Riding motorcycles isn’t just a hobby or pastime; talk to any biker, and they’ll tell you it’s a way of life.
Bikers are serious about everything from their choice of ride (you’ll never catch a Harley guy on a racing bike or a dirt biker riding a Bobber) to the protective and stylish outfits they wear.
And let me tell you, not much can stir up quite as much controversy between bikers as the right choice of boots.
Motorcycle boots are built for three specific purposes:
- To protect your feet in case you wipe out
- To look badass while also being comfortable enough for long days of riding
- To keep your feet securely in place on the pedals
For a day roaring or racing down the open road, you need the right pair of motorcycle riding boots that will serve all three purposes equally.
How Did I Come Up With My List?
I was 19 the day I took my first ride on a motorcycle.
A cop buddy of my dad’s brought his Harley over to our house, and after he caught me gawking (for like an hour), he gave me a chance to take it out for a quick spin around the block.
Even with that short ride, I was hooked!
Flash forward 15+ years, and I’m still addicted.
I can’t lay claim to any record-breaking cross-country or transcontinental rides, but when summer’s in full swing here in British Columbia, there’s something wonderful about hitting the open road under the bright sunlight. Nothing better, I tell you.
But I’ve learned the hard way just how uncomfortable a ride on even the most comfortable bike can be with the wrong pair of boots. And how dangerous if you wipe out at highway speeds and your feet aren’t protected.
I’ve invested a great deal of time into doing the research into my motorcycle riding boots, talking with my biker buddies, testing as many pairs as I can get my feet into, and combing through thousands of product reviews.
My research has led me to put together this list of the best motorcycle riding boots. I’ve started with my top pick overall, then organized the rest of my choices based on the specific purpose I believe they’ll serve best.
5 Best Motorcycle Riding Boots for Men
My Top Pick: Nicks Hooligan Moto Boot
Nick’s Handmade Boots is a brand I’ve loved to wear for around 4 years now. I first fell in love with their stylish good looks, but it’s been their handmade quality and durability that keeps me coming back every time I need a new pair. No surprise, then, that their Hooligan Moto Boot earned such a high spot on my list.
The first thing that caught my eye about these boots is that they come in three heel styles: classic arch, high arch, and wedge sole with moderate arch. The classic arch is my go-to pick for a long day of riding, but if I’m planning on hiking a trail or strolling around town, it’s the wedge sole shoes that offer me the support and cushioning a heavy guy like me needs.
The 8” shaft is high enough to protect the sides of my legs against friction, but it’s low enough I’ve got good flexibility and freedom of movement when walking or crouching to tinker with the bike. The roughout leather shaft is tough and has a rugged look I really like, but the smooth leather toe has a stylish flair to it.
The combination of burn-resistant sole, thick stacked heel, and leather insole combine to keep my feet comfortable and protected. And thanks to the stiff shank construction, the pressure of the footpegs is distributed evenly across the bottom of my feet to virtually eradicate fatigue and foot pain.
What I Like
A very rugged-looking yet stylish pair of biker boots.
Multiple sole styles offer varying support based on your specific arch/foot physiology.
Sturdy and well-built—great handmade quality.
Burn-resistant and very grippy Vibram rubber sole.
Protective but still versatile enough for multi-purpose use.
What I Don’t Like
If I had one complaint, it would be the higher-than-average price tag. However, I’ve found that with these boots (and most of Nicks’ offerings), it’s a matter of “you get what you pay for” in terms of quality and reliability.
What Other Reviewers Say
There aren’t a lot of reviews of these boots online, so I had to do some serious internet sleuthing to see what other real-life users had to say.
One Redditor praised their tough build, biker-friendly construction, ankle protection, stylish good looks, and customer service.
Another review posted on the Nick’s website raved about how effectively they molded to his feet and became incredibly comfortable once broken in. However, the break-in time was a bit longer than they expected, and initially the boots were very stiff (almost excessively so).
The Verdict
Having personally tested Nick’s Hooligan Moto Boots, I feel confident placing them at the top of this list. Their handmade quality is unrivaled, they’ve got the tough biker style I want, and they’re made with thick (8 oz.) leather that offers solid protection for my feet.
Plus, the sturdy, stiff shank does wonders to reduce pressure, fatigue, and pain on my feet. I also highly appreciate the choice of three heel/sole styles, making them a very versatile pair of boots suitable for any and all bikers.
Having personally tested Nick’s Hooligan Moto Boots, I feel confident placing them at the top of this list. Their handmade quality is unrivaled, they’ve got the tough biker style I want, and they’re made with thick (8 oz.) leather that offers solid protection for my feet.
