New for 2011, the Alpinestars SMX Plus has many of the same features as the top-of-the-line Alpinestars Supertech R boiled down into a more value-priced design that will work well for street riders and racers alike. The exterior leather chassis features leather accordion stretch panels on the front side and on the back of the boot. And just like Alpinestars leather suits, these provide enhanced flexibility without sacrificing abrasion resistance. On one side of the toe box, a new dual-density toe slider is included with expanded coverage for the upper area of the toe which is excellent for riders that like to dig into the peg on the inside foot while cornering. Additionally, the sole has a lip on its front edge that covers the stitching that attaches the upper chassis to it for even greater durability. To prevent the shifter from wearing into the boot and increase feel, a rubber pad is sewn in just above the toes.
The aft portion of the boot is the most interesting aspect. Featuring a new Multi Link Control system, Alpinestars claims this exoskeleton device not only helps to prevent excessive ankle joint movement in a fall, but also act as an impact attenuator for both sides of the ankle and Achilles heel. Furthermore, we suspect that it’s also good for abrasion resistance as it’s one more piece between your foot and the road in a crash. The Multi Link Control system is made up of three separate parts that include the heal cup, a lower pivot joint that is proximal to the sides of the ankle and an upper portion that slides through a tunnel located on the back of the calf protector. The latter two portions pivot so as not to interfere with normal movement on or off the bike.
A large TPU heel counter is fitted with two vents to promote efficient cooling of the foot when at speed and it also has a replaceable slider on its rearmost portion to keep the boot looking good when the riding isn’t so great. There’s also a metal slider embedded on the lateral side of the heel counter for the rider that hangs his foot out a little too much when cornering. The whole area is well-padded with a shock-absorbing liner on the inside for even greater rider protection.
Up at the top of the boot, a large swath of TPU armor wraps around the calf and houses a ratcheting closure mechanism for a secure fit on the rider. It’s also well-padded on the inside for comfort and impact protection. A single zipper on the outer-facing side of the boot has a stretch panel sewn into it to accommodate different foot shapes and the zipper latch itself has a home under the TPU protector up top so it’s not flapping in the wind as you ride.
Inside the boot, a full-length microfiber liner is both breathable and supremely comfortable. As we’ve mentioned, this liner is padded with open cell foam in all of the right places and quickly molds itself to the shape of the foot to provide maximum feel with no discomfort at all. This is further aided by a special tongue with a Kevlar speed lace mechanism that pulls the foot down into the boot for a solid, secure feeling. Think of it as a combat boot for riding bikes, it really has a vault-like feeling yet, it’s surprising flexible. And everything is sat atop a rubber sole that’s formulated to last. The grip pattern features an even run of rain sipes that provide secure traction on the bike so you can go for it in bad weather without the worry of your feet slipping off the pegs.
The 2011 Alpinestars SMX Plus boot is CE-certified.
Because these are brand new, availability is extremely limited and we only have these available in black and black ventilated for the time being. For more information on the SMX Plus, call Nate at 866.931.6644 ext 809 or send a message to FORUM at RIDERSDISCOUNT dot COM with ALPINESTARS 2011 SMX PLUS BOOTS in the subject line and we’ll get back to you right away.
Alpinestars SMX Plus boots in black.
A close look at the back of the boot reveals the Multi Link Control system which is comprised of three separate, but integral, parts that support the ankle joint and help prevent injury by hyperextension in a crash. Also note the accordion stretch panel sewn in at the back of the boot.
A large accordion panel is also sewn into the front portion of these Alpinestars boots. To the right resides the main entry zipper which is partially secreted behind a leather flap. This leather flap helps to reduce water intrusion when it’s raining. The other side of the zipper is attached with a stretch material to help the boot fit around different foot shapes.
Alpinestars SMX Plus Motorcycle Boots New for 2011
Linear Mode
