The Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 tall boots are designed for adventure riders seeking a sensible balance of comfort, protection, and functionality. After countless miles on the Ultimate Motorcycling Yamaha Ténéré 700 Project Bike, the boots proved exceptionally comfortable, whether standing on the pegs, walking around town, light hiking, or crossing creeks. The boots are breathable and kept my feet dry, though they did feel warm in temperatures above 90 degrees. Despite this, the boots’ breathable design prevents excessive sweating, making them a reliable choice for varying conditions.
Weighing just under three pounds each, the HydraDri 7.5 boots feel notably lightweight, reducing fatigue during long walks or extended riding sessions. Their fit is true to size; I typically wear a size 10D/E dress shoe, and the boots in size 10 fit me perfectly.
While the Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 boots are waterproof adventure boots, their protection level falls short of dedicated motocross boots. However, they include several well-thought-out features:
- A convenient pull loop at the top of the Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 boots helps pull them on.
- The low-profile toebox comfortably fits beneath the Ténéré 700’s shifter, allowing for precise gear changes. An overlay covering the nubuck leather toebox protects against shifter wear. However, the toebox is not reinforced against crush impacts, so it doesn’t provide substantial protection if struck by a rock or pinned under the bike.
- The ankle area of the Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 boots is reinforced. There are two solid plastic protection plates on the inner side, with Leatt’s proprietary 3D foam padding on the outer side adds impact protection.
- For shin protection, Leatt incorporates a 4.5-inch impact-resistant plate. Additionally, the rearward flex of the boots is limited, helping prevent hyperextension in case of a fall.
- At 15 inches tall, the Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 boots provide excellent calf coverage. A wide hook-and-loop closure at the top ensures a snug fit.
- The two adjustable buckles make securing each boot quick and hassle-free. Once fastened, they remain locked in place throughout the day. A strategically placed deflector plate protects the lower buckle from being dislodged by trail obstacles.
- The midsole is firm enough to resist flexing when standing on the pegs for eight hours at a stretch, yet comfortable enough to not be noticeable when walking. Another reason they aren’t noticed when walking is they don’t squeak.
- An unexpected but welcome benefit is that the soles add nearly two inches to my inseam, improving my ability to almost plant both feet when stopped.
- The Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 boots meet CE EN 13634:2017 standards for foot protection on a motorcycle. Extra CE Level 2 protection is provided via the height of the boots, their resistance to cutting, and side-to-side stiffness.
At $359 a pair, the Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 boots deliver a well-rounded combination of comfort, durability, and protection for adventure riders. While they don’t provide the rigid armor of motocross boots, they offer ample protection for adventure and touring applications, along with waterproofing, breathability, and all-day comfort. Their lightweight design reduces fatigue on and off the bike, while features such as a reinforced ankle, shin protection, and secure closures make this Leatt boot a reliable choice for adventure riding.
Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 Boots Fast Facts
Sizes: US 5-13; Euro 38-48
Colors: Stealth; Desert
CE Certifications
- EN 13634:2017
- Level 2 protection: height; cut resistance; traverse rigidity
- Level 1 protection: upper impact abrasion resistance
Leatt ADV HydraDri 7.5 Boots Price: $359/pair MSRP
