ALPINESTARS SMX-6 Black

Indicates who the motorcycle shoes or boots are designed for. The fit and sizing are adapted to the foot, providing more comfort and better control while riding.

• Men: Designed based on the male foot shape, typically with a slightly wider fit. Often also available in smaller sizes, making many models perfectly suitable for women or younger riders.
• Women: Specifically developed for the female foot, usually with a narrower heel and a more tailored fit. The range is sometimes more limited. If you do not find your ideal women’s model, feel free to check the men’s or unisex models as well. These are often available in smaller sizes and in many cases offer the same level of comfort and protection.
• Kids: Designed for children’s feet with adapted sizing and comfort. Note that older children (from around 12 years old) often already wear adult shoe sizes such as 38, 39 or larger. In such cases, smaller adult models can be a perfect alternative with the same level of protection and quality.

Tip: The women, men and kids categories are mainly a fit guideline. In practice, many unisex or men’s models also fit women or younger riders perfectly thanks to the wide size range available.

The waterproofing of motorcycle shoes and boots determines the level of protection against rain and moisture while riding. This is defined by the presence and type of membrane in the footwear.

• Gore-Tex waterproof: Premium shoes or boots with an advanced Gore-Tex membrane. Offer the highest level of waterproof protection combined with excellent breathability. Ideal for intensive use and long rides in wet conditions.
• Waterproof: Equipped with a waterproof membrane that keeps feet dry in rain and wet conditions. Provide reliable protection in changing weather, but without Gore-Tex-specific performance.
• Not waterproof: Without a membrane. These models are focused on ventilation and comfort in warm and dry weather, but offer no protection against rain.

Gear shift reinforcement indicates whether the footwear features an additional protective panel in the gear-shift area, designed to prevent wear and damage caused by the gear lever. The available options are:

• Yes: the footwear is equipped with a reinforced panel at the point of contact with the gear lever. This increases durability and protects the material from premature wear.
• No: the footwear does not include a dedicated gear shift reinforcement. This may be sufficient for light use, but offers less protection against wear from gear shifting.

Ankle protection at ankle level provides added safety for a vulnerable part of the foot while riding. In touring boots, the focus is on achieving a good balance between protection, comfort and freedom of movement, especially during long rides.

Shin protection shields the shin from impact and wear caused by the boot during riding. Depending on the model and material, the level of protection can vary. The options are:

• No: the shoe or boot has no specific shin protection.
• Yes: the shoe or boot has a fixed shin protector integrated into the model.
• Yes, TPU: the shin protector is made of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), a hard, impact-resistant material that provides extra protection.
• Yes, replaceable: the shin protector can be removed and replaced if it wears down from use, ensuring optimal protection without needing to replace the entire boot.

Toe sliders are protective components located on the outside of the toe area of a sport boot. They are designed to reduce wear and damage when the toe comes into contact with the road during sporty riding or cornering.

Depending on the model, toe sliders can be fixed or replaceable. Replaceable toe sliders can be swapped out after wear, allowing the boot to maintain its protective function without needing to replace the entire boot.

The shaft height indicates the height of the shoe, boot, or sneaker measured from the heel. This helps estimate protection, support, and fit of the footwear. The measurement is performed as follows:

• Measured on the inside of the shoe, from the top of the insole to the highest point of the shaft at heel level.

The outer material of motorcycle shoes and boots largely determines protection, durability, and wearing comfort. Manufacturers use different materials or combinations thereof, depending on the intended use, style, and desired features of the model.

The membrane in motorcycle boots, shoes, or sneakers is a waterproof and windproof inner layer that allows perspiration to escape. This keeps the feet dry and comfortable even in wet conditions. Not all models are equipped with a membrane; some shoes and sneakers do not have this feature. There are various brands and membrane technologies, each with their own characteristics and level of protection.

The lining of motorcycle shoes, boots, or sneakers affects comfort, breathability, and moisture management inside the footwear. The most commonly used materials are:

• Polyester: lightweight, soft, and comfortable material that wicks moisture well and dries quickly. Polyester is durable and easy to maintain.
• Polyamide: strong, durable, and breathable material that effectively transports moisture and provides a comfortable interior.