 4Likes
 |
|
15 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2017
Posts: 1
|
|
|
Boots for a girl :)
Hi everyone!
So I am a girl leaving on a South America and Africa trip the whole of next year with my boyfriend (we have all the social media if you guys feel curious www.ldmotoadventures.com ).
The bike choice is the reliable yamaha xt660z tenere as we are planning on doing quite a lot of off roading.
Now, I am pretty sorted with all the gear but got stuck when it comes to boots... I'll explain!
I have bought some Fox Instinct model and the Forma Terra. I am quite divided on what should I take with me from these 2 pairs.
I know the fox are more motocross orientated, security is unbeatable. The weight is significant and walking is not the greatest comfort. On the other hand, forma are more "walking friendly" and way lighter but does is it worth to compromise security that much?
What's your opinion on this?
Thank you for your help!
|
15 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 3
|
|
|
Doesn't matter to me if you're a man or a woman on this one.
The more remote you will be the more important it is to not get hurt, so I'd go with protection first.
Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
|
16 Aug 2017
|
 |
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,822
|
|
Go for the comfort for sure. The Forma are excellent boots offering plenty enough protection for you riding pillion. I would also add knee pads (Fox are good), good gloves. If you come flying off, many times you land on your HANDS and your KNEES.
You DO NOT want MotoCross boots. That's just plain stupid. An hour walking in those will cripple you. And You don't want to have to change out of your boots every time you stop and want to walk around a couple hours.
I assume riding two up your boyfriend will be riding carefully on such a long tour.
If off road sections are too tough, you need to get off and walk that section so he can get through. (assuming it's only a short nasty section, less than a mile), like mud bogs, deep ruts and the like.
|
16 Aug 2017
|
 |
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 1999
Location: Vancouver Island, Canada
Posts: 812
|
|
|
I always tour with a pair of good sturdy street boots for riding, and find the space to tuck away a pair of light sneakers in my luggage for times off the bike.
__________________
Bruce Clarke - 2020 Yamaha XV250
|
16 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Oxford UK
Posts: 2,104
|
|
|
Shoes and boots are the most difficult damn things to pack on a bike. They take up the most space for the least value of any item I take on a trip. If you wear heavyweight / MX boots on the bike you'll need to find space for their off the bike substitute so riding boots that can double up as walking boots or similar are ideal.
|
16 Aug 2017
|
|
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,822
|
|
Spot on! I've not walked in the Forma boots but hear they are comfortable for walking, yet offer good protection.
So a good compromise, IMO.
My TCX "Track Evo" boots appear similar to some Forma boots I've seen. Mine are super comfortable walking, even hiking. Nearly as comfortable as really good, high end, comfy sport touring boots ... yet are tough enough to protect in fairly harsh off road conditions. Really happy! ... AND ... the TCX are very light weight. So nice to walk in compared to my former
SIDI Cross Fires and Alpinestar Moto boots.
Of course you can't pack them easily in luggage. My 2nd travel shoe are KEEN SANDALS. And, if I need a nice pair of regular shoes while traveling, I can always buy a pair en route.
I've smacked my foot into rocks riding off road, pinned ankle between rock and foot peg, no damage or pain. No, the Track Evo's don't provide protection like a FULL Motocross boot, but pretty damn good as a compromise boot, IMO. They are flexible enough for easy walking. Can't review how waterproof they are, only short rain rides so far.
Opinions on Boots are always quite subjective, one size never fits all. 
Last edited by mollydog; 16 Aug 2017 at 19:01.
Reason: pics
|
16 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: Melbourne Australia
Posts: 68
|
|
Hi Molly,
My wife and I are 12 weeks into our 3 year travel and have been stuck in Bolivia for 5 weeks with the BMW recall. We both wear Forma boots and find them wonderful and a good compromise. We only have 1 pair of boots and a pair of runners (and thongs of course) as space is limited so IMO the forma are the way to go.
One other thing we did was that we found our runners took up sooooooo much room in the panniers and were a bugger to pack down............ so I got out the trusty leatherman and opened up the heal section and removed the "Hard Plastic" support at the back. Once removed we sewed up the runner (trainers for you in the US  )and they have been perfect, no loss of support, and pack down nice and flat............. and allot cheaper than so called sports/ hiking shoes..... just a thought.
