If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort of wet socks during motorcycle rides — whether from river crossings or rain — you know how important waterproof boots can be. Especially, if you were on a multi-day journey and had to put those cold, damp socks back on the next morning after a night of camping. 

Traditionally, makers of  waterproof adventure boots have focused features on touring comfort rather than all-out protection. Adventure riders who enjoy exploring challenging off-road trails have often made due with bulky motocross boots, as finding a waterproof adventure boot with a high-level of protection for the rough stuff, along with comfort and walkability for longer journeys can be a challenge.

In an attempt to meet the market, Dutch gear maker REV’IT! set out to create the ultimate do-it-all adventure boot, for those spending a lot of time in the dirt, with the release of their award winning Expedition H2O boot back in 2019. But they didn’t stop there, releasing an updated version in 2022 that now incorporates Gore-Tex waterproofing and other key refinements. Let’s take a look.

What You Get

Starting from the bottom, the Expedition GTX gives you steady footing for trails and slippery rocks with the use of a Vibram Apex hiking sole. Inside, the interior utilizes a breathable, waterproof Gore-Tex membrane with a plush 3D mesh lining for extra comfort. There is also a polypropylene insole with integrated shank for increased support for standing long periods on the pegs.

A BOA closure system is a cornerstone feature, utilizing a web of aircraft-grade stainless steel wires running through a network of channels, tightened with a rotating knob, to ensure a snug, even, all-around fit. The main body of the boot is nubuck leather reinforced with Superfabric along the top of the foot for increased abrasion protection, while the heel and toe areas get thermoformed reinforcement, plus a rubber shift pad, for extra durability. 

Further up the boot, the shins are protected by a heavy-duty TPU plate, backed by Seesoft armor, held in place with a Velcro closure. At the back, REV’IT!’s Dynamic Support Frame (DSF) provides a rigid TPU structure from the heel to the calf, with an free-flex ankle pivot that offers built-in protection against torsion and hyperextension. 

Along with the new set of Gore-Tex labels comes their 100% waterproof guarantee, and that’s on top of REV’IT!’s own 2-year overall warranty. What’s more, the boots are CE certified to EN 13634 safety standards and have achieved a level 2 IPS ‘impact resistance’ rating.

First Impressions

The  Expedition GTX is definitely a nice looking boot from a design perspective. I’d ridden in the original Expedition ‘H2O’ boots extensively, which are a similar design, and had grown quite fond of them. My only major gripe with the previous iteration was the difficulty squeezing in and out of them, especially with my big dogs (12.5 US / 47 EU). Also, there were some waterproofing concerns with the Hydratex membrane in the first production run, which was later addressed, but the pair I had never leaked.

Slipping on the new Expedition GTXs for the first time, I was immediately surprised with how easily my foot glided into place. The opening has been widened significantly by giving the BOA cable additional slack so that the tongue can be pulled farther outward. A large glove-friendly pull tab in back also aids getting your heel snugly in. Getting your foot out of the boots no longer takes a herculean effort either. With a push of the BOA dial and a few twists, the boot is snugly tightened around your foot and leg with even pressure, and locked in for the day. 

I especially appreciated the ability to fine tune the tightness with small incremental ratcheting clicks. Often with buckle-style boots, adjusting the buckle position can be a chore. I also hate when buckles pop open during a ride, which can lead to them getting snapped off on a rock. The Expeditions have a completely smooth surface with nothing to catch on roots, rocks or branches.

How They Performed

For just walking around, the Expedition GTXs are on the light side for such a tall boot. They are each about a pound lighter than a pure motocross boot like an Alpinestars Tech 10 or Sidi Crossfire. Comfort level is high around the foot and ankle area without any hotspots or tightness.

The hinged ankle also has a soft initial flex that aids walking, although an ankle lockout mechanism does prevent full extension. Short hikes in the mile range or so are no problem, yet I wouldn’t want to hike in them all day. Riding in them all day with a short hike in between, they are perfectly comfortable and you won’t be dying to get into your shoes as soon as you arrive at camp. But be advised when entering restaurants or other indoor spaces, these boots do squeak a bit, so you might want to lube those hinges up.

As far as the grip, the Vibram hiker sole works great climbing around on slippery rocks. They grip well when standing on the pegs too. Although I did notice some subtle fatigue in the arches when standing for long periods, despite the shank. As far as feel on the pegs, the lighter, less-bulky design gives them an edge over pure motocross boots, yet they can still take a serious whack.

There were plenty of times during testing when I went toe-on with a solid rock or smashed into one with my ankle. While I didn’t have any big offs, I did get my boot caught under the bike when negotiating slow technical trails. In all of those situations, I never had any foot or ankle pain from an impact. There’s more than enough protection for the level of technical off-road riding most people are going to do on an adventure bike.

Compared to a motocross boot, they have similar protection in the toe, heel, ankle, calf and shin area. However, they are more pliable around the sides of the upper leg and there is a bit more flex in the toe. The boots are not quite as tall as a typical moto boot (shorter by about ¼-½ inch) but definitely tall enough to cover the gap between your adventure suit knee pads.

One challenge of riding with a waterproof boot is a lack of venting and breathability on hot days. For some riders, this can be a major problem. Personally, I don’t run into this issue much but I will say the reduced bulk and the Gore-Tex shell give them a high level of breathability. I never got hot foot or felt like my socks were building up moisture from sweat. 

As far as waterproofing, throughout my journeys they kept my feet dry, even after spending hours riding in the rain, submerging them in puddles and traversing countless stream crossings. I even tried a full submersion test for 3+ minutes and water never seeped through. Sometimes boots stay dry for the first season or two and start to leak after that. It’s nice knowing that they come with a Gore-Tex 100% waterproof guarantee if that ever happens.

Who Are They For

Anyone looking for an adventure boot that does it all. Throughout testing, these boots stayed dry in rain and muck, were easy to walk in with high levels of comfort, while still providing protection that’s in the range of a pure motocross boot. While they are a pricey investment, the comprehensive features make them worth consideration for ADV riders who regularly explore challenging trails or those who want extra protection, along with comfort, for their off-road excursions.

Our Verdict

The REV’IT! Expedition GTX adventure boots offer a compelling blend of protection, comfort, and waterproofing for adventure riders. With unique features like the Vibram Apex hiking sole, Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable membrane, and BOA closure system, these boots are designed to handle both technical off-road terrain and longer journeys. The updated design addresses previous issues, making them easier to put on and take off, while maintaining their waterproof integrity. While they might not be a first choice for racing an enduro, they offer plenty of protection for aggressive adventure riding. Overall, the Expedition GTX boots make few sacrifices and stand out as a versatile and durable investment for the serious adventure rider.

What We Liked

• High level of protection.
• 100% waterproof.
• Easy to put on or take off in seconds.
• All-day comfort for your feet.
• Not too bulky, stiff or heavy for a short hike.

What Could Be Improved

• Definitely on the pricey side.

Expedition GTX Specs

• Colors: Black/Gray
• Sizes: EU 39-47
• Measured Weight: 3 pounds, 15 oz (size 47 pair)
• MSRP: $899

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Author: Rob Dabney

Rob Dabney started a lifelong obsession with motorcycles at the age of 15 when he purchased his first bike – a 1982 Honda MB5. Through his 20’s and 30’s he competed in off-road desert races, including the Baja 250, 500 and 1000. Eventually, his proclivity for exploration led him to dual sport and adventure riding. Rob’s never-ending quest to discover what’s around the next bend has taken him on Adventures in Latin America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and throughout the American West. As a moto journalist, he enjoys inspiring others to seek adventure across horizons both near and far.