TCX X-Rap WP boots –
Price £129.99 –
Info www.nevis.uk.com
Ducati were so keen to position their Scrambler as a novice-friendly lifestyle object that for the Californian launch they issued instructions on journalists’ riding gear, suggesting a jet rather than full-face helmet, no full leathers, and “casual shoes with protection”. Fortunately I just had time to grab a pair of X-Rap WPs, which are not only suitably non-threatening but Italian to boot.
The X-Raps certainly look the part, and are very light and comfortable although I was a bit surprised to find the removable insole rucking up slightly when I’d barely set foot outside LAX airport. That apart they did the job perfectly, and manage to conceal reinforced toe, heel and malleolus (ankle bone, to you and me) protection. They also have a waterproof membrane – hence the WP initials – that might have been useful if the untimely desert rain had got any heavier. They come in even more varieties than the Scrambler, including a Retro model and a Gore-Tex boot with extra weather-proofing.
