VOLUME ISSUE APRIL , P111
STANDOUT FEATURE
Near-premium motocross boot
under $500.
RIDER ANALYSIS
Why a stitched sole? The stream-
lined look of the molded-sole boot
is increasingly popular, but you'll
notice plenty of riders (pro and hob-
byists alike) still opt for the sturdier
construction and more planted
feel of the stitched sole, such as
that of the X-Power. When smooth
trail turns to rock gardens, or when
sunny skies turn into rain clouds,
you'll quickly see where better
protection and a more positive feel
on the controls is critical.
I set my molded sole boots aside
for a fresh pair of Sidi X-Power Lei
boots, and immediately noted the
difference. The flatter sole of the
X-Power means your foot has a firm
grip on more of the footpeg surface,
critical when riding in rainy/muddy
conditions. The same goes for foot
controls, as I find it easier to make
a quick snick of the shifter or get
a positive grip on the rear brake no
matter how wet or dry it is. This rare
rainy season in Southern California
has given me a new appreciation for
wet-weather grip below the knees.
As mentioned, these boots are the
successors to the X-3, and having
ridden in those, I can attest to the
•STURDY CONSTRUCTION AND
PREMIUM PROTECTION
•EXCELLENT SUPPORT AND
CONTROL ON THE BIKE
•REPLACEABLE SOLE AND PARTS
•STURDY CONSTRUCTION AND
•STURDIER BUILD EQUALS
MORE WEIGHT
•LIMITED SIZING FOR WOMEN
sturdier construction of the
X-Power boot—something I
was especially grateful for
when I low-sided in a sticky,
rutted turn on the motocross
track. My leg was caught un-
der the bike, pinning my foot
down while my body contin-
ued to rotate forward. Even
though my left boot was wrenched
and smashed under the bike, nothing
was broken, or even injured, thanks to
the X-Power's hold on my ankle. After
a minute of hopping around in pain,
I was able to walk (ride) away. And
it's worth noting that the boot wasn't
damaged, either.
I will also call these more
comfortable right off the bat, with
a nice, premium finish. Unless you
had tried on a pair of Crossfires, you
might not know these weren't Sidi's
top-of-the-line motocross boot.
More protection does equate
to more bulk and weight, however.
These aren't the lightest boots out
there, and also won't be the most
comfortable/agile off the bike for
walking around. But that may or may
not be relevant when it comes to
riding protection and performance.
(These boots aren't made for walk-
ing, are they?)
LIST PRICE: $449.99 (WOMEN'S AND STANDARD X-POWER)
WEBSITE: www.motonation.com
My only other snivel is the
limited sizing. The Sidi X-Power Lei
Women's boot is only available from
sizes 7/39 to 10.5/43. If my foot
was any smaller, I'd be out of luck.
Still, it's hard to criticize a company
that is this dedicated to premium
women's motorcycle gear.
Jean Turner
With a hinged chassis,
cam lock buckles and flex
system to protect the ankle,
you get a lot of boot for
under $500 in the X-Power.
WOMEN'S BOOTS
