AKU

Superalp GTX Backpacking Boot - Men's

The Alps cover a lot of ground, so you'll need a burly boot like the Aku Superalp GTX Men's Backpacking Boot if you plan on seeing all of it. Aku designed the Superalp specifically for big days, big loads, and extended trips, with a super-comfortable, durable, and supportive build that will help prevent injury, take the sting out of tough terrain, and reduce fatigue during week or month-long Alpine explorations. It all starts classically enough, with a soft but tough suede upper, Vibram rubber sole, and laces with boot hooks, but things get spicy pretty fast. Aku built the upper with its super-breathable Air 8000 construction to keep your feet cool, and it also gave a waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX Performance Comfort membrane that will keep you equally dry and comfortable on soggy and sunny days.

It's all built on the IMS3 chassis, which combines a cushy Custom Fit IMS 162 footbed with a double-density PU midsole for underfoot support and tosses in a medium-stiff nylon and EVA lasting board that protects your feet from rough rocks while offering enough sensitivity to make technical terrain manageable. Aku also incorporated a PU exoskeleton into the heel for extra stability and constructed the whole package with its Anatomical Fit last, which hugs your foot for a precise, non-slip fit that eliminates blisters and encourages dynamic striding so you can cover more ground with less effort, which is key when you're putting away 20-mile day after 20-mile day.