Aku’s multi-purpose shoe

Aku’s Dual Fit System promises walking comfort and climbing precision in one shoe. Is this alternative approach to lacing an effective solution or an unnecessary complication? We take a look.

The best outdoor gear serves more than one specific purpose, being adaptable enough to tackle a range of situations, conditions or requirements. But usually with footwear you have to make a choice: do you want something that’s fairly relaxed and