Dainese Metractive Air boots in green

The Dainese Metractive Air is a short, trainer style ankle boot. And at first sight it looks like several similar boots from any of the regular suspects. But there’s no two ways about it, the Metractive Air is different. The upper is made of a highly ventilated knit which means these boots are light and comfortable in even the hottest weather.

 

The Metractive may be light to wear but it is still protective. You get a really, really strong counter in the toe, another in the heel, and protective pucks on both ankles. What adds to this impression of strength is the incredibly stiff Groundtrax sole that contains a shank for added rigidity. This is one stiff sole. There’s also a gearchange pad on the toe.

 

Now the boot has both laces and a zip up the inner side.  One nice touch, though, is that at the top of the laces there’s a poppered ‘lace  garage’ that allows you to tuck the laces out of the way, so they don’t get caught on the pegs, or anything else.

 

For comfort, you get an Ortholite insole for your foot to mould into. The top of the shaft is also nicely padded; again in the interests of increased comfort, both on and off the bike. Finally, there’s a tough pull loop at the back of the boot to help you pull it on. The loop also has some reflective detailing on it.

 

In summary, a short, ankle boot that looks like many others, but this one is simply stronger and more protective. Try one on, and you’ll see what we mean.