What state are you leaving from?
David & Em
2Wheelsinmotion.com.au
|
17 Aug 2017
|
|
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,822
|
|
5 Weeks for a BMW Recall? OMG, TaRider (Toby) was right! 
I'm not the OP here (refer to Post #1). I'm not leaving ... I've "been there, done that" 
I've never owned Forma boots, but read good reviews. Glad your boots are working out for you!
What is wrong with your BMW? Is it rideable? You might get better/faster dealer service in Chile or Argentina? BMW have dealers in both countries.
I spent quite a bit of time in La Paz years ago, but it's so different now. Enjoy!
|
18 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Australia
Posts: 1,131
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by morieson
One other thing we did was that we found our runners took up sooooooo much room in the panniers and were a bugger to pack down............
|
Pack the inside of the shoe - underwear, socks ... this way the shoe keeps its shape and you get to use the space. Same with the inside of any hollow object - pack the space with stuff.
|
18 Aug 2017
|
 |
The franglais-riders
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: UK
Posts: 1,175
|
|
|
++ for FORMA and TCX Evo.
My husband has the FORMA boots and loves them.
I have had my TCX Infinity Evo for 3 years now, and I have done 2 long trips around Mongolia and central Asia with them.
After 2 years they started taking some water (under very heavy rain only).
I love those boots and can walk and wear them all day without any problem. They are super comfortable and offer very decent protection.
I had MX boots (FOX) but they were too uncomfortable for long distance travel and long days on the bike, so I eventually sold them.
|
21 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: Melbourne Australia
Posts: 68
|
|
Molly Dog,
Realize its off subject but arrived in Bolivia, received the recall notice, took to the local La Paz BMW dealer (who have been great ), had a gap of 2mm, way past the .2mm allowed so basically the bike was deemed unsafe to continue...... plus the wife said there was no way she was getting on the back after finding out , so many emails later and 10 days after actually arriving in Bolivia the replacements made their way to the dealer, 5 weeks from the initial notice. That and the clutch slave cylinder (another quite recall) replacement we should be right to head off again.
Warin,
Yes realize we can pack the shoes but for us we try and keep all our clothes in one bag...... just suits us I suppose, but good suggestion, thank you
|
21 Aug 2017
|
|
R.I.P.
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: california
Posts: 3,822
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by morieson
Molly Dog,
Realize its off subject but arrived in Bolivia, received the recall notice, took to the local La Paz BMW dealer (who have been great ), had a gap of 2mm, way past the .2mm allowed so basically the bike was deemed unsafe to continue...... plus the wife said there was no way she was getting on the back after finding out , so many emails later and 10 days after actually arriving in Bolivia the replacements made their way to the dealer, 5 weeks from the initial notice. That and the clutch slave cylinder (another quite recall) replacement we should be right to head off again. |
I think you've left off the actual "problem" here: " ...Gap of 2mm" ... where?
For What? Unsafe? How?
But if it (whatever the **** "IT" is) measures 2mm and is not meant to exceed .2mm ... well, that's huge differential ... unless we're playing Horse Shoes!
Good to hear BMW La Paz are giving good service. This kind of info is important to travelers. We see too few current updates on dealers and shops down there ... so big ups, hope you're back in the saddle(s) soon! Safe Riding!
|
23 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: mostly Salford now
Posts: 95
|
|
I use Alt Berg boots, they make dual use boots for this type of trip too!
Hogg All Weather Original - Alt-Berg Boots
They are used by military and police too! Their boots are hand made and very good value for what you get, they can even be made to measure.
The quality is fantastic. my set is more than 2 years old now and has been in regular use on the bike too!
|
23 Aug 2017
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2015
Posts: 489
|
|
on my tenere I use TCX Desert, excellent and comfortable boots.
|
8 Oct 2018
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Oct 2017
Location: England
Posts: 55
|
|
|
My wife and I both have Forma Adventure boots, and we both find them very comfortable. We have walked in them and they are great. Good value too.
__________________
Tim & Sue Angus
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
