Italian boot manufacturer Gaerne has long been a respected brand in the motorcycle industry, renowned for its craftsmanship and quality that has become the boot of choice for a number the world’s best motocross and enduro riders.

The company has continued to develop new products, and more so in recent years, it’s been able to adapt and keep up with a generation that demands something new to always be on the table.

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New for 2019 and just released this month is the Gaerne GX-1, an entry-level dirt bike boot designed with the modern rider in mind. Thanks to Australian distributor Cassons, MotoOnline.com.au had the opportunity to test the latest offering all month long, taking to the track on numerous occasions in various conditions.

While Gaerne states the boot is entry-level, it boasts features that certainly exceed that – both from a visual and practical standpoint. The key aspect is the the structural support design that utilises two anti-torsion lugs that slide into inside pockets, avoiding front and rear overextension, while providing flex forwards and backwards.

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On the upper side, the stamped suede offers increased grip and heat resistance, while the closure system consists of four light alloy replaceable buckles for an easy, fast and precise closure. Gaerne continues to use the tried and true traditional sole, which provides ample amount of grip, and so far, exceptional durability.

There a few benefits that come with the traditional sole – the first being the ability to quite easily have it replaced if you tend to wear through them quite easily, as well as the increased feel you gain, allowing for ease of manoeuvring on the pegs and navigating the controls. With the increased feel does mean that harsher impacts are more noticeably felt than a moulded sole.

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The GX-1 runs true to size, which always makes things easier when ordering, especially if it’s via an online outlet. The internal sole is quite wide, and if you have narrow feet like myself, then a thick pair of socks adequately fill out the boot. Inside the boot is spacious and quite comfortable, and that’s immediately felt straight out of the box.

Gone are the days of ‘running in’ a pair of boots, as the Gaerne offering felt natural in just a matter of laps into the first ride with plenty of movement on offer. On the bike, the boot was a pleasure to ride with, and quite honestly, it’s hard to believe its aimed as a entry-level product.

Image: Foremost Media.

The sole is nice and grippy, the structural system offers comforting support, and the ability to easily click through gears or hop on the rear brake is confidence-inspiring.

Priced at RRP $399.95, the Gaerne GX-1 comes in at the higher end of the entry-level segment, although like I said, the boot offers various features that make it an appropriate price point for an all-round impressive product that’s hard to fault. Available in five colour options, more information can be found at www.cassons.com.au.