Icon 1000 Prep WP Boots

Our impression in trying on these boots is that the length is true with the stated size and the width is about a “medium” or C/D width. The tall top is non-adjustable for size (the strap buckle at the top of the boot is for looks and is non-functional for size adjustment); and since the top is tall, it will exclude those with large calves. For an example, I wear a size 11 boot and my calf is 15 1/2” and while the boots fit, there isn’t any extra room. I consider my calf to be a bit larger than average. But for most people who have average to smaller calves the boots will be fine.

Of course this new Icon 1000 Prep WP is a very competent motorcycle boot. It has all the requisite protective features… rugged overall construction, stiffened heel and toe, internal side ankle protective inserts, and hardened material behind the shin plate. Construction-wise it really feels like a cross between an enduro boot and a construction boot. I’m trying on the brown color for this review and the lug sole and sueded leather materials really do favor many high quality construction boots I’ve owned.

But what will make you want to buy this boot is the styling… and it’s got a lot of it! I really do like the styling. There are just a couple little things I should probably mention that are more a comment on practicality though. The upper and lower rear and side buckle/strap arrangements are really just for show. The upper buckle will cover the zipper pull and stress relieve the top edge of the boot shaft, but the lower three buckles have no function. Of course that is OK and they look sharp, but with the zipper in the rear, you have to unsnap and then feed the upper strap out of its keeper each time you put the boots on and take them off. Likewise for the lower strap, but it’s no big deal… just a couple quick snaps. The rear zipper is a bit unorthodox, but seems to work fine and is convenient to reach. So anyway, it is not much of a price to pay for fashion, right?

The boots have a waterproof barrier and gusset that comes up about half way up the shaft of the boot so they are waterproof to about 5” up from the sole, which should be plenty with pants over. But I should mention, the leather used in these boots is really not something I’d recommend you repeatedly soak, so maybe buying these for the specific intention of use in rain wouldn’t be a great idea (back to that style thing, huh?).

Overall a very competent and protective boot, with a WHOLE LOT of style… really unlike any other we sell. :: Paul, 09-25-14