Aku Rock DFS II GTX shoes 2025
Footwear for technical approach and light climbing, for via ferrata and hiking on mountain trails even in the rain
Evolution of the Rock model with technical fit improvements. The upper made of suede, fabric and abrasion-resistant microfibre is equipped with a rubber guard that wraps around and protects the wedge when climbing. Asymmetrical dual-density EVA and PU midsole construction adopts the AKU Elica Natural Stride System to promote biodynamic eficiency. Customisation of the fit with the Dual Fit System double lacing system that allows the comfort and precision of the fit to be adjusted during the various phases of use: a traditional lace for maximum comfort when approaching and a fast lacing to increase sensitivity and precision when climbing, even on the smallest holds. The Vibram Approach sole with high-performance Megagrip compound provides maximum grip with a climbing-specific design.
Internal Midsole System
The system allows the insole to perfectly capture the anatomy of the foot, guarantees uniform pressure distribution, prevents lateral and frontal slipping during intense use and at the same time offers shock absorption and excellent wearing comfort .
Tech Specs
- Upper: suede 1,6 MM + MICROFIBRE + AIR8000®
- Upper protection: rubber rand
- Lining description: GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort
- Outsole: Vibram® Approcciosa Megagrip
- Midsole: Double density EVA + PU
- Lasting board (stiffness): flexible
- Footbed: Ortholite® Hybrid - partially recycled
- Real weight: 441 g (Uk 9)
Technologies
Dual fit system
Double the comfort, double the performance. DFS Dual Fit System is a technical innovation designed by AKU to guarantee maximum wearing comfort and improve product performance. The DFS lacing system makes it possible to adjust the degree of precision of the fit in relation to the time of use of the product. Walk comfort mode for the approach phase. Precise climbing mode during rock or via ferrata climbing. n both cases enhancing the specific functionality of the shoe.
Gore-Tex®
Gore-Tex® fabrics offer long-lasting, comfortable weather protection. The technology is based on an extremely thin membrane made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Its pores are too small for rain to penetrate, yet big enough for perspiration to pass right through. Gore-Tex® products have a high waterproof rating (water column) and can withstand up to 28,000 mm of water pressure – more than monsoon rain. The membrane is bonded between an outer fabric and a high-performance lining. Depending on the construction, the result is either a 2-layer, 2.5-layer or 3-layer laminate. Gore-Tex® in a 3-layer construction offers a combination of enhanced durability and high breathability, while the 2-layer laminate provides lightweight weather protection.
VIBRAM®
Vibram® soles, thanks to the combination of hyper-functional design and exclusive rubber compounds, ensure best performances in terms of comfort and lasting quality.
Elica and the Aku last
The creation of a last is a long and accurate process in which AKU’s long experience in the design and production of high quality footwear is condensed. The identification of the last in relation to the morphology of the foot represents one of the basic criteria in choosing the right shoe. The original AKU shape is the matrix, the result of constant research on plantar anatomy. From it, thanks to specific adaptations, the different types of shape and fit derive, which vary in relation to the different models and the specific function of use of the product. Elica is an integrated system consisting of: form, assembly insole, midsole, tread that follows the anatomical shape of the sole of the foot and follows the normal inclination of the heel and forefoot. The functional value of the ELICA technology has been certified by specific tests performed at the CERISM Centro Studi Salute laboratories of the University of Verona. The tests show that a more homogeneous distribution of foot pressure during the support and push phases favors comfort by reducing impact and effort during the walk.
Performance Fit
Dry, wraparound lasts for professional footwear in the Mountain segment, designed to promote precision and sensitivity when climbing on rock and ice. As for example in the Aurai DFS GTX and Rocket DFS GTX models which adopt the Performance Fit last. Here, the heel has an anatomical shape designed to hold the foot in place and the forefoot part is more spacious, without compromising precision at the toe, thus ensuring better thermicity and blood circulation even during prolonged stops with feet in the snow.
AIR8000
AIR 8000 is the first technology for the construction of the upper developed and patented by AKU since 1991 to increase the breathability of a mountain shoe. Laboratory tests carried out by Gore Tex confirm that the upper made with the exclusive AKU AIR 8000® system offers a level of breathability up to 11.5 times higher than normal standards. Almost 20 years later, the AKU AIR 8000® system remains one of the most advanced technologies to ensure excellent breathability of the mountain shoe.