When you’re touring, you need versatile boots. The Alpinestars RT-8 Gore-Tex boots meet the demands of motorcycle touring, delivering robust protection, on- and off-bike comfort, breathability, and waterproofing. I’ve taken them to Europe multiple times, and they have served me well on days with 30-degree temperature swings and through torrential downpours.
The comfort of the Alpinestars RT-8 Gore-Tex boots is evident the moment you slide them on. The plush interior molds securely to your foot, offering a premium feel. The cushioned footbed supports your soles.
To put on the RT-8 boots, you pull apart the two broad hook-and-loop strips and lower the zipper, stitched to an elastic panel for flexibility. This opens the boot wide enough for your foot to enter, regardless of sock thickness.
I’ve tested them with thin Moto-D Cool-Tee Summer Coolmax motorcycle socks and thick Hollow boot socks. Regardless of sock thickness, the flexible interior ensures a secure fit. With your foot in, grab the hook-cover zipper pull and zip up. At the top, attach the hook-drenched zipper to the adjacent loop strip. A quick-adjust instep lace system allows precise fit customization. Tuck the lace in, secure the flap to your preferred position, and trust the robust hook-and-loop strips to maintain a snug fit throughout your ride.
The Alpinestars RT-8 boots pair seamlessly with technical riding jeans tucked inside or adventure pants worn over the top, offering flexibility for varied riding styles. They remain comfortable in both configurations, making them ideal for riders switching between urban commutes and multi-country tours.
On the bike, the RT-8s provide a natural, unobtrusive feel, enabling precise control of the footpegs, shifter, and brake pedal. Their ergonomic design means you can focus on riding without distraction.
On warm days, the boots allow airflow at the instep, top of the foot, and ankle. While not as ventilated as highly perforated boots or riding shoes, they prevent overheating when it gets hot. Testing included a low-speed, all-day urban ride on a Honda Dax and Monkey with no discomfort from sweaty feet in high temperatures. The mid-height design enhances comfort, though it sacrifices some shin protection.
The Gore-Tex membrane guarantees dry feet, even in relentless rain, as I experienced in the mountains above Faro, Portugal. Riding the Triumph Tiger Sport 800 through some of the wettest street conditions I’ve ever encountered, my feet remained dry and insulated from temperatures in the 40s. The serrated sole provides excellent traction on wet pavement during stops.
To test the off-bike comfort, I’ve spent an entire evening in the boots after a full day of riding. Again, while not as comfortable as riding shoes, I never felt like the boots had been on too long, and I needed to take them off. Despite mid-sole reinforcement to keep footpegs from bothering your arch, walking in the RT-8 boots is not an issue. As a bonus, the black boots have Italian style and don’t bring negative attention to your feet—they look good, and the low-contrast logos are understated.
The Alpinestars RT-8 Gore-Tex boots comply with EN13634:2017 standards for motorcycle footwear, providing certified safety that gives us peace of mind. They achieve CE Level 2 for height and impact cut resistance, with Level 1 protection for abrasion and crushing, balancing durability and flexibility. The rigid toebox and heel deliver robust impact protection, while the pliable shin protector prioritizes comfort. We endorse European standards for motorcycle apparel, as they offer transparent performance metrics.
After rigorous testing across multiple European countries, the Alpinestars RT-8 Gore-Tex boots have proven their worth. They masterfully balance on-bike protection with off-bike wearability, excelling in long-distance tours and unpredictable weather. The thoughtful design—combining a secure fit, reliable waterproofing, and understated style—makes them a dependable choice for riders who value function without flash.
Alpinestars RT-8 Gore-Tex Boots Fast Facts
- Sizes: 5-13
- Color: Black/Blue
Certifications
- Overall: EN13634:2017
- Height: CE Level 2
- Abrasion resistance: CE Level 1
- Impact cut resistance: CE level 2
- Crushing resistance: CE Level 1
Alpinestars RT-8 Gore-Tex Boots Price: $395 MSRP
