Shift Boot Cover – Why You Need One
A shift boot cover may seem like a small and insignificant modification to your stick shift vehicle, but it’s a very important one. It protects the shifting mechanism and helps keep it clean.
There are a number of things to consider when shopping for a replacement shift boot. Here are some of the most important: Genuine leather is better than vinyl, rubber, or cloth.
Customization
The shift boot cover might seem like a minor upgrade or aftermarket part, but it is actually very important. Aside from looking great, a shift boot covers and protects the shifting knob shift boot cover and gearshift. It also prevents dust, dirt, and other debris from getting into the shift mechanism. This could potentially cause problems, especially if the shift mechanism has been lubricated.
Shift boot covers are available in a variety of colors and designs, so you can match them to the style of your vehicle’s interior. For example, a leather shift boot cover will give your car a more elegant look, while a vinyl or pleather cover will be more casual.
You can also get a replacement shift boot that is the same color as your current shift boot, or one that complements it perfectly. For instance, a black leather shift boot cover will look better on a Ford Mustang, while an Alcantara shift boot cover will fit nicely on a BMW 5-series limousine.
Another benefit of a new shift boot is that it will be more durable than other materials. For example, plastic and rubber are prone to damage from drastic temperature changes, but leather will hold up well. In addition, leather is softer and more comfortable than plastic or rubber. It also has a longer lifespan compared to other materials, such as cloth or vinyl.
Durability
A shift boot cover protects your vehicle’s gear stick from debris and liquid spills that can damage the shifting mechanism. It can also keep dust and lint from entering the shifting mechanism, which helps maintain its lubrication and ensure it functions smoothly and safely.
A worn-out shift boot may let in these contaminants, which can cause it to stop working properly and can even lead to costly parts replacements. The best way to prevent this is to buy a new shift boot from a trusted brand and install it right away.
Different types of shift boots are available in various colors and styles to match the interior of your car. For example, leather is a classic choice because it looks more elegant than vinyl or pleather. However, if you opt for a more sporty look, you should get an Alcantara or carbon-fiber shift boot.
Cloth, vinyl, plastic, and rubber shift boots can wear down over time, causing them to crack or tear. They are not as durable as leather, which can last for years and is more resistant to extreme temperature changes, sunlight exposure, and regular wear-and-tear. In addition, they can attract stains that are hard to remove and can swell up and soak down into the shifting mechanism. This can make it more difficult to shift the gears and can damage the shift stick.
Cleanliness
A shift boot cover prevents dust, dirt and other debris from getting into your shifter. However, like any other interior item, a shift boot cover will be subject to wear and tear and require some level of upkeep. In most cases, a simple brushing with some soap or washing liquid will remove any accumulated dust or lint. Stains are a bit more problematic and may require specialized solutions (depending on the material you’ve selected – Alcantara, for example, publishes a stain removal guide). Once you’re done cleaning and conditioning your shift boot, it will look and feel great!
A ripped shift boot can be repaired by simply sewing it. You can buy a kit at your local auto parts store that includes the leather and plastic pieces you need to stitch it up.
Aesthetics
If you’re an enthusiast, professional driver or simply proud of your car, a custom shift boot cover will add a bit of flair to the interior. They’re available in a wide range of colors and designs, from classic black to carbon-fiber vinyl. A shift boot cover also adds an aesthetic upgrade over factory cloth, plastic or rubber options, which tend to droop and bunch around the lever.
Cloth can also be difficult to clean, as stains soak through and often seep down into the shifter mechanism. Likewise, vinyl can dry out and crack over time. These types of shift boots will need to be replaced more frequently than leather.
By contrast, RedlineGoods uses automotive calfskin leather that’s much thicker than factory products and can be made to fit your shifter perfectly. They also use honda boss kit genuine Alcantara, a smooth synthetic fiber that’s been popular in top-of-the-line BMW and Audi interiors since the 1980s.
These leather shift boot covers are designed for durability, but they’re also crafted with a keen eye to detail. In addition to matching the color theme of your vehicle’s interior, they also feature intricate stitching to add a touch of class and accentuate the shape of the boot. RedlineGoods has a tight-knit team of individuals who love making these high-quality accessories because they’re passionate about cars.
