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Alpinestars Tech 8
Alpinestars has once again updated there Tech 8 series boot and when the chance to review the new boot came up I jumped to review it. I have owned Tech 8's since day one and I have always thought that is was the best boot on the market. Over the last few years we have seen a lot of new boot makers enter the market with some good quality boots and I think this has driven Alpinestars to the next level in motocross boots.
Alpinestars updated there look and more with this new release of the Tech 8 and I was really excited to look the boots over when I pulled them out of the box. The basic look of the boot has stayed the same but some of the new features of the boot is what really makes the new Tech 8 stand out from the rest.
Tech 8 Features:
- Redesigned for 06!
- Feature full-grain leather upper with redesigned fit and flex panels for improved flexibility
- All new closure system features four aluminum buckles with memory and a quick-release/locking system with self-aligning design for easy, precise closure
- Top and bottom reverse-closure design features provide superior impact avoidance and fit
- Also features new TPU rubber gaiter at the top of the boot that effectively seals out elements
- Contoured shin plate is now injected with high modulus polyurethane for a high level of impact and abrasion resistance; additional holes increase ventilation
- New replaceable shock-absorbing material on the shin and instep
- Extended inside plate is injected with medium durometer polyurethane and guards the side and toe-box area of the boot
- Inner side of the boot is designed for excellent contact and grip against the bike and provides a high level of support
- New instep and Achilles flex zones for superior comfort, control and support
- New contoured calf plate is injected with polyurethane for high impact resistance
- Steel heel and sole guards
- Suede panel on the inner side of the boot increases grip and is laminated with aluminum foil to guard against heat
- Breathable Cambrelle lining reduces heat buildup
- White boot features a new ventilation system positioned to improve air circulation
- Removable and fully perforated leather bootie for a precise fit, with asymmetrical gel ankle and a removable anatomic footbed
- Patented "ankle brace" with additional shock absorbing insert for the heel
- Extended front inner gaiter helps prevent water entry
I wore these boots for a few days and they felt great right away, the break in period was not an issue with me. My biggest concern to me with motocross boots is being able to shift and use the break pedal well yet have great support for my ankles, these boots hit the mark on that. For me the upgrade to the new boots went very well, it seems like the padding is thicker and my feet feel more snug in these boots and that is the way I like them.
The buckles are the best improvement for the 06 model and I really like how it is much easier it is to fasten the buckles. The old style became a pain if you didn't align the clips up perfectly resulting in the buckle being hard to close or popping out. Now they work much better and for me that is something I am really happy with in the new boot.
More venting is something I am also glad they added to the new Tech 8's. I ride tracks mainly but some times I hit the trails and I think having more venting will really be a benefit for both situations. At the track having the vents will help cut down on the heat and if you ride trails like I do having more vents will help dry out your feet much faster.
Overall I am now and always will be a Tech 8 fan, these are with out a doubt one of the best boots on the market and I absolutely love these boots. If you want the best motocross boot for your money than that the Tech 8 is the boot for you. I have had a chance to wear other motocross boots and when it is time to buy new boots I always come home with Tech 8's. For me I want a boot that is going to provide the best protection and feel I can get and Alpinestars has always provided this in the Tech 8 boot. Safety and comfort should always be on the top of any riders list and the 2006.
If you would like more information or to see other products by Alpinestars visit there Web Site
Below are some comparison photos of the new Alpinestars Tech 8 boot and the older version of the Tech 8, notice all the little changes that add up to a brand new motocross boot for 2006. Click on the images to see a the hi-res image.
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