TCX X-Blend Waterproof Boots - 2015 (SOLD OUT)

We find that TCX boots are generally an easy fit and they are consistent from one model to the next. And we have very good luck using their size chart to convert from US sizes to their Euro size. Go here to view the TCX Sizing Conversion Chart page for help in choosing a size. Since this is a lace boot it can be customized for fit easily (as compared to side zip boots).

We estimate the width to be about “D” or medium. These are slightly wider than Sidi boots and fit much like Alpinestars.

I’ve reviewed a number of boots which are similar in appearance to the X-Blend boot I’m looking at today and out of those I like this one the best. Recently I looked at the X-Garage and I was a bit underwhelmed with the protection aspects offered, but this X-Blend feels totally different and substantial!

The upper is made of heavy duty cowhide. We got the black for the photos, which looks good in its “matte” finish. I really like the looks of the brown too. But anyway, the leather is thick and heavy and feels like it would be protective but also very durable long term.

The toe area and heel are reinforced internally which is important in a motorcycle boot and there are also internal protectors on either side of the ankle bone (which you can see in the photos). The sole looks to be a composite of layers of rubber and feels strong and substantial and I can feel that the shank has reinforcement so the boot can take weight on the pegs of the bike.

Fit is a subjective thing of course, but I really liked the way these hug your heel and ankle without slippage. The insides are lightly padded and so the boot feels great when on. That padding might get toasty in a hot climate so I’m going to recommend these for cold to warm weather; for hot weather, a boot with some mesh or venting would be more comfortable. The liner (and internal waterproof liner), and thick leather make this boot the closest thing we’ve got to an insulated boot (although it doesn’t specifically have insulation).

This boot is equipped with a waterproof barrier between the leather and the inner liner, and there is a gusset behind the laces to keep water out up to about 2” from the top (see our close up photos for that). I don’t think repeated soakings on a leather boot is a good idea in general, but if you do find yourself in the rain occasionally, these should do the job of keeping the water out.

Of course a simple laced boot like this is easy to adjust for different instep heights and has that one advantage over a traditional side-zip motorcycle boot. But the combination of the distressed leather, lace-up design and lug sole give the “vintage” or “retro” look that a lot of riders like. And a boot like this looks and feels great off the bike as well. You might just find this to be the most favorite boot in your closet. :: Paul, 02-25-15