Gaerne Sturgis Boots
GAERNE STURGIS BOOTS
Back-to-basics footwear
INTERESTED IN A BASIC MOTORCYCLE boot? Something conservative with an appearance that won’t eclipse the blinding lights of, say, Las Vegas? Look no further, the Sturgis from Gaerne is just such a boot.
Manufactured in Italy, the Sturgis is traditionally styled. It boasts a top-grain cowhide upper, a cleated sole, side buckle adjustment, covered-zipper entry and an embossed logo. True to form, there are no impact-absorption panels, racy graphics or toe scrapers.
The tapered, 12-inch shank is wider than that of most boots. Great for tucking your jeans inside the boot; not so good if you prefer the cuffover-boot look. There’s another dis-
advantage: Our test boots remained stiff and somewhat restrictive, even after a thorough break-in period. Also, the tough Vibram sole was praised for its durability but criticized for a heavy, clunky feel. On a positive note, this boot is tough; after three months of regular use, the leather is crack-free, the shift area unblemished and the stitching intact.
Available in either black or a natural oiled version, the Sturgis ($170 from Gaerne North America, 25030 West Avenue Stanford, Suite 130, Valencia, CA 91355; 805/257-6372) gives every indication of being a well-made, longlasting boot. If it were more comfortable, we’d be completely sold.
