The Royal Enfield Wanderer WP is an excellent option for those looking to buy their first pair of riding boots as it strikes a good balance between value for money and safety.
By Manav Sinha
Photography By Hiyan ChauhanWhen it comes to motorcycling, the right set of riding gear can make all the difference. The reason it needs to be the right gear is because different types of gear serve different purposes. For instance, since we’re talking about riding boots here, an adventure boot won’t offer the best protection on the racetrack and vice versa. That’s because their construction and the areas they reinforce are entirely different, almost opposite in fact. But before you, as a rider, figure out what kind of motorcycling experience really excites you, you’ll need a pair of boots that offer solid protection – a reliable starting point in your journey toward finding your groove.
That brings us to the boots in question for this review – the Royal Enfield Wanderer WP. While Royal Enfield already makes another pair simply called the ‘Wanderer’ – an unnecessary and confusing naming decision, in my opinion – the WP version offers better protection, waterproofing capabilities (hence the ‘WP’ in the name), and is priced just under ₹10,000. After spending some time riding in these high-ankle boots – including during the press ride of the Classic 650 featured earlier in this issue – I am quite impressed with the overall value they offer.
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What you get for the money is impressive comfort, especially if, like me, you prefer shoes with a wider toe box and solid protection overall. I particularly appreciate the amount and placement of reflective elements on the boots. While the ratchet buckles do feel somewhat cost-conscious in their construction, they offer excellent adjustability and are far better than dealing with laces. The sole is grippy, and the inner cushioning adds to the overall comfort. There’s ample protection around the ankle, heel, and toe areas, and it features a toe shift patch as well. While I (thankfully) didn’t get a chance to test their crash performance, the boots inspire confidence from the get-go. Plus, their waterproofing means you won’t have to shy away from tough conditions or unpredictable terrain if you encounter them during the ride. That said, because they’re sealed for waterproofing, ventilation is non-existent. It’s not a dealbreaker by any means, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind.
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To sum it up, while the Wanderer WP may not push the envelope in terms of build quality or value, especially compared to some of Royal Enfield’s newer riding gear, it doesn’t compromise on the fundamentals of what makes a solid riding boot. The price is spot-on for newer riders investing in their first proper pair, and what you get in return is exactly what you expect. Now, as you explore your motorcycling style, you will eventually move on to more specialised gear, but until then, the Wanderer WP can be a dependable, well-rounded choice. With the added peace of mind that comes from a trusted manufacturer, it’s our top recommendation in this price bracket.