Review: Daytona Road Star GTX Motorcycle Boots

Now, after all these years, it's time for a new pair and a look back. Not because the old ones have become completely unusable, but because signs of aging have started to appear, which is only natural after so long. This is a perfect moment to look back on countless rides in various weather conditions and what makes these boots truly special.

The Road Star GTX is a boot of exceptional craftsmanship through and through. It all begins with the material: thick, durable cowhide leather forms the base, striking the perfect balance—not too soft and not too stiff—for a direct, secure feel while riding. The leather withstands both mechanical stress and the test of time. My old boots have developed a patina over the years, but the leather has never become brittle or cracked. Only the plastic shift protection on the top of the foot gave out during its last run on the supermoto track. Nonetheless, it remained fully functional. Inside, a GORE-TEX® membrane ensures dryness, and it does so reliably. I’ve been caught in torrential rain, both in the Alps and during everyday rides, on country roads and highways, and my feet have always stayed dry. It was only after more than 15 years that a bit of moisture occasionally seeped through. Still, the membrane has held up remarkably well.

What stands out about the Road Star GTX is the comfort. It starts with the entry: two side zippers make putting them on and taking them off a breeze, even with thicker socks or wider feet. I've worn these boots on short commutes to work, on multi-week tours, and in both hot and cold weather. I've never had blisters, pressure points, or tired feet. Even when walking, during stopovers or sightseeing, the comfort was good, though obviously not comparable to a hiking boot. Still, the boots have always impressed me with their flexibility and feel on the pegs and shifter. Right out of the box, they are relatively supple. Once broken in, they almost feel like sneakers. That's also a reason why I never wanted to replace them.

In terms of safety, the Road Star GTX is a heavyweight contender. Reinforcements in the ankle, shifter, and heel areas provide a secure feel without being stiff. The sole is grippy, even in wet conditions, and has never peeled or become brittle. Only during a pit stop at a gas station with a fuel- and oil-slicked floor did I narrowly avoid a highside on my way to the counter. But that's more about the saying, "Where there's oil, there's slip," and can't really be blamed on the boots themselves. The stability during sporty riding also deserves special praise. Although the Road Star isn't a racing boot, I've taken them to track events multiple times. Naturally, there are limits—no sliders, no hard shells—but for occasional track days, they are more than adequate. I always had the necessary feel for the bike, good grip on the pegs, and never a sense of insecurity.

The biggest advantage, and my personal reason for this review, is the incredible longevity. 20 years, many thousands of kilometers, all seasons, countless weather changes, dirt, rain, sun, salt—these boots have seen it all. I've occasionally taken care of them, cleaned and conditioned them, but never with any elaborate special treatment. Yet they've lasted until today. Sure, they're not the prettiest anymore, the soles show wear, the zippers have started to catch, and the Gore-Tex membrane isn't completely waterproof anymore. But after such a long time, that's not only understandable but rather impressive. No wonder I wanted the same boots again. What delighted me was that they remain largely unchanged after all this time. In today's world, it's rare for a product to stay on the market for so long with only minor changes. If it was good back then, there's no need to change it.

A boot like the Road Star GTX isn't exactly a bargain. As of 2025, the price ranges from about 400 to 480 Euros, depending on the retailer. However, when you consider its lifespan and quality, it quickly becomes clear: this isn't an expensive product, but rather an investment. Spread over 20 years, the boots cost about 20 Euros per year. For something that needs to perform flawlessly as safety gear, that's outstanding.

The Daytona Road Star GTX isn't about designer frills or built for professional racing on the track. But it is exactly what many motorcyclists crave: a reliable companion that works flawlessly for many years. It protects, keeps you warm and dry, fits comfortably, and lasts nearly forever, whether you're touring, in the city, or on the track. Here's to the next 20 years!