When it comes to riding a motorcycle, safety should always be a top priority. One of the most important pieces of safety gear is footwear. While many riders opt for traditional motorcycle boots, some may wonder if rubber boots are a suitable alternative.
So, Can you wear rubber boots on a motorcycle? The short answer is no. While rubber boots can provide some level of protection, they may not be the best choice for riding a motorcycle. It’s important to understand the potential risks and limitations of wearing rubber boots on a motorcycle, as well as the benefits of investing in proper motorcycle footwear.
As stated by the National Library of medicine “The most common foot injury is a metatarsal fracture; however, there must be a high index of suspicion for associated injuries. Although these injuries are associated with a low mortality rate, they require prompt assessment and treatment to limit long-term morbidity and disability.” source here. Even if the injuries to the feet are not fatal, they can at the least ruin your motorcycle season.
Table of Contents
Can You Wear Rubber Boots on a Motorcycle?
Rubber boots are a popular choice for many outdoor activities, including hunting, farming, and fishing. However, when it comes to motorcycle riding, the question arises: Can you wear rubber boots on a motorcycle? In this section, we will explore this question and provide some insights into the pros and cons of wearing rubber boots on a motorcycle.
Rubber boots can be dangerous because they are not made form a hard material. In regard to abrasion, it’s not that they could not withstand some, it more that they are not correctly attached to the feet. Most of the rubber boots are loose on the feet and they will fly away at the first occasion.
They usually have a sole that is very soft and if you have foot-pegs that are more agressive (Like the one that are on adventure motorcycle) they will potentially perforate the sole. If you need to move your feet quickly, you can get stuck on the foot-pegs for the same reason. The sole have also a heel on most of those boots and it ca be difficult to have access to the shift and brake lever. Finally, the sole can be very slippery and you might slide on the pegs if they are not agressive enough.
On other point to consider can be the hardness of the outer shell. Usually, those boots are very flexibles and they will not provide any support in the case that you drop your motorcycle on your feet. They also offer almost no support for your ankles and if you try to dab your feet on the ground, it can be dangerous to slip and get injured.
One last thought on rubber boots is that they are not even the best choice for rainy day or cold days. When it’s raining on a motorcycle the rain have a tendency to go down on your leg to finally finish it’s course in your boots. If you have loose boots over your pants, the water will inevitably wet your socks even with the most waterproof boots.
If you place your boots under your pants, then rubber boots might be a good protection from the rain. If you fall or cross a river, you may put water in your boots and Rubber boots are very waterproof from inside or from outside. In this case, you may finish the ride with wet feet since rubber boot can take long to dry when wet.
On cold days, you will be protected from the wind but don’t expect to much on insulation, the sole and the side usually transmit the cold from outside very rapidly to your feet.
In short form:
- No fixated enough on the feet
- No hard outer shell
- Can be slippery
- Can get stuck on pegs
- Access to the lever may not be easy
- Can take long to dry
- Insulation is not very good
Why Wear Motorcycle Boots?
Motorcycle boots are specially designed to provide protection, safety, and comfort while riding a motorcycle. They offer features such as traction, grip, ankle support, and impact protection, which are essential for preventing injuries in case of accidents. Motorcycle boots also come with safety features such as armor, reinforced toe caps, and ankle protection, which provide additional protection to the rider’s feet and legs. If you are driving on adventure motorcycle check our review Everything You Need to Know About Adventure Motorcycle Boots.
Rubber Boots vs. Motorcycle Boots
While rubber boots may seem like a good alternative to motorcycle boots, they lack many of the essential features that make motorcycle boots a safer and more comfortable choice for riding. Rubber boots are not designed with the same level of protection and support as motorcycle boots. They often lack the necessary safety features such as armor, reinforced toe caps, and ankle protection, which can increase the risk of injuries in case of accidents.
Another significant difference between rubber boots and motorcycle boots is the materials used in their construction. Motorcycle boots are typically made of high-quality leather, which provides durability, water resistance, and breathability. In contrast, rubber boots are made of synthetic materials or microfiber, which may not provide the same level of durability or waterproofing as leather.
What to Look for in Motorcycle Boots
When choosing motorcycle boots, it is essential to consider factors such as size, brand, padding, and safety features. Look for boots that fit well and provide adequate ankle support. Choose a brand that is known for quality and durability, such as Ariat or O’Neal. Look for boots that have safety features such as armor, reinforced toe caps, and ankle protection, which can provide added protection in case of accidents. If you want to know more on how to select the correct size, check The Ultimate Sizing Guide for Buying Motorcycle Boots.
Other features to consider when choosing motorcycle boots include replaceable shins and braces, arch support, ventilation, and a shift pad. These features can enhance the comfort and safety of the boots, making them a better choice for motorcycle riding. If you are interested on the subject check this great posts that explain All you need to know about motorcycle boots.
Other question you might have
Conclusion
In conclusion, while rubber boots may be suitable for some outdoor activities, they are not an ideal choice for motorcycle riding. Motorcycle boots are specially designed to provide protection, safety, and comfort while riding, and they offer features such as traction, grip, ankle support, and impact protection, which are essential for preventing injuries in case of accidents. When choosing motorcycle boots, it is essential to consider factors such as size, brand, padding, and safety features, which can enhance the comfort and safety of the boots.
Meet Simon, the 46-year-old aficionado behind YourMotoBro. With a lifelong passion ignited by motocross dreams and a Canadian Tire bicycle, Simon’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From coaching underwater hockey to mastering muddy terrains, he’s an authority in thrill and adventure. Certified as an Off-Road Vehicle Excursion Guide and trained in Wilderness First Aid, Simon’s love for bikes is as diverse as his collection—from a robust BMW GSA R1200 to the memories of a Harley Davidson Night Train. By day a respected telephony consultant, by night a motorcycle maestro, Simon’s tales are a blend of expertise, resilience, and undying passion. ?️✨
