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Throttle Closet
Full specification As published
Upper MaterialFull-grain leather
WaterproofingSealed membrane lining
OutsoleOil and slip-resistant rubber
Shaft Height6 inches
Weight1.8 lbs per boot
Mass816 g as published
Coversfeet, ankles
Bench rank75 of 200 on this site
Boots · Rank 75 of 200

Bates Doc Martens Waterproof Motorcycle Boots

by Bates

The Bates Doc Martens Waterproof boot is a sealed-membrane, full-grain leather boot with a 6-inch shaft, built for riders who want reliable dryness across unpredictable weather.

4.4 Rider rating 4.4 out of 5 Bench score 47/100
  • Sealed waterproof membrane
  • 6-inch protective shaft
  • About 816g per boot
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Specs taken from the manufacturer No paid placement Bought at retail
Verdict

The Bates Doc Martens Waterproof boot delivers solid protection and reliable dryness for riders who face unpredictable weather. Its sealed membrane, reinforced shift pad, and slip-resistant outsole make it a dependable choice for daily commuting or touring, though newcomers should expect a break-in period and a heavier boot than casual alternatives.

This Bates waterproof boot is built from full-grain leather over a sealed, moisture-blocking membrane, with a 6-inch shaft that covers the ankle without the bulk of a full off-road boot, at around 816 grams per boot. A reinforced shift pad guards the boot against the repetitive wear of gear changes, and an oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsole handles both foot pegs and wet pavement. Inside, a padded collar and cushioned insole reduce pressure points on longer rides, and a steel shank runs through the sole for arch support. A side zipper paired with lace-up styling gives quick on-and-off access without needing to fully unlace the boot each time. The lace-up front adds a further layer of adjustment over the zipper alone, letting riders snug the fit down around the ankle for a more secure hold.

In wet conditions, the sealed membrane keeps water out reliably, whether it's steady rain or road spray kicked up from other traffic, and the leather upper resists soaking through even after extended exposure. The rubber outsole grips confidently on wet city streets and gravel backroads alike, and the steel shank and cushioned insole keep fatigue down over a full day of riding. The side zipper can stiffen up in cold weather, making it a touch harder to work with gloved hands, and the boot itself needs a short break-in period before the leather softens fully around the ankle. Weight is noticeably higher than a casual boot, a trade-off for the reinforcement built in.

This boot suits commuters facing unpredictable weather and touring riders logging long miles who want dependable waterproofing over a race-focused, low-profile design. The leather and stitching hold up well across multiple seasons, and the rugged, combat-inspired look pairs easily with typical riding gear. Riders wanting a lighter, more minimal boot for warm-weather riding will find this one heavier than necessary, and colour choice is narrower than casual leather boots aimed at non-riders. For anyone prioritising dryness and durability over a sleek profile, though, it remains a dependable, all-weather option that holds up mile after mile. It also holds up well as an everyday boot off the bike, rugged enough for yard work or walking around a job site without looking out of place.

What works
  • Keeps feet dry through rain and wet rides
  • Durable construction built to last multiple seasons
  • Rubber outsole grips well on wet pavement and gravel
  • Comfortable enough for all-day wear once broken in
  • Steel shank adds useful arch support on long rides
  • Rugged, combat-inspired look pairs well with typical riding gear
What doesn't
  • Needs a break-in period before reaching full comfort
  • Noticeably heavier on the foot than standard casual boots
  • Limited colour options for motorcycle-specific styling
  • Side zipper can feel stiff in cold weather
  • Sits at the pricier end versus average waterproof boots
Bench scorecard
Protection50Weather41Airflow31Comfort50Value64

Derived from this product's own specification, key features and owner-reported pros and cons, then adjusted by its rider rating. Same rules for every piece.

Key features
  • Full-grain leather upper
  • Sealed waterproof membrane lining
  • Oil-resistant, slip-resistant rubber outsole
  • 6-inch shaft height
  • Reinforced shift pad for gear changes
  • Padded collar and cushioned insole
  • Steel shank for arch support
Where it sits in boots
This piece 47 Category median 47 Category best 54

Bench rank 11 of 22 in boots. The median piece in this category scores 47; the best scores 54.

What it covers
headfaceneckchestbackshoulderselbowshandswristshipskneesshinsfeetankles

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Who it fits
  • A steady middle-of-the-road choice: nothing it does badly, nothing it wins outright.
Stack it against
Klim Badlands Pro BootsBench 54 · 4.6 ★
Dainese Torque RR Out AirBench 52 · 4.6 ★
Sidi Crossfire 3Bench 47 · 4.6 ★
Alpinestars Supertech RBench 45 · 4.6 ★