I've been trying to brainstorm a way to put a rubber shift pad on my boots I'll be using to ride to/from work this year. I have dedicated motorcycle boots (alpinestars SMX-R's) but I'd like to make it easy and wear my work tactical boots and make them double-duty. They're Bate's GX-8's. So the safety is there, that's not my concern, the toe is just a little soft feeling for shifting and I don't want to ruin the leather on the toe as they are my work boots and have to look presentable. The toe is composite but the shifter hits just in the soft part of the leather where the boot flexes.
I found these: http://www.ebay.ca/itm/shifter-skinz-shift-sock-shoe-protectors-boot-protector-gear-shifters-covers-blk-/170872857371?pt=Race_Car_Parts&hash=item27c8d0e31b&vxp=mtr
They seem interesting but I'd like something a little more permanent. I've tried to look for rubber pads specifically for motorcycle boots but can't seem to find any available (besides already on a boot). Is this even something that's possible? Is there a glue out there that is strong enough but will remain flexible? I think I've researched all I can and I don't think there's a product out there for the job. I think the next step is going to some sort of shoe smith, but they seem to be a dying breed anymore.
Just looking for any experience in this area. If not, I guess I'm stuck with getting a shift skinz and see if I like it.
3M also has a rubber tape that might also work. I guess it's one step up from black duct tape ;)
Not sure how long it would stand up to the abuse though.
You could always go the other way and get some form of padding for the shifter itself.
That would help with not damaging my boots but not with the soft toe on the boot.
The shifter skins might be the best route.
I also ride in GX-8s, but the feel of the shifter doesn't bother me and I don't notice any excessive wear or damage to the boot toe that wouldn't have otherwise been there anyway.
Have you considered cut/weld on the shifter lever so it contacts the hard toe rather than the soft spot just behind it? Or even just rotate it on the splined shaft for a different angle? A change in ergos might be all you need...
They also make rubber piece that covers your shifter so it ddoesn't mark your shoes. Several guys i ride with have them. I don't because I ride with motorcycle riding boots ALL THE TIME like you are supposed to