Alpinestars SMX Plus V2 Boots

We found these boots to fit about 1 size larger than the stated size!

You can use the chart below to choose a boot and we think the chart is representative of the US shoe conversion. If you’ve determined your size in past Alpinestars sport boots, you most likely need to size down one size. I’d consider the width of the men’s sizes to be normal to slightly wide (D or E). I’ve always found this style boot easy to fit because the foot has a nice wide toe which is comfortable.

The SMX Plus V2 is a new updated version of the long running SMX Plus boot line. We saw the last version of this boot introduced in 2016 which itself was an update of the previous model. This new “V2” version is another “refresh” of the same basic design. Just at a glance, you’d think they were the same boot as before, but if you look closer, virtually very component of the boot is reworked to some degree. Alpinestars and their racers obviously like the basic design, so they’ve obviously been busy perfecting it.

This “V2” boot is available in two versions… one is simply called the SMX Plus V2 and then there is a vented version called the SMX Plus V2 Vented. Take the link below to view the other version. Both are basically the same boot, but the vented version has perforated upper materials used in strategic places instead of solid material on the standard boot. Choose the vented if you think you’ll be riding in mild to hot weather conditions. And choose the solid if you’ll be riding in colder to mild (or possibly warm) conditions.

The basic fitting of the boot remains unchanged, and we like it! Inside, this boot is a “bootie” with its own set of laces. It helps you get a good fit over your ankle and instep, which is very helpful in a side zip boot because the basic zip-close setup doesn’t allow for adjustment, but with the internal bootie, those with wider or skinnier legs and feet and get the fit they want. The same advantages apply to the top of the boot. It closes with a ratchet mechanism that gives a very wide range of fit and will accommodate those with bigger calves too.

With the side zipper, internal laces and upper ratchet, you’d think they’d be a pain to put on and take off, but it’s quite the opposite. The speed laces work very well and quickly as does the top ratchet. And one other thing that helps with fit and comfort… the side zipper on the boot is attached to a narrow panel of stretch material which helps when pulling up the zipper. It makes the boot snug, but a bit flexible so you don’t have to sort of tease the zipper sides together with your hands as you try to zip them up (as you sometimes do with rigidly affixed zippers).

The boots, of course, have full-on racing features but are comfortable and functional so they could be used for sport/street riding as well. There is a substantial amount of protection on either side of the ankle and heel and also in the shin area. The “Multi Link” control is a series of external plastic pieces that slide and pivot to allow movement in some directions (for shifting, walking, etc) but restrict movement in unfavorable directions (those that cause injury). Most race boots today have similar systems. With past versions of the Multilink, we heard from folks who said they squeak when they walk. So far, with this new model, I don’t hear that characteristic squeak, so fingers crossed they worked it out.

I really like the rounded shape of the heel assembly. The idea of a design like this is to promote a sliding motion during a fall. Boots that have a more traditional heel shape are more likely to hang up on something (on the ground) while sliding along and wrench the ankle.

With so many versions and so many miles on this boot design, I think it is safe to say it is a solid product and you can buy with confidence. :: Paul, 09-18-19

Note on closeup pictures: We have a vented version of this boot for photos. We put the same pictures in the photo gallery for both boots, but if you buy the not vented version here, the boot won’t have the perforated areas on the foot. The factory photos in the gallery are correct and show what the non-vented version looks like.

Alpinestars says: The SMX Plus v2 Boot perfectly blends sleek sports styling with advanced protection features developed in Alpinestars performance footwear department. The durable and light microfiber upper is reinforced with a rugged polymer protector and the exclusive Multi-Link Control (MLC) system prevents ankle torsion while offering freedom of movement.