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How important are motorcycle boots?

Many new riders wonder if it is necessary to wear motorcycle boots for riding. The option of not wearing them doesn't sound too appetizing, so how important are they?

Automotive News1 min read

Put your best foot forward

Depending on the exact circumstances of a motorcycle accident and how exactly the foot is impacted, a motorcyclist can experience a variety of common injuries to their lower extremities.
Motorcycle accidents often cause the foot to twist or turn unnaturally, leading to sprains and strains. These injuries, involving ligaments and muscles, can be quite severe and demand careful treatment. They're deceptive, often seeming less serious than they are, but it is the abrasion injuries that cause the most damage.

Related: What safety gear is essential for motorcycle riders in South Africa?

Even low-speed falls can cause massive damage to skin and muscle, sometimes even degloving of toes and breaking ankles. These types of injuries you don't walk away from and very often require reconstructive surgeries and months of physio to partially repair the damage. Your favourite sneakers will disappear in an accident, and the road surface will take what it is owed.

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Watch here to see what happens to your unprotected body during a motorcycle crash



Buckle up

You must not underestimate the benefit of wearing protective gear. The single most effective way to protect your feet and prevent injuries while riding is to wear a sturdy pair of motorcycle boots. Often made of hard leather and thermoplastic, boots can absorb much of the impact on your feet if an accident occurs. They will also prevent your ankles from twisting and will limit hyper-extension of ankle joints, and keep abrasion injuries to a minimum.

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Author - Lawrence Minnie

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more

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