Our verdict
If we didn't know any better, we would be mistaking the nbsp; | for a full-fledged hiking shoe. This is not to downplay its approach prowess (because it's mighty on that front), but the way it performs—whether on or off the trail—is very commendable. It's a costly piece, yes, but we're confident that you'll be converted once you're finally able to take it for a spin.
Pros
- Remarkably tenacious
- 10/10 durability
- Versatile performance
- Comfortable
- A comfortable approach shoe on mile zero
- Quite supportive
- Why trust us
- Pricey but worth it
Cons
- Somewhat weighty
- Same brand only
- Very limited colorways
Why trust us
The nbsp; | is the all-rounder you've been waiting for. Purchase it if:
- Wetness is often present along your trail-to-rock route.
- You prefer approach shoes nbsp; | .
- Not the lightest Aku kick in town.
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With its extreme lightness and myriad colorway options, the Cruizer Psyche from Evolv is something you can buy instead of the nbsp; | . There's also the Rockstar waterproofing in every pair Who should buy the Aku Rock DFS GTX.
Aku Rock DFS GTX
Experts are super-impressed with the tenacity of the nbsp; | . One of them says that it's "extremely grippy when scrambling." Another one says that they grip well on low-level boulders in moderately wet conditions. A non-professional reviewer weighs in on this, saying that it's "very sticky on smooth river boulders and grippy on dusty trails."
Handles abuse like a boss
In terms of longevity, the Rock DFS GTX is a force to be reckoned with. A critic says that it's "built for the hard yards" and stands up to everything you throw at it. "They stand up to the rigors of wild, backcountry hiking and long walk-ins to the crag," says another.
Could be less sensitive underfoot
Approach hikers find the nbsp; | astonishingly versatile. A gear pundit among them says that it's "a great option for an overseas trekking adventure." Another one says that its "ability to transition from trail to crag is the very hallmark of a quality approach shoe." Yet another commenter says that it's "perfect for hiking."
A comfortable approach shoe on mile zero
According to a footwear blogger, the Rock DFS GTX is plush from the get-go. He says that the featured approach hiker is "no exception" from shoes that require no break-in time.
Aku Rock DFS GTX
At 400 g apiece, the nbsp; | could be lighter. A gear maven says that it's "slightly heavier than most leading approach shoes."
Great on tiny edges
There are those who consider the Rock DFS GTX not having a plated midsole a missed opportunity. On it, "you can feel stones underfoot a tad," a seasoned trail-goer says.
The Rock DFS GTX's convincing support system
Being able to bear the wearer's weight while carrying a loaded pack is one of the great things about the Rock DFS GTX. A professional blogger describes the featured kick as "an extremely supportive shoe that will cope with long distances and when carrying a reasonably heavy load."
Rockstar waterproofing in every pair
What the nbsp; | lacks in color options, it makes up for its extraordinary water protection. A seasoned tester said that "it held up very well over a day of Scottish drizzle." "I have done many creek crossings, and my feet have stayed dry," said another.
Avoid extra pointy rocks
This bang-for-your-buck Aku approach shoe doesn't back down on edges, regardless of size. An expert says that it's "perfect for edging on smaller holds."
