Alpinestars SMX Plus 2011 model review
Sep 11, 2011 Transportation
This year I added a pair of riding boots to my riding gear collection. I decided on getting the Alpinestars SMX Plus 2011 model and I picked them up from RidersDiscount.com. They are located in Holland Michigan so I was able to stop by their shop to pickup and try on the boots before buying. My first trip up I was caught in traffic and was 10 minutes late to picking up the boots. One of their programmers was still there and was able to let me try the boots on but they didn’t fit right. My normal shoe size was too big and I needed the next size smaller. I left the boots there and emailed back saying that I needed the smaller size. After having a family emergency I had to come back through Holland 3 days later so I was able to stop by during business hours and pick up the new size. They fit great and I was a happy camper. I will do business with them again in the future for sure.
The Alpinestars SMX Plus 2011 model boots are really nice. They are the first boot I have ever owned and I feel comfortable in them. I almost ride exclusively in these boots now as I have been riding with as much gear on as possible. I even wear them just for my 5 minute drive to work in the morning. Until recently I had no complaints or problems with the boots, they were rock solid. Just a few weeks ago I broke an eyelet on the inner boot system on the left foot. Below the first image is a eyelet that is not broken, the second image is of a broken eyelet even after repair. (Click for larger image)
I was really bummed, especially after spending so much money on the boots. I called Alpinestars up right away and told them what just happened and asked what they could do for me. They kindly sent me next day UPS shipping label and I sent the boot back. I finally got the boot back after about 2 weeks of being out for repair. Today was the first day that I wore the boot for a ride. I put the boot on and was trying not to pull hard on the laces at all and right away the eyelet breaks again. The same eyelet that was “repaired” was broken on the first lace up. Needless to say I am not to happy. Tomorrow when Alpinestars is open again I will be calling them and seeing what they can do for me. I expected so much more from them and they are failing to deliver so far. I am starting to question if I want to get new riding pants/jacket from them if this is the way their products last. Here are a few more pictures of the boots.
Update: (10-20-2011)
I have gotten my boots back a little while ago from their second trip to get repaired for the same problem. I am still taking it easy with the laces trying to make sure they do not break. I have been on several rides with them since they have come back and everything seems to be good so far. Unfortunately it has been rather cold and raining a lot here so not as much riding as I would like. Will update more if necessary.
Tags: Alpinestars, boots, broken, Motorcycle, review
