Rider RSS Pando Moto Apex Motorcycle Sneakers Review

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Last fall, I dipped my toe into the Pando Moto pond by testing a pair of its Mila Cargo Motorcycle Jeans, which exceeded my expectations and have become a favorite. The brand has recently released its first motorcycle footwear, the Pando Moto Apex Motorcycle Sneakers, and I ordered a pair.

The Apex sneakers are all black with a lightning-bolt-shaped piece of leather on the outer side, the Pando Moto logo in leather on the inner side, high ankles, and an attractive lacing pattern. Their casual-wear appearance nicely complements the style of my Pando Moto cargo jeans beautifully. They’re made of 1.8mm-thick dual-combination full-grain and nubuck leather, and the leather is perforated to provide airflow.



Leather is well-regarded for its abrasion resistance, and the Apex Sneakers have some extra protection as well. They include D3O ankle protectors, vulcanized rubber soles, and reinforced toe cap and heel counters. The thick foam in the inner lining also helps hold the foot in place in the event of a crash. The Apex Sneakers are rated at CE Level 1 across four testing categories: height, abrasion resistance, impact cut resistance, and transverse rigidity.

Out of the box, the shoes felt well-made and durable, and they looked exactly as advertised. The lace pattern looks great but is time-consuming to loosen, with the lace weaving into and out of 18 holes. The pair I ordered fit perfectly, but I had to loosen up the lace nearly all the way down to squeeze my foot in. Once I got my foot in them, I found that the squeeze was a trade-off I could live with, as the shoes felt secure and comfortable. Over the course of a handful of riding days, the leather began breaking in, making it easier to get my foot inside them but still requiring more effort than other motorcycle shoes I’ve tested.



While the shoes are stiff, they’re well-padded on the inside, and I haven’t noticed any sore spots on my feet, ankles, or lower legs while wearing them. As a short rider, I also appreciate that they raise my foot about 1.5 inches off the ground, giving me a little extra height that’s helpful when riding bikes with taller seat heights. The tread feels grippy and provides sure footing – another must-have when reaching for the ground.

Although I need to factor in a little extra time to unlace these shoes to get them on, I’ve enjoyed wearing them thanks to their quality construction, comfort, and secure feeling and fit. I mostly wear them with my Pando Moto cargo jeans, but they look great with other motorcycle jeans and pants as well.

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Made in Portugal, the Pando Moto Apex Sneakers are unisex and available in black in European sizes 37-46 for $275.

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