Feet and ankles are injured very often in motorcycle accidents. Yet many people ride in trainers or hiking boots. Good motorcycle boots protect against abrasion, crushing and the dreaded twisting of the ankle. Here's how to read the EN 13634 protection standard, which type of boot suits you and how to recognise a good boot.
The EN 13634 standard: four digits on the label
CE-certified motorcycle boots are tested to the EN 13634 standard. Inside the boot you'll find a label with a motorcycle pictogram and four digits. Each stands for one test area and is either 1 or 2. Level 2 is the higher one.
| Position | Test | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Height of the upper | 1 = short boot, 2 = tall boot that protects the shin |
| 2 | Abrasion resistance | how long the material lasts when sliding on tarmac |
| 3 | Cut resistance | resistance to sharp edges on impact |
| 4 | Transverse rigidity | how well the boot resists being crushed from the side, for example with the bike lying on your foot |
A label reading "2 2 2 2" is the highest protection level in every area. A city shoe with "1 1 1 1" offers basic protection. The label can also show "WR" for water resistance. Boots without CE marking are not certified protective equipment, even if they look like it.
Which type of boot suits you?
- Sports boots: tall, stiff, with ankle protection and often a hinge system against twisting. Maximum protection, but uncomfortable to walk in.
- Touring boots: tall, usually with a membrane, more comfortable to walk in. The all-rounder for tours and travel.
- Adventure and enduro boots: robust, with a tall upper and a chunky sole, good on gravel and for walking at rest stops.
- Short boots and riding sneakers: for town and short trips. Ankle protection yes, shin protection no.
For beginners and touring riders, a tall touring boot with level 2 in as many areas as possible is the safest choice.
What to look for when trying them on
- Try them on in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly bigger, and with the socks you ride in.
- The heel must not lift when walking, and your toes must not hit the front.
- Your ankle sits exactly in the ankle cup.
- Your trousers fit over or into the upper without pressing.
- Sit on a motorcycle: can you reach the gear lever easily, can you feel the rear brake?
- The sole is non-slip and resistant to oil and fuel, so you stand securely at traffic lights.
Waterproof or airy?
A membrane keeps your feet dry in the rain, but in high summer your feet get warm faster. If you travel a lot, a waterproof touring boot is usually the better choice. For hot countries there are airy models with mesh panels, and then you'll need covers when it rains.
Care and lifespan
Clean leather boots with a damp cloth and treat them regularly with leather grease or wax. Never put wet boots on a radiator, stuff them with newspaper and let them dry slowly. After a crash, check shells, seams and fastenings carefully. If protective parts are broken, replace the boot.
How the rest of your protective clothing is tested is explained in A, AA and AAA in motorcycle clothing.
Summary
A good motorcycle boot is CE-certified to EN 13634, as tall as possible and level 2 in many areas. It fits snugly at the heel and ankle without pressing and has a non-slip sole. Trainers and hiking boots are no substitute, not even for short trips.
Frequently asked questions
What do the numbers on motorcycle boots mean?
The four digits of EN 13634 stand for upper height, abrasion resistance, cut resistance and transverse rigidity. Each is 1 or 2, with 2 being the higher level.
Are hiking boots OK for riding a motorcycle?
No. They have no certified ankle and crush protection, and the laces can catch on the gear lever or chain.
Are short motorcycle boots safe?
They protect the foot and ankle but not the shin. For town they're a good compromise, for country roads and tours tall boots are safer.
How long do motorcycle boots last?
Many years with good care. After a crash or if protective parts are broken you should replace them.
Sources
- EN 13634:2017, Protective footwear for motorcycle riders (SATRA)
- How does certification for motorcycle boots work (Dainese)
- What is EN 13634 in motorcycle boots (Moto Central)
Last checked: September 2026.