In general, hiking shoes and boots are recommended when you plan to walk long distances over variable terrain. Consider the four categories below to carefully select the right footwear for your activity:
Mountaineering footwear: high mountain routes, for those seeking high performance.
Backpacking footwear: challenging routes with heavy loads, for multi-day excursions.
Hiking shoes: medium and low altitude routes with light loads, for day trips.
Fast Hiking Shoes: Medium and low altitude routes for comfortable and fast walking.
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Go to the project to learn about AKU's main suppliers.
For each product, by clicking on the “ Traceability ” button it is possible to know the origin of each individual component.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
How to choose trekking shoes?
How to choose trekking shoes?
Choosing the right hiking shoes is essential to ensure comfort and performance during your hikes.
Always consider the type of trekking you will be doing (mountaineering, backpacking, hiking or fast hiking) and choose a suitable model.
How to understand if trekking shoes are the right size?
How to understand if trekking shoes are the right size?
To understand if trekking shoes are the right ones
size, follow these tips:
- Measure your foot : measure the length of your foot between your heel and your longest toe. You can do this by placing your foot on a sheet of paper and tracing the outline. Do this for both feet and then consult the comparison tables on each product sheet.
- Check the space : When you stand, you should have about a finger’s width of space between the tip of your shoe and your big toe. Make sure your heel stays put and doesn’t slip. That’s why it’s best to buy a half size larger than the measurement you marked with the procedure described above. You should always consider giving your foot space especially when walking downhill.
- Wear the right socks : Try on your shoes with the socks you will be using when hiking, preferably trekking-specific socks. AKU Accessories .
- Do a motion test : Walk, run, or do a short jump to see how the shoes perform. They should fit comfortably without any pressure points.
- Check overall comfort : Shoes should be comfortable right out of the box. If you experience any discomfort, they may not be the right choice.
The original AKU shape is the matrix from which the different types of shoe fit derive, which vary in relation to the
different models and the specific function of use of the product.
To provide better comfort AKU provides the “wide” version for different models. This version provides a wider space for the foot.
What is the "wide" version that AKU offers for some of its boot models?
What is the "wide" version that AKU offers for some of its boot models?
Several AKU models have their own "wide" version.
The wide version requires a larger size in width. For example, if you wear a size 42, the wide version will be 42 in length but 43 in width. This is to provide greater comfort to those who need a looser fit.
Which shoes are best suited for a desert environment?
Which shoes are best suited for a desert environment?
To face the desert, and more generally environments with dry climates, we recommend closed shoes with reinforced toes that protect the feet from sand, stones or other debris, furthermore the construction materials of the upper must have characteristics of resistance and high breathability.
AKU's proposal is Desertica DS , an extremely stable and lightweight boot.
Which shoes are best suited for a humid and rainy environment?
Which shoes are best suited for a humid and rainy environment?
To face wet and humid environments, boots must have the following characteristics:
- GORE-TEX upper for water repellent
- AIR8000 membrane for breathability and to prevent moisture build-up inside
- Vibram sole for best grip on wet surfaces
In all the product sheets on the AKU website you can find the technologies used on the product.
In case you want to choose a shoe without a GORE-TEX membrane, in the “accessories” category it is possible to purchase the Spray that protects and makes both leather and fabrics water and oil repellent.
Which shoes are best suited for cold and snowy environments?
Which shoes are best suited for cold and snowy environments?
To face cold and snowy environments, boots must have the following characteristics:
- Upper in GORE-TEX INSULATED to be water-repellent and protect from the cold
- AIR800 membrane for breathability and to avoid humidity accumulation inside
- Vibram sole for best grip on wet surfaces
For day hikes in winter we recommend the Trekker Therm200 GTX boot, here in the men's and women's versions. They offer excellent support and warmth, insulated and waterproof, with a non-slip sole for snow and ice. Perfect for use with snowshoes too.
For more demanding winter treks : high mountain routes, lasting several days, with loads on your shoulders or where greater protection and stability is needed, we recommend the Superalp Therm200 GTX leather boots.