Share This Article
A new Alpinestars Tech 7 is here for 2024! That’s right I’ve been putting some time in on these newer mid level boots from A-Stars and have some thoughts about them, but what did Alpinestars change within the Tech 7?
Alpinestars went to work on:
– A Redesigned medial and lateral double pivot system optimized for improved levels of flexibility and precision control.
– A more supportive and protective exoskeleton, while trying to maintain that out-of-the-box comfort and flexibility.
– Flatter sole with less roll for a better feel on the footpegs and shifter/brake pedal.
– New front bellow shock absorbing construction.
– The same machined aluminum buckles as seen on the Tech 10 boots.
– Redesigned strap holder to offer maximum rotation and functionality while maintaining strap positioning.
– New contoured TPU calf protector plate offers increased impact resistance.
Even with the updated shell the Tech 7 requires almost no break-in as it will literally take a moto or two to get used to the feel of the boots on the track. The pivot and flex zones are well thought out, so you can unbox them for the first time on the morning of a race and have no problem. Another bonus is the fact that they are easy to put on, even for those of us with bigger calves/ feet. This is often a problem with inexpensive boots; manufacturers will resize the foot compartment for larger feet but use the same upper section. That means you can’t get your foot through the ankle opening or secure the top of the boot, but not so with the Tech 7. The Tech 7s are easy to put on and once the new machines aluminum four buckles are fastened, they fit well and are comfortable. Sizing of the Tech 7 are true to size. I wear a size 10 and the Tech 7s fit just like my Tech 10s do, but with a slightly more ankle room.
In terms of shape, the Tech 7s fall right between Sidis, that have a narrow toe box and Gaerne SG-12’s, which are wider. I still think if you have a wider foot, you can still appreciate the toe box area as well as how protective that area is when hitting objects on the track or trail. I have had some emails asking if Alpinestars screwed up the “Toe Box” area of the Tech 7, but to me it feels unchanged when sliding on the boots. Protection is outstanding even without the inner bootie. I will be honest, I am more of an inner bootie type of rider, but not having one with the Tech 7 didn’t leave me wishing for more ankle protection when riding. However, I will say that without the inner bootie my ankles were a little more sore the following day walking about the house but once I put consecutive ride days on the Tech 7 that soreness went away. I think my ankles are so used to having inner booties that going bootie-less for the first day(s) made me sore. That’s my thought any way.
The sole is moderately flexible and wears very well. This is always a difficult balance; too much rigidity and you can’t feel the shifter or brake pedal, too much flex and the footpegs can beat your feet into submission very quickly. Wear can also be an issue with flexy boot soles, but the Tech 7s have tougher material right where the footpeg comes in contact with the soles as well as a steel shank. The sole and footpeg inset are replaceable, which is nice if you plan on living with these boots for more than a couple seasons. I like the new inside rubber grip material on the Tech 7 as to me that is a step up from the previous material they used on the older Tech 7s. This material on the inner portion of the boot actually works when squeezing the spars of the frame and do not wear as quickly as my Tech 10 inner grip panels.
Overall, for $439.95 the Tech 7 to me is one of only a couple pairs of boots I would even wear in this price range. My son grew up on Tech 7’s and wore them until he graduated into a Tech 10. Even now he asks if he can go back to Tech 7’s on occasion because they feel so much lighter on the legs over the Tech 10. One of the reasons you see me wearing Tech 7’s in photos is because it is less taxing on my legs when showing up to the track for a long test day and they fit my feet well. The tech 7s are 1.3 pounds lighter than the Tech 10 on the scales so when you’re putting in longer motos with deep ruts the lighter feel on your legs can come in handy.
If you have any questions about the Alpinestars Tech 7 boot or any other boots for that matter email me at kris@keeferinctesting.com.
If you decide you like these boots and want to purchase them, please do so at this link below if possible.
https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/alpinestars-tech-7-boots-2024-p
