Alpinestars Air Plus V2 Gore-Tex – waterproof and ice-cold ventilation
In the height of summer on the country road, rain approaching, and your feet are soaking wet – that was once the case. The Alpinestars Air Plus V2 Gore-Tex XCR motorcycle boot solves this annoying dilemma: it is 100 per cent waterproof and at the same time lets the wind blow around your toes. Sounds impossible? But it's not – thanks to the Gore-Tex XCR membrane, this combination actually works. What many people forget is that a motorcycle boot must breathe like a normal shoe on hot days – otherwise your foot will turn into a sauna. The Air Plus V2 achieves what other touring boots cannot: genuine safety without compromising on riding comfort.
The 5 most important features
- Gore-Tex XCR membrane – waterproof and breathable for dry feet in rain and wind
- Air mesh main construction with perforations – maximum ventilation even on longer tours
- Dual-density ankle protectors – genuine safety tailored to critical loads
- Ergonomic last with side zip – easy to slip on, comfortable to ride, quick to take off
- CE certified and seamlessly crafted – the quality you expect from Alpinestars
What sets the Alpinestars Air Plus V2 apart in practice
The Gore-Tex XCR membrane is the heart of this boot – and this is where it differs significantly from cheaper alternatives. Normal rain boots with a simple plastic layer feel like a steam bath after 300 kilometres. With the Air Plus V2, the opposite happens: sweat evaporates outwards, rain stays out. This works because Gore-Tex has pores that are smaller than water droplets – perfectly designed. You notice this immediately in stop-and-go traffic; after the ride, your socks are as fresh as they were in the morning, not sweaty like after a sauna.
The main Air Mesh construction with targeted perforations is not a gimmick – it is sophisticated engineering. Large mesh zones are incorporated at the front, where the wind hits, and even more at the back of the heels. When you're driving on the motorway, your feet are actively cooled by the wind. This also takes the strain off the Gore-Tex membrane – it doesn't have to handle all the temperature regulation on its own. On longer tours over the Brenner Pass, you'll really notice the difference – it's the difference between pleasantly cool and uncomfortably sweaty. The protective features deserve a mention here: the shin protector is seamlessly integrated and offers solid protection. The dual-density ankle protectors are positioned exactly where they are most needed – not just padding everywhere, but specifically at the stress points. Internal heel and toe caps provide additional safety. To be honest, for a touring boot in this weight class, it's a good mid-range option – not a sports racing boot, but significantly more solid than budget versions.
The side entry with elastic zip and wide Velcro fastener makes this boot a practical companion – not only on the slopes, but also in the garage. This is a contemporary design feature; in the past, you had to half dismantle boots like this to get them on. The ergonomic last itself feels natural – the foot sits securely without pressing in any direction. Particularly noteworthy: the gear lever area is thin but reinforced with an abrasion-resistant double layer. This allows for precise gear changes without holes appearing in the material after two years.
Technical data at a glance
Material and workmanship
Main construction made of breathable Air-Mesh, combined with full-grain leather on the inside. Microfibre in the gear lever area for grip and long-term protection. PU reinforcements injected in specific critical areas – no solid plastic blocks that weigh down the shoe unnecessarily. Water protection and ventilation Gore-Tex XCR membrane for 100 per cent waterproofing with full breathability. Perforated accordion zones at the front and back for maximum air circulation. Breathable 3D mesh inner lining – this keeps the difference between the shoe's internal climate and the outside world fair.
Safety features and certifications
CE certified. Seamlessly integrated shin protector. Dual-density ankle protectors with inner heel and toe caps. Reflective heel area for better visibility at dusk.
Sole and footbed
Exclusive Alpinestars rubber compound for optimal grip and comfort. Polyamide midsole with reinforcements prevents excessive flexing of the boot under load. Removable, anatomical footbed with EVA and Lycra – can be customised if you need extra padding.
Size range and fit
Available in a full range of sizes from 36 to 48. The ergonomic last fits normal to wide feet perfectly – not too tight, not too loose. The calf area can be individually adjusted with Velcro fasteners – important if you wear different thicknesses of trousers or protectors.
Scope of delivery and accessories
Boots, removable footbed. Care kit not included – recommended for long-term care of multiple materials (leather, synthetic leather, mesh). Zips and Velcro fasteners should be cleaned regularly to ensure smooth functioning – a small price to pay for such good performance.
