Fox Forma Motocross Boots
FOX FORMA MOTOCROSS BOOTS
CW EVALUATION
Fortification for feet
DIRT RIDING IS ONE OF THOSE ACTIVITIES where a spiffy pair of Michael Jordan high-tops simply won’t suffice. You’ve gotta have the right tools, er, boots, for the job. Which is why Fox created the Forma, an Italian-made boot hailed by its designers as “revolutionary.”
Construction is certainly noteworthy. Glued and stitched to a dual-compound non-slip sole is a full-grain leather upper, the bulk of which is layered in plastic. This is supplemented by smaller, harder-compound plastic pieces that deflect rocks and other debris. Internal toe and heel “counters” (plastic cups in the toe box and heel) aid protection and lateral stability, and where boot meets bike, there’s a coarse strip of cowhide. Atop the calf is a full-circumference nylon gaiter, which keeps mud and water at bay.
Four plastic buckles supply sure retention and a snug fit. The top two fix the shin guard to the upper; the others shore-up the ankle and the innovative arch-over strap. Each buckle is easily adjustable (almost too easily) over a wide range, and, if damaged, is replaceable.
Inside, soft lycra lining fortified with impact-absorbing foam is complemented by a form-fitting neoprene sock. Unlike Alpinestars’ new Tech 8, though, Fox’s “bootie” is not removable. When cleaning, this doesn’t pose any concerns; even if the boots are covered in muck, a high-pressure hose-down usually does the trick, inside and out.
There is one downside. The $239 boots are bulky, a result of the bootie and all that plastic. To that end, Fox (18400 Sutter Blvd., Morgan Hill, CA 95037; 888/369-7223) acknowledges that the Formas, which are available in black or blue in full sizes 6-13, require a longer break-in period than other boots. The return, the company says, is unmatched support and protection.
It’s true. These are some of the toughest and most supportive dirt boots we’ve tested. After months of use, our samples remain in superb condition. Seams haven’t split, fit is tops and the steel-shank-supported soles continue to defy multi-story landings. As well, we’ve yet to experience injury from contact with an errant rock or tree stump.
Our advice is this: If you’re racking up frequent flyer miles off-road, lose the Air Jordans and float in Formas.
