Our Two Cents
This new SMX-6 v2 boot is largely unchanged as compared to the previous version from 2014. It is a great boot for sport riders and for amateur racing. The boot has the basic racing protective features that will satisfy all but the hard core racers, and the boot is wrapped in a package that is practical for street use.
These boots incorporate a lot of flex zones on the front and back of the ankle, so these boots will break in and give some flexibility for walking. They do have a hinged “stiffener” on the side of the ankle to give support in case of a fall to help prevent you from wrenching your ankle to the side. That stiffener is on the outside of the ankle and doubles for impact protection. Hidden on the inside of the ankle by the main zipper is another impact protector so both sides are covered. You’ll also notice, the sole is low profile and the shape of the boot around the ankle is sort of rounded with a smallish heel base. The rounded shape is to promote sliding in a crash rather than the heel grabbing the pavement. A squared off heel area would be more likely to grab and then creating a wrenching effect. It is sort of the same idea as gloves that have palm sliders…. promote sliding rather than grabbing.
The boots also have a hefty protector for the shin, and the toe and heel areas are well reinforced. Like all other race boots of this type, the boots have an inside zip with a Velcro close cover over the zipper. The inside of the boots is lined with a cushy breathable material that is long wearing.
Consider these boots to be the “can’t go wrong, basic racing boot” in our lineup. They are reasonably priced and with a good size range and color choice. The basic black is a non-vented version and there are three color choices that incorporate some perforated upper material to flow air. Consider those for hot weather use. :: Paul, 03-13-17
