These are gently used, barely worn.
I bought them from a friend who only used them a few times also.
Read my full review of these way back when I got my first pair.
Also check out my post about riding motorcycles while short, because I use these along with special insoles to boost my height a little bit as well.
These normally cost $275.00 new.
Sidi X-3 Boots
I know, I know. Blue, Pink, White?
Well, I guess change is slow. The good news is these are real race level, offroad boots for women. That means more ankle support (lateral) and protection just like the men's version. That means they're offered in a size Euro 39 (~US women's 8.5) which I'm sad to see because they really need to offer 36, 37 and 38 (~US 6-8 which are the most common women's shoe sizes when it comes to motorcycle boots in addition to 39. I hope they read this and reconsider adding those core sizes.
If you do have smaller feet, and need a 6-7.5ish, then I would recommend these Sidi Stinger Youth Boots ($250) instead:
They don't offer the hinged lateral support at the ankles, but they certainly offer great impact protection in all the key areas (toes, heels, shins, achilles heel) and those fantastic stitched soles. I also like that the toebox is less bulky. Dirtbikes seem to have teeny tiny foot pegs, so I can't see how a really thick boot would work very well.
Another boot that they just released is a touring boot called the Gavia Gore-Tex ($250):
The Gavia boots are a solid touring boot, with a Gore-Tex membrane. They've never offered women's boots with Gore-Tex, so this is definitely a first. I love Gore-Tex, if it's a waterproof piece of clothing that I own it has to be Gore. I love the breathability, added wind protection, and versatility in varying temperatures. At $250, they're a fantastic option.
If you're looking for a boot to add insoles to, Sidis are pretty roomy around the instep (but my feet are just that effed up).
Thank you Sidi for offering more options to women riders!
This image courtesy of Icebreaker.com perfectly illustrates what baselayers are! But they're far more important when doing something active such as riding motorcycles. And believe me, they'll vastly improve the feel and performance of your existing gear.
Awhile back, I shared this link to REI's website, which breaks down the various kinds of materials, what they do, when you need it and how it works.
Aside from the technical reasons why baselayers work well, the bottom line is that you need something between the surface of your skin and the lining of your riding gear to keep the moisture at bay, (not eliminate sweat completely, but keep it under control) and increase your overall comfort.
Dainese D-Core Women's Shirt
It's 85 degrees out. You're wearing a cotton tshirt and your arms start go get all sweaty. Then the lining of your jacket starts to stick to you and all you can do is think about how hot and uncomfortable you are. You can't get any air in between your skin and the lining because it's sitting right on top of your skin.
Take a look at this illustration and read this awesome article by Fix.com about how this works. When you wear the right baselayer, you will be far more comfortable underneath your gear. Yes you are still sweating, but this keeps you more comfortable.
Photo and Article Courtesy of Fix.com
Imagine a lightweight, synthetic layer that sits but doesn't stick to your skin. You sweat profusely but the material sucks up the sweat as much as it can, allowing the air to actually flow over your arms. Now imagine pouring a little cold water down your arm (say you have a vent on the bicep) and then you hit highway speeds. Thewater actually feels cool and better yet, the shirt is absorbing the water cooling your skin a little bit. There are a ton of options out there, synthetic, bamboo, merino, something for everyone.
You don't have to spend a lot of money, either. Try going to your local sporting good store and try inexpensive running baselayers. You can easily find a shirt and pants for ~$25 each. Just make sure they have flat seams. Raised seams will drive you crazy! And yes, bottoms are just as important as tops. Moreso if you wear leather. It will also make taking your gear on and off a breeze, no matter how much you're sweating.
Anything you can do to maximize comfort will minimize distractions. If all you can think about is how hot you are, how can you think about that car 2 lanes over about to merge erratically into your lane?
Mmm boots. Looking for a sturdy, all around street boot? Check out my latest review of the lovely Fusion Leis.
