Gear Review: AKU Transalpina GTX Mid Duty Boots
Ditch the insoles with the built-in support of the mid duty AKU Transalpina.
[best arch and ankle support]
Hikers who want maximum underfoot support in a midweight boot will love the Transalpina. And these midcuts are an even better deal than their $230 price tag suggests: They saved one high-arched tester the cost of after-market insoles (up to $40). “I often feel no support from otherwise good boots,” she explains. “The Transalpina was a welcome change, especially as I recovered from a stress fracture in the ball of my foot.
The stiff sole took pressure off the injured spot, and the two-layer insole wrapped up around my arch.” Plus, a PU exoskeleton cradles the heel and midfoot. Result: awesome support all around. She also praised the pulley lacing system, which let her tighten the ankles while leaving the top eyelet looser (to prevent bruising). Smart tech: AKU maximizes the breathability of the Gore-Tex upper by spot bonding components (less adhesive means greater ventilation). Fit is generous in the forefoot.$230; 2 lbs. 11 oz.; m’s 7-13, w’s 6-10; aku.it/us