New product : Italy, Aku’s Spring 2014 Boot Collection Appeals To Serious Backpackers, Trekkers And Weekend Warriors

Superalp GTX

AKU, an Italian company that designs and manufactures high quality mountaineering, trekking and hiking boots, has expanded its current line to include boots for a variety of terrains for 2014.  The 2014 AKU styles combine the most important consumer benefits, such as comfort, breathability, protection and lightweight materials, with the current low profile, minimal athletic styling.  The collection will be available in a variety of specialty outdoor stores across the U.S. in March 2014.
“AKU has a distinct point of difference when it comes to the construction of the sole in our hiking boots,” says Sam McCoubrey, general director at AKU.  “Our multi-density PU soles are paired with a unique exo-skeleton sytem that works much like a mattress and boxspring combination. The exo-skeleton gives the boot added support and structure, while the multi-density  PU sole offers cushioning and a softer internal core for the foot.   This results in an extremely supportive and comfortable biking boot.”

BACKPACKING:
SUPERALP GTX (men’s & women’s) – The Superalp GTX is designed for true backpackers who hike long distances with heavy loads on their shoulders. The IMS3-Exo sole provides varying polyurethane (PU) densities for maximum comfort and cushioning, even on rough terrain, as well as an exo-skeleton support, for stability and protection. The Superalp GTX is lightweight (less than 23 oz) and features high-quality Italian suede with sustainable vegetable dyes, and a “sprayed on” rubber toe and heel for durability and protection. The Vibram sole and a GoreTex liner complete this boot for ultimate comfort on the trail. Colors: Anthracite/Orange for men, and Light Grey/Turquoise for women.  MSRP: $339.99

VIAZ GTX (men’s) – The VIAZ GTX is designed for intense hiking activities up to medium altitudes.  This performance boot features an extended lacing system right down to the toe (inspired by the best climbing shoes) as well as additional flex areas throughout the boot to ensure a precise fit. The IMS-1 sole makes sure the foot is close to the ground for stability and accuracy, even on the roughest trails, without sacrificing comfort.  Color:  Black.  MSRP: $329.99

TREKKING:

FASTALPINA GTX (men’s & women’s) – The Fastalpina GTX is aimed at hikers looking for maximum comfort and protection in a low cut hiking shoe. Based on the design of the 2013 Transalpina GTX, the Fastalpina GTX is a lightweight and flexible low cut hiking shoe.  The upper is made of a combination of suede and mesh for breathability. The sole features a unique IMS-3 triple density system that offers rugged stability and extreme comfort all in one boot.  The outsole also features an exo-skeleton for additional support, stability and protection.  Colors: Grey for men, and Light Grey for women.  MSRP: $179.99

TRIBUTE II GTX & LTR (men’s and women’s) – The Tribute II GTX is a classic design with a significant sole upgrade for 2014, making it a tough, versatile boot designed for gentle hiking in the hills. The upper is made of a single piece of premium Italian leather, eliminating seams throughout the boot, making it particularly suitable for hikes over damp, muddy ground in the spring. The upgraded external exo-skeleton construction between the upper and sole gives more protection and stability to the heel without sacrificing comfort.  The sole’s molded EVA is made of a softer material for an ideal cushioning and shock absorption and thus making the hike extremely comfortable. Color: Brown.  MSRP: $121.00

MULTITERRAIN:
ROCK LITE II GTX (men’s & women’s) – The Rock Lite II GTX is a lightweight, breathable multi-terrain shoe for hikers looking for an immediate and long-lasting comfortable fit. The IMS-1 sole gives it flexibility and traction, while the protective rubber on the upper makes the Rock Lite II GTX the ideal shoe for hikes on any type of terrain, from the city to a favorite mountain trail. Colors: Brown for men, Light Grey/Light blue for women).  MSRP: $149.99

About AKU:
AKU was founded by Galliano Bordin in Italy in 1955.  Since then, the company has grown from a small workshop into a company with more than thirty years’ experience in the design and production of high-quality trekking, mountaineering and outdoor footwear.  AKU’s production plant is located in Montebelluna, Italy in the province of Treviso.  AKU footwear is currently sold in 23 countries.  For more info, please visit: www.aku.it

By press release