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9/29/2018
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AU
About to by my self a pair of first time boots, am looking at the alpinestar tech 7 and the sidi X-3, was wondering if anyone had any idea on which would be best for mainly trail / adventure off-road riding I don't go to hardcore or race so just want best support and comfort. Want them to also last me as long as possible so not sure which are best choice, cheers
I only have about 15 hours on them. So far, they still look new. I don’t see any areas immediadely breaking down. Very comfortable. I felt confident with them quickly.
I’m on a KTM with OEM pegs, no sole wear yet. Those pegs don’t have super sharp edges, and I’m riding off road, so someone who is on the track would be a better source of info about that.
The only issue I have is to me the front of the boot is shorter, and I miss the metal toe guard for shifting up when standing up and back on the bike coming out of corners. It’s fine when sitting down, They are size 9’s, so I suspect a larger size would be fine in this scenario. It’s not a deal breaker yet, but I’m tempted to get a set of X3’s to try out.
I've spent a lot of time in Tech 7s. You can check out my official Vital Review here: Tested: Alpinestars Tech 7
The cliff notes are that the Tech 7's fit is a little on the loose side. Very comfortable but if you are a half size, go with the smaller (if you are 11.5, go with an 11). As far as comfort goes, the Tech 7 is lighter (less rider fatigue) than top level boots. They have good ankle flexibility without being too floppy/loose feeling like entry level boots can have. Durability has been great and I put a whole crap load of time on the last pair of Tech 7s I had. They were my go-to off-road boot because they were more comfortable for all day riding over Tech 10s.
I haven't worn the Sidi X-3s in a long time. Actually, I wore the X-Treme boots when they first came out, and I can't say for certain that the X-3 would be identical, but the X-3 did replace the X-Treme. Not sure if just a name change or different features. Overall, Sidis are going to be a little narrower in the foot. If you have a wide foot, the Astars are a better bet. If you have a narrow foot, go with the Sidis. If you have a normal foot, you can go with both. The hinge on the Sidis will offer a little more ankle articulation than the Tech 7, but it can feel less protective because of that large range of movement. I can't speak on the durability because I didn't wear them that long.
As for specifically off-road/ADV riding, I've seen a ton of Tech 7s on adventure bikes and off-road bikes. Plus, some pros choose to wear them over the Tech 10s because they are lighter. Mike Brown was one.
They are both solid choices, and I think it comes down to fit (if you have wide or narrow feet).
The Shop
My opinion is this. I think offroad and trails can be more dangerous(generally) for your feet. I have caught roots, kicked rocks, been dismounted from my bike...... buy a good boot. Garne or SIDI. Worth every penny.
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