TCX Tourstep WP Review [Motorcycle Boots Touring Test] (2024)

Heavy-duty boots have long been a thing for me, starting with my years as a teenager working in the woods with heavy leather work boots to endless configurations of high-top hunting/camping boots, steel-toe work boots, cowboy boots, downhill ski boots, and, finally, to several styles of motorcycle boots.

Too often, motorcycle boots I’ve had—even those not designed for competition—have disappointed me. They’re too hot, heavy, uncomfortable, as inflexible as a ski boot, or some combination of those; they just didn’t quite cut it.

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My initial view of the new TCX Tourstep WP boots in black had me wondering if that hefty-looking upper may present that “stiff as a ski boot” problem. The substantial look of the touring boots also made me wonder about the weight.

The moment I unpacked the boots and put them on, I was pleasantly surprised. They have a remarkably light feel. Putting them on the highly accurate Ultimate Motorcycling scale showed why—the pair weighs in at a hair under three pounds. Wearing them on day-long rides with walk-around time thrown in proved to be no problem.

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The upper opens wide, making putting them on and getting them off easy. With the instep strap snugged up and fastened with the hook-and-loop top flap closed, the TCX Tourstep WP boots are comfortable with no chafing around the calf, and they flex willingly for normal foot motion when walking. Both the instep strap and upper flap are fully adjustable.

You get a personalized fit on the TCX Tourstep WP boots from the ankle up. There is adjustable web strapping with Velcro closure up the front to ankle height and a large Velcro closure top flap.

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The upper is not leather. Instead, it utilizes synthetic materials, including microfiber, the waterproof-but-breathable membrane, and impact-reinforced shin, malleolus, toe, and heel. Soft, flexible textile from the ankle up on the back of the boot helps provide comfortable flexibility in the upper. There’s also a reflective material wrapped around the heel area.

Another pleasant surprise is the Groundtrax sole. Unlike the soles of some boots that are so stiff they make walking on pavement feel like I’m navigating planks with poor ground surface traction, the soles of the TCX Tourstep WP boots flex with the uppers and don’t slip and slide, even on the mirror-finished concrete of my garage floor.

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A rubber shift lever pad layer is included on each boot. The flexibility of the upper facilitates easy shifting without having to move the entire boot to move the shift lever.

The insole is cushioned, breathable Ortholite, which overlies the midsole with a Zplate inner shank that allows front-to-back flexibility for comfortable walking while providing transverse rigidity. Whether walking or on the footpegs, the insole cushioning works for rider comfort.

Capping the specifications is the certification to CE Category II EN 13634:2017, as confirmed for conformity by Ricotest. The specifics of the CE Category II certification are described in detail in the owner’s manual.

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The manual for the TCX Tourstep WP boots is quite an item—pocket-sized, but over 60 pages in length and covering 15 languages. As a result, each language section is only four pages long. While providing good use and care information, the manual also commits one of my pet peeves—microscopic print. A PDF of the manual would be a helpful option.

Sizing is true to my U.S. boot size—I wear a size 9. Daylong riding proved comfortable even in warm, humid weather, as my feet didn’t overheat. That said, while I haven’t yet tested the TCX Tourstep WP boots in cold weather, I suspect they would keep my feet comfy with just the use of a heavier sock.

My usual riding pants have a straight-leg stovepipe fit that narrows the cuff. With those pants, I started by tucking the cuffs into the boot tops. Initially, each boot’s top flap popped open when flexing at the ankle. However, if I really press the Velcro closure together after flexing the boot a couple of times after putting them on, the flaps stay closed, even with the pants cuffs tucked inside the boot top. Wearing the pant leg cuffs out over the boot top prevented any opening of the top flap and prevented the pants cuff seams and fabric folds from causing any pressure points against my ankle.

The all-around comfort, easy fit, convenience, safety certification features, and sub-$200/pair price of the TCX Tourstep WP boots make them a solid value for a wide range of riding situations, including touring.

TCX Tourstep WP Boots Fast Facts

  • Sizes: 3.5 – 13 (US)
  • Weight: 2.97 pounds (size 9)
  • Color: Black
  • Certification: CE – Cat. II – EN 13634 Standard

TCX Tourstep WP Boots Price: $189/pair MSRP

TCX Tourstep WP Review [Motorcycle Boots Touring Test] (2024)

FAQs

Are TCX motorcycle boots true to size? ›

Generally, yes, even though the conversion of sizes is indicative, since every TCX model is developed according to specific parameters and usage requirements, using fitting lasts and materials designed specifically to provide outstanding comfort.

