AKU, manufacturing hand-crafted, high-performance hiking and mountaineering boots in Italy for more than 50 years, announces new styles for its Spring/Summer 2024 collection that include expanding upon favorite classic styles for modern hikers in the Tribute Alp and Alterra II, as well as new fast hikers Reactive and FlyRock Mid.
AKU Reactive GTX Courtesy of AKU
The AKU Reactive GTX offers an exciting, modern hiking boot design focused on agility, cushioning and traction. The Tenuta Grip high-traction outsole is made of a compound developed by AKU to provide excellent response in terms of cushioning and stabilty on any type of terrain – perfect for mixed and off-road use, as well as smooth and wet surfaces. The exclusive tread design offers asymmetric distribution of outsole lugs, flexibily and dual density EVA cushion at the forefoot for propulsion and at the heel for impact. Asymmetrical lacing system and TPU tie rods at the base of the cuff ensure perfect registration of the closure. The lasting board and sole unit feature AKU’s Elica Natural Stride System technology to enhance biodynamic performance.
The Alterra II GTX, inspired by AKU’s award-winning Alterra boot, is designed for long-distance comfort on mixed terrain. Made in Europe, it is lighter in weight than the Alterra and features a Vibram Weave Technology outsole tread with bi-density polyurethane wedge and recycled EVA for excellent grip and cushioning. AKU’s Elica Natural Stride System technology provides better stability and weight distribution while reducing pressure points.
“AKU has a rich history of Italian handmade craftsmanship, but we are also designing for the contemporary outdoor enthusiast who is taking on faster and more diverse excursions,” said AKU Outdoor Inc., President Rick Cook. “Our Spring ’24 collection is the perfect example of that – the dynamic of modernizing classics with the Tribute Alp and Alterra II but also introducing totally new, state-of-the-art styles in the Reactive and FlyRock Mid.”
The Tribute Alp GTX is the third style in AKU’s popular Tribute collection of hiking boots with an updated take on a classic style. Handmade in Montebelluna, Italy, the Tribute Alp utilizes a unique leather that is both soft and supple with a more flexible ankle design and reinforced toe and heel for added durability. An injected polyurethane midsole and Vibram Sendera outsole offer comfort and stability, and a GORE-TEX Performance Comfort liner keeps feet dry and comfortable in the backcountry.
Expanding upon its fast hiking boot offerings, the FlyRock Mid GTX features AKU’s Dynamic Fit technology, which adapts the boot’s heel tension with natural stride sequences to increase comfort and stability. The FlyRock is designed for high-octane activities where traction, protection and high cushioning are required, and utilizes the proprietary Vibram Flight Traction lug and Megagrip outsole, as well as a high cushion, high rebound EVA midsole. Additional high-performance features include AKU’s Elica system technology and GORE-TEX Extended Comfort for both waterproof protection and breathability during warmer, faster conditions.
About AKU
AKU was founded by Galliano Bordin in Italy in 1967. Since then, the brand has grown from a small workshop into a company with more than 50 years of experience in the design and production of high- quality trekking, mountaineering and outdoor footwear. AKU’s three production facilities are located in Montebelluna, Italy, Cluj Napoca, Romania, and Belgrade, Serbia. AKU footwear is currently sold in 23 countries. For more information, please visit: www.akuoutdoor.com.
