We have to admit that seeing riders getting around on their motorcycles wearing trainers makes us cringe. But now, Alpinestars will have us second-guessing our safety assumptions thanks to their new Speedforce motorcyclist shoes. Masquerading as a pair of regular running shoes, the Alpinestars Speedforce shoes are one the most inconspicuous items of riding gear you’re ever likely to own.
Despite their intended use the Alpinestars Speedforce shoes are styled to look just like regular footwear. Featuring breathable mesh panels, a Softprene comfort collar around the ankle and a grippy sawtooth style sole, there’s very little to give away their intended application. And Alpinestars has even hidden a shifting pad inside the shoe to avoid giving anything away. However, as you’d expect from Aplinestars, there’s much more going on here than simply mimicking a look.
Comfort is of course a key ingredient in running shoe design and this hasn’t gone unnoticed during the creation of the Speedforce shoes. To optimise all day on and off the bike comfort levels the shoes feature a PU Midsole that improves stability and offers durable cushioning for your feet. An 8mm drop adds extra walking comfort while an ergonomic Ortholite insock provides extra padding and breathability.
To prepare the Speedforce shoes for the rigours of riding Alpinstars has packed an impressive amount of protection into them.
Using a customisable, high-performance textile called Matryx they’ve constructed a tear and abrasion-resistant outer. Hidden within the high cut ankle collar you’ll find dual-density medial and lateral TPU armour. A specially designed Transversal Protection Frame minimises the risk of lateral crushing using an internal metal bar. And additional TPU shanks and a PU midsole provide transversal protection. To round things out both the toe and heel of each shoe are reinforced.
Alpinestars offer the Speedforce shoes in sizes ranging from 6 to 14. They come in 3 different colourways of black, black/white and black/white/red and retail for $219.95.
Available from: Revzilla
