After a bunch of ride time on and off road I've yet to have any issues with them. Most of the time I forget they are there. Until walking, at which point it feels as if your boots come up above your knees. Still feeling it was money well spent for protecting questionable old knees!
Just received my new Pod K8 2.0's (both left & right) Was going to go with another brand but changed my mind due to Pods fitting videos and simplicity. I have had a custom brace for my left knee for the last seven years. It was heavy and great for skiing but not on the motorcycle. First impressions of the Pod braces out of the box and fitting, they are better than my custom brace and WAY lighter. Also pulling knee pads out of my Klim pants (D30) due to the build and placement of protection on the Pod's. Also without the pads in the pant knee's it's a much nicer fit (the Klim pants are over the boot). After riding these for awhile I'll come back with a ride update but for now I'm impressed with them and glad for going this direction.
While dealing with Brian on this purchase it became obvious I was dealing with a highly knowledgeable, old school motorcycle guy. It reminded me of the guys I would talk with 30 years ago who knew the products, all the products. Tell him what you want and he'll tell you what you need. And it will likely be just that. There's value in this service. The SG12's are a heavy duty boot. To the point I was asking myself " do I need this much protection?" After breaking my leg at the ankle waring my old boots the answer was clearly yes. There are going to take some getting used to no doubt about it but you will have THE best protection money can buy. I can't compare to the Tech 10's because I haven't worn those. The Klim helmet Brian recommended is fantastic as well.
Brian suggested this helmet for the large opening, light weight and ventilation. It performed as advertised. Did my first race with it and had no issues. I didn't even notice it and that's what I want
Replaced my tech 10s with the Sg22s. By far the best boot I’ve had right out of the box and the option for half sizes is nice. Atomic moto was a great company to deal with and I will be making my next purchase with them.