I would NEVER wear another boot other than Gaerne. I had on a "different boot" and was in an accident. My leg was sucked in between my tire and boot. The boot I had on melted to my leg and caused 3rd degree burns that required skin grafts. This accident happened at High Point Raceway and Tim Coombs just happened to be right where I wrecked. He could not BELIEVE what he saw with this other "boot". I have worn Gaerne ever since and never worried about my calfs. I promote this boot extensively. Please visit my blog at http://athomas37.blogspot.com/ that is devoted to my race program and to promote my sponsors in a positive light. Thanks