If you read our TCX Comp Evo Michelin Boot Review, then you know we are fans of this Italian brand as much as any other, but the Comp Evo Michelin is TCX’s flagship motocross model, and it isn’t cheap. Fortunately, for those on a budget, TCX also offers its X-Helium off-road boot, which comes in at a more consumer-friendly $289. TCX recently released the following information on the X-Helium boot:
strong>March 10, 2017 – Blending the best technical features of a pure moto boot with the more specialized needs of an enduro rider or a dual-sporter, TCX elevates the off-road arena with the 2017 X-Helium. From the trick top buckle to the bottom of its exclusive Michelin® MX Hybrid sole, the X-Helium lives up to the company’s “Focus On Boots” motto. And unlike its predecessor, the X-Helium 2.0 is available in more than just black and white: Fluorescent Yellow joins the colorways.
“Of course we had to add some Italian-style to our proven design,” says TCX R&D head Marco Poloni. “While we may have made a concession to the style-conscious with the addition of Fluorescent Yellow scheme, it is still the performance that counts. A more fitted toe box, narrower sole and the breathable AIR TECH microfiber padded liners make the X-Helium feel as good as it looks.”
To elevate the boot, TCX focused on the best selling 1.1 Pro and upped the spec while keeping the price down. Building on the best features of the earlier Pro model, the X-Helium gets what have been referred to as “the best buckles in the business” – the same ones found on the top-of-the line TCX Comp EVO. The Helium also benefits from the same exclusive Michelin® MX Hybrid sole found on the EVO.
The buckles are ergonomically designed for easier opening, even with gloves on. Micro-adjustability means the boots fit like they were tailor made for each rider. Should anything ever happen, the aluminum buckles are also fully interchangeable.
Heart and soul of any TCX competition boot is their Michelin sole. The “X” benefits from a Michelin MX Hybrid sole specifically designed to combine grip, traction and stability. Michelin’s engineers were inspired by their Multiway 3D Tire combining micro-grroves for water evacuation with macro-wipes in the rear for multi-directional traction.
Meanwhile the red portion is made of the same incredibly long-wearing high-durometer material used on the TCX Comp EVO. “My TCX X-Helium dirt boots have taken a year of abuse and keep coming back for more” said RevZilla’s Spurgeon Dunbar in naming the TCX X-Helium a 2016 ZLA Awards winner for dirt boots. “They saved me from a broken ankle or foot twice while riding the Tiger off-road. I really like their Michelin sole for off-road riding.”
Bottom line: Top-shelf features, mid-point price and a great sole on the bottom make for the best all-around off-road boot on the market top to bottom. It also represents the best bang for the buck, priced nearly $300 less than the moto-focused Comp EVO.
COLORS_White, Black, Black/Yellow Fluorescent
SIZES_US 5 – 14 (EU 38 – 49)
UPPER_leather upper, padded front and ankle areas
AIR-TECH LINING_AIR TECH breathable lining
REINFORCEMENTS_inside suede heat guard, shin plate, polyurethane heel, ankle and toe guards
ALUMINUM BUCKLES_four (4) micro-adjustable buckles, replaceable
SOLE_Michelin® MX Hybrid sole – a TCX exclusive
MSRP: $289.99
TCX: Focused on Boots.
Technology and Innovation are central components to the TCX brand. For decades TCX has crafted premium boots and footwear to motorcyclists throughout the world. Regardless of a rider’s preference, TCX has a purpose-built model for every type of riding, each conceived and constructed by TCX designers and technicians. The 2016 TCX line represents the epitome of our capabilities and benefits: superb style, maximum comfort and class-leading safety TCX is known for. Every product is a reflection of our long standing dedication, tireless commitment to detail and an obsessive quest to create the best for our athletes, dealers and valued customers without whose invaluable input that guides every phase of TCX development from new model concepts to groundbreaking “beyond industry standard” protective innovation. This is how we create the best boots and footwear for passionate motorcyclists, proven champions and daily riders. You focus on your ride and TCX will focus on boots. See the 2017 TCX collection at www.ridetcxboots.com
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