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As my idea that I wanted to try commuting routinely on my motorcycle for the year 2006 developed, I realized that need to get some better riding gear for commuting.  It may surprise some, but its pretty cold here in the Phoenix desert in the winter mornings.  Once again, I got 37F this morning on my way in to work.  Part of the needed gear was to get some touring boots. 

I already have a set of ‘roadrace’ style boots - Sidi Vertebra from a couple years ago.  They are great for their purpose of sport bikes and have survived two crashes rather well.  What they are not is practical for every day riding.  They squeak and creek with every step and are a little too tight for everyday comfort.

I shopped the hell out of touring boots because I am a ’special needs’ person when it comes to boots.  I have nine screws and a plate in my left ankle from a dirt bike injury a few years ago.  All is better now, but the ankle is pretty bony and the screw heads as well as the corners of the plate can be easily felt through the skin.  The bottom line is that I need a heavily padded boot so that my ankle skin does not get pinched between the leather and the hardware.  I also wanted a boot that was waterproof and good in cold weather riding.

Through advice from Paul (thw owner) at newenough.com, I went with the Sidi ‘Way’ Te-Por Boots.  Paul is in a unique position and I have a unique need.  His position is that he is the model for all of the pics at newenough.com.  What that really means is that he has tried on everything they sell personally…something I could not do after browsing all the local outlets.

After explaining my need for padding, he pointed to me to those boots as the best for my situation…at least the best that he sold.  Well, he was right.  This boot has the padding to give me street shoe comfort, the warmth to allow comfortable cold weather riding, and hopefully waterproof (heh - I haven’t tested that yet!).  On top of that, I got the known Sidi quality and true to fit sizing.  These boots go on and come off very quick which means they get worn.  If they were at all cumbersome, they’d sit in the closet.

Here is the manufacturers description:

The Way Tepor offers Sidi’s exclusive Tepor water resistant and breathable membrane that is specially made to work with the Lorica and Cordura constructed outer shell. A soft, knitted internal lining is utilized for maximum comfort against the riders skin. Internal Malleolus, heel and toe protection, rear heel reflector, padded shin guard; nylon innersole with removable arch support and all new rubber sole complete the Way Tepor.

Overall, I couldn’t be happier and recommend these boots for anyone looking for all-day comfort in a touring-style boot.  I don’t think they are proper for long walks in the park, but they will go un-noticed when off the bike for small excursions to grab a bite to eat, etc.  These were not the cheapest boots, and not the most expensive.  At $150, I am very happy with them.