a motorbike collision that the back end of the steel toe box can crush or even cut off the foot’s fingers.

The steel might bend and injure your toes even with a low sliding motion. Steel toe boots also provide no shin protection.

Furthermore

Specific steel toe boots may not provide adequate protection at the back or sides of the foot.

Do such mishaps occur daily?

Obviously not.

However, there is always the possibility of an unanticipated accident.

Personal safety is a preference, and I prefer to err on the side of caution.

Steel Toe Boots vs. Motorcycle Boots vs. Motorcycle Shoes

Several differences distinguish steel toe boots from motorcycle boots and motorcycle shoes.

Let’s take a look at these. 

Steel Toe Boots

Steel toe boots are often made of durable leather and come in various styles.

They can have lace-ups, hobnail shoes, heel and toe steel plates, and caps.

Steel toe caps are used on safety or work boots. 

Steel toe boots should not be mistaken for composite toe boots, which often provide less protection. 

Whereas

Composite toe boots’ toe caps are usually made of non-metal materials such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, plastic, or fiberglass.

Finally, just because steel toe boots are also called work boots does not imply that they can’t be fashionable.

Motorcycle Shoes

Motorcycle shoes attempt to mix the best of both worlds by combining comfort and safety. 

While motorcycle shoes are still somewhat comfortable, they cannot provide the same level of protection during motorcycle riding as genuine motorcycle boots.

But that’s not all

Motorcycle shoes typically have strengthened toe boxes, additional ankle protection, and more robust heel counters. 

They are made of various heavy-duty materials that can withstand impact, abrasion, and splitting, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, durable microfiber, vulcanized rubber, heavy-duty textiles, and heavy-duty plastic.

Motorcycle shoes are, to some extent, similar to steel toe boots built for motorcycle use.

Motorcycle Boots

Motorcycle boots provide the most protection during motorcycle riding. They range in height from 10 to 38 inches and protect the foot, ankle, and leg.

They are also form-fitting and will limit your mobility. 

Another great benefit

They are often made of heavyweight leather and composite materials such as plastic, metal, and impact-absorbing and energy-dissipating padding.

Generally, three types of motorcycle boots can be distinguished, racing boots, touring boots, and motocross boots.

Let’s take a peek at these.

Racing Boots

Racing boots are specially developed to protect the foot, ankle, and leg of motorcyclists who ride at high speeds on hard paved roads.

Touring Boots

Touring boots are thought to be the finest of both worlds.

On the one hand, they provide adequate protection, but on the other, they provide sufficient comfort and reduced movement restriction.

Motocross Boots

Motocross boots provide excellent protection and are frequently regarded as one of the safest motorcycle boots.

They are knee-high and will protect the rider’s entire leg.

Why Should You Avoid Using Regular Boots Whilst Riding Motorcycles?

You should avoid using regular boots while riding motorcycles because they don’t protect you from the infinite number of risks you could be exposed to on the open road. 

Regular boots, depending on the type, can be relatively durable.

Hiking boots, work boots, and cowboy boots are all options of traditional boots that you may be considering.

Nonetheless, riding a motorcycle riding is very risky.

Consider this

Would you ride a motorcycle while wearing a construction hat? The same holds for footwear.

While regular boots can provide some level of protection, if you want complete peace of mind and the necessary equipment for the task, you’ll need a proper pair of heavy-duty boots.

In the event of an accident while riding a motorbike, wearing standard boots puts you at risk of:

• Turning or twisting your foot
• Friction against your toes
• A shin bone fracture
• Tangled shoelaces
• A fractured foot

What Type of Motorcycle Boot Could I Get?

There 4 types of motorcycle boots you could get street boots, touring boots, dirt bike boots, sports and racing boots.

Let’s delve into these a bit more. 

Street Boots

Street boots are possibly the most adaptable pair of boots on the list.

They boast the best elegance and comfort due to mainly being casual boots. 

Furthermore, unlike regular sneakers or shoes, these boots offer additional protection due to their armor plate, stiffer soles, and abrasion-resistant materials in their construction.

Nonetheless

They are comfortable enough to wear around the office after getting off your bike. Surprisingly, they can also be worn with your outfit if adequately coordinated.

They don’t, however, provide the same level of protection as other types of boots like touring or racing boots.

As a result, they aren’t suitable for thrill rides. The majority of these boots also have laces, which increases the possibility of becoming entangled in moving motorcycle parts.

Regardless

Because they require less material, they are much less expensive than the other types of boots.

Touring Boots

Touring boots are intended for riders who spend a significant amount of time on the road and in the saddle of a motorcycle. 

