AKU-USA Stone Gore-Tex® XCR® Approach Shoes - Waterproof (For Men and Women)

The folks at AKU have done an excellent job on this shoe. Nice comfortable supportive vibram soles. Very breathable, but Gore-Tex water proof. The lacing system is phenomenal. When the shoes are fitted and laced properly the slippage on the foot is non-existent. Really reminiscent of a true climbing shoe in the fit (again, if fitted correctly). However, I don't recommend this shoe on damp rock as the soles can get a bit slippery. Dry rock appears to be what these are made for (as all are), but if it does rain you're well covered and at least you won't have wet feet. These appear that they are really going to hold up well. I've had better known brands in the past and the shoes just didn't last. These just appear to be superior in quality. That said, these shoes will probably not last very long for those who buy them to hike in, as the lugs on the sole are not very deep and are made from a "stealth-like" soft compound rubber. Though I'm certain they could easily be resoled by your neighborhood cobbler or a climbing mail-order sole shop should they wear out. For those looking for a great, high quality rock/app shoe that will likely be head and shoulders above the competition; look no further.

Way too stiff for hiking, would've thunk it'd be more flexible without a stiff shank. The toe creased at the wrong place, putting pressure directly on the toes. Don't know if breaking them in would help or not, didn't want to put my feet through that. My girlfriend says the same thing with hers. Will return both pairs without using them. Will go with more comfortable trail shoes, as reviewers' indicate these can be used for "approach" trips.

I normally wear a men's 11 and these were a 10 1/2 and fit perfectly. They are very similar to the Scarpa lite ascent, except wider in width. I love low top climbing shoes over bulky mountaineering boots, which I only take if crampons are necessary. My ankles are strong and I hike in summer and winter in these kind of shoes with ankle gaiters. The stiff soles allow my feet to be comfortable for 16 miles or longer day hikes and weekend overnighters. The stiff soles give good stability on steep scree and climber's trails, much preferred by me over traditional trail runners and lighter hiking boots. These shoes are Italian, very well made, a good price, and very comfortable. It's too bad they are discontinued. This is the first pair of ascent shoes that I have found comparable to the Scarpa lite ascents which also were discontinued. If available, I would buy another pair.

Not comfortable or even wearable. [...] But I had to do major washing to get them clean before I sent them back.

This AKU shoes is professional and rugged shoes, with a bit wide and fit shape shoes. Size may choise one or half size as your usual. Nice shoes, would really recommend to all of you.