Date reviewed: January 2018 | Tested by: Kane Dalton | Price: £439.99 | www.feridax.com
Having used Sidi’s mid-level off-road boot – the Extreme SRS – when it was time for a change I upgraded to the top-of-the-range model, which is now in its third generation.
I’ve used it for enduro riding, on the motocross track and also riding a Harley on ice at Snowquake in Italy.
I went up a size with these boots – I’d been using the Extremes in the warmer weather, where there was no need for thermal or waterproof neoprene socks. When I hit the snow, trying to squeeze my feet into boots while wearing the warmer socks was very uncomfortable. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to order enduro and motocross boots one or two sizes larger than you usually take – I’m a 42, my Extremes were a 43 and my new Crossfires are a 44.
Construction and features
Italian style meets bomb-proof, practical build. At first glance the boot looks like it’s made entirely of plastic – I like this simply because it’s easier to clean; I jet wash them after use.
The Crossfires are also constructed with a material called ‘Technomicro’ – a composite microfibre with similar characteristics to leather, but said to be stronger, with a softer textured and lighter weight. Abrasion and water resistance are also claimed to be better than leather.
Double stitching is recessed to avoid damage from abrasion or snags, and many parts are held in place with bolts that allow easy replacement.
Fastening
The Crossfire utilizes four camlock style micro-adjustable buckles, with ratcheted straps that stay where you set them – it’s really easy to set the length to suit yourself, just like a ski boot. The buckles, straps and retaining clips are easily replaceable.
I have metal screws and plates in my right ankle that mean I need a bit more space on the right, but found it easy to customise the length of the straps for a comfortable fit, and little raised piece of plastic in front of the lower buckle helps to stop it digging in to the ground when you fall – any snag could twist your foot, but this also prevents the buckle from opening on impact.
Comfort
I found the boot to be comfortable as soon as I pulled it on, and after full days have never had any issues with comfort. Of course, this is subjective, so always try before you buy.
The height is typical of an MX boot, which is taller than a road boot for extra protection when negotiating tight rock lined gaps, as well as increased support.
I’ve been wearing Alpinestars knee braces that tuck into the top of the boots, which still feels comfortable.
Despite the security, walking is easy, though I was aware of the shape of the sole underfoot. They do squeak like many of my other Sidis.
Safety features
The CE-approved Crossfire 3 is built to withstand punishing conditions, and to protect from the usual off-road knocks, or the bruises that can come with kicking a bike over while you’re tired. Due to my riding style, I frequently catch my feet; without adequate protection I’d have broken bones. A rigid replaceable nylon insert also protects the inside of the boot, in case the rider’s foot slides off the peg or slips off the kick-starter.
Due to numerous self-inflicted injuries, I need to avoid hyper extension in order to prevent more damage to my ageing limbs. The Sidis have an articulated joint on the ankle, called the ‘hyper extension block’ – basically a screw that sits inside a bracket that limits the degree of pivot when the leg is flexed forwards or backwards.
A replaceable inner calf plate is made of polyurethane, and protects the leg from exhaust heat, wear and tear. These plates can be adjusted to accommodate wider calves and shin guards.
The thermoplastic front shin plate is anatomically shaped and also replaceable, while the toe is entirely covered with plastic protection panels that have an embossed geometric design for greater grip.
Sole
The tip and heel of the boot’s sole are fixed, while the central part is made with a rubber insert and can be replaced. The previous model had 17 bolts, while this setup simplifies it to just four.
Waterproofing
These boots are listed water-resistant, not waterproof, so I use waterproof socks (as well as waterproof trousers under my MX pants), though it’s good to find a flap brind the buckles to help keep the water and dirt out.
Weight
The Crossfire 3 is a little heavier than the Crossfire 2 and the Extreme – that extra protection comes at a slight cost, but I still find them comfortable in use both on and off the bike.
Conclusion
As you’d expect at the price, this Italian-styled boot looks every bit a top of the range technical product. Style is subjective but I like the look., and all the safety features make these robust, with the extra features like the hyper extension blocks and raised buckle protectors adding to the quality. The squeaky boot noise is something I can live with, and a distant memory when I’m on the bike.
Did you know?
Be careful when jet-washing boots – keep the aggressive jet a reasonable distance away from the stitching as it could start to weaken it. Just like using a jet-wash on a motorcycle, it’s a tool that needs care.
