AKU Males’s Alterra GTX Climbing Boots Reviewed

I’m reviewing immediately the anthracite males’s AKU Alterra GTX mountain climbing boots which sits in the course of their lineup within the trekking class, beneath their mountaineering and backpacking providing however above their extra informal “multi-terrain” class. Additionally, notice that Aku makes an Alterra GTX mannequin for ladies.

The AKU Alterra is identical worth because the Salomon Quest and a lower cost level in comparison with our 3 different mountain climbing boots on this comparability.

The higher is made out of suede and a stretch cloth with a really feel much like neoprene. The tongue and collar are in-built a single piece from this materials which makes for a snug match.

The AKU Alterra is lined with Gore-Tex for waterproofing as is many of the competitors on this worth vary – leather-based lined boots being the exception. It has a Vibram outsole named Octopus and the lacing system is with out complaints. The laces are crimson but additionally include additional laces in mild gray (much like the sunshine gray on the aspect of the only).

On the tongue, you additionally get a leather-based patch with the inscription “Handcrafted by Professional Bookmakers” with a novel quantity – good!

The boot weighs 1.75 lbs (measurement 11) which is the heaviest boot together with the Lowa Vantage on this comparative evaluation. However do not forget that heavier additionally means extra assist & safety.

SIZING & COMFORT

I’ve medium to slim ft however actually like footwear with a big toe field. In that regard, the AKU Alterra wasn’t the very best match for me. It’s a comparatively large boot, wider than the Arc’teryx Bora², the Salomon Quest 4D and Lowa Renegade however with a medium toe field related in measurement to those 3 narrower boots talked about.

Actually necessary: it’s essential to measurement down half a measurement, these boots are big! I often put on 11.5 for every little thing excepts trainers for which I am going for 12, however for the AKU Alterra, I needed to go for 11.

As already talked about, the stretch cloth for the tongue actually helps to make this boot comfortable across the ankle. However proper out of the field, the arch assist doesn’t really feel as supportive because the Salomon Quest 4D, as if it’s not fairly in the appropriate place, just a little bit too far in direction of the entrance of the foot. It’s not uncomfortable, removed from that, simply feels totally different. I’m certain I received’t discover it after a dozen KM.

With mountain climbing boots, it’s at all times finest to strive them first, so I at all times advocate folks to order 2-3 pairs on-line and hold one of the best becoming (that’s why we provide one of the best returns expertise at Altitude-Sports activities.com).

The AKU Alterra GTX is unquestionably a stiffer boot than your informal all-terrain boot such because the Lowa Renegade. It will not be as stiff because the Lowa Vantage however it’s shut. You additionally get rock stable toe safety which beats all boots on this comparative evaluation

MANUFACTURING COUNTRY & WARRANTY

AKU manufactures this Alterra in Romania (a part of the European Union) and is backed by a very good 2-year guarantee.

BEST USE

Trails: The AKU Alterra GTX is ideal for mountain climbing & trekking carrying a medium load. It’s not a light-weight boot however it doesn’t really feel overly heavy both. With an aggressive sole and nice foot safety, I might don’t have any drawback utilizing them on a multi-day backcountry journey. However for those who solely do occasional hikes you would possibly wish to search for the Lowa Renegade.

Metropolis: These boots had been made for the nation however we all know a number of our prospects additionally use them within the metropolis. Should you just like the flashy crimson laces (I do) and the normal AKU design, you’ll really feel nice (and invincible) carrying them to work. They’re additionally straightforward to placed on and off which I like once you’re going out for that late PM cookie snack.

WHY BUY?

Prime notch boot made in Europe with Italian craftsmanship, what’s to not like?
Have medium to large ft or don’t thoughts wider boot (I’ve slim ft and so they nonetheless really feel nice)
Need a comparatively heavy responsibility boot (for a mountain climbing boot)