Alpinestars Fastback 2 Drystar Waterproof Shoes Review 2026

4.4/5.0
By Max H June 6, 2026
Looks / Appearance 4.3 / 5.0
Functionality 4.4 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.3 / 5.0

Pros

1. Drystar membrane between upper and lining delivers proven waterproof and breathable wet weather performance
2. TPR ankle protection on medial and lateral sides plus lateral slider covers key impact and abrasion areas
3. Extended cuff adds lower shin coverage beyond a standard shoe profile

Cons

1. The leather and microfiber upper requires more care than fully synthetic alternatives
2. At £189.99 it’s a significant investment compared to non-waterproof alternatives in the same category
3. The CE 89/686/EEC Category 2 certification is an older standard compared to EN 13634:2017

The Fastback 2 Drystar is built for road riding in variable conditions. At its core is Alpinestars’ waterproof and breathable Drystar membrane, positioned between the upper and lining to deliver proven wet weather performance without trapping heat. The aggressive upper design combines leather and microfiber for abrasion resistance and durability, with punched microfiber on the lower tongue and eyelet adding a dynamic look alongside practical ventilation.

Protection is layered through the structure. A TPR ankle protector on the lateral quarter and under the upper on the medial quarter provides strategic protection and flexibility in the key ankle area. A TPR lateral slider adds excellent abrasion protection on the outer side, and the extended cuff increases lower shin coverage beyond a standard shoe profile. An internal toe box and heel counter reinforcement is layered under the upper for an ergonomic design, and tongue and heel area padding delivers high comfort and fit around the ankle and instep. A breathable mesh lining improves comfort and airflow internally, and an advanced rubber compound cup sole moulded to the upper offers stability, grip, support, and walking comfort in one piece. A lace closure with adjustable hook and loop grip strap keeps the fit secure and precise. CE certified to CE Standards CE 89/686/EEC, Category 2.

Who are the Alpinestars Fastback 2 Drystar Waterproof Shoes aimed at?

The Fastback 2 Drystar is aimed at road and sport riders who need waterproof performance and certified protection in a shoe profile that sits between a casual shoe and a full boot. At £189.99, they’re a practical mid-range investment for riders who face regular wet weather and want a shoe that handles it without compromise.

Specifications:

– CE certification: CE 89/686/EEC, Category 2
– Upper: Leather and microfiber combination
– Waterproofing: Drystar membrane between upper and lining
– Ankle protection: TPR on lateral quarter, layered under upper on medial quarter
– Lateral slider: TPR for abrasion protection
– Cuff: Extended for lower shin coverage
– Toe and heel protection: Internal reinforcement under upper
– Lining: Breathable mesh
– Sole: Advanced rubber compound, moulded to upper
– Closure: Lace plus adjustable hook and loop grip strap
– Price: £189.99

The Fastback 2 Drystar Waterproof Shoes are a well-specified road riding shoe that handles wet conditions with the confidence the Drystar name delivers. The leather and microfiber upper, TPR ankle protection, and extended cuff give it proper riding credentials, and the walking-comfortable sole makes them practical in everyday settings. For riders who face regular rain and want a shoe that keeps up, there’s a lot to like.

Our Verdict

The Fastback 2 Drystar Waterproof Shoes are a well-rounded road riding shoe that earns its place for riders who face regular wet conditions. Drystar waterproofing, TPR ankle protection, and an extended cuff make for a spec that goes beyond a basic waterproof shoe, and at £189.99 the price is fair for the level of protection and wet weather performance on offer.

Pros

1. Drystar membrane between upper and lining delivers proven waterproof and breathable wet weather performance
2. TPR ankle protection on medial and lateral sides plus lateral slider covers key impact and abrasion areas
3. Extended cuff adds lower shin coverage beyond a standard shoe profile

Cons

1. The leather and microfiber upper requires more care than fully synthetic alternatives
2. At £189.99 it’s a significant investment compared to non-waterproof alternatives in the same category
3. The CE 89/686/EEC Category 2 certification is an older standard compared to EN 13634:2017