Eleveit X Privilege E-Dry Enduro motorcycle boots review
Tested in river crossings, bad weather and off-road riding, the Eleveit X Privilege E-Dry Enduro boots blend serious protection with surprising all-day comfort.
* Totally waterproof
* Extremely comfortable
The Eleveit X Privilege E-Dry Enduro boots arrived for a bike test that, as it turned out, never actually happened. The idea was simple enough, in that I needed something a bit more hardcore than my usual adventure boots for an upcoming enduro test. The bike never materialised, but the boots did, and after several months of use, they've ended up becoming one of the more surprising bits of riding kit I've tested this year.
Despite spending plenty of time riding adventure bikes, I've never owned a pair of dedicated enduro boots. My experience has largely been limited to borrowed motocross and off-road boots handed out by riding schools and experience centres. On those occasions, I've generally found them protective but uncomfortable, with stiff soles and all the flexibility of a Victorian diving suit. The X Privilege boots have been a very different experience.
Straight out of the box, the first thing that stands out is the quality. The finish is excellent, the detailing looks premium, and the four-buckle fastening system feels solid and well-made. Adjustment is straightforward too, allowing you to quickly dial in a secure fit without endlessly fiddling around with straps.
Once you're riding, the protection becomes immediately apparent. The Controlled Lateral Flexion system provides plenty of support around the ankle without making the boots feel completely rigid. They inspire confidence in the way only a proper off-road boot can, giving the impression that if things go wrong, your ankles have at least got a fighting chance.
What surprised me most, though, was the comfort, as from the very first ride, these boots have felt snug and natural, with none of the awkward break-in period I've experienced with other off-road footwear. The insole has a more natural shape than many motocross-style boots I've worn previously, which makes a noticeable difference during long days in the saddle.
I've also tested them in exactly the sort of conditions they're designed for – bad weather, deep puddles and river crossings that saw water washing over the footpegs. The E-Dry membrane appears to do exactly what Eleveit claims, as I've yet to experience any water ingress through the stitching, sole or upper sections of the boot.
The sole deserves a mention too. The replaceable rubber construction features a deep, aggressive tread pattern that provides plenty of grip when pushing a bike through mud or scrambling around slippery terrain. Equally importantly, it offers decent purchase on the pegs when standing up and riding off-road.
The downsides – well, just one really!
The upper closure incorporates a Velcro section that helps secure the top of the boot. After several hours of off-road riding, I've found that this area can begin to rub against my calf. It's less noticeable when wearing thicker base layers, but can still become mildly irritating over the course of a full day. If you are bagging a pair of these, opt for some of Elevits long adventure riding socks to help minimise the issue.
Verdict
Considering how focused these boots are supposed to be, they've become my default choice for far more than just off-road riding.
If I'm riding anything that doesn't involve trying to squeeze a chunky boot underneath a tiny sportsbike gear lever, chances are I'll reach for these. The combination of comfort, waterproofing and serious protection makes them remarkably versatile.
At around €320 (£270), they're not exactly cheap. But when you consider that they can comfortably cover touring, adventure riding and more serious off-road use, the value proposition starts to make a lot more sense. For some riders, these could easily replace two or even three pairs of boots sitting in the garage.
You can check out the boots for yourself on the official website.
Eleveit X Privilege E-Dry Enduro
Waterproof E-Dry membrane
Lightweight microfibre construction
Controlled Lateral Flexion (CLF) ankle protection system
Protection for shin, ankle, gear-change area and side impacts
Four micrometric adjustment buckles
Impact-resistant polyurethane buckle system
Breathable internal lining
Front and rear stretch panels
Internal anti-slip grip panel
Replaceable enduro rubber sole
CE certified to EN13634
Sizes 39-48 (Euro sizes)
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
