New Enough (
www.newenough.com) has a closeout on certain colors and sizes of the latest Sidi Vortice (pronounced Vor-tee-chay) race boot. These things typically run $475 and they are selling them for $329, which happens to be the same price they are charging for Sidi Vertigos. Anyway, I bought a pair and thought I would let the rest of you know what they are like.
I already have a pair of Sidi Vertigo Corsas (VCs), which were Sidis top-of-the-line race boot until they introduced the Vortice. The VCs are the most comfortable boot I've ever owned, at least while you are on the bike. They definitely aren't for walking around and getting them on takes a little effort (follow the manual directions until you get the hang of it). I figured the Vortices would be the same thing with minor changes.
Well, the Vortice is an entirely new boot, although the heritage of the VC is evident in its design. Right out of the box, it is obvious that the Vortice is heavier and laterally stiffer than the VC. The boots don't really feel heavier on, but it is noticeable when you are handling them. The sole seems a little beefier on the Vortice (it's replaceable as are most things on the boot) and the side support "arms" are much stronger.
The boots take a little more time to open and close because they have an additional “techno tensioner” over the shin plate (for a total of 3). However, they are a little easier to put on because they have an inner boot and the rear portion of the armored shaft can be pivoted out of the way while you are putting your foot in. Once they are on, they feel just like the VCs, meaning extremely comfortable. They are probably a little less practical for street use, because the VCs made it easier to open the top of the boot wide when you need to walk or stand. The Vortices have the same feature, but the maximum opening seem smaller.
So are they a good buy? At $329, I think they are a steal. There certainly isn't another boot in that price range that offers anywhere near the same protection or fit options. Are they better than the VCs? Well, they certainly offer a little more protection, but the VCs are probably a little more "practical" for the street (note that I wouldn't have said that before trying the Vortices). You couldn't go wrong with either one, but for the same money I would buy the Vortice. However, the fashion conscious should note that the Vortice doesn't have the cool, carbon fiber shin plate that was the hallmark of the VC.
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