Si was after a motorcycle boot that would fill the casual boot gap he had been filling with a pair of Caterpillar work/hiking boots. The Argon Flux boot did the trick. Check them out...
For years I’ve settled on two pairs of boots for riding in; one pair of SIDI race boots for long and slightly more ‘lively’ rides, the other, a basic Caterpillar high top casual boot for rides to mates’ places, the shop, or the pub. Now I have a pair of boots that can do all of the above…
For me, proper bike boots are a) uncomfortable when standing, and b) make you look like somewhat of a tool if you’re not on a bike. The downside is that the top leather on the casual boots always wears out from gear lever wear during upshifts, and it’s always in the back of your mind that if it’s just a bad luck day and you go down, they’re not going to have much protection when you need it.
So, how happy was I when I discovered that Mcleods are now distributing a new range of Argon boots that include the Flux Boot? The Argon Flux Boot is essentially the same boot style I am used to but with all the support and protective areas that my old boots were missing. I was straight onto them.
When I received them, my first impressions were how well they are made. Everything is nicely finished and the leather feels strong yet supple. Better still, they fitted perfectly, which is always a worry when ordering online as ‘your size’ is not always what you get, these on the other hand were exactly the size they should be, plus they were really comfortable from the get-go with none of that rubbing at the heel like so many new boots do.
On the bike they feel great, just firm enough to make it feel like you have proper riding boots on, yet supple enough to feel really comfortable. The added bonus was they are small enough around the tops so that they fit easily under my straight-cut motorcycle jeans. Walking around in them feels like your wearing normal boots and they certainly don’t look like motorcycle boots or out of place when in the pub, a place I plan on spending more time now that Covid-19 restrictions are easing!
Now, as always, there is a “but”. On one ride out it started raining when I got off the bike and went into a shop (like it has done for most of summer up here in Qld this year). When I got back to the bike and wiped the water off the seat, I hopped back on and took off. When I got to the first intersection and went for the brake, I noticed the boot slipped around. It turns out the sole tread pattern is so slight that once it gets wet, it doesn’t have a whole lot of grip. Not really a big enough problem to make it feel unsafe or a deal breaker, but just an observation to keep aware of. Other than that, they kept my feet dry all the way back, so there’s another box ticked.
These boots are ideally suited to commuting and local riding, which is exactly what I wanted them for, but I have to admit, they came out for a full day ride around the hills with the boys and they felt right at home. If you’re looking for some boots that aren’t race track warrior style but still have decent protection, then try a pair of these Argon Flux boots. You won’t be disappointed. I’ll be giving you an updated long term test once I get 6-plus months under them, to see how they hold up, but as it stands so far they are proving to be strong and well made and good value.
ARGON FLUX BOOT TECH HIGHLIGHTS
- Upper: Breathable water resistant Microfiber with high performance mesh
- Protection: EVA with hotmelted PU. Latex + EVA foam reinforcement for ankle & shin protection
- Lining: Comfortable 100% Polyester lining
- Insole: Polypropylene bonded with PU felt
- Insock: PU
- Sole: Rubber + EVA SHOCK ABSORBING SOLE
Visit the Argon Australia Website to see the full range of Argon gear…
Product Review: Argon Flux Boot