884g

What we liked: Very light, ultra grippy, supportive
What we don’t: Not as durable as leather boots

We recommend for:
Fastpacking, approach and rough day hikes.

Overview and features: Aku is a well-established Italian brand but new to New Zealand. The Rocket Mid GTX is practically in a category of its own, blending the attributes of both fastpacking and approach footwear. It’s similar in comfort to a trail-running shoe and has a very light but tough DFS (dual-lacing) upper and a Vibram Megagrip Rocket Traction outsole,

Fit and comfort: For me, these boots fitted fractionally on the small side. They’re average width, required no break in and felt super light. The exterior heel cradle wraps almost to the midfoot and integrates into the lacing, which anchors the heel and provides a responsive feel. These boots are very comfortable, but the midsole is not too soft for confident edging on steep ground and scrambles.  

Durability: The burly textile upper has no wear-prone seams and is laminated with a thin TPU rand. Scuffing was visible at flex points above the ball of the foot, but that’s not unexpected for synthetic uppers. The double density midsole foam is sturdier and tougher than EVA, while the Megagrip outsole is so far showing no signs of premature wear.  

In use: When I took these boots on their first outing up a steep local trail, the grip immediately impressed. Aku claims these boots ‘provide up to 25 per cent more traction’. While I’m sceptical, I can confirm that the narrow and widely spaced tiered lug design is super grippy and is especially reassuring on slippery hardpack and bedrock. Fastpacking boots often lack a defined heel, but this boot’s partial heel provides more braking than others I’ve tried in this class. 

The DFS dual-lacing makes use of a second, speed-style, lace on the midfoot that acts as a volume reducer and locks your forefoot in place for descents and edging. 

Value: The Rocket Mid GTX is  similar in price to other boots in its class, but its high-traction durable  sole is a point of difference. 

Why buy the Rocket Mid GTX? 

These comfortable and grippy boots are well suited to light and fast hikes on rough terrain and technical approaches.