Gear 101: What is Lorica?

Lorica is synthetic leather. Manmade, and completely artificial! 

"Lorica is a hi-tech material created from a remarkable combination of extremely thin microfibres.  This interlacement of microfibers, soaked in special resins, has a microporous structure which is very similar to the collagen of natural skin.  This gives Lorica excellent softness, durability and breathability." -Sidi Care Brochure

Sidi, like many other brands such as Alpinestars and Dainese are incorporating Lorica in their street and race motorcycle boots.  You can't really tell the difference, as they look and feel just like boots made of cowhide. I would never know the difference just by looking. 

For some reason, I thought that Lorica wouldn't stretch out as much as cowhide, but it seems the opposite is true. 

In reviewing the Fusions, I found that they stretched out quite a bit. I'm looking forward to breaking in a new pair of Vertigo Leis, to see how much they give and perform, especially under hotter riding conditions. 

Sidi Vertigo Lei Women's Motorcycle Boots

After having to send back the beloved Fusion Leis, I was thrilled to find out that I would get to review a pair of Vertigo Leis as well. So far, they fit a little wider at the ankles and aren't as skinny below the toeshifter.

A few differences between these and the Fusions: 

• Stronger shock absorbing heel cup
• Sidi's Tecno VR calf adjustment system for a fully adjustable calf fit. (great for going between textiles and leathers)

First impressions to come after about 200 miles this weekend. :)  

Gaerne Rose Womens Motorcycle Boots

Features: Waterproof/breathable membrane, reinforced at the ankles, toes, shins and heel cup, grippy durable soles, reflective strips on the heels 

Size/ Fit: Euro 38 / 7.5-8.  (I had to go up a size from my normal Euro 37 in these, because they are very narrow at the arch and ankles. I simply couldn't get my foot in the boot in the 37. I typically wear a 6.5 or 7, depending on the shoe. If you are normally a Euro 37 or a 6.5/7 like me, these will fit you.  I have average width feet and my calves measure a whopping 14.75" at the largest part.  

Are they comfortable? They're very light, and comfortable enough to walk in all day. 

What else should I know? If you don't wear a long sock that goes over your calves, then the seam on the inside of the boot may irritate/scratch your calf. For this reason, I recommend a calf size of no more than 14.5" so that there's room for a nice long sock.  

One issue is that since the zipper is full length, there's no adjustability for calf fit. You'll have to wear your riding pants over the boot.  They also have a breathable, waterproof membrane.  

Review Coming, Stay Tuned! 

New Review: Sidi Fusion Lei Boots

Mmm boots. Looking for a sturdy, all around street boot? Check out my latest review of the lovely Fusion Leis.