Dainese Raptors Air Motorcycle Shoes

Safety

The Dainese Raptors Air motorcycle boots are certified to CE - Cat II - EN 13634 standard. They offer rigid inserts at the ankles, a TPU gear change pad, a multi-grip outsole, and soft inserts for added protection. Reflective detailing maximises night visibility, and these also have an asymmetric lace closure system for a personalised and secure fit. The Raptors Air is made from Microfibre which is ultra-lightweight while also being highly protective.

Styling

They are a short trainer style shoe so can easily be worn off the bike too. They don't scream "motorcycle" like a lot of Dainese boots do. The Raptors Air has been designed to not only be comfortable for riding but for walking too. Yes, they do feature gear change reinforcement pads and padding at the ankles etc, but this is subtle and not in your face. There are no toe-sliders or any other bulky looking armour that is noticeable. The short styling also means you can easily put your trouser leg over them to conceal them as well. The main bulk of the shoe is black but they do also feature a bright fluorescent red trim - which is eye-catching but not garish.

Comfort

Not only do the Raptors Air feature perforated panelling in key areas for superior airflow, but they also offer a mesh liner for superior air circulation to keep your feet feeling fresh. The cushioned insole also gives high levels of comfort - this can also be replaced with one of your own preferences should you wish. The shorter styling gives a little more movement and the lace-up fastening provides a highly personalised fit. The soft inserts for protection actually double up as comfortable cushions for your feet and ankles for optimum comfort when riding or walking.

Practicality

The most notable practical detail about the Raptors Air is the perforated upper. The clue is in the name here, the Raptors Air boots certainly do let in a good amount of air to keep your feet feeling fresh on a hot day. The style of the Raptors Air also gives you versatility - they don't just have to be worn on the bike and are comfortable enough to be worn all day long. Reflective detailing is incorporated into the design subtly so as not to detract from the look of the shoes - which is also true about most features of this boot. The gear change pad, while there, isn't overly brash so doesn't detract from the overall aesthetic. The lace closure provides a personalised fit that is easy to change when necessary.

Negatives

First of all, the Raptors Air boots are not waterproof. If you expect a perforated boot without a membrane to be waterproof then I don't really know what to say to you! Secondly, they are short. Again, if you didn't realise this then there is no hope for you. Short boots aren't for everyone and even though these boots do provide a good level of protection, they offer less protection than a boot that goes right up your leg. Thirdly laces aren't always a motorcyclists friend. Make sure that when they are laced up that they are tucked in at the top securely - as no one wants to get their laces stuck in the chain! Luckily Dainese has got the features for this - but it does rely on you to make sure you remember!

Verdict

The perfect Summe boot with extensive air circulation - ideal for hot days - you may just want to check there won't be showers!

Until next time, stay safe,

Alex