Stylmartin Vertigo Air boots in green

This is the non-waterproof version of one of our favourite adventure-style ankle boots; and that's Stylmartin's Vertigo WP.

 

It's the boot that Stylmartin that kicked off the whole 'Bike n Hike' phenomenon with.

 

'Bike n Hike' is centred on adventure bike riders who want a tough and gnarly boots for riding the trails, but who then want to be able to wear the same ones for a walk up a hill after they've set up camp.

 

Now, historically, non-waterproof motorcycle boots were virtually unsaleable in the UK. And so the importers tended not to bring them into the country. But that is starting to change. Our summers seem to be getting  warmer and, of course, more and more of us are travelling further afield; often to exotic places where the temperature is much higher, and the rainfall is much lower, than it is here.

 

Of course, because these boots don't have a membrane they are clearly not waterproof, but that doesn't mean that these boots cannot be worn in the rain. They're not made of mesh. They won't melt if the heavens open. Okay, so you wouldn't want to ride for hours on end in heavy rain in them, but in a light rain for up to, say, an hour they will be fine.

 

The chassis of the boots comprises a mix of suede leather and textile fabrics. The boots are mesh lined for added breathability.

 

As with all Stylmartin boots, you get a reinforced counter in the toe, and an equally robust one in the heel. On the ankles you get hard protectors backed by D3O to absorb the energy of an impact. There's a leather gearchange protector. The laces, apparently, are reflective. And I suppose that might come in handy if you're struggling to do them up late at night!

 

Actually, talking about laces, there's one thing we really like on these Vertigo boots. And it's what's called  a 'lace garage'. Basically it's a pocket at the top of the tongue into which you shove the laces after they're tied. It means a number of things. First, they won't ever catch on a peg, causing an unceremonious fall in the car park. Second, they will never come undone. Third; it puts the tied knot a bit higher and in a better place, making the boots easier to walk in. 

 

There'a also a useful pull loop in the heel

 

The boot has an EVA midsole for cushioning. You also get a replaceable, anatomic insole that, over time, will mould to your foot.

 

The outer sole is one designed by Stylmartin. It's aggressively channelled to cope with the mud and dirt, yet it's not so substantial as to make walking on the pavement hard going.

 

For summer riding, for riding off road in warmer climes and for touring to anywhere hot and dry this non-waterproof Vertigo might well be the one to go for. Stylmartin are calling this stylish green colour mud! We prefer green.