MotorcycleJazz - SIDI Crossfire SRS

SIDI Crossfire SRS

Big $$$, but well worth the moolah.

by Martin Hackworth
Photos: Martin Hackworth, SIDI

The SIDI Crossfire SRS boots have only one aspect that takes some getting used to - the $475.00 MSRP. After that everything else is butter. The Crossfire SRS is absolutely the most comfortable dirt bike footwear ever. All it takes to sell a pair of these is a trip to the nearest SIDI dealer for a test drive. Just be sure to bring your checkbook.

We have some minor nits to pick with the Crossfire SRS and we'll dispense with them right away. The SRS Crossfire boots require some attention to get into properly (not our best thing). The sizes run large and seem inconsistent to us (be absolutely sure to try a pair on for the correct size). One of our buckles pops open every once in a while during the course of a full day of riding (OK - once anyway). Most significantly - the inner hinges have an affinity for getting hung up on aggressive foot pegs when you are trying to put your foot down. Other than that the Crossfire SRS boots are the shazz: lightweight, affording stellar protection, comfortable while riding, and we do believe that you could walk a long way in a pair of these if you had to.

The "SRS" stands for "Sole Replacement System" and it is indeed possible to replace the soles of these boots easily with 1/4 turn screws. Not only the soles but all other high wear parts as well - with simple tools. The SRS soles are quite stiff and require some getting acquainted with but all it takes is a ride or two to get completely into the groove. After that there is no going back.

In addition to the Sole Replacement System the other key feature of the SIDI Crossfires is the Dual Flex upper. The Dual Flex uppers permit easy flexing of the boots both forward and backward. The boots are, however, stiff and supportive side to side thus allowing for both great comfort and great protection. The Dual Flex uppers are stitch-free and constructed from very pliable (yet sturdy) injection-molded plastic.

The combination of the slick Dual Flex ankle and independent four strap closure system allows one to dial in a very custom fit - even with knee braces or large knee/shin guards. As if this were not enough the adjustable calf system on the boot upper is the pièce de résistance for those with outsized soleus and gastrocnemius muscles.

The SIDI cam-lock buckles are made of stout metal and easy to manipulate. The precise adjustments afforded by the locking straps are really nice. Once the strap lengths are dialed in they seem to stay in place without any further adjustment required.

The toes of Crossfire SRS boots are covered with an extra layer of plastic for greater longevity when parting sagebrush and rocks with your feet. Shift and brake lever guards are located strategically on each boot along with a large heat guard on each inside upper. There's even a nifty plastic deflector located just in front of the first buckle.

There's no steel shank on the inside of the Crossfires but there is a very comfy composite insole that's removable. Rather than having a separate and removable inner boot, à la Alpinestars Tech 10's, the Crossfires, under the plastic shell, are constructed of Lorica® with a soft Cambrelle inner lining. The "inners" fasten with two Velcro® closures and are easy to get in and out of. The boots breathe very well and are cool (even in black) on warm days. The entire package is mondo plush.

We like our SIDI Crossfire SRS boots a lot and if the first few rides are any indication we believe that it's the start of a beautiful friendship.

SIDI Crossfire SRS Specs:

M.S.R.P: $475.00
Color: Black, Blue, Red, White
Material: Plastic, Lorica/Cambrelle
Value Factor: Buy once, cry once, then smile for a long time.
Rating: Two thumbs up.

SIDI website

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