A rider shouldn’t have to sacrifice comfort and protection for style when it comes to selecting a pair of riding shoes. Harley-Davidson is gearing up to release two riding shoes that offer the casual appeal and comfort of street-style high-top sneakers with the safety performance of a standard motorcycle boot.
The “sneaker boot” is not a new idea in the realm of motorcycle riding gear. Manufacturers have successfully designed many versions that have offered style and performance for safe, on-road use. To push the boundaries of what riders can expect from a performance “sneaker,” Harley-Davidson Footwear has developed two new styles—one for men and one for women—that make it clear you don’t have to sacrifice protection with a street-style riding shoe.
This fall, H-D will release the Midland (for men) and the Mackey (for women) performance sneakers that blend the appearance of a casual, everyday high-top street shoe without compromising the safety found on a traditional riding boot. The element most responsible for this protection is called Poron XRD, an open-cell foam that provides extreme impact protection. This material is flexible and lightweight at rest and becomes rigid on impact, as it absorbs 90 percent of energy. The Poron, paired with durable, full-grain waterproof leather with Hydro-Guard—a breathable membrane that keeps moisture out while allowing feet to breathe—makes these shoes as comfortable as they are protective.
To keep both shoes roadworthy to the maximum degree, an abrasion-, oil-, and slip-resistant outsole works to create increased durability and traction. As an added safety bonus, both the Midland and Mackey feature reflective laces enhanced with 3M technology for the highest level of visibility during low-light conditions. And the only thing “sneaker” about these shoes is their appearance. They are both prime examples of the future of this segment of specialized footwear.
The Harley-Davidson Midland men’s performance sneaker is available now at select dealerships, and the Mackey women’s shoe is set to roll into stores by November. Both shoes offer the same levels of comfort and protection, with black and gray colorway options to better serve riders’ visual preference. Get the best in the looks and performance departments this fall with these high-quality, game-changing footwear offerings from H-D.
Source : Hotbikeweb
