TCX Clima 2 Surround Gore-Tex boots review | Waterproof touring boots with ventilation system

Date reviewed: July 2024 | Tested by: Andy Shewbridge | Price: £289.99 | www.nevis.uk.com

The TCX Clima 2 Surround Gore-Tex boots are high quality and packed with clever technology that creates protective, waterproof boots suitable for all conditions.

I’ve been wearing them for more than six months, covering more than 3000 miles, made up of commuting on my BMW S1000XR and testing the new BMW R1300GS on a weekend tour of Wales.

During that Welsh weekend the conditions were mainly wet, which provided a proper test for the boots.

Construction and features

The TCX Clima 2 Surround Gore-Tex touring boots are highly breathable yet retain durable waterproof protection. My feet have stayed dry and comfortable even in warm conditions.

Moisture and warmth are conducted away via the boot’s upper and also downwards through the Gore-Tex membrane into a ventilation grid and out via large openings in the sides of the soles.

The textile upper is laminated with punched material to provide extra protection and there are reinforced polyurethane inserts on the shin and ankle, plus a polyurethane gearshift guard.

The Gore-Tex Extended Comfort construction keeps weight down and comfort high while a cushioned mid-sole and Ortholite footbed bring maximum walking comfort. I found these boots very comfortable and could wear them all day on or off the bike.

Fastening

The boots fasten with a good-sized YKK zip, with a Velcro tab to hold the puller in the upper position and stop it creeping open. There is a large Velcro flap to secure the top of the boot, which also retains the zip puller. A stretch panel between the zip and the panel next to it helps with everyday comfort.

Protection and certification

The boots are certified to the latest CE standard - EN 13634. They are tall enough to meet the superior Level 2 for height, and also resist cuts strongly enough to meet the higher Level 2 in that element. They meet the basic Level 1 in tests for abrasion resistance and transverse rigidity, which checks a boot’s ability to resist lateral crushing forces. Additionally, the Clima 2 Surround Gore-Tex boots pass an optional test to prove their water-resistance capabilities. There are polyurethane inserts on the shin and ankle, though there are no CE markings to suggest the boots have been subjected to the optional tests that would prove they offer impact protection at the shins and ankles.

All motorcycle clothing sold in the UK and Europe is deemed to be Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This is a good thing for riders as it can help them choose kit that has provable levels of safety because, to meet this legislation, it must be tested to a recognised standard. To fully understand the labels found in all bike kit, click here.

Comfort

Initially I thought the TCX Clima 2 Surround Gore-Tex boots weren’t going to be that comfortable. They were quite stiff and I found a ridge just above the heel, where a rubber panel meets the upper section of the boot, to be irritating. That said, I’m glad I stuck with them because, once broken in, these boots were supremely comfortable.

I normally wear a UK size 10.5 and although these boots are labelled as UK 10/EU 45/USA 11 they fit me well.

Sole and Grip

The sole of the boot boasts plenty of clever technology. The four-layer construction comprises an Ortholite lightweight foam insole, a breathable felt layer, a reinforced midsole integrating the Gore-Tex Surround ventilation grid and a Groundtrax rubber outsole. The latter provides great traction for touring rides and walking in all conditions on any terrain.

For me the Gore-Tex Surround ventilation grid is the best aspect of the boot, and this is what makes it stand out from other motorcycle boots. It delivers excellent breathability in all conditions and makes these boots excellent all-rounders.

Hot and cold weather use

I was concerned the ventilation system would make my feet cold in cool temperatures. However, that wasn’t my experience at all, even in low temperatures.

The boots performed equally well in cold and hot conditions, because the boots are so well ventilated my feet remained cool even on the hottest of days.

I’d happily wear these throughout the year and they have become my preferred boots for commuting.

Waterproofing

I’ve ridden in unpleasantly wet conditions during the winter and spring, with standing water on the road on a few occasions and even some fully submerged back roads during my visit to Wales. Despite these extreme conditions the TCX boots have kept my feet completely dry, which was not the case for some of my riding pals.

Three alternatives to the TCX Clima 2 Surround Gore-Tex boots

• The TCX Infinity 3 Gore-Tex boots are taller, chunkier and less vented than the Clima 2 Surround, but our reviewer Ben Cordy was full of praise and you can read his review here.

• Another TCX boot our review team were impressed by, the Climatrek Surround Gore-Tex boots are lighter and more trainer-like than the Clima 2 Surround. Consumer Editor John Milbank described them as the most versatile bike boots he’d worn. Click here to read his full review.

• If you want more substantial waterproof boots, but for a similar budget, BikeSocial Publisher Steve Rose made an impassioned case for the British-made Altberg Roadrunner boots when he posted this review at the end of 2023.

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

TCX Clima 2 Surround Gore-Tex review: Verdict

I’m seriously impressed with these boots, which are practical for touring and everyday use all year round. Despite my initial reservations over comfort, once I’d worn them in, they proved to be supremely comfortable. If you are looking for a quality, versatile boot for all seasons, these really should be on your list.

Do you own these boots? Tell us what they’re like, or ask us questions about them at bikeclub.bennetts.co.uk.