With the new Speedforce, Alpinestars wants to reduce the gap between running shoe and motorcycle shoe. They succeeded in many ways, and they are certainly innovative, although the question remains whether you should necessarily want to run in motorcycle shoes. Let us assume that you do not.
Then this Speedforce is a motorcycle shoe with the looks of a running shoe. Then this MATRYX® ankle-high motorcycle shoe is a perfect and light companion on and off the bike, under your desk or on your travels on foot.
Matryx®?
Hardwearing, sturdy, light and easily adaptable depending on where it is used. Optimizing the thickness and therefore the weight is what it's all about. The light weight and versatility of the Matryx® fabric makes it easy to use.
The light weight and the versatility of the material allow for a high-cut design, which offers enough protection for your ankles. At first sight this contrasts a bit with the sock-like finish of the Speedforce, but it also makes it a full-fledged motorcycle shoe. Your ankle is well and firmly wrapped, that's for sure, and Alpinestars takes into account the 'normal' anatomy of your foot, to add lateral TPU-discs. They then take the three-letter words a bit further, providing the same material further forward as well, where it serves as support for the TPF (Transversal Protection Frame) technology. This is essentially a transverse metal bar at the forefoot, which of course reduces the risk of damage to the foot itself. Together with the heel and toe protection and the PU midsole, the list of deployed protection materials is extensive. And you can't really tell from the Speedforce, because Alpinestars wants to reduce the gap between running shoe and motorcycle shoe.
Hence the 8 mm height difference between the heel and toe. This 'drop' ensures optimal running comfort. The ergonomic Ortholite® insole for durable cushioning and high breathability contributes to this. Just like the Softprene 'slip sock' construction on top.
And that brings us back to the beginning: is this a running shoe? The Speedforce certainly looks it. But first and foremost, it remains a very strong and innovative motorcycle shoe.
