There is a thriving retro/modern trend in motorcycling. Virtually every motorcycle brand now offers models that hearken back to a golden era of the sport but employ modern features and technology. Alpinestars’ Oscar Monty V2 motorcycle boots shoehorn very nicely into this new-meets-old movement.
The newest iteration of the Monty lace-up boots are a celebration of the work boots of the ’60s and ’70s. Many of us of a certain vintage wore this style of boot below rolled-up Levi’s jeans in the time of Creedence Clearwater and 2-strokes. Heck, you can almost smell wafting premix just looking at these things.
I had the chance to put the Alpinestars Oscar Monty V2 motorcycle boots to a full test in a recent ride along the banks of the Colorado River. The three-state tour included street riding, dirt forays, and a bit of hiking. Spoiler alert: The Monty boots are a new personal favorite.
First, let’s get to the design. The boots are constructed of full 1.4-1.6mm bovine leather. They feature a moc-toe that Alpinestars has designed specifically for motorcycling. The seams in the toe area are relegated to the front and outside of the boot so that they don’t interfere with movement above and below the shifter. The off-white, wedge outsole is also designed to be grippy and comfortable but without undue height. The aesthetic of the Monty boots is spot-on in this scribe’s opinion.
Importantly, that aesthetic in no way outshines the Monty’s safety features. The CE-certified boots incorporate dual-density ankle medial and external cup protectors to offer critical protection in the ankle area. There is also engineered reinforcement in the heel counter and toe box. The heavy leather and motorcycle-specific armoring inspire confidence.
As mentioned, the Oscar Monty V2s are a lace-up style, but they also feature a sturdy, hidden zipper on the inboard side of the boot. With the robust leather and full armoring, these boots can still be a bit challenging to get on, especially when new. However, that is a small price to pay for this level of protection and comfort.
So how do these boots perform in the real world? They work exactly like motorcycle boots should on the road. There is no need for the exaggerated movements above and below the shifter that make conventional work boots a pain on a motorcycle. The sole is stiff enough in the arch area that standing on the pegs is comfortable and secure. In the dirt, the boots eclipse road-only boots in stability and surefootedness. Finally, the Monty boots are comfortable when the kickstand goes down, even on longer hikes in the dirt.
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The Alpinestars Oscar Monty V2 motorcycle boots will not be collecting dust in my closet. While they will not fully replace my pure dirt boots or my technical, street-specific treads, their usefulness range eclipses either of those other offerings. They are ultra-competent and comfortable boots that also happen to look cool. They’re available for $269.95 in sizes 8-14.