Best Style: Thursday Casa Moto
Fun fact: it was my brother who turned me on these boots. During his years riding around B.C. on a motorbike, he found the Thursday Casa Motos struck just the right balance between reliability and stylish good looks.
Their full-grain leather construction and low profile look just like a pair of classy dress boots, and he’ll usually pair them with dark skinny jeans and leather jacket. Their “Army Track” rubber lug outsoles are thick enough to offer protection without being so thick that they’ll make the boots look clunky when walking around town.
And he swears that they’re among the most comfortable boots he’s ever worn. Not just biker boots, but boots period. Between the shock absorbing insoles and the cork-bed midsoles, they’ve got excellent cushioning and arch support. The padded collar also reduces friction to prevent blisters while both riding and walking.
Looking at them, it’s easy to see the handmade quality and the care that went into designing a truly stylish, handsome pair of biker boots.
What I Like
Versatile style—wear them with any outfit from casual weekend wear to date night attire.
Sturdy, well-built boots.
Very reasonable price tag considering their handmade quality.
Thick cork bed midsoles and shock absorbing midsoles offer excellent support/cushioning.
Very comfortable for a long day of strolling around town or racing down the open road.
What I Don’t Like
I have the same foot length as my brother but my feet are notably wider. The boots that fit him snugly are a little too tight on my feet, so I had to order a half-size up.
What Other Reviewers Say
With 500+ reviews and a 4.9 out of 5-star rating, it’s safe to say real-life users have found a lot to love with the Thursday Casa Moto Boots.
Almost every review I’ve found remarks on their stylish good looks, designer quality, and budget-friendly cost. A number of reviewers praise their short break-in time, claiming they’re comfortable right out of the box.
Really, I could find virtually no negative reviews, except for a couple of wide-footed guys who had the same problem with the narrow construction I did.
The Verdict
If you’re after a pair of motorcycle riding boots that go all out on style while still emphasizing comfort and protection, I recommend the Thursday Casa Motos. They’re built tough enough to last you for years, and they’ll look handsome all the while.
In my opinion, the combination of full-grain leather and low profile design are a win for stylish bikers who want to dress up their outfits with boots that emphasize classiness above all.
If you’re after a pair of motorcycle riding boots that go all out on style while still emphasizing comfort and protection, I recommend the Thursday Casa Motos. They’re built tough enough to last you for years, and they’ll look handsome all the while.
Best Western Style: Ariat Rambler
Ariat has earned its place as one of my favorite go-to brands of cowboy boots thanks to their sturdy construction, affordable offerings, and classic Western styles. So when I think of a pair of cowboy boots I can use both for ranching and riding my bike, the Ramblers were the first that came to mind.
The boots are built in the roper boots style: a 1” heel, 10” leather shaft, and all the stitching details common to most Western boots. The choice of square toe means the boots have room enough in the forefoot to fit my thicker-than-average feet and extra-long toes.
But they’ve got a few features that make them well-suited specifically for bikers, too.
The Duratread sole offers great traction on slippery concrete and foot pegs, and the ATS forked shank provides support and reduces pressure on my feet. The shaft is wide enough to accommodate my thick calves and ankles even if they swell after a day of riding (an all-too-common problem).
The ability to use these boots both on the farm/ranch and on a weekend motorcycle ride makes them a top pick for me.
What I Like
Spacious, comfortable interior.
Sneaker-like feel with good cushioning and support.
Duratread outsole is very grippy on any wet and slippery terrain.
Classic Western good looks but versatile design.
What I Don’t Like
Over the course of 3+ years of use, I’ve noticed the leather of the shaft has begun to sag a bit.
What Other Reviewers Say
400+ reviews have been posted to the Ariat website, and the fact that the Ramblers have a 4.6-star rating says a lot about them.
Real-life users who’ve worn and owned them praise their comfort, the new-boot feel and broken-in looks, the build quality, and speedy delivery times.
Some reviews have praised the customer service, while others complained about the review policy. One user claimed he lost around $400 trying to return wrong-sized boots.
The Verdict
Take the flair of your cowboy life on the road with the Ariat Ramblers on your feet. These boots are crafted in the classic Western style with an eye-catching worn-in look and all the decorative flair you could ask for. Thanks to their sneaker-like support and comfort, they’re versatile enough for everything from hiking to hunting to long-distance motorbike travel.
the Ariat Rambler Western Boot is the best riding boot on the market due to its sneaker-like feel, the integrated shank to keep your feet more comfortable in the saddle for hours, and the sturdy build. Plus, I'm quite a fan of the reasonable price tag.
