OXTAR Matrix Gore-Tex Boots

I ride rain, hail or shine, so when my old W2 boots started leaking water it was never going to be long before I replaced them. When the sole started to come away from the boots I decided I had better pull my finger out and really replace them.

I looked at a few pairs of waterproof touring boots and in the end decided on OXTAR Matrix Gore-Tex boots. Their break-in was a run to Wollombi and back and they were great. It hasnt rained yet but in terms of comfort they have me sold.

In terms of fit, my old W2s were a size 45. My Scarpa hiking boots are a 46, and the OXTARs are a 45, so I would tend to think they are a fairly average size, perhaps on the larger side of average.

They werent cheap at AU$360 from Sydney City Motorcycles, but the price seems about average from what I have seen and OXTAR seem to make good boots.

The soles and shift protector seem to be well attached (though only glued which is a bit of a disappointment). There is armour in both sides of the ankle and in the shin and a reflector on the rear of the heel.

One thing that thoroughly impressed me was the zipper. It is a good quality zip, and it only comes half way up the boot (on the inside) leaving plenty or room for adjustment to fit varying calf sizes and to fit under or over different pants. The zipper is fully gusseted and it is all covered by large leather flaps with quality Velcro.

Although they are just plain black I think they also look pretty reasonable.

More info can be found at the OXTAR website :

http://www.oxtar-usa.com/products/matrix_gore.htm