You’ve got the new or used motorcycle and most of your gear now all that’s left is to checkout the different styles of motorcycle riding boots. There are two main types’ street riding boots and dirt riding boots. Which do you need?

Long distance riders like to wear riding boots and choosing a waterproof boot is rather a smart idea especially if you do the distance and never know what weather conditions you might run into.

There are several excellent manufacturers in the boot industry including companies like BMW bikes and Harley but don’t eliminate other dealers or sites and don’t forget about surplus retailers.

Gore-tex or similar products are used in quality waterproof boots. These materials are waterproof but also allow your feet to breathe which means your feet can survive that blistering hot day too.

If you don’t spend a great deal of time riding in the rain and limit yourself to fabulous sunny days then you might choose a lighter boot that’s not waterproof. But if you ride all year you will want a waterproof winter style boot that you can use in the summer too.

Dirt riding boots are designed for that off road causal experience. Never use street boots off-road because they just don’t provide the type of protection you need. Off-road boots will provide you with protection for your toes and ankles and can be bought for under $100.

Your dirt bike boots need to have a softer sole. They need to be flexible while still providing adequate support. Too stiff of boot will make it too difficult to shift comfortably.

Check around and know what you are buying. Magazines like Dirt Rider are a terrific resource that can provide you with some great information. And of course there are plenty online sites that can help too.

Your riding gear is designed to help keep you safe and it can look great too. Whether you are on a street bike or a dirt bike besides the right boots there are items every rider needs to have.

1. Leather JacketEvery rider needs to have a leather jacket and not just any leather jacket. It needs to be a motorcycle jacket designed with vents to help keep the air flowing and other features important to a rider.

2. HelmetYou can choose from either a full face or open face helmet. In many parts of the world the law requires you to wear a helmet. But regardless of the law it is an integral piece of safety equipment. In fact it’s the only equipment that can keep your brain from becoming scrambled in an accident.

3. GlovesAre available in both half and full lengths. Some even have carbon fiber knuckles to protect your hands from damage in an accident. You should always wear your gloves.

4. PantsLeather riding pants are a very smart investments to protect your lower body from injury.

5. BootsWe’ve already discussed the two types of boots on the market. Choose a boot that’s comfortable and affordable.

Enjoy your motorcycle and everything it has to offer. But enjoy it safely wearing the right riding gear. Start with your motorcycle riding boots and helmet and go from there.