Previously known under the brand name Oxtar, TCX boots are worn by fast guys like three-time World Superbike champion Troy Bayliss and former AMA Formula Xtreme champion (and current rider to beat in AMA superbike) Josh Hayes. The SS Sport boot we tested here is the company's lower price point model in its "Racing Line".
Constructed primarly from Lorica (the now popular synthetic leather material that is stronger, more abrasion resistant, and breathes better than conventional leather), the SS Sport boot utilizes the firm's "AirTech" mesh liner to enhance breathability and comfort. Injected polyurethane plastic heel guard, ankle guards, shin plate, and shift toe pads protect the rider's foot from harm or wear, along with a replaceable injected PU plastic toe slider to keep from grinding through that portion of the boot by the more aggressive rider. The insole is reinforced in critical areas, with an anti-bacterial treatment to keep it from getting odorous after repeated hard use. The tri-color sole has two different compounds, with a grippier portion on the forefoot area, and a harder, more wear-resistant mixture on the arch (from constant contact with the footpegs) and heel area (to keep from grabbing in the event of a fall). Entry is through an inner side zipper, with hook-and-loop-fastened flaps ensuring a snug calf adjustment.
We found the TCX boots worked well in a variety of riding situations, from daily commuting to aggressive canyon scything. The boot's construction around the foot area is pretty sturdy, giving a reassuring protective feel that can be lacking in more comfortable footwear. Peg feel through the sole was decent, and the toe shift protector is thick enough that an all-day ride won't result in a nasty blister above your big toe. The adjustable plastic toe sliders work well and don't wear too quickly, and we really appreciated their well-designed positioning; some plastic toe sliders on other boots extend too far downward toward the sole, which can make them very slippery if you put your toe on the inner portion of the footpeg during aggressive cornering, but the SS Sport's sliders are high enough that this isn't an issue.
The only minor complaints we had with the SS Sports were centered in the area of comfort. Even though the mesh liner and Lorica outer material should allow adequate breathing, we found the boots to be a bit sauna-like on hotter days. We also found that the boot's stiff construction caused the material around the ankle area to bunch up and chafe on our skin when riding sportbikes, which caused some discomfort on longer rides.
The TCX SS Sport boots are available in black and white/black, in sizes 7-14. Suggested retail price is $199.99.
Contact your local dealer