Biking boots are the item of kit I replace far more frequently than any other. Helmets, leathers, gloves all seem to last for a few years, but footwear bears the brunt of the elements, plus has the added bonus of having me trudging around in it for hours on end. This winter I wanted a decent pair of boots that were not only warm and waterproof, but comfortable all day long as well. TCX is the manufacturer previously known as Oxtar, a well established name in biking footwear. I previously used a pair of their touring boots, branded Water Resistant, they kept the wet out as effectively as a flannel. The soles also wore down quickly and the leather (though poorly maintained!) cracked in under a year. The TCX Infinity boot has come top of a couple of tests in national biking magazines and seemed to tick all the boxes. Gore-Tex lining ensures breathable waterproofing, with a sturdy oil resistant sole and very robust construction, this is certainly a touring/courier boot rather than a race item.
I have worn them constantly through a fairly harsh winter and they have stood up well. I admit to actually cleaning and Nikwaxing this pair. I know it’s a radical move, but they are not cheap and I would expect to get a good couple of years’ constant use for the money I shelled out for them. The adjustable buckle system is preferable to zips, which have broken in the past and rendered boots useless.
They also performed exceptionally well in protection tests and have loads of reinforcement at the main impact points.
Walking around all day is not a problem and they were warm, dry and comfortable all winter.
Overall, I would rate them as great value for an all round, practical bike boot.
TCX Infinity can be bought from John Harris Motorcycles and The Bikerstore. Expect to pay around £200.
I want to go faster, I want to go faster..
