Yup, but they aren’t intended as bike boots so only to be expected. At 16 yrs old they were better than trainers I guess. Only got my first proper bike boots and full leathers after I passed my test and got a ‘big bike’, before that it was a Frank Thomas leather jacket, helmet and gloves, then jeans and random boots. Still makes me cringe when I see people riding in shorts, or without gloves.
Especially around the Greek islands and Italy it seems. I appreciate it’s hot but the potential of sliding down a gravelled road at even 30mph is horrific. Surprisingly I have found North Africa to be more sensible on the whole, or perhaps cultural aspects help. But did see a few in flip flops the last time I went to Algeria. Personal choice is important but I never ride without protective kit, and buy the best I can afford.
