MotoBailey is a relative newcomer to the world of motorcycle apparel, but their stylish, motorcycle-dedicated riding boots are generating attention for the Texas-based company. And while not the first in a growing category of retro-inspired motorcycle street boots, they might just be the best looking.
The brainchild of husband and wife team — and avid motorcyclists — Blake and Jennifer Bailey, MotoBailey boots are designed to provide protection and durability in a style befitting non-motorcycle moments like work and eating out.
Rising just above the ankle, the cut of the LaRyder boots I tried reminds me of the classic Clarks Desert Boots I used to wear, and the French leather, dyed a rich brown, is beautiful.
Importantly, there’s a lot more to MotoBailey boots than just good looks, because these really are boots made for riding. An extra leather wrap over both toes provides a shift pad whether your ride is old school European or new school Japanese. Boosting their protective capacity, they feature extra ankle protection and a heel cap sewn under their biggest safety feature, a Kevlar lining running around the entire boot.
Just as important, they’re also comfortable. I wore mine around the office for a week to break them in, and as the leather flexed and stretched they transitioned from stiff to comfy. On the bike, they’re everything you’d expect out of a good boot, and they definitely fulfill their mission; a safe, solid, good-looking riding boot you can wear to work or to the pub without feeling like ATGATT man. Every person who sees them says something to the effect of, “Wow, those are awesome-looking shoes!”
That they are, and I won’t be surprised if they become one of my favorite pieces of urban riding gear. Also available is the similarly styled but darker and more formal-looking ElBulli. $220.
