Alpinestars Austral GORE-TEX Shoes Review 2026

4.6/5.0
By Max H June 6, 2026
Looks / Appearance 4.5 / 5.0
Functionality 4.6 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.5 / 5.0

Pros

1. Gore-Tex liner delivers proven all-weather waterproof performance while maintaining genuine breathability
2. PrimaLoft insulation on the forefoot and toe adds meaningful warmth for cold-weather touring
3. Sports sole with flexible inner structure provides exceptional walking comfort on and off the bike

Cons

1. At £209.99 they’re a premium investment that suits high-mileage touring riders more than occasional riders
2. The hi-top profile is less suited to warm, dry conditions than a lower-cut riding shoe
3. PrimaLoft insulation adds warmth but may make them uncomfortably warm in summer

The Austral GORE-TEX Shoes approach touring footwear from the top down. A streamlined hi-top design combines a lightweight, durable and abrasion-resistant microfiber upper with a proven Gore-Tex liner that delivers all-weather waterproof performance while remaining highly breathable. For riders who spend long hours in the saddle in variable conditions, the combination of Gore-Tex and PrimaLoft insulation strategically positioned on the forefoot and toe areas adds a level of warmth and comfort that makes a real difference on longer cold-weather runs.

Protection is handled through a practical layering system. Dual density ankle protectors sit between the upper and padded lining to provide targeted protection in the critical ankle area. A TPU heel counter adds impact protection and support at the rear, and strategically positioned internal toe box reinforcements are layered under the upper for a streamlined ergonomic profile. The asymmetric toe design covers the shift area, and the perforated microfiber tongue combined with soft textile construction on the rear calf balances breathability and comfort. A removable anatomic EVA footbed with Lycra lining delivers superior support underfoot.

The rubber sole uses a special compound for grip and shock absorption, incorporating an integrated support shank for rigidity. A sports sole design with a highly flexible inner structure delivers exceptional walking comfort, making these shoes a practical choice in environments where you spend as much time on your feet as on the bike. A lace closure plus lateral hook and loop system provides a secure, adjustable fit, and wide aperture entry makes getting in and out straightforward. CE certified to EN 13634:2017.

Who are the Alpinestars Austral GORE-TEX Shoes aimed at?

The Austral GORE-TEX Shoes are aimed at adventure and touring riders who face variable or cold, wet conditions and need footwear that performs in all weathers without sacrificing walking comfort or CE-certified protection. At £209.99, they’re a premium-end touring shoe investment for riders who cover serious mileage in unpredictable conditions.

Specifications:

– CE certification: EN 13634:2017
– Upper: Lightweight, durable abrasion-resistant microfiber
– Waterproofing: Gore-Tex liner
– Insulation: PrimaLoft on forefoot and toe areas
– Ankle protection: Dual density ankle protectors
– Heel counter: TPU impact protection
– Toe protection: Asymmetric toe design, internal toe box reinforcement
– Tongue: Perforated microfiber with soft textile
– Footbed: Removable anatomic EVA with Lycra lining
– Sole: Special rubber compound, integrated support shank, sports sole with flexible inner structure
– Closure: Lace plus lateral hook and loop, wide aperture entry
– Price: £209.99

The Austral GORE-TEX Shoes deliver a well-considered combination of proven Gore-Tex waterproofing, PrimaLoft insulation, CE-certified protection, and genuine walking comfort in a touring shoe that earns its price over the course of many miles. For adventure and touring riders who ride through rather than around the British weather, there’s a compelling case for what they bring to the kit.

Our Verdict

The Austral GORE-TEX Shoes are a premium, well-specified all-weather touring shoe that justifies its price for riders who cover serious mileage in variable conditions. Gore-Tex waterproofing, PrimaLoft warmth, CE-certified protection, and exceptional walking comfort make for a compelling combination at £209.99 for the right rider.

Pros

1. Gore-Tex liner delivers proven all-weather waterproof performance while maintaining genuine breathability
2. PrimaLoft insulation on the forefoot and toe adds meaningful warmth for cold-weather touring
3. Sports sole with flexible inner structure provides exceptional walking comfort on and off the bike

Cons

1. At £209.99 they’re a premium investment that suits high-mileage touring riders more than occasional riders
2. The hi-top profile is less suited to warm, dry conditions than a lower-cut riding shoe
3. PrimaLoft insulation adds warmth but may make them uncomfortably warm in summer