Weight: 800g

Best for: Day hiking and fastpacking on easy to moderate tracks.

Overview

The streamlined Flyrock Mid GTX is an ultralight but durable mid that’s more closely related to a trail shoe than a hiking boot, with comfort to match. Tough welded overlays reinforce the burly Air 8000 textile uppers, which are well matched to a chunky Vibram Megagrip Traction Lug sole. The close fit and Dynamic Fit heel cradle combine for an agile and responsive boot. 

Performance

The fit is snug with a low-volume, foot-hugging feel, enhanced by a stretchy cuff and tongue, smooth speed lacing and the tensioning heel cradle. The low-profile cuff fits closely to keep debris out and worked well with trail-running gaiters. The medium stack height and 2mm flexible shank make this a sole platform that conforms to the terrain, which provides good ground feedback. But they rank low in stiffness, however, and I sometimes noticed sharper stones through the sole, unlike footwear with a sturdier rock plate.

The sole’s micro-featured tread blocks provided a little extra bite in greasy trail conditions, but the lack of a distinct heel brake limited traction overall. After several months’ use the uppers still look as good as new, thanks to minimal seams and welded overlays for abrasion protection. The relatively soft sole compound has worn faster than harder sole compounds, while the EVA midsole has some small stone gouges. 

What we like

Very light, durable and protective uppers, nimble.

Limitations

Minimal heel brake, low stiffness, minimal rock plate.

Why buy the Aku Flyrock Mid?

This boot is appealing for its durability coupled with a very low weight and, for its class, nimble and responsive traction. A thicker rockplate would improve comfort on rough ground, but overall the Flyrock Mid provides great value in the ultralight realm.   

Overall Score: 74%