The GOAT of Short Motorcycle Boots: indie Ridge

[pdedse]

As I mentioned in a previous thread, I have become more sensitive to safety while riding my CB1100. Although I have been fortunate and lucky to have remained upright during my 45 years on a motorcycle, stuff happens.

Old nerd that I am, I reviewed reports from government agencies, equipment manufacturers, insurance companies, and crusading law firms to make a more informed decision where to start. The consensus was there: the most common injury sustained by motorcyclists are to the lower extremities. As I reviewed my protective gear, I clearly had two deficits: I did not own proper motorcycle boots or jeans.

So with great enthusiasm, I went on a quest to purchase both. However, I did have some boundaries. Because I already purchased a fantastic set of crash bars (http://cb1100forum.com/forum/showthread.php?tid=19305) and had no desire to look like an elderly power ranger, I focused on finding “low” boots that (1) had an overall Level 2 safety rating, (2) were comfortable to wear, (3) would last a lifetime with proper care, and (4) could be worn with motorcycle jeans at a coffee shop and not make me look like a movie extra from a Mad Max movie.

All roads led to Steve at Indie Ridge, based in San Bernardino, CA. Although I have not met the man, his work and post-sale support have earned the respect of motorcyclists throughout North America and possibly across the pond. He works tirelessly to create great boots, gloves, and riding gear for motorcyclists. You can learn a little bit about Steve and a lot more about Indie Ridge products on his refreshingly focused website: https://www.indieridgeusa.com.

I purchased a pair of “The Crow” boots so named because they are black (https://www.indieridgeusa.com/collection...the-crow).

They were properly shipped in a two-box setup:





They were properly packed and had a wonderful registration twist:







They look, feel, and believe it or not smell fantastic:



Steve must own a motorcycle because the design, function, and materials scream let’s ride.

Here is the inside of the boot. Note the custom stitching and molded padding:



The best way to illustrate the ergonomics is to compare them to a non-motorcycle boot. I love my Timberlands for carpentry and gardening, but there is no comparison as a motorcycle boot:



The soles are not an afterthought. A tread design was created to help address the challenges we face stopping, starting, and walking in motorcycle boots:



When I received the boots, I put them on. I heard a swish as I inserted my foot. It is a snug but not too tight fit. I wore the boots for two days to break them in. No blisters; no discomfort. They loosened up with each step.





They fit nicely on a stock setup for a CB1100.



I rode with them for the first time today. It was perfect. Shifting gears was easy and my new motorcycle jeans fit over them nicely.



The materials and craftsmanship earned the safety rating:



If you are looking for a lifelong boot, I recommend you give Indie Ridge serious consideration.

I know this thread is too long but I felt I owed it to Indie Ridge to give a proper accounting. Forgive me if I let my enthusiasm get the better of me. I will create another thread for the motorcycle jeans I equally like. Good night.

A very fine review, Rdprdp01...nicely done, and not too long. It's great to feel excited about a product we buy and share the details. I trust reviews at sites where "we know each other" tons more than other on-line reviews.

Turns out, I've been looking for a new mc boot to replace my current ones; better said, mc boots to use for when I combine biking with hiking. My long-running all weather and long distance riding boots are Aerostich "Combat Boots", which aren't made anymore (I think).



I've had them since around 2009 or '10. Been great as my feet don't get wet, at all. The buckle system means no laces. Neither the parachute chord mechanism nor the buckles have failed in 15 years. And they can be resoled, which I had done after about 8 years.



But they are heavy and not very flexible; so while good for riding, not so much for hiking...unless I want to get in a "good workout".

The inner tongue is actually a thin waterproof lining and it is starting to fray and tear apart. It's the only weak spot to the boot, but the flaps that velcro-close and cover this lining are what really keep the rain out, so no big deal.

I'd say they are pretty close to a life-time boot because they can be resoled. All the stopping and puttting left foot down does wear the sole down over time. It cost about $80 to resole both boots...much cheaper than buying another pair which cost $300 when I had them resoled, now it seems lots of equivalent type boots cost near $400.

So back to the ones you bought. Can they be resoled? If so, does Indie Ridge do the work if they are offering a lifetime guarentee of sorts?

Here's the area where I think that might be possible:


At $175, I think the price is pretty decent. I was expecting north of $200 as I read your review. I'd be interested in any follow up comments you have after wearing them around for a few months, and how they feel walking in them for any extended time.

It can be tough to find good mc gear that we really like. Again, you give great info, so thanks for taking the time to post the photos and revew.

A very fine review, Rdprdp01...nicely done, and not too long. It's great to feel excited about a product we buy and share the details. I trust reviews at sites where "we know each other" tons more than other on-line reviews.

Turns out, I've been looking for a new mc boot to replace my current ones; better said, mc boots to use for when I combine biking with hiking. My long-running all weather and long distance riding boots are Aerostich "Combat Boots", which aren't made anymore (I think).



I've had them since around 2009 or '10. Been great as my feet don't get wet, at all. The buckle system means no laces. Neither the parachute chord mechanism nor the buckles have failed in 15 years. And they can be resoled, which I had done after about 8 years.



But they are heavy and not very flexible; so while good for riding, not so much for hiking...unless I want to get in a "good workout".

The inner tongue is actually a thin waterproof lining and it is starting to fray and tear apart. It's the only weak spot to the boot, but the flaps that velcro-close and cover this lining are what really keep the rain out, so no big deal.

I'd say they are pretty close to a life-time boot because they can be resoled. All the stopping and puttting left foot down does wear the sole down over time. It cost about $80 to resole both boots...much cheaper than buying another pair which cost $300 when I had them resoled, now it seems lots of equivalent type boots cost near $400.

So back to the ones you bought. Can they be resoled? If so, does Indie Ridge do the work if they are offering a lifetime guarentee of sorts?

Here's the area where I think that might be possible:


At $175, I think the price is pretty decent. I was expecting north of $200 as I read your review. I'd be interested in any follow up comments you have after wearing them around for a few months, and how they feel walking in them for any extended time.

It can be tough to find good mc gear that we really like. Again, you give great info, so thanks for taking the time to post the photos and revew.
The Indie Ridge boots can be resoled. They have fantastic stitching which keeps them together but can also be removed to attach a new sole.

The boots are comfortable to walk in and great for riding. Would not recommend them for hiking because the soles are optimized for the street, not for a trail.

Here are a couple of reviews from other boot owners:

https://youtu.be/96d4whaB1YQ?si=6IuutHKbU7W4hiQd

https://youtu.be/UgSd5JlX0Ic?si=9NAw9BLJ2N7WbEDA

And here is an interview with Steve, who seems to be a great guy and would fit in with the members of thie Forum:

https://youtu.be/pLXBoIrYEXc?si=2u3tsPj1iIv-DkVy

I will add to this thread in 90 days. Take care.

Awesome, good to hear. I'm gonna have a closer look. Father's Day isn't too far away. Thanks for the extra info / reviews.

They may not be the best for hiking, but I'm pretty sure they would be better than the "combat boots" I get stuck using from time to time.