While there is nothing wrong with army surplus para boots, re-purposed engineer boots and even cowboy boots – or indeed a massive range of bike boots of all shapes and sizes, most of which look silly on a Harley – there’s absolutely no reason why we shouldn’t be able to get a decent pair of boots that combine all of the elements we need on a motorcycle with a conventional style capable of breaking out of the tight constraints that we sometimes lock ourselves into.
I was going to say like a pair of brogues, but let’s not jump the gun: these are Rokker’s Urban Racers not their Gentleman Racers, which do feature the decorative perforations – broguing – that gave brogues their name.
Let’s say like tweeds instead: a hard-wearing traditional mode of dress that has been a staple of outdoorsmen – and women, sorry ma’am – long predating motorcycles and the specialist gear that we ride in.
And these hand-made boots illustrate it wonderfully.
They grip like a gecko despite having low-profile tread beneath the cushioned shock-absorbing insole, that 
looks like it’d be as comfortable on carpet as on concrete: you won’t be getting complaints about leaving great chunks of dried mud – or worse still, wet – across the living room.
They’re made from the finest grades of leather – greased vintage cowhide – and use a Goodyear welt, so they could last you a lifetime.
They’ll look comfortable with jeans, leather or even tweeds – whichever colour you pick – although the Gentleman Racer should look even better with the last.
Yet they are waterproof and breathable, with heel, toe and shinbone protection and additional detailing on the inside of the foot, to protect the boot from an engine.
And they take some breaking in, which is ironic bearing in mind that this pair in Antique Black – the darkest hue in this style – look like they’ve been in the family for years and have been very well looked after.
The sensible advice from Rokker’s UK agent is to break them in around the house, but I found that they were fine to ride in almost immediately … just don’t get too ambitious about walking too far or fast until it has formed to your foot.
And when it has, you’ve got boot for life: one that is ideal for the city and for much further beyond.