The pile of motorcycle boots overloading my shoe rack represents my love for purpose-specific gear, including everything from armor-plated motocross boots to soft touring footwear. I thought I’d experienced the full spectrum of options, so my excitement to test new boots had gone numb. That is, until we received a special package from REV’IT!.

Pioneer OutDry boots appear to be from the future. The buckleless, strapless design of the BOA ratchet wheel system is just plain cool and is great for fine tuning the fit. OutDry technology creates a waterproof and breathable barrier throughout the boot. Top shelf materials make up the exterior, including full grain cowhide, suede leather, and Cordura 500D. The result is a fit comfortable enough to walk in, and strong enough to withstand mixed dualsport riding.

I have to admit I’ve never ridden with “low-cut” boots before. REV’IT! also offers a tall version called the Discovery OutDry, but I opted for the Pioneers, hoping they’d be comfortable enough to wear throughout a workday at the office. And that they are. I’ve worn them on rainy days and my feet stayed dry even trotting through deeper puddles. But consider the Discovery OutDry boots for more water resistance and shin protection.

REV’IT! also focused on the construction of the Vibram sole to create a durable foundation. Take a close look at the bottom of the boot and you’ll see layers of different density materials that reduce vibration and buffer hard impacts—a sole construction with more complexity than any other boot I own (and replaceable when they wear out). They offer great versatility, providing traction on any wet or dry surface.

I like to feel the shifter above my toes. The Pioneers give great feedback, letting the rider know where they are on the pegs and where the controls are.

The Pioneers will keep your feet temperate on most days, but do get a little toasty to hike in on hotter days. One tug on the BOA ratchet wheel, however, will let your feet and ankles vent.

I put the Pioneers to the test at the 2017 March Moto Madness rally in Tennessee—three days of gnarly dualsport and single-track riding. My feet stayed dry through shallow water crossings and while walking across the muddy campground. They never felt uncomfortable on or off the bike, and I wasn’t anxious to get them off, even after a full day of riding.

My first impression of the Pioneers was that they were from the future, and maybe I was right. REV’IT! seems to be marketing these boots toward the gravel-roosting, khaki-clad, scrambler crowd. That’s smart in my book, because they’re the next generation of adventure riders. The Pioneers are sure to please anyone who values versatility in their gear. MSRP: $399 REVITSport.com | TheBOASystem.com

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