Dainese Freeland 2 GTX ladies boots in black

Finding ladies' gear that does more than look the part can be a challenge. Which is why, here at Motolegends, we are always on the hunt for ladies pieces that we reckon are going to work.

 

We really liked this new Freeland 2 boot when it was shown to us by the importer. Touring and commuting boots are never going to look particularly attractive, although we reckon the Freelands look better than most. But we've gone for it for two main reasons. First, because its Gore-Tex membrane means that the waterproofing is guaranteed for life. And secondly because it's just about the most comfortable ladies', touring boot we've ever come across; and they're comfortable for reasons we will come on to explain.

The chassis of the boot is constructed from a Lorica-like microfibre material combined with areas of genuine suede. The suede covers the inner side of the boot; the harder wearing microfibre is on the outer side. This is perforated in areas for added breathability.

 

In terms of protection, you get counters in the ankles, on the toe, and in the heel. The strength of the toe box is particularly impressive. You also get a rubbery-plastic shin protector. The toe is further re-enforced with another panel of material which wraps around the toe, and also serves as a gearchange pad.

 

Entry into the boot is by means of a full-length zip up the inner flank of the boot.

 

The Gore-Tex membrane is what as known as a Duratherm liner. This has some thermal qualities. It makes the boot perhaps not what you want for riding across the Sahara, but Gore suggests you will be comfortable in temperatures ranging from 28 degrees down to zero. Of course, the benefit of a boot with a Gore-Tex membrane is that it is guaranteed to be waterproof for life. All we can say is that this is a warranty that has teeth. If these boots leak, Gore will replace them.

 

But one of the reasons we got so excited by these boots when we first came across them was the way they wore. They really are supremely comfortable. That largely comes down to the soft and elasticated concertina panelling in the heel and the forefoot. Nobody is going to suggest that you go walking in the hills in a pair of Freelands, but what is for sure is that they are going to be as comfortable to walk in as a touring boot ever could be.  Another contributor to the boots' comfort is the padded panel that runs 360 degrees around the top of the shaft.

 

Not much more to say about the boots really. You get a grippy, Groundtrax sole. There's a neat pull-strap at the back of the boot to make them easier to get on. And there's reflective piping front and back for better nighttime visibility.

 

The boot is not inexpensive. You could pay less; you could pay more. But don't forget that this is a Gore-Tex boot. You'll always pay a premium for Gore-Tex because their membranes are both more waterproof and more breathable. But don't forget the lifetime waterproofing warranty. That has to be worth paying a little more for.