The TCX ClimaTrek Surround are high quality vegan boots that perform from path to pavement

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Introduced in 2022, the ClimaTrek Surround is a rugged, outdoor styled motorcycle boot. Full Gore-Tex membrane, fully-synthetic construction, Ortholite footbed for increased comfort and Groundtrax outsole for improved grip, even when walking on light off-road surfaces.

Are they comfortable?

Much like a good pair of walking boots, the ClimaTrek felt solid and secure straight from the box. A little stiff, perhaps – but not uncomfortably so and there was no restriction in articulation from the start.

After 6000 all-weather miles, they have become more supple and are one of the most comfortable pairs of boots I own – biking or otherwise. The lace closure is a simple, tried and tested system and while it might be low tech it allows for perfect adjustment and a secure fit.

The Ortholite footbeds are something I use in all my proper outdoor footwear, so are a welcome addition to the ClimaTrek boots. They are extremely comfortable on, or off the bike and I’ve worn them for a full day on my feet at Motorcycle Live with no complaints. They’re warm but breathable so usable all year round.

Do they look good?

I’ve always been a fan of slightly leftfield stuff – as long as it works. The ClimaTrek’s styling is so unlike traditional bike kit that while they work great with my usual touring kit, they don’t look like you forgot your civvies wearing them around the office for the day with jeans.

They’re so unusual they won’t be to everyone’s taste. But the rugged, walking boot style works for me, and I pretty much only wear black and grey clothing every day. They’re a hit for me.

How high quality are they?

The ClimaTrek surround really are tough as old boots. Nothing has worn, frayed, broken… not even the laces. They’re as well made as any bike kit I’ve ever used.

After almost two years all-weather use, they remain waterproof, too. Only once have they ever leaked, from a 2-hour motorway ride in torrential, relentless rain. The left boot leaked most from the constant heavy spray of traffic in the adjacent lane.

Any breathable, waterproof fabric has a point where it’ll be overwhelmed, so this sole (no pun intended) failure isn’t enough to stop me from wearing them again.

Protection and CE ratings

The ClimaTrek Surround are CE rated 1 (designates a short boot), then its 2 across the board for abrasion, impact cut and crush resistance. WR for water resistance and WAD for water absorption too.

Protection comes from reinforcements to the shin, malleolus, toe and heel. The upper is made from high-tenacity synthetic materials, giving the boots an overall tough feeling.

Unlike traditional bike boots they lack the armour and perhaps structural support. But think of them as hopped-up city boots on steroids and they offer a lot more support and protection than some.

I’ve never crashed in them, but I feel confident riding in them. I never feel like my feet are vulnerable when I’ve got them on.

Are they good value?

The ClimaTrek have had a small update for 2024 which hasn’t affected the retail price of £199.99. But it means online deals are available and we’ve seen the first generation model (which is what I have) for as low as £159.99. Whether you’ll see that as good value or not depends largely on whether this style of boot appeals to you.

For me, I like the styling, and they perform so well in almost all conditions, with such little sign of wear over the two years I’ve used them I think it’s a reasonable price for proper Gore-Tex boots. As I’ll only wear cruelty-free, vegan kit my options are more limited than some people’s, so finding suitable kit that performs this well definitely puts a tick in the value box.

The bottom line

Strong, comfortable, waterproof, vegan friendly boots you can use all day on or off the bike, whether you’re riding, walking, or standing around at a show or race meet. They’re clearly built to last, look good in the office or pub, and they’ve become the boots I compare all others to. If the styling works for you, they won’t let you down and while the price might seem a bit high, they’ll earn their keep for years to come.

While you’re here: How MCN tests products

At MCN we pride ourselves on our rigorous product testing, putting thousands of miles and/or hours on the kit we review to give you our definitive verdict.

Our team of expert journalists have decades of experience to call upon, and cover serious mileage to delivery impartial buying advice you can rely on.

We’ll never suggest you buy something we haven’t tested, and if we don’t like what we’re testing we’ll tell you that too.

To find out more, head to our dedicated page explaining how we test motorcycle products.

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