Alpinestars RT-7 Drystar boots review | Waterproof motorcycle boots torture tested

Date reviewed: March 2025 | Tested by: Jon Mansfield, BikeSocial member | Price: £239.99 | gb.alpinestars.com

As a motorcycle riding instructor, my bike kit gets an incredibly tough life, being worn all day long in all weathers, and being subject to a lot of getting on and off the bike, walking around, and intense wear and tear.

The Alpinestars RT-7 Drystar boots on review here have been worn for about 8,000 miles throughout two winters, but I’ve also been in them all day, every day, scuffing the soles on the concrete instructing area and trudging through the worst of the weather…

Pros & Cons

Construction and features

These synthetic material boots have been through two winters yet still look in excellent condition thanks to a surprisingly tough construction. I’m a fan of the red accents, but also appreciate the dotted fabric, which is reflective and a valuable additional safety feature.

Despite some hard use, there are no issues with any of the stitching, and the gear lever pad is standing up extremely well.

Reflective material is a great addition

The top of the boots isn’t bulky, so my textile trousers go over them easily. I’m no ‘Tommy Tucky’, so wouldn’t put riding jeans inside them, but some tight legged jeans might struggle to go over a little – if you want to get jeans over them, just check before you buy but they’d have to be a slim fit not to work. I prefer casual high-top style boots for summer riding, but these are proper all-weather touring boots.

Fastening

The puller on the rear of the RT-7s is tough and helpful for yanking the boots on, but getting into them isn’t a problem thanks to the diagonal side entry zip. The toggle has a Velcro tab that keeps it tucked away under the top flap, and there’s still no real sign of any wear and tear on the Alpinestars fastening system at all.

Protection and certification

I was surprised to see that these boots only score the lower 1 (2 is the highest) in impact abrasion and cut resistance, and in transverse rigidity, gaining a 2 just for the height. The test method for boots and gloves means that the items will be certified based on what they achieve in testing, not what standard they’re submitted for.

Many boots manage a full 2222 now, so it’s a shame that the RT-7s aren’t up there with the most provably protective, but they’re still much safer than wearing ‘normal’ shoes or boots, and I’m certainly not put off them.

From April 21 2018, all new motorcycle clothing is deemed to be Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). To meet this legislation, it must be tested to a recognised standard. For more information on the new laws, click here.

Comfort

The Alpinestars RT-7 boots are extremely comfortable all day long for riding, walking and standing around. They were also comfortable right from the first moment I put them on, with no breaking-in necessary.

Sole and Grip

The sole on the RT-7s has really blown me away. Not only is it comfortable, it’s incredibly hard wearing. 8,000 miles might not seem a lot, but I’m constantly getting on and off the bike, which usually means the left front of the sole wears through as I twist my foot on the road surface.

Despite this abuse, these Alpinestars soles look almost untouched, which really is unusual for my kit.

I’ve had no problems with grip on any surface thanks to the design of these soles.

Hot and cold weather use

In deep winter I tend to wear two pairs of socks, but that’s not to say that I find these boots lacking in warmth – I’m just out all day, so am bound to get chilled. Honestly, I’d say they’re as warm as I’d expect any motorcycle boot to be, given that I’ve never worn any with a fleecy warm lining!

I don’t wear these RT-7s much in summer as I go for a more casual style of bike boots, but they’re breathable enough and not too hot, so my feet don’t cook or stink.

Waterproofing

Quite simply, the Alpinestars RT-7s have proven to be 100% waterproof, and I’ve used them in some truly awful weather.

Three alternatives to the Alpinestars RT-7 Drystar boots

These really are outstanding boots, but here are some alternatives…

• Daytona Road Star GTX, £479.99 | Expensive, but something of a benchmark in motorcycle boots thanks to fantastic construction, waterproofing and longevity. Read the full review of the Daytona Road Star boots here.

• Altberg Roadrunner, £299.99 | Hand made in the UK, these are boots that can last a lifetime and can be custom fitted. There’s a long wait, but owners reckon they’re worth it. Read the full review of the Altberg Roadrunners here.

• TCX Clima 2 Surround, £289.99 | A Gore-Tex membrane keeps you dry, but it’s the slots in the soles that really sets these boots apart – designed to allow air to flow under your foot, they can draw it away and keep your feet cooler. Read the full review of the TCS Clima 2 Surrounds here.

These are just three of many alternatives – you can find all the boots we’ve tested here and be sure to regularly check for the discounts available through Bikesocial membership.

Alpinestars RT-7 Drystar boots - Verdict

Being comfortable in my bike kit all day is vital in my job, but it’s also very demanding on my gear. The Alpinestars RT-7 Drystars have proven to be absolutely perfect throughout some very testing use, and have also worn incredibly well – I’ve had other gear that’s had a similar amount of use, yet has holed completely.

While not cheap, I’d say the RT-7s are absolutely worth the money, and I’d not hesitate to recommend them to my friends, colleagues and students. They’re amazing and I love them!

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