Blog

Jul 24, 2023

Sidi X

At long last, the ladies get a high-end boot designed specifically for the shape

At long last, the ladies get a high-end boot designed specifically for the shape and contour of a woman's foot. Sidi constructed its existing X-3 boot with its "premium features on a budget" for the distinctly slimmer foot of a female, finished with a pink/blue color scheme. The X-3 Lei boasts high-end inner and outer materials (without the inner bootie), the same TA sole as the Crossfire 2, replaceable parts, cam-lock buckles and a hinged ankle all in a very lightweight boot.

LIST PRICE: $375

STANDOUT FEATURE: A high-end women's boot

www.motonation.com

RIDER ANALYSIS:

As a lady rider with a slender foot, I don't hesitate to call these among the best-fitting boots I’ve ever worn. The fit doesn't come from an abundance of padding (padding is rather light), but the actual shape of the footbed, which allows a good amount of control and feedback from the pegs. This especially came to mind at the Tecate Enduro, where miles of tight trail and technical terrain required a lot of precise footwork. Instead of sweaty feet sliding around inside the boot, the Lei's provide a secure fit—a big difference especially in errant foot dabs and quick shifts. Even without thick padding or an inner bootie, overall comfort is sufficient, and the trade-off is an incredibly light boot—another huge factor in performance.

I will say I wish the upper was also fitted a bit more for my slender ankle. Just like my regular (men's) X-3 boots, I have the two lower straps as tight as they will go on the Leis, and I would prefer them even tighter for a more secure fit.

The color scheme is unique, and while I love the blue and pink, it doesn't match most of my gear (in fact, it completely clashes with most of it). This might not seem like an important point of contention, but plenty of ladies will agree that it matters!

The X-3 Lei is a true high-end boot designed around a woman's foot. That in itself is a win. Major kudos to Sidi for giving girls a quality option in off-road footwear. The fit is amazing, especially for ladies with a slender foot. This is a professional-level boot, and at $375, it's not cheap. But if you’re a lady rider serious about performance (and if the color scheme is your taste) the X-3 Lei is worth every penny. CN