Gear Review: Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boot

Producing an effective adventure touring boot is no easy task, as there are so many different challenges that this type of riding encompasses, however Sidi have really hit the mark with their Adventure 2 boot.

Key features of this boot include either Full Grain Microfibre upper for the all black boot or Suede upper for the brown colour variant, fully waterproof Gore-tex inner membrane liner, Non slip rubber sole, PU shin plate with Velcro closure, Micro adjustable and replaceable buckle system, plastic protection around the ankle area with shock resistant heal cap, and nylon inner sole with removable arch support pad.

Testing the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots at the 2019 BMW R 1250 GS launch

I’ve always found it problematic trying to find an adventure riding boot that excels in all conditions, as there always seems to be a compromise I can’t live with. Most boots on the market give too much away in one area in order to be good in another.

If I find something that’s comfortable to walk in then there’s insufficient protection, if a boot is rugged enough to cope with serious off road work, then it’s too cumbersome for long distance touring on sealed roads. Of course it’s never going to be possible to provide a boot that has motocross levels of protection whilst feeling like a lambs wool slipper, however the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore provides an outstanding solution in most situations without falling down in any one area.

Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boot

In four full days of adventure/touring riding I had the opportunity to really put these boots to the test in a wide range of conditions, on a number of different adventure and touring bikes, and never found them wanting. This included some serious off road enduro style riding on big bore adventure bikes, long distance fire trails, river crossings, short bush walks for some sight seeing along the way, and hundreds of kms of road touring.

I have an especially long skinny foot, so it can be quite difficult to find boots that fit me comfortably, however the level of adjustability offered by the micro adjustable buckle system allowed me to feel very comfortable and secure, and there was loads of scope left to allow for anyone with a wider foot shape. The soles provide good grip on the footpegs and also when putting a foot down in the dirt or on slippery river beds.

Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boot

The level of protection offered is more than the majority of touring boots, and made me feel safe and secure whilst still providing a good level of feel for the gear lever and rear brake. They are definitely not a hiking boot, however the level of comfort is more than acceptable for walking short distances, or going out for dinner and a beer if you don’t have room to carry a spare pair of shoes away with you.

During our ride I unfortunately gave their protective performance a serious test with a high speed get off in the bush, which could have resulted in some serious injuries had my boots not been up to the task, however I was able to walk away from that crash totally unscathed, which is testament to the protection offered by the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore.

I also managed to put their waterproofing to the test with a clumsy stall whilst trying to complete a river crossing, and can confirm these boots are 100% waterproof and provide excellent grip on a slippery rocky river bed whilst trying to prevent a big bore adventure bike turning into a submarine.

Testing the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots at the 2019 BMW R 1250 GS launch

This waterproofing does mean that you don’t get a great deal of ventilation, however we rode for a number of long hot days and I never once noticed any discomfort from overheating, although it may become an issue in desert type conditions.

Overall I have found the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore to be an outstanding quality boot which fulfils all the requirements of a protective and comfortable adventure riding boot with flying colours. It does everything well, has no serious deficiencies, and while it is priced towards the top end of the market I believe it more than justifies this cost in being one of the very best adventure riding boots available.

Testing the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Boots at the 2019 BMW R 850 GS Adventure launch

Visit your local Sidi stockist to check out the Adventure 2 Gore-Tex boot in person, available for $649.95 RRP, or check out the McLeod Accessories website – https://www.mcleodaccessories.com.au/