Riding in summer often comes down to a choice between protection and staying cool, and dedicated riding boots can feel like overkill for city commuting or a short run across town. The TCX Dartwood Tex is built to resolve that tension: a certified motorcycle shoe with a lightweight mesh upper that breathes properly in hot weather, styled to look as at home off the bike as on it. TCX is part of the Dainese Group, and the Dartwood Tex sits in their urban riding range alongside the waterproof GTX and WP variants, making it the warm-weather pick for riders who want airflow over weather protection. Protection is taken seriously despite the casual profile. D3O ankle inserts at the malleolus absorb and dissipate impact energy, reinforcements cover the toe and heel, and the Zplate® midsole insert combines transverse rigidity with longitudinal flex, protecting the foot from crushing while still letting you walk normally. The Groundtrax® rubber outsole uses a hexagonal lug pattern for grip and stability, with a dedicated gear shift area for precision on the pegs. Underfoot, an OrthoLite® footbed provides cushioning and breathability for all-day comfort. The shoe is CE certified to EN 13634, the standard for motorcycle footwear. Closing is handled by a lacing system paired with a side zip for quick entry, and an elastic band on the tongue tidies away the laces. A suede gear change pad adds durability where the shoe meets the lever. Reflective inserts improve visibility in lower-light conditions. The Dartwood Tex is available in black/white only, in sizes 38 to 48. Note: this shoe has no waterproof membrane and is designed specifically for dry and warm conditions. Key Features CE EN 13634 certified: meets the European standard for motorcycle footwear, Cat. II. Mesh fabric upper: lightweight and breathable construction designed for warm-weather and summer riding. No waterproof membrane. D3O® ankle protection: impact-absorbing inserts at the malleolus; soft and flexible in normal use, rigid on impact. Toe and heel reinforcements: structural protection at the key impact zones. Zplate® midsole: TCX's moulded polymer shank provides transverse rigidity to resist crushing while allowing natural foot flex when walking. OrthoLite® footbed: cushioned, breathable insole designed for long-term comfort and moisture management. Groundtrax® rubber outsole: hexagonal lug tread for grip on and off the pegs, with a dedicated gear shift area for precise lever feel. Side zip + lace closure: laces stow under the tongue elastic band for a clean look and snag-free riding. Suede gear change pad: hardwearing reinforcement where the upper meets the gear lever. Reflective inserts: rear reflex detail for improved visibility at night. Why Choose the TCX Dartwood Tex If your riding is mostly urban or warm-weather, the TCX Dartwood Tex gives you genuine certified protection in a shoe that doesn't announce itself as motorcycle gear. The mesh construction handles summer heat well, and the Zplate® midsole and D3O ankle inserts are the real deal rather than token gestures at safety. Worth pairing with waterproof overboots or swapping out for the Dartwood GTX or WP variants if you're riding through a Wellington or Southland winter. A practical, well-specced option for NZ commuters who want protection without bulk.