What does TCX boots stand for? ›

Named after their patented Torsion Control System, designed to stop the ankle from twisting while still allowing natural movement, TCX is a fusion of master cobbler and champion motorcycle racer.

How long does it take to break in motorcycle boots? ›

The Break-In Period for Motorcycle Boots

Generally speaking, most riders find that their motorcycle boots start feeling comfortable after 1-2 weeks of regular use. Leather motorcycle boots tend to have a longer break-in period compared to synthetic ones because leather is a naturally stiff material.

Where are TCX boots made? ›

This allows motorcycle riders of both genders to access world class riding footwear that would specifically suit them. And lastly, all TCX products are made at its factory in Montebelluna or other sites in Europe, and they are all company-owned.

Should I go up a size in motorcycle boots? ›

Essential tips to the perfect fit

If the boots are more sport orientated, you may need to go up one size and you'll also need to think about going up a size if your foot measurement is between sizes. You may even have one foot larger than the other, which is quite normal, and again, it's best to go up a size.

Should motorcycle boots be tight or loose? ›

The very first thing to know is that your motorcycle boot should fit snugly to your foot without your foot being able to breathe. On the other hand, there must not be too much play between your foot and the boot.

What does WP mean in boots? ›

A: Okay, "mid" means mid-height (not regular height, like a combat boot, & not low, like a sneaker), "WP" means water-proof (Keen.

Who owns TCX boots? ›

Italian motorcycle riding gear maker Dainese has acquired Italian motorcycle boot manufacturer TCX. Dainese also has its own range of motorcycle footwear.

How do you clean TCX motorcycle boots? ›

After each use, remove any dust, mud and grease with a soft brush or damp cloth. To remove stubborn dirt, use a damp sponge and neutral soap. CAN I USE ANY CHEMICALS? Do not use solvents, aggressive chemical cleaning products or hard-bristle brushes, as these may permanently damage the leather and plastic parts.

Can you walk with motorcycle boots? ›

Motorcycle boots should feel snug but not restrictive. They should provide some ankle support and hug your heel so that it doesn't slip around while you walk. Think about the socks that you typically wear when you're buying motorcycle boots. If you tend to wear thicker socks, you might want to size up.

How stiff should motorcycle boots be? ›

A good motorcycle boot should be flexible to walk about in and ride in but still be stiff enough to help prevent the worst if you were to have an accident.

How do I know if my motorcycle boots are too big? ›

If you can feel your foot moving sideways or back and forth inside the boot, consider going down a size.

Are TCX boots waterproof? ›

Certified and waterproof sports motorcycle boots. Designed for maximum safety and optimal comfort in all climates.

How do TCX boots fit? ›

We find the fit of TCX boots to be “roomy” through the instep and ball area of the foot so the boots will work best for those with wider/thicker feet. The overall width of the boots is D or E. For those with narrow feet, we recommend other brands such as Sidi that have a more narrow fit.

Is TCX a Dainese brand? ›

Dainese Group announced the consolidation of the TCX brand under the Dainese Group for distribution in North America. TCX is now sold in North America as part of the Dainese Group and is now available via D-Stores, online and the existing Dainese Dealer network.

Do MX boots run big? ›

First, motocross boots tend to run a bit on the small side. As such, it's a good idea to order a size up from your normal street shoe size. Second, dirt bike boots are designed to be worn with socks and liners. When trying on boots, be sure to wear the same socks or liners that you'll be wearing when riding.

Should you size up in riding boots? ›

It is commonly believed you need to size up in riding boots, but this is not the case, as the leather will give and stretch, so they should feel snug at purchase. If you choose to buy field boots, the laces around the lower part of the boot create some give and can provide a more secure feel around the ankle.

Are motorcycle boots same size as shoes? ›

Generally speaking, most brands design their motorcycle boots to correlate with standard shoe sizes. However, due to the added protective elements in motorcycle boots, they may feel tighter or bulkier than regular shoes of the same size.

Is TCX owned by Dainese? ›

The Dainese group acquires TCX, a historic and prestigious Italian brand specialized in the development of innovative technologies in the field of motorcycle boots and footwear.

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