Inside Accessories

Leatt 5.5 FlexLock Enduro Boots

By Mark Dzikowski

The South African motocross gear company got its start when the company founder, Dr. Chris Leatt, developed a neck brace to help prevent serious and fatal neck injuries in motorcycle racing. Fifteen years later, the Leatt brand has expanded into other protective safety gear like helmets, boots, goggles and body armour. First up to review are the 2021 Leatt 5.5 FlexLock enduro boots.

With a steel shank and the patented adjustable FlexLock system, these boots illustrate Leatt’s dedication to safety and ankle protection. According to Leatt, the FlexLock system reduces forces to the ankle by up to 37 percent and the knee by up to 35 percent by locking out the ankle movement when over-flexed. The system also comes with an optional stiffer puck that reduces the sideways flex even more. When installed, I didn’t notice any difference in sideways stiffness compared to the standard puck during riding, which convinced me to stick with the stiffer puck.

The 5.5 boots’ feature that I have not seen on other boots is the SlideLock system, a one-way Velcro cuff design. It allows me to keep the top cuff loosely attached while I do up the buckles and then cinch it down tight for a final snug fit. It is a fantastic design and I wish all other boots had this. The aluminum buckles with Over-lock system and stainless steel base design is one of my favourites. It is easy to close them even when going for a super tight fit and you don’t need a hammer to do it, like some boots out there.

The dual-hardness sole is specially designed for enduro riding with a grippy heel and toe allowing for good traction when walking enduro sections or pushing the bike up a steep technical climb.

For my narrow feet, the fit was true to size and with an insole and thicker socks, the fit almost feels custom. I always try to minimize foot movement in the boot for maximum feel and fewer ankle injuries, so this is a great plus for me. Visit www.kimpex.com for more details. IM

Sizes: 7 to 13 (US) MSRP: $599.99 Pros

– Excellent safety features and the SlideLock top cuff system – Very comfortable with excellent peg and shifter feel with just enough flex

Cons

– Priced as a top of the line boot. Durability still unknown – Squeaky right out of the box. No lube included

Olympia Newport 2 Jacket

By Patrick Lambie

Versatile gear is key to riding in Canada. With this in mind, Olympia Motosports offers up the Newport 2 jacket that combines a mesh outer shell with a removable windproof/waterproof liner. I had the opportunity to wear the Newport 2 jacket in various situations including riding to and from work in the city as well as all-day long highway trips and in each case found it to be a very capable piece of gear that was equally comfortable as it was flexible.

Constructed with 500D and 1000D Evo Thread fabric and abrasion-resistant mesh panels, the outer shell features sizing adjustments on the cuffs, forearms, collar and waist to ensure a comfortable fit. I have a 40-inch chest and the size Large left ample room to wear a sweater or hoodie underneath. CE Level 2 shoulder, elbow and back protection is included along with reflective surfaces on the arm and back that ensure the rider is visible. The large amount of mesh surfaces limits the number of pockets to the two exterior pockets which may be a limiting factor for those who like to carry multiple items on their person. The jacket also includes an eight-inch zipper at the back to connect to the matching pants. The liner, which can be worn under or over the jacket, provided great protection from the wind on early morning rides and was easy to install and remove. The only challenge I found is that forgetting to remove the liner as the temperature rises can create sauna-like temperatures. Surprisingly, I did not have the opportunity to test out the Newport 2 in the rain, which was disappointing as the ability to have the waterproof layer on the outside of the jacket promises to do a better job keeping the rider dry than other multi-layer jackets on the market.

All of these features for just $259.99 makes the Olympia Newport 2 a serious contender for your next jacket purchase. Visit www.motovan.com for complete details. IM

Sizes S to 4XL Colours: Black, Grey/Neon Yellow MSRP $259.99 Pros

– Versatile package – Great price

Cons

– Lack of ventilation in the rain jacket – Limited pockets