Introduction
The Sidi Discovery Rain boot is a multi season dual sport/adventure boot that bridges the gap between a road boot and a full mx boot. The Discovery is designed specifically for riders that need more comfort and flex than most mx boots provide.
Construction
These boots are more flexible than full motocross boots and geared toward adventure riders, but it still has some great protection and features. These boots are full height, measuring about 1.5" lower than my Alpinestar Tech 3 boots. There is an elastic expansion collar at the top to keep out the elements and open up for larger calves. The sole is stitched on and replaceable with no heel. Since there is no heel your foot can be placed anywhere on the foot peg. Lorica, a synthetic leather is used on most of the boot with a nice large double stitched shift pad. These boots also feature easy to use male and female cam lock buckles that are replaceable should you ever break one. A large molded shin plate protects the fragile shin from a common injury when offroad. On the back there are leather accordion panels for flex, a reflective strip and a large rubber heel impact cup. The toe of the boot has a removable metal protector with a nice engraved logo.
The “rain” version of this boot features Sidi’s own waterproof and breathable liner that is similar to Gortex, but can be produced cheaper. The liner is made of Cambrelle, which is a rapid drying moisture wicking material that helps keep your feet both comfortable and dry. There is also a gaiter that keeps water from coming in where the boot overlaps.
Ride Tested
I tested these boots on a recent trip covering 490 miles of mixed terrain. The boots were flawless and allowed me to feel confident and comfortable both standing and sitting. I never felt like there was a lack of protection, yet they were comfortable enough that i never missed a shift. I expected the boots to be hot since they are waterproof, but I'm happy to report that after 3 days in them my feet were never uncomfortable.
Conclusion
From the box I found the boot to be fairly comfortable to walk in. There seems to be a good amount of flex from the leather in the ankle area, allowing it to flex up and down, but not to the side. The sole is stiff, so hours standing on the bike are not as tiring.
The fit is generous on length, but may be a bit snug on width. I did not find it to be narrow as some would suggest, but more of a medium width. I normally wear a USA 9.5-10 and ordered the SIDI in size 44. I suggest you look at a couple pairs of your tennis shoes and get the euro size, then order that size. I do not advise you go up or down sizes, but it may be a good idea to purchase from a retailer that will allow you to exchange sizes should there be an issue.
These boots are beautifully Italian in every way. From the perfect stitching to the fit. Everything about them screams quality that most Asian boot makers have not been able to replicate. If you are in the market for a dual sport, adventure or touring boot then I highly suggest these boots.
These boots are available from Competition Accessories where most orders over $49 ship for free, no restocking fees and a low price guarantee.
Video Version of Review:
Written by Jacob Roby (OklahomaKLR), Contributing Editor for Spirit Strike.