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Indie Ridge - First Impressions

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15K views 68 replies 23 participants last post by  EvilMonkey  
#1 · (Edited)
I've been considering getting some "real" riding gear for awhile. I've been wearing Bates boots when riding - one pair that's for most conditions, and a waterproof pair for the rare times I'm caught in the rain. They've served me well and the price is good, but I want more protection JIC I miss the queues that a careless cager is close to injuring me.
Comfort is always #1 to me, and I tend to research anything and everything I'm considering spending my "hard earned" on thoroughly before parting with any cash. This purchase was no different.

I've been reading reviews ad nauseum about Indie Ridge Boots and signed up on their site to be notified when a rare "sale" comes up. I got an email about two weeks ago announcing a Father's Day Sale; "Buy any pair of boots, get any pair of gloves free". Boots run $185.00 a pair, and most gloves run $85.00 a pair - far more than the usual $25.00 a pair I'm accustomed to paying. I've read hundreds of reviews from Customers (I don't pay much attention to published reviews from companies that take advertising dollars from vendors - they're frequently biased). SO when I got the email from Indie Ridge about this sale, I decided "That's for me".

I put a pair of Black Commanche boots and a pair of Black Full Gauntlet gloves in my cart, entered the code and my card information:
Shipping was free, the $270.00 total was adjusted to $185.00 at checkout, no sales tax, and the wait began.
I immediately got an Order Confirmation by email, and was sent a shipping / tracking number the following day. Communication was great!
The shipping took a week. The package arrived today via UPS with no damage at all. And I'm impressed....
The box had the boots, gloves and a free Neck Gaiter inside. The packaging is exceptional. I can tell this company cares about what they're selling and how its presented.

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The boots are exactly as pictured. The ankle cups aren't visible, but definitely where they should be. The rear support protects the Achilles at the heel well.
There's a pull-up strap at the rear (missed having that on the Bates'), and there's a LOT of padding inside the boot.
The owner (Steve) posts on his website as improvements / changes are made. The Commanche has a sole more like a "hiker" than the Crow does (looks more like a work boot), and Steve said it's bi-directional and has improved grip and traction over previous versions.

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The Black Full Gauntlet gloves weren't my first choice (they were out of stock on "Black on Black" denim and leather gloves in XL). I emailed Indie Ridge and asked if I could return the Full Gauntlet gloves for the Black on Black when my size was back in stock and Stephanie replied "Sure, you can do that". HOWEVER upon seeing these gloves, and having only warmer weather gloves now, I've decided to keep these.
The fit is almost perfect (have to size them primarily to the length of your middle finger - and circumference of your hand at the knuckles) with the pinkie being about 1/8" too long. I'll put a cotton ball in there to take up the space. The fingertips allow use on the RC screen and a Smart Phone.

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They also included a free "The American" Motorcycle Mask. I haven't opened it yet, but IF I were to order one, that would have been what I chose, so that was a "Win - Win" as well.

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The gloves came in a nice draw-string pouch and heavy weather proof container, and the mask came with a heavy storage container as well.
I'm not easily impressed, but for a first transaction, I think they hit it out of the park.
**There are no loose threads or misaligned panels on any of the items. Everything looks top-notch.
I'll follow up with break-in and quality / comfort info soon.

BTW - Steve indicated that the price on boots will be going up very soon.
I suggest if you're considering getting a pair, get off your butt, sign up on the site / email list and buy 'em now, or wait until the next sale - which isn't very often. The price increase will surely happen by then.
 
#5 ·
I've got at least 10k mi on my pair of Comanche v.2, and another 10k on my pair of ventilated Crossfields v.3. Both feel like a new boot everytime I lace them up and interesting fact, I got caught in some wicked rain traveling thru Utah and my ventilated Crossfields still kept my socks dry.

I hope you enjoy them as much as I have.
 
#6 · (Edited)
Good to know! Thanks for that.
I'm always worried about having my toes cramped in protective toe boots. I used to buy Chippewa Loggers with the bigger toe box to avoid pain and rubbing during long shifts at work.
Putting these on, they seem like there's more room than conventional protected toe boots. Finger crossed.
 
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#7 ·
I've been wearing the Cheyenne boots since December, and love them. I probably wear them 3 or 4 days a week, in both rain and sun and would buy another pair except for the fact that these have little more than scuff marks on them.

Mine also came with gloves in a sale (I got the full gauntlet brown), and I used them until the weather turned around here. I'm not usually a fan of winter gloves, but they've been comfortable and warm, even in inclement weather.
 
#8 ·
Nice boots I hope you hope they work well for you. I have a boot fetish and a collection but I prefer western style boots these are my latest that match my RM Elite. The vamp is a very durable Hippopotamus and the sole is an Eversole rubber.
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#9 ·
I've been wearing the Cheyenne boots since December, and love them. I probably wear them 3 or 4 days a week, in both rain and sun and would buy another pair except for the fact that these have little more than scuff marks on them.

