Puma Desmo GTX Boots The Desmo GTX is a performance boot that focuses on versatility, specifically designed for sports riders. Features The Desmo GTX is lined with high quality Gore-Tex material An unparalleled protection/comfort combination The Desmo GTX offers advanced impact protection due to a vast array of features, such as the internal nylon ankle bone protection, it's TPU shin plate, the molded TPU heal counter, the forefoot and heal zinc sliders, and it's additional TPU sliders for maximum protection on the shaft It's comfort level far exceeds what protective sports boots typically offer, with flexible inserts at the heal and forefoot for an easy in-step feel, a rubber gear shifter and pre-molded sockliner to absorb vibration, a water resistant zipper system, and breathable fabric lining In addition to superior protection, the upgraded Desmo GTX boot also has a high-density rubber outsole that provides extra stability, grip and abrasion resistance on the outsole, so you feel at ease when you're hitting high speed maneuvers
First off...these boots look great. That's what I liked about them. Fairly unassuming...no crazy buckles and straps (I don't race or do track days). One commute so far in a light rain, kept my feet warm and dry. I wanted boots to wear under my pants, and the velcro closure on the boots seems to be designed to be wrapped over pants. So I either need to do some serious calf workouts, or start tucking my pants during a ride.
I have had problems before finding the correct euro-us sizing for footwear. I have had to send back multiple pairs of mountain bike shoes in the past to find the right fit. Same deal with these boots.
I usually wear a size 11.5-12 in US sizing (depending on brands). The euro conversion chart suggested a 45. I could barely cram my toes into them. The next size up fits my right foot well...ok, maybe a little big. The left boot...still cramped. When I reached inside the boot to see if there was any leftove paper from the box, I discovered the stitching on the inside (which is nicely located under the insole on the right boot) is dead center in the toebox on the left! I've had shoe trees in them for a week to stretch them out, and have been wearing them around the house hoping to break them in. It's helping a bit, so I would expect after wearing them for a few weeks it won't be a problem...fingers crossed.
A bit frustrated with the entire purchase, however. I could have bought Dainese boots at my local shop for the cost of these plus two return shipping fees. A bit disappointed in the Revzilla return policy, but I guess the Zappos business model doesn't work for everyone.
Lesson learned...don't buy boots on the internet if return [shipping] isn't free.
Alpinestars Storm Rider Gore-Tex Gloves Alpinestars Storm Rider Gore-Tex touring and sport riding, cold weather, lightweight riding glove Full-grain leather construction, EVA padded finger protection PU knuckle protection system for superior impact and abrasion resistance Gore-Tex insert membrane, insulated for warmth Finger bridge to protect third and fourth fingers and increase abrasion resistance Internal EVA pad inserts on top of the hand and wrist cuff Leather palm construction with synthetic suede reinforcements Wide, gauntlet style, adjustable Velcro cuff closure, Velcro wrist closure strap Extended gauntlet for added protection Embroidered and printed reflective logos
Haven't ridden in a hard rain with them yet, but have logged a few weeks of mid-30deg commutes (about a half-hour of highway riding). Not exactly a true cold-weather glove. Finger tips still get chilled at highway speeds when it's below 40, but a huge improvement over my old gloves. With heated grips, these would be perfect. Quality is what I would expect from Astars...fit is the same as my other Astars XL size summer gloves. Got a 4-star review because the knuckle guards are just a tad too narrow for my hands and can get annoying during stop and go riding. Otherwise, great value for the quality.