Alpinestars 2014 Tech 10 Boots

The Alpinestars Tech 10 has been a staple in the motocross and off-road world for some time. This highly regarded boot has received continuous development and introduces a few new features on the 2014 model. A new TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) blade is said to prevent “frontal hyperextension” and offer greater flex control, while the medial-facing panel is to improve structural stability. The TPU calf protector plate utilizes a rear blade system to protect the heel while the shin plate uses a dual closure system with an internal micro-fiber flap, and a new buckle-closure system is self-aligning and replaceable. What all this means is that it is supposed to add stability and actually be more flexible at the same time.

Alpinestars come in full sizes only—no half sizes. I wear about a size 10.5 shoe, and a size 11 Tech 10 fits me great. The attention to safety and comfort extends to the inner booty as well. There are torsion bars that help control ankle rotation. I rode with the stiffer bars, but the boots come with a softer compound inner bar, too, to add a level of customization. I have had ankle problems in the past, so the stiffer torsion bars give me a little extra support. The dual hook-and-loop enclosures ensure a secure fit on the foot.

With my foot inside the new Tech 10, it felt snug in all the right places, but I actually felt like I could bend my ankle slightly better than I could in the older Tech 10s. The new high-impact, bridged aluminum buckle system is easier to adjust and close shut, unlike the previous buckles that needed a mallet to get closed. Riders with bigger calves may have some difficulty getting the middle buckle to reach its perch even with the strap in its outermost position. (I would suggest that if you can’t get the middle strap fitment correct, order another pair of top straps, which are longer.) My calves are on the skinny side, but the strap was almost at its fully extended length.