In the last 15 years, motocross boots have evolved immensely. No long are they simply leather-constructed footwear with buckles, padding, and a steel shank; MX boots are now highly advanced pieces of technical equipment. With varying types of soles, buckle system, and ankle support, modern day riders have plenty of choices when it comes to foot protection. The TCX Pro 2.1 boots are a perfect example of a boot that straddles the line of traditional and modern design.
Features:
- Upper: water resistant microfibre, high wear resistant, padded front and ankle area for a better comfort and flexibility
- Lining: breathable fabric
- Protections: shin plate with embossed logo, polyurethane toe protector, steel toe cap, inside rubber heat guard, rear polyurethane heel protector, ankle and malleolus protections
- Buckles: 4 designed aluminium adjustable buckles
- Sole: dual compound rubber sole; interchangeable
- Color: white or black
- Size Range: EU 38 – 49, US 5 – 14
- CE Certification
- Inner bootie: fashioned from breathable material, gel inserts at the malleolus bones, preformed counter cradles for heel support.
On the traditional side you have the mainly leather construction, stitched on plastic guards, and stitched, steel tipped sole. On the modern end are the multi pivoting ankle support, well thought out buckle system, inner bootie, and intentional ventilation. For the riders out there who prefer the look, feel, and proven track record of leather motocross boots, the TCX Pro 2.1 has all the fixin’s, but with far less break-in time than an all leather construction. Think of leather as the base material, and the plastic hinge system as the support structure.
With the demands of today’s motocross tracks, there is no doubt that added ankle support is key. TCX’s unique ankle hinge allows for multi directional movement, but prevents hyperextension. Since the hinge is essentially free-floating, there are no screws or bolts to keep an eye on. Add to this the new inner bootie, and you have a very secure boot. In other words, big hits are not a problem.
I am using the TCX Pro 2.1 after several years of running molded sole-style boots, but the transition back to a traditional sole was virtually seamless (pun intended). Break-in time is certainly less that that of all leather boots, but you also cannot just go out and start ripping hot laps right away either. I found that after two full rides in the new kicks, my feet felt right at home.
The buckle system does not at first appear to be anything special, but after repeated use, the ease of use is very satisfying. No pinched finger or pre-ride frustration…so far they have functioned flawlessly.
Ventilation with boots is one of my biggest pet peeves, as most boots have virtually none. TCX made a concerted effort with the Pro 2.1, and these are honestly the first boots that I have ever actually felt air flow with below the top gaiter thanks to the vents built in at mid-shin level.
The lows? The inner bootie seems to require that you take it out and put it on first before slipping your foot into the Pro 2.1 itself. Not big deal, just another added element to the ordeal that is putting on your riding gear. My only other gripe? Since the hinge system is essentially open to the elements, the Pro 2.1’s are probably some of the squeakiest boots I have worn to date. Not that this affects performance on the track, but it’s hard not to notice when you’re struttin’ your stuff through the pits.
Overall, the TCX Pro 2.1 are very good motocross boots. They have the look and feel of an all leather boot, with some major added protection that works. Add in the rubber lining on the inner portion of the boot that help increase grip with the bike, and you have all the requirements for modern day motocross.
For more information on the TCX Pro 2.1, visit www.tcxboots.com
-Bayodome
9/20/2012 6:23pm
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