Words: Mike Sleeter

Fly Racing’s reputation for being at the forefront of progressive technology has established it as one of the market leaders and, with the introduction of this latest FR5 boot, the brand doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon.

The FR5 boot is a mid-range product that looks great and is packed full of technology and features. Its 3D moulded plastic shift panel features additional grooves and texture to enhance gear shifting and reducing wear, while the TPU heel-piece is connected to lateral and medial pieces to ensure complete foot coverage and protection.

Additionally, an innovative one-piece plastic-injected ‘fish tail’ mid-sole is reinforced with a metal shank, and the moulded outsole provides increased levels of grip and keeps weight down. A contoured calf plate and pre-shaped, moulded 3D shin pads increase impact resistance.

There are plenty of features to increase comfort, too – soft interior foam surrounds the ankle and collar, the padded microfibre gaiter provides a comfortable seal around the calf, bio-mechanical pivots on both sides of the ankle increase stability and support, and the design of the quick-lock buckles minimises dirt clogging and provides a solid locked-in feel.

From the moment I pulled the boots out of the box, I instantly noticed the weight – the FR5 is extremely light and utilises materials that make breaking in your boot almost a thing of the past. The aluminium buckles are easy to adjust and clip into place and the moulded exterior sole, with no chunky steel toe visible, gives the FR5 boot a great look that reminds me of a snowboard boot.

From the moment I hit the track, I felt like I’d used them for five hours; they were already at ‘optimum break-in’ and offered great feel that allowed me to control the rear brake and shifter with ease. The seal at the top of the calf does a great job of keeping debris out, and even after multiple action berm shots my boot wasn’t full of dirt or sand.

I’d like a little more stiffness in the sole to give more confidence when hitting bigger jumps. That being said, at $379.95 RRP, these are designed for a rider with a budget who still wants a solid, well-performing boot. It’s not developed for professional racers or consumers wanting to spend $650-plus or to compete with the higher-end boots on the market, although Chris Blose did wear the FR5 on his way to the Australian SX2 Championship.

If you ride motocross occasionally or you’re a trail-rider who spends your weekends in the bush or the desert, the Fly FR5 boots will provide everything you need in terms of comfort, protection, aesthetics and durability. I don’t often use boots at this price -point, but after testing the FR5 I was extremely impressed and think they certainly have plenty to offer to a wide consumer base.

For more information on the FR5 boot, check out Fly Racing national distributor McLeod Accessories’ brand site at www.mcleodaccessories.com.au.