Most Classic: Frye Harness 12R
Did you know that the first motorbike boots were modeled after Civil War cavalry boots? The Frye Harness 12R Boots honor that traditional style: a 12” shaft, 2” heel, and the iconic nickel hardware on black leather to complete the look.
Made in the USA, these boots are built tough enough to last you for years to come, and will just grow more comfortable and handsome as the leather ages inside the out.
The lack of inner lining means there’s nothing to accelerate the breakdown of your boots, though you will need to wear proper boot socks like our favorites, the Camel City Mill Lightweights, to reduce friction.
The rubber bottom offers both good grip on your pedals and footpegs, as well as on solid ground.
For a classic style and reliable construction, these are a great option to consider.
What I Like
The iconic Civil War-style motorcycle boots.
American-made quality and durability.
12” shaft height offers excellent protection against friction and road rash.
Comfortable once fully broken in.
The glossy leather develops a beautiful patina as it ages.
What I Don’t Like
I found the 2” heel height to be a bit too tall to use comfortably for walking around. It’s great for riding, but if I’m spending any significant time on my feet, I tend to feel fatigue and pain from the higher-than-average heels.
What Other Reviewers Say
Reviewers who’ve tested the Frye Harness 12R have mostly positive things to say about them. The classic cavalry boot style is a fan-favorite, and users praise their durability and how gorgeous the leather looks as it patinates.
Some said the break-in time was a bit longer than expected (around 4 weeks), but ultimately, they became “among the most comfortable boots” they ever owned.
One of the only real complaints I found was regarding the price tag. The boots are pricey, no doubt about it, and the cost of a warranty raises it even more. They’re worth it, but not a “splurge” item you can afford on a whim like some of the other more budget-friendly options on our list.
The Verdict
If you’re all about that classic biker style—from the shades to the jacket to the leather chaps to the boots—then it makes perfect sense to wear the Frye Harness 12R. Cut in the iconic Civil War cavalry boot style and finished with that striking nickel hardware, they’re a great option for people who want to look the part of a motorcycle rider from head to toe.
Inspired by the Civil War cavalry, this iconic boot is American craftsmanship at its best. Not for the faint of heart, this boot is uncompromising and gets better with age.
Best Protection: O’Neal Sierra Boot
The O’Neal Sierra Boot is built for guys who ride for adventure: dirt bikers, off-roaders, and motorcross racers. They offer extra protection to ensure you’re fully protected from the very real dangers of an active lifestyle.
In addition to the thick full grain leather upper, the boots feature TPU molded shin plates as well as extra TPU protection both inside and out. The quick-action buckles (like you’d find on ski boots) secure your feet tightly in place, and once locked in, these boots aren’t coming off even if you wipe out hard on a jump, ramp, or mountain trail.
The suede microfiber inner lining keeps your feet comfortable and prevents blisters, and the nylon inner sole adds cushioning and support. Thanks to the steel shank incorporated into the sole, you’ll feel less pressure on your feet over long hours of riding.
The high-grip rubber sole feels and performs like a hiking boot, and they’ve even got a fully waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry and cool even if you’re ripping through muddy terrain or across rivers.
What I Like
Adventure-ready design and incredibly protective construction.
Grippy rubber outsole is great for hiking/walking as well as riding.
Waterproof but still nicely breathable so your feet won’t overheat.
Quick-action buckles secure the boots tightly in place but make them easy to pull on/off in seconds.
What I Don’t Like
As with ski boots, I found the quick-action buckles tended to pinch in certain spots on my legs or be too loose until I got the settings just right. One wipeout or hard bump was all it took to throw off the fit, so I had to tighten/loosen them all over again.
What Other Reviewers Say
The majority of the nearly 700 reviews for the O’Neal Sierra Boot have only good things to say about them.
Users have called them “the perfect intersection of comfort and price”.
Some panned the lack of protection around the ankles (most of it is concentrated on the foot and leg), but still praised their “adventure-ready” design and versatility.
The water-resistance seems to be a bit hit-or-miss, with some reviewers claiming the boots kept their feet dry while riding through rivers and others claiming that just going near puddles soaked their socks.
But reviewers do appear to largely agree that they are among the most comfortable adventure biking boots, especially for walking and hiking and well as riding.
The Verdict
If you’re going a bit more hardcore with your motorbike riding and need a pair of boots that can keep up, the O’Neal Sierra Boot may be just the thing.
