Gaerne boots used to be hit or miss, but with the new SG10 boot the Italian company is definitely back on the hit list. Using our new and improved rating system, the boot gets a 97 out of 100, and here is why.
First off, the boot has a really attractive new look, with the new hinged-calf-style ankle-support system not only supporting the ankle from side to side but also easing the pain of breaking in the boot where it hinges. I'm all for the styling: 20 points!
| GAERNE USA: | | 800/426-0213; www.gaerneusa.com |
| Gear | Maximum | Rated |
| Style | 20 | 20 |
| Comfort | 10 | 9 |
| Function | 50 | 50 |
| Wash/Care | 10 | 9.5 |
| Price | 10 | 8.5 |
| Total | 100 | 97 |
The SG10 is very comfortable and fits nicely around the entire ankle and foot; but the sizing seemed to run a little big, requiring a thick sock. I really liked the buckles: They were very easy to adjust, they stayed snapped into place and they were easy to unsnap, allowing you to get the boot off quickly, which is important at the end of a long day of riding. The soles held up well, and I didn't notice any signs of unusual wear on any friction areas or the soles. My only minor complaint was, at first, the toe of the boot felt a little stiff; but after a few outings it seemed to soften up some, which gave the boot a little more sensitivity on the shifting toe. The boots cleaned up really well and seemed to keep their whiteness, and there were no signs of the white leather cracking anywhere.
The great styling, good comfort and protection and ease of use definitely made the new SG10 boot worth the high rating. Suggested retail is $289.99, and it is available in black, blue, red and white.
Joe McKimmy