The Gaerne Dakar Gore-Tex is a tall adventure-touring motorcycle boot designed for riders who want waterproof protection, supportive ankle construction and a tread that can cope with both tarmac and unsealed roads. Choose from black or brown nubuck leather, with the same core protective and weatherproof specification in each colour.
Dakar sits between a road-touring boot and Gaerne's more heavily structured off-road designs. Its wrap-around ankle pivot supports lateral movement while retaining useful forward flex, and its two-buckle closure makes adjustment straightforward. That balance suits adventure bikes, touring and mixed-surface trips where time on the bike may be broken up by fuel stops, sightseeing or short walks.
Gaerne Dakar Gore-Tex construction
Waterproof Gore-Tex membrane
The internal Gore-Tex membrane is waterproof and breathable. It is intended to keep water outside while allowing moisture vapour to escape, making Dakar a practical option for changeable weather and longer journeys.
Wrap-around ankle pivot
Gaerne's pivot system supports the ankle laterally without locking out the forward movement needed for shifting, braking and walking. The rear structure also adds support against compression.
Nubuck and microfibre upper
Nubuck leather forms the main upper, with microfibre inserts at the front and rear to help the boot flex. An anatomically shaped, PU-injected shin plate and a reinforced heel add structure around key areas.
Adjustable, replaceable closure
Two lightweight buckles can be adjusted and replaced, while the broad upper hook-and-loop panel fine-tunes the fit around the calf. The layout is simple to operate and accommodates different leg shapes and trouser arrangements.
Who are Dakar boots for?
Dakar is aimed at adventure and touring riders who spend most of their time seated or standing on the motorcycle but also want a sole with useful off-bike traction. The inner suede panel is designed to provide grip against the bike and resist exhaust heat, while the reinforced toe area includes protection where the gear lever contacts the boot.
For long road tours, the waterproof membrane and removable anatomical insole are the headline features. For gravel roads and easier trails, the shin, heel and ankle construction offer more structure than a short touring boot. Dakar is not a direct substitute for an SG.22 or SG-12 when motocross-level structure is the priority, so compare it with the wider Gaerne boots range if your riding is mainly technical off-road.
Adventure boot or motocross boot? Choose Dakar when weather protection, touring comfort and mixed road use matter most. Choose a dedicated motocross or enduro boot when maximum off-road structure, taller shin coverage and discipline-specific impact protection take priority.
Fit and sizing
Use the size guide on the product page and compare it with your measured foot length. Try the boots with your normal riding socks and fasten both buckles from a neutral setting. Your heel should remain controlled, your toes should not touch the front, and the widest part of the foot should not feel pinched.
Next, close the upper panel around the calf and check your riding trousers. If you wear trousers inside the boot, make sure the fabric does not bunch or create a pressure point. If the trousers sit outside, confirm that the hem closes comfortably over the shin. Bend into your normal riding stance and check that you can operate the gear lever and rear brake without fighting the boot.
The Dakar is supportive by design, so a new pair may feel firmer than a casual walking boot. Firmness is acceptable; sharp pressure, heel lift or numbness is not. If you are unsure between sizes, Moto Central can help you compare measurements and fit before you ride in the boots.
Sole, care and long-term use
Gaerne uses its Ideal construction method for the Dakar and states that the sole structure can be resoled. The tessellated tread is designed for durability and grip across asphalt and dirt roads. Clean compacted mud from the tread so it can work as intended, and check the sole, buckles and hook-and-loop closure as part of your normal kit inspection.
Nubuck needs care that preserves its textured finish. Brush away dry dirt before using a suitable nubuck cleaner or proofing product, and follow the care-product instructions. Allow wet boots to dry naturally away from direct heat. Do not apply a general leather polish unless it is specifically suitable for nubuck and the finish you want.
Protection and certification
Gaerne lists the G_Dakar Gore-Tex as CE certified to EN 13634:2017 under Regulation EU 2016/425. The boot is made in Italy and combines an injection-moulded shin plate, reinforced heel, internal toe protection, ankle pivot and heat-resistant inner suede panel. Review the exact product information and supplied labels when the certification details are important for an event or workplace requirement.
Why buy Gaerne Dakar Gore-Tex boots from Moto Central?
Moto Central carries both current Dakar colour options, making it easy to compare black and brown without losing the core specification. You can also browse the wider adventure motorcycle gear range and motorcycle boots in the same place.
Our team can help with sizing, trouser compatibility and the difference between adventure, touring and off-road boot construction. Visit our Wolvey, Leicestershire showroom for in-person help, or order online with free UK delivery over £25 and free 365-day returns, subject to our delivery and returns terms.
Gaerne Dakar Gore-Tex questions
Are Gaerne Dakar boots waterproof?
Yes. The Dakar uses a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex membrane. Keep the upper, closure and membrane area in good condition, and remember that water can still enter over the top of any boot.
What is the difference between black and brown?
The current black and brown Dakar listings share the same core construction and protective features. The choice is primarily the colour and appearance of the nubuck upper.
Can I use the Dakar for off-road riding?
It is designed for adventure touring and mixed surfaces, including dirt roads. For technical enduro or motocross, compare a dedicated off-road boot with the structure and sole intended for that discipline.
Can the buckles be replaced?
Yes. Gaerne describes the two closure buckles as lightweight and replaceable. Match any replacement part to the Dakar model before ordering.
Can Gaerne Dakar boots be resoled?
Gaerne states that the Ideal construction used for the Dakar allows resoling. Ask a suitable motorcycle-boot repair specialist to assess condition and part availability.
Can Moto Central help with Dakar sizing?
Yes. Contact us with your measurements or visit the showroom to compare fit with your usual socks and riding trousers.
