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EN 13634: 2017
Protective footwear for motorcycle riders. Requirements and test methods.

General design and whole boot tests

A number of requirements cover the general design of footwear for motorcyclists. These include an assessment of properties such as the height of the upper and the type of seam constructions. There are also tests on the integrity of the whole boot, including measurement of the bond strength between upper and outsole, and a test to assess the transverse rigidity of the boot.

Tests on components

Tests on the upper, lining and insole components of the boot include the pH value and an assessment for the presence of chrome VI in any leather materials. Tear strength is also evaluated, as is abrasion resistance for linings, and abrasion resistance and water absorption/desorption for insole boards.

All materials must also be tested for colour fastness to water. Specialised protective tests on the upper include assessments of impact cut resistance and abrasion resistance using the tests defined in EN 13595 parts 2 and 4.

The outsole components of the footwear must be tested for resistance to abrasion and hydrolysis (if made from polyurethane), plus an assessment of strength of any interlayer bonds. There are also requirements for the design of the cleats and overall thickness of the outsole.

Optional tests

There are five optional properties that can be tested if the manufacturer wishes to make specific claims. These include impact energy protection to the shin and ankle, resistance to water penetration, resistance to fuel oil of the outsole, slip resistance of the outsole, and water vapour permeability of the upper.