“Gaerne is putting new horsepower on the ground” they tell us with the launch of the new Gaerne SG.22 off-road boot, the evolution of the widely used SG.12 model. 60 years of expertise is behind the new boot research and development process which they say has created a combination of “Made in Italy craftsmanship with cutting-edge materials and technical solutions”. Gaerne say that every component and detail of the new SG.22 has been fine-tuned including a new, 3D Main Body Toe Box which adopts a three-dimensional construction. This new design brings a reduction in the height they say, between the sole and the top, effectively under the gearshift, increasing the speed and ease of shifting gears. Improve geometry mimics ankle movementThe geometry of the boot ankle mechanism has also been modified they explain to allow the boot to better copy ankle movement. The goal of the Gaerne technicians was to improve ergonomics without sacrificing safety. Dual Stage Pivot System 1.0Gaerne’s “Dual Stage Pivot System 1.0” protects the ankle with two switches which limit hyperextension, hyperflexion, and lateral movements. The front shin plateThe front shin plate also has two air vents channelling fresh air through 3D channels designed to “create cavities capable of facilitating the evacuation of humidity and the dissipation of heat”.injected memory foamInternally, the injected memory foam has also been re-engineered to adopt the shape of the ankle better, stabilising the whole foot and allowing the foot to become one with the boot. Inner Grip Guard 1.0As you’d expect, the boot also houses an inner Grip Guard 1.0 rubber element with a compound developed with professional riders to improve protection and the “coefficient of friction” for better riding feel. New sole The sole of the new SG.22 features dual density inserts to “guarantee grip and durability” without forgetting traction and cushioning while walking. The Microshock heel also features a compound with different densities designed to provide protection from micro-impact when cornering.Aluminum Superlight BuckleNew’ Aluminum Superlight Buckle’ levers have a fresh painted finish plus the classic adjustment strap’s upper locking lever can be adjusted in three positions. Combined with the two positions guaranteed by the new Frontal Shin Guard, that makes it possible to use multiple configurations for better the fit and allow easy insertion knee protectors.  Don’t forget the pinkiesA new Steel Bumper 1.0 toe insert between the sole and the upper has reduced thickness compared to previous models, which maintains the protective capacity but reduces weight. Finally, the Goodyear Welted construction unique to Gaerne boots allows them to create a solid and resistant build which boasts durability as one of the strengths of every product rolling off the production lines. Practically this also allows the possibility of resoling the boot without compromising the upper (and therefore giving new life to the boot). The new SG22 is already on the feet of some big name riders who’ve helped development including the 2022 EnduroGP World Champion Andrea Verona, plus the complete Sherco Racing Team and Honda RedMoto Enduro Factory Team. Gaerne say the biggest feedback from these guys is the decreased weight and reduction in the height between the sole and the gear lever with no need for boots to be “broken in” prior to racing.