Mine also came with gloves in a sale (I got the full gauntlet brown), and I used them until the weather turned around here. I'm not usually a fan of winter gloves, but they've been comfortable and warm, even in inclement weather.
Neither am I, but they look warm n comfy, which is why I decided to keep the black counterparts I got today.
Nice boots I hope you hope they work well for you. I have a boot fetish and a collection but I prefer western style boots these are my latest that match my RM Elite. The vamp is a very durable Hippopotamus and the sole is an Eversole rubber.
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Very nice - and unique. I really like the grain pattern.
I'd be afraid of getting the suede covered in bug splatter.
 
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#16 ·
Neither am I, but they look warm n comfy, which is why I decided to keep the black counterparts I got today.

Very nice - and unique. I really like the grain pattern.
I'd be afraid of getting the suede covered in bug splatter.
Brush them off and if more is needed I use Lexol soap than conditioner. I guess you have to be a boot nut to use this type of footwear on a bike. They were a custom build to match the RM Elite.
 
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#11 ·
FWIW, it took me multiple days of wearing my pair of Crow boots all day at work and a smattering of other short outings to get them to be comfortable long term. That's not a down check, just information. I REALLY like these boots and find them very comfortable now that I've got a couple months in them.

I'll be ordering a pair of Knight vented boots.
 
#12 ·
There was another thread awhile back that I chimed in on, can't remember where.🤦‍♂️
This was my experience with a recent purchase:

I was looking for a new riding boot that would be comfortable for all day use.
After multiple emails back and forth with Indie Ridge, I decided to give them a shot (return policy is good). My concerns were width. Have multiple injuries to my right foot and ankle, it's very sensitive to pressure points
I've had them for about 3 or 4 weeks and have worn them all day for multiple days.
The first time I put them on, they were TIGHT. Wore them about an hour or two around the house. I was thinking; nope, these aren't going to work either.
Then I unlaced them and skipped the bottom eyelet. I also left them laced very loose.
They are a very good and comfortable boot, in my opinion.
I have the waterproof Crow. I'm more than likely going to get another pair in the ventilated variety.
If you have questions or concerns, drop them an email, they're quick to respond.
 
#13 ·
I've read hundreds of reviews from Customers (I don't pay much attention to published reviews from companies that take advertising dollars from vendors - they're frequently biased)
FYI
I, too, am skeptical of reviews on vendors websites. However, my review from about a month ago is on the website exactly as i wrote it. True, my review is a glowing one, but there are a few critical ones on there too. 🤷‍♂️
 
#15 ·
I read that review along with hundreds more when I was considering the purchase. Customers don't lie or exaggerate - much - usually. The reviews on their site seem to be authentic. The vendor posted reviews I hesitate with are on publications and motorcycle "superstores" (motorcycle magazines / blogs, and resellers like J&P Cycles, Revzilla, et al.).
I know about 3% of all customers aren't happy unless they're complaining about something, 4% are overly critical (ask their spouse), and the remaining 93% are usually pretty fair regarding their purchase and ownership experience, ranging from "Fair" to "Outstanding" ratings. But in all honesty, Indie Ridge customer reviews are much higher than average, which caused me to look further into the numbers. No denying the overwhelming majority of their customers absolutely love their boots. (y)

Been wearing mine around the house since receiving them yesterday afternoon. They've relaxed a good bit already, but I'll give them another day or two before taking them on the road for a ride. Then again, I could throw the Bates' in the saddlebag JIC..... 🤔
 
#14 ·
I have purchased 2 pairs of these boots. I originally bought the Commanche boots, because the ventilated Crossfields were out of stock. They were shipped out the same day I placed the order and arrived the day after that! The owner emailed me twice before I placed my order. Once about the Veteran's discount.(please email them directly for it, as the code changes for each person I believe). And once to make sure I knew what I was getting, and talk about favorite guitar players. 2 days later the ventilated Crossfields were in stock, and I ordered those. I live in PHX, and ventilated boots are a MUST! They promptly arrived and I tried them on. I'll admit, I was skeptical about the fitment claims(I was out of town and never got to try on the Commanches before I ordered the Crossfields). Right out of the box, they are the most comfortable riding boots I've ever worn. Plenty of room in the toe, and once I get my old broken ass bent over to lace them up, they were amazingly comfy. I've worn the for a total of about 10 hours over 4 days, and they are, in my opinion worth every penny. I don't do much riding this time of year, my limit is anything over 100 or so.

I would definitely buy these again!
 
