I’m reviewing immediately the anthracite males’s AKU Alterra GTX mountaineering boots which sits in the midst of their lineup within the trekking class, beneath their mountaineering and backpacking providing however above their extra informal “multi-terrain” class. Additionally, be aware that Aku makes an Alterra GTX mannequin for ladies.
The AKU Alterra is similar value because the Salomon Quest and a cheaper price level in comparison with our 3 different mountaineering 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 a lot of the competitors on this value 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 gentle gray (much like the sunshine gray on the facet of the only real).
On the tongue, you additionally get a leather-based patch with the inscription “Handcrafted by Knowledgeable 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 slender toes 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 extensive boot, wider than the Arc’teryx Bora², the Salomon Quest 4D and Lowa Renegade however with a medium toe field comparable in measurement to those 3 narrower boots talked about.
Actually essential: you want to measurement down half a measurement, these boots are large! I often put on 11.5 for the whole lot 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 cozy 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, a bit of bit too far in direction of the entrance of the foot. It’s not uncomfortable, removed from that, simply feels completely different. I’m certain I gained’t discover it after a dozen KM.
With mountaineering boots, it’s at all times finest to strive them first, so I at all times advocate individuals to order 2-3 pairs on-line and preserve the perfect becoming (that’s why we provide the perfect 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 is probably not as stiff because the Lowa Vantage nevertheless it’s shut. You additionally get rock strong 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 superb 2-year guarantee.
BEST USE
Trails: The AKU Alterra GTX is ideal for mountaineering & trekking carrying a medium load. It’s not a light-weight boot nevertheless it doesn’t really feel overly heavy both. With an aggressive sole and nice foot safety, I’d haven’t any downside utilizing them on a multi-day backcountry journey. However should you solely do occasional hikes you may wish to search for the Lowa Renegade.
Metropolis: These boots have been made for the nation however we all know quite a lot of our prospects additionally use them within the metropolis. For those who just like the flashy crimson laces (I do) and the standard AKU design, you’ll really feel nice (and invincible) sporting them to work. They’re additionally straightforward to placed on and off which I like while 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 extensive toes or don’t thoughts wider boot (I’ve slender toes they usually nonetheless really feel nice)
- Desire a comparatively heavy responsibility boot (for a mountaineering boot)
This evaluation is a part of our 2018 finest promoting mountaineering boot comparability which additionally consists of the:
- Arc’teryx Bora² Mid GTX
- Lowa Vantage GTX Mid (new evaluation coming quickly)
- Lowa Renegade GTX Mid (evaluation from 2016)
- Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX (evaluation from 2014)