Boots: A-Stars SMX-6 or Sidi Cobra?

ManofManyGTs said:

So I'll be getting some new boots soon. I will use them mostly for street riding so I need them to be comfy and at least possible to walk in. I will also be using them for a few track days a year so they need to have good protection and track function. Also to be reasonably priced is a plus.

My main two that I'm looking into are the Alpinestars SMX-6 and the Sidi Cobras. Anyone have experience with these or have any suggestions for others to look at?

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I went through the exact same comparison a year and a half ago (when it was still the SMX-5). I really liked the Sidis, but I ended up getting a good deal on the Alpinestars. I've worn the Alpinestars at several track days, and wear them quite often when I'm riding through town and on backroads. I have no issues walking in them at all, and I absolutely love them. If my SMX-5s ever wear out, I'm going straight to the SMX-6. The Alpinestars are definitely a great choice for street use with occasional track duty.

I use the SMX plus vented. Comfy, good protection and ventilation, hence the name. Great boots. Only one complaint, getting the kickstand down can take more than one attempt and more often than not i use the front of the boot.

My big pet peeve is stiffness. I know that the stiffness is a part of the protection but I am a person that likes to feel and be able to move on the bike. I tried a high end Teknic race boot many years ago but got rid of them because I could barley walk in them, let alone feel and interact with the brake and shift levers/pegs.

I think I'm leaning toward the SMX-6's but hope they are not too stiff. I have a Competition Accessories near me but they rarely stock anything good or in my size.

I have the Cobras and I´m really satisfied because they fit well to my feet. Also they are looking good. It´s the second time I wear Sidis, before the Cobras I had the Vertigos.

I ride with Daytona Evo Sports GTX boots on the track and for day to day riding. They are very comfortable and I've had them for 7 years. They have a Goretex liner and have kept me dry in rainstorms. They have also protected me well in two low sides on the track--no injury. And the boots are still in decent shape. They have an internal armour and the skin can be replaced if one needs to. I do have one complaint. I've had to do a lot of walking in them and the sole wore down quickly. I had a good cobbler re-sole them. I mink oil them to keep the leather in good shape. The back of the boot has an adjustable velcro panel so one can wear leathers snuggly inside the boot.

Alpinestars all the way for me. Had a pair of supertech R's until last year, lasted 7 years with a lot of use, using my winter boots AT&T he moment and be going for either another pair of the supertechs or s-mx plus in the next month.

Gaerne GP1 is another great option....