The Alterra GTX's are designed to be lightweight yet incredibly supportive over medium difficulty terrain for extended periods of time. Long treks, heavy packs and rough ground become that much easier and more comfortable thanks to AKU's new Elica natural stride system.
AKU's Elica natural stride stystem is a construction which builds on an issue with most boots, the footbed. A footbed which is flat won't provide support and will force your foot to constantly have to stabilise itself, meaning you'll feel achy at the end of the walk (sound familiar?). The way the Elica system works is it follows the natural shape of your foot. The anatomy of your forefoot has been replicated onto the footbed, as well as your arch having support to reduce fatigue over long walks. AKU place a harder, supportive fabric in areas of our foot where we put less weight (for example, the outer of your heel), and a softer, more forgiving fabric on the areas which we place the most weight. This offers the optimum level of support and cushioning for complete comfort. As if this wasn't quite enough, the sole unit also features larger, more prominent lugs in areas which hit the ground first. This increases the grip on varied terrain and naturally adds comfort.
The Alterra is constructed from a high quality mix of elastic and suede, both placed in different locations to utilise durability and comfort.The main bulk of fabric used in the Alterra is a durable, high quality suede, while elastic is placed around the tongue and collar of the boot meaning there is no need for a gusset. This improves comfort and reduces weight as there is less fabric used.
An even lacing tension is guaranteed by the use of roller eyelets that allow a smooth lace pull from the toe to the ankle, while a Gore-Tex membrane provides breathable waterproofing for wet conditions.
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Supportive Elica Natural Stride System
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IMS midsole
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Roller eyelets
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Prominent lugs to increase grip
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Mix of hard and soft fabrics depending on foot position
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Comfortable
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Breathable
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Waterproof