They’re built with extra protection (leather + TPU) so your feet and legs will be safe even if you wipe out on a jump or sharp trail turn. Thanks to the high-traction rubber sole, you’ll have steady footing on slippery terrain as well as a firm grip on your brake and gear shift pedals.
Best of all, the affordable price tag makes them a smart investment.
If you’re going a bit more hardcore with your motorbike riding and need a pair of boots that can keep up, the O’Neal Sierra Boot may be just the thing. They’re built with extra protection (leather + TPU) so your feet and legs will be safe even if you wipe out on a jump or sharp trail turn. Thanks to the high-traction rubber sole, you’ll have steady footing on slippery terrain as well as a firm grip on your brake and gear shift pedals.
What to Look For in a Great Motorcycle Boot
When shopping for motorcycle boots, there are a few things that are absolute necessities:
- Protection for your toe and heel. Motorcycle boots typically feature a celastic (fabric mixed with plastic) toe that creates a rigid structure, but you can find some with steel or composite toes, too.
- Extra armor or reinforcement around the ankles to not only offer ankle support, but keep your ankles from being crushed if you wipe out.
- High, sturdy shaft to protect your feet from friction against the sides of the bike as well as road rash.
- A shank incorporated into the sole to minimize pressure on your feet by spreading it out throughout the sole. The shank will also protect your feet against crush injuries and twisting.
- Weatherproofing to keep your feet dry in rainy or wet conditions.
- Material (such as leather) that is abrasion-resistant, puncture-resistant, and cut-resistant.
- A well-cushioned sole to keep your feet comfortable over long hours of riding and/or walking.
- A heel designed to rest on the peg and stay securely in place.
- A slip-resistant and oil-resistant sole that will be grippy and offer stable footing even on wet and oily ground.
Ride with Rugged Protection
Motorcycle boots should be built to protect your feet first, and offer comfort and style second.
Don’t get me wrong: good looks are an important part of the biker life. It’s fine to want a pair of boots that will match your outfit and bike choice, as well as keep your feet cushioned and supported while riding.
But at the end of the day, the factor that really matters most is how well the boots protect you in case of an accident, when walking on slippery or oily roads, or in heavy rains.
The Nicks Hooligan Moto Boots are my top pick because they perform well on all counts. They offer solid, rugged protection for your feet, will be comfortable all day long whether you’re riding or walking, and are just an all-around stylish option.
Having personally tested Nick’s Hooligan Moto Boots, I feel confident placing them at the top of this list. Their handmade quality is unrivaled, they’ve got the tough biker style I want, and they’re made with thick (8 oz.) leather that offers solid protection for my feet.
Of course, if you really want to emphasize the good looks above all, the Thursday Casa Moto is my recommendation. The low-profile design, glossy leather, and slim outsole will pair nicely with your casual weekend or date night outfits.
If you’re after a pair of motorcycle riding boots that go all out on style while still emphasizing comfort and protection, I recommend the Thursday Casa Motos. They’re built tough enough to last you for years, and they’ll look handsome all the while.
For guys who want Western-style boots that can work hard and play hard, the Ariat Rambler boots are my top pick. Or, if you love the classic cavalry boot style, the Frye Harness 12R offers you both the iconic look and the protection you need.
But when it comes to adventure riding, the O’Neal Sierra Boot will do a solid job of keeping your feet safe whether you’re racing along mountain trails, zipping around an off-road course, or roaring down the highway.
FAQs
What kind of boots are best for motorcycle riding?
You can wear pretty much any kind of boots to ride your motorcycle: logger boots, lineman’s boots, work boots, cowboy boots, even dress boots. But the best types of boots will be those designed specifically for motorcycle riding because they’re designed specifically to protect your ankles and feet in case of a crash.
What is the difference between motorcycle boots and regular boots?
Regular boots provide less ankle support than motorcycle boots. They may also have a lower shaft height and use thinner materials that won’t be as resilient and abrasion-resistant. Regular boots often lack the shank in the sole that will keep your feet safe from twisting or crush injuries.
Does Red Wing make a motorcycle boot?
Red Wing Shoes used to make a motorcycle boot: the Red Wing 979s. Production of that model has been discontinued, though. Their work boots (like the Dynaforce 11-inch Waterproof Safety boots or the SuperSole 2.0) and logger boots (like the LoggerMax 9-Inch Safety Toe Logger Boot) will work in a pinch.
But for safety’s sake, I recommend sticking with the boots specifically built for motorcycle riding, like those I shared on my list above.