They often have a mid-to-high rise that reaches your calves, are highly protective, and are designed for foot controls in a more neutral posture.

Another point

Touring boots are also thicker than street or casual boots and provide riders with the best balance and protection. 

Although they lack the torsional support of racing or dirt boots, they are adaptable enough for some on-foot mobility while giving all-day comfort in the saddle.

Also

They’re built to resist the wide range of harsh circumstances that riders face on long-distance touring journeys. 

It should be noted that these boots may be more expensive than other possibilities. Regardless, they offer an incredible amount of elegance and design to riders.

Dirt Bike Boots

Dirt bike boots are intended for bikers who prefer riding off-road. Dirt bike racers typically drop their feet down as a technical maneuver to take on turns at high speeds. 

As a result, dirt bike boots must have a rigid enough construction and sturdy bottoms to protect your ankles from impact.

However

Because of the structure built into these boots, dirt bike or motocross boots may not be the most comfortable for walking. 

Nonetheless, dirt bike boots are well ventilated, only available at full height, and have a solid build.

More importantly

They’re also strong and sturdy and may be recognized by the presence of multiple buckles that hold the protective armor panels in place.

They promote foot and ankle safety above all else while also being offered in various patterns and colors.

Sport & Racing Boots

Sport and racing boots protect your feet and ankles while improving performance.

MotoGP inspires the technology used in the design of these boots.

One of the most remarkable characteristics of racing boots is that they are substantially lighter than other motorcycle boots while maintaining the stiffness required for track racing.

These boots provide the ideal amount of freedom to feel tactile input when working on your bike’s foot controls. 

Aside from its appearance

It has the best abrasion resistance, impact absorption, and a strong exoskeleton structure, with removable armor panels that can be replaced.

Because many track riders love to lean into curves at high speeds, they also have toe sliders on each foot, elbow, knee, and toe scrapings.

What Makes Work Boots Good Is the Same as What Makes Motorcycle Boots Good

What makes a good work boot is the same as what makes a good motorcycle boot:

A foot bed and heel construction that protects the foot from shock and vibration.

The material they are constructed from must be sufficiently thick to protect the foot.

It must be made of durable materials to last.

As well as 

The sole must be heat resistant and have strong traction.

The boot must fit your feet and be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods.

Those are the things a motorcycle boot should have, and if it doesn’t, why bother getting one?

Things That Motorcycle Boots Don’t Really Need

Things that motorcycle boots don’t really need, but have, are bizarre toe cap designs, side zippers, and decorative steel plates. 

Some feature bizarre toe cap designs that do nothing to protect the toe or, for that matter, allow your foot to flex and bend as it should. 

The first is done by a safety toe, while the second is done by the last (the mold the boot is formed around).

Take note

A toe box that is large enough to allow the toes and ball of the foot to flex and move is a toe box that is large enough to allow the toes and ball of the foot to turn and move. 

A boot is either sized so that yours can fit or isn’t, determined by the last that the bootmaker uses.

Many motorcycle boots include side zippers, which are alleged to make them easier to put on and take off.

They also complement the biker look, particularly with the classic motorcycle jacket.

However

If you’re in a hurry to take your boots off, you’re probably not wearing very comfy boots.

Besides, speed hooks make removing your boots as rapid as side zips, which aren’t always as practical as people believe!

Many motorcycle boots also include decorative steel plates that do nothing but look like…well, what they look like.

Invest in Quality Work Boots, Invest in Quality Motorcycle Boots

Invest in quality work boots for work purposes and quality motorcycle boots for motorcycle riding. 

If you buy a pair of boots for work or riding, you should invest in quality. A well-made pair of boots will be comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Always remember

Quality leather will also look good and develop a beautiful patina over time.

Even roughout leather develops character and takes on a dull gloss after a lot of wear.

Proper design will ensure that your boots are more comfortable to use on lengthy rides and if you don’t remove them after your ride.

The boots’ sturdy structure will ensure they last for years of wear and use.

Invest in your comfort and safety, and you’ll get more bang for your buck with a pair of quality motorcycle boots.

Common Questions

In Conclusion

Workboots can be worn when riding a motorcycle, although this is not necessarily recommended.

They must have certain safeguards; regular workboots won’t suffice; it’s as simple as that. 

If you want to be versatile, invest in a nice pair of workboots that can do both roles well. If not, don’t! It’s for your own protection.

We’d recommend getting a great pair of work boots for work and another great pair of riding boots for motorcycle riding.

This may cost you an extra penny, but its contribution to your safety is priceless.

We hope this article has been of benefit to you. 

We wish you happy and safe riding!