How do motorcycle-specific boots really protect you?

[harnois]

I know there's already a ton of threads on here about boots. I've read a bunch of them but I'm still so indecisive about which boots to buy. When I look at pics of Gaerne Explorers and Sidi Discoveries, and most of the other motorcycle boots that people recommend, I just don't see how those boots would offer much more protection than a tough quality hiking boot or army type boot.

Of course many motorcycle boots have shin guards, but that could dealt with by adding shin guards to the pants.

Hiking boots have the advantage of being able to go hiking without having to carry extra shoes, which could be really important depending on the type of trip.


If there really is a lot of protection to be gained from the motorcycle boots then I'm all about that. Not being able to actually try on different boots is probably the main source of my indecisiveness. I've ridden briefly with MX boots before and that I understand how they would protect a lot. Also I can see how the SIDI boots like the flex force with the ankle pivot are really doing something more than a tough leather boot, but to go that far and spend that much, might as well get the knee braces too and walk around like bionic man. Ya gotta draw the line somewhere.

Exactly what is it about the design of SIDI discos or similar boots that provides better protection than a tough leather hiking boot?