#24 · (Edited)
Wore my Black Comanche's around the house for the better part of two days. Been riding in them since with no issues.
Probably the quickest break-in for any boots I've ever owned. Very happy with all of my Indie Ridge items. (y)
 
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#25 ·
I share the same views as the many positive posts on this thread. I have a pair of Comanche boots and they are amongst my favorite pairs of motorcycle-specific boots. The protection is top notch as is the fit/feel and, in my opinion, they have a distinctive look that sets them apart from typical motorcycle boots. I also have a pair of the warm-weather gloves and they fit well and wear well. Most importantly, the owner genuinely cares about his customers and his business. He goes out-of-his way to provide exceptional customer service. Unfortunately, this trait seems all too rare these days. I reached-out to him over a year ago to thank him for the construction of the gloves because they saved my hands when a cell-phone-distracted, unlicensed driver tried to take me out. I had to cut my shirt off myself because my arm and shoulder were shredded and bloody but my hands were unscathed with the knuckle armor taking the hit. He offered to send me a free replacement pair even though there wasn't a flaw, and I wasn't complaining, but rather complementing the performance. I declined the generous offer as there was no fault with the gloves and they are still serviceable despite some "battle scars." Accordingly, I will be a customer for life.
 
#31 ·
I just checked his site to look for his new t-shirts in heather and charcoal. Not there yet. I’ll wait. 👍

And I’m wondering why I didn’t get notified of Robert’s video. I am a subscriber (nothing filtered out in junk mail either). 🤔
 
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#44 ·
I have a set of Comanche's from my experience (not a shoe/boot expert by any means), The area around the arch, and heel is snug. The area around the toes does have some room to wiggle about in there, and the Ankle area is highly adjustable with the laces. I find the boots are snug going on, but once your foot is in them, they disappear like a well broken in boot. I have only put about 400 miles on mine, but after the first ride I retired my style martins that I had well over 70K on.
 
#47 · (Edited)
@PeacePipe I was looking at the Indie Ridge Comanche boots, but it’s always “hit & miss” on sizing when ordering online. I need a boot with a decent size toe box - I don't like a snug fit around my toes. How would you describe the toe box area?
I have a set of Comanche's from my experience (not a shoe/boot expert by any means), The area around the arch, and heel is snug. The area around the toes does have some room to wiggle about in there, and the Ankle area is highly adjustable with the laces. I find the boots are snug going on, but once your foot is in them, they disappear like a well broken in boot. I have only put about 400 miles on mine, but after the first ride I retired my style martins that I had well over 70K on.
I can only attest to the Comanches I have. Overall, I agree with @NewOldStock 's assessment. I was wearing Bates tacticals to ride prior to getting my Comanches.

As @TigerGA mentions, I had a difficult time with steel-toe boots I was required to wear for work. Some days had me in work boots for 13-14 hours a day for numerous days without a break - not pleasant when the footwear caused me pain. I actually have scars on some of my toes from cramped toe box / trailing edge of the reinforcement area. I found Chippewa's gave me the most room and covered my toes farthest back with their “lace to toe” boots (Super DNA). Pricey, and to some "ugly", but worked well for me. However, what worked for my job won’t work for riding - the toe is too big to get under the shifter lever. But for comfort and protection, they've been the benchmark I use in my mind for comparisons.

The Indie Ridge Comanche info says to buy the size you get for regular footwear, which I did. They were snug when they arrived (also stated on the site). The shape of the toe had me concerned, but actually fits my feet surprisingly well and is causing no pain. After wearing them for over a month, I can say they're very good and keep getting better with each ride.

***Would I like more room in the toe box? - Sure, but they'd be difficult or impossible to fit under the shifter lever. This is a great compromise.
***Would I wear these to walk or run a Marathon? - They wouldn't be my first choice, but I wouldn't expect my most comfortable shoes to protect my feet in a riding accident either.
***IF I could get my Chippewa's under the shifter lever, would I be able to "feel" my shifts like I do with the Comanches? - Absolutely not. The Chippewa's are numb in the toes and shank.
***Would a half-size larger boot give me more comfort? - Not sure - it could move the trailing edge of the toe box ahead to a spot that creates pain, OR compromise other areas of the design in a crash.
***IF I could have "tried them on BEFORE buying", would I have gotten the same size? - Probably not, and an unfair question because the break-in is influencing the fit now. A different size would break in differently and could actually cause pain in the toe box or heel reinforcement area.
As @Chief T 's post illustrates, there could be construction differences between models and versions that would affect ordering / sizing / comfort too.

HOWEVER, since @Indie_Ridge_Steve is on here now, the logical thing to do is ask him your questions directly. He's the guy who designed the boots, authorized modifications, and chooses the materials for construction. He knows it better than anyone.
And the best part is he cares about his product, his customers, and is genuinely concerned about making every customer happy. .......He should consider himself very lucky my Ex doesn't have a pair of his boots....
;)
 
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