I like regular old engineer-style cruiser boots. But finding well-made boots like those, designed specifically for motorcycling, isn’t easy. Many of the boots you see at swap meets or online are made from cheap materials and aren’t guaranteed to withstand the rigors of the road. That’s why it was hard for me to give up my favorite boots, even when they were worn out — I just couldn’t find anything to replace them.

After a while, I started noticing ads for Red Wing motorcycle boots. Knowing that the brand has been around for a long time and has an excellent reputation, I decided to try a pair. I chose the 977, a 6" pull-on style that currently comes only in men’s sizes, though Red Wing offers other styles specifically for women.

The 977 outer is made of full-grain, water-resistant leather. Flexible material on both sides of the ankles provides some give for a comfortable fit and makes it easy to pull the boots on or off. An anti-bacterial Texon insole provides a nice cushion while you’re walking, and the polyurethane foot bed is removable.

Even on slippery surfaces, the Vibram Lug soles, which are oil and abrasion resistant, grab the road securely. The sole is also stitched, not glued — something I look for in quality, long-lasting boots. However, the 977s don’t have everything I want in motorcycle boots, such as waterproofing, steel toes, and insulation. If those features are important to you, you’ll find them in other Red Wing styles, just not in the boots that the company markets to motorcyclists. (Kind of puzzling.)

Even so, the strength and style of the 977s will keep these boots on my feet for years to come. RB

SOURCES

977 Motorcycle Boots $168

Red Wing Shoe Company
314 Main St., Dept. RB
Red Wing, MN 55066
800/RED-WING

www.redwingshoes.com