Footwear tips.
Article 26th of January 2009 by Brad McDiarmid.
Do you get sore feet or they fatigue from vibration via the foot pegs e,g, A two stroke!
A new pair of boots would be nice, but expensive and even then they usually have the cheapest production insole in them. Here are a couple of options:
Check to see if your boot soles are worn. If they are worn and the rest of the boot is Ok then get them replaced. The difficulty is finding a person with the right machine and knowledge to do it. I found one in Moorabbin at the rail station and he’s good!
OR
You may look at replacing your boot insoles with some “Sorbothane” or “Superfeet” insoles. This is very common in all sports e.g. Golf, Skiing, Rollerblading etc…
These are the two of the best shock absorbing insoles on the market.
They are not cheap but they should last for years or a couple of pair of boots.
Highly recommend you check out these two web sites, lots of info.
http://www.sorbothane.com/insoles.php available at Sportsmart
SORBOTHANE ABSORBS UP TO 94.7% OF IMPACT STOCK Sorbothane® insoles absorb shock and provide protection to your body with every step you take. Sorbothane® insoles are excellent for everyone who walks, works, plays sports or spends long hours on their feet. Sorbothane® insoles have been proven to dramatically help individuals experiencing foot discomfort caused by medical conditions such as shin splits, heel spurs and ulcerations caused by diabetes. Sorbothane® insoles are widely recommended by doctors and sports medicine specialists to provide maximum comfort and protection. Sorbothane® absorbs up to 94.7% of impact shock!
http://www.superfeet.com/ get these at Ski and Outdoor shops.
Designed primarily for footwear with a removable insole, Superfeet GREEN provides maximum support and shock absorption. Featuring Agion® antimicrobial top cover treatment to reduce bacteria and help prevent foot odor. Ideal for feet with medium to high arches. Recommended footwear: Running, walking, hiking, alpine and industrial footwear.
These are just some samples there are various types of Sorbothane and Superfeet insoles to select from. As each persons requirements differ there are a range of models to choose from in these two cases.
There may be other types around that work, personally I have used the Sorbothane Ultrasole and the Green Superfeet which worked well for me.
Finally, clean your boots occasionally and inspect for damage. Rub some Dubbin into the leather sections and stitching to keep out the water and to make them more supple so they bend rather than crack.
P.S. Check out your foot pegs, if they are narrow weld on some peg wideners (Ballards) or get some new ones. Also keep them somewhat pointy with a file if they are worn, or replace them, especially if they are damaged and don’t pivot anymore.
Best way to tell how good yours are is compare them to the ones on the new bikes at the local bike shop, snap a photo on your mobile, take it home and compare.
Brad