Sometimes, living life on the open road seems like a fun fantasy. With the wind blowing through your hair and some leather on your back, you’re sure to shrug the stresses of the daily grind away. Bonus points if the stereo is cranked up high, blasting some classic rock music in said fantasy. Even if that moment isn’t ever actualized, you can embrace the biker vibe through fashion—namely, motorcycle boots.
There are so many styles of moto boots to make an outfit feel whole, be they a pair with chunky heels or a more low-profile, lace-up style. Best of all, the stomper boots are built to last, so no need to worry about cycling through them quickly. If anything, this is a style that looks better with age and the patina that comes with it.
What constitutes a moto boot? “Signature elements of a moto boot are the hardware—particularly the buckles,” says Noelle Sciacca, Senior Lead of Women's Fashion & Strategic Partnerships at The RealReal. “They’re also generally pull-on or side-zip styles.” Need some inspo? We've handpicked 10 of the best moto boots you can get right now, plus find key insights from Sciacca and style expert Zanna Roberts Rassi.
Final Verdict
With so many moto boots to choose from, it can be hard to crown a winner. But after careful consideration, we’re giving top honors to Harley Davidson Women’s Madera Boots, which only makes sense given the brand is the OG when it comes to motorcycle boots. The shoes were quite literally designed for both long rides on the open highway and wherever else life takes you. A more affordable option, the Schutz Luizia Graxo Leather Bootie is a solid choice for anyone looking to lean into the trend without spending their entire paycheck.
What to Look for in Motorcycle Boots
Design
Sciacca mentioned previously that moto boots go in and out of style—so it’s smart to pick a pair that will translate well for years to come. That decision is totally up to you, so be sure to consider brands that you can see yourself wanting to sport years from now, as well as designs that will lend themselves nicely to tons of different outfits. We think the Jimmy Choo Youth II Buckled Leather Ankle Boots, the Prada Leather Pocket Combat Booties, and the Celine Buckled Medium Boot are great choices, as they’ll keep their value, but a simpler silhouette, like the one found in the Tamara Mellon Perfecto shoe, will last a lifetime, too.
Styling Potential
What often changes when a trend comes back into the fashion vernacular is how it’s styled, Sciacca points out. “The previous trend was tucking leather leggings or skinny jeans into moto boots; now, we’re seeing them juxtaposed with ultra-feminine pieces, like lingerie-inspired tops and mini hemlines,” she says, adding that moto boots are also a part of the rising metaverse matrix trend of avatar-inspired dressing. “I have a pair of classics that I wear with literally everything,” Roberts Rassi says. “Dresses and shorts in the summer; jeans or menswear suiting in the winter.”
Sizing
As with all things clothing and footwear, you’ll want to make sure the shoes you buy will fit your feet properly. Otherwise, you’re at risk for lots of pain in the form of blisters. Check each brand’s sizing before purchasing—you won’t regret it.
