Young Italian footwear manufacturer brings innovative tech to the world of tramping shoes and boots.

AKU is a family-run business based in Montebelluna, the heart of the Italian sports footwear region. It has been making footwear in its own facilities in Italy and Romania for more than 40 years. Now, for the first time, AKU is available in New Zealand. 

Wilderness spoke with Hamish Pirie from Gearshop, the New Zealand distributor, to learn about the brand.

What features set AKU footwear apart?

Comfort is the main reason people choose AKU. Its Elica technology is an integrated system consisting of the boot’s last, insole board, midsole and outsole. By integrating the construction of these components, every pair of AKU footwear follows the anatomical shape of the foot to provide better stability and weight distribution, and to reduce pressure points and encourage better form while moving. 

The Dual Fit System includes traditional lacing and a fast-lock cord lace. On approach, the traditional lacing locks the instep but leaves maximum volume in the forefoot. When precise footwork is required – scrambling, scree slopes, rock hopping – the fast lock cord wraps the forefoot and reduces volume in the toe. 

What makes AKU footwear so durable? 

For AKU, durability is an essential prerequisite for reducing the environmental impact of its products. The brand carefully chooses its partners, suppliers and the production process so that responsible choices are made. It combines durability with a constant commitment to high production standards and a relationship with the environment based on the founding principle of responsible action.

The AKU top 5

Hamish picks his top five models from the AKU range. 

1. Rock DFS GTX: A great all-round approach shoe perfect for scrambling 

2. Rocket DFS GTX: A bit more robust and especially good for rough terrain 

3. Fly Rock GTX: My go-to fast trail shoe

4. Trek Ballistic GTX: A lightweight tramping boot with hard-wearing fabric uppers

5. Trekker Pro II GTX: Light and comfortable, these are a great all-round walking and tramping boot

View the full range of AKU footwear at www.gearshop.co.nz