APPROACH SHOES

Q: Are approach shoes also suitable for hiking?

Approach shoes can also be used for hiking, but it depends on the type of trail you plan to tackle. Approach shoes are designed for: Technical or rocky trails , where a lot of grip and precision is needed Short or day trips , on varied but not too muddy or wet terrain If you want a lighter and more precise shoe than a hiking boot When you need good toe protection and grip on rock However, if the trails you will be tackling are muddy, snowy or have slippery grass and are particularly rough and you plan to use your footwear for several days, then it is definitely better to orient your choice towards a classic boot, which will offer greater support to the foot and ankle, stability and cushioning.

MULTITERRAIN FOOTWEAR

Approach shoes, or " approach shoes ", are footwear designed for hikes that lead to cliffs or rock routes. Offering good sensitivity, they are also suitable for short sections of rock climbing or via ferratas.

AKU approach shoes are equipped with DUAL FIT SYSTEM technology: double lacing that improves the fit and adaptability of the product depending on the activity being performed.

Men's Approach Shoes

With rubber protection that wraps and protects the wedge during climbing supports.

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Women's Approach Shoes

This season the Rock model evolves into the Rock DFS II GTX.

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Rock People

10 experts and mountaineering enthusiasts tested the AKU Rock DFS GTX approach shoe.

Find out how they used it and what they think.

New model

Rock DFS II GTX
Grey-Orange
Approach shoes

€199,90

View details
New model

Rock DFS II GTX
Olive-Dark orange
Approach shoes

€199,90

View details

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What are approach shoes for?

Approach shoes are designed for climbers who need to walk on mixed terrain before reaching the rock, combining lightness and traction.

How to choose approach shoes?

When choosing your approach footwear make sure they have the features below:

Versatility : combining the functionality of trekking shoes and climbing shoes, they are suitable for various types of terrain.
Suitable Sole : They have rubber soles with good grip, designed to offer traction on rocks and slippery surfaces.
Comfort and Support : They offer good support for the foot, making them comfortable for long walks, without sacrificing the sensitivity needed for climbing.
Lightweight Design : Compared to hiking boots, they are generally lighter and more flexible, making movement easier.
Durable Upper : Made from abrasion-resistant materials, they protect your feet from debris and rocks.
Secure Closure : Many models have lacing systems that allow for a customized fit.

Are approach shoes also suitable for hiking?

Approach shoes can also be used for hiking, but it depends on the type of trail you plan to tackle.

Approach shoes are designed for:

Technical or rocky trails , where a lot of grip and precision is needed
Short or day trips , on varied but not too muddy or wet terrain
If you want a lighter and more precise shoe than a hiking boot
When you need good toe protection and grip on rock

However, if the trails you will be tackling are muddy, snowy or have slippery grass and are particularly rough and you plan to use your footwear for several days, then it is definitely better to orient your choice towards a classic boot, which will offer greater support to the foot and ankle, stability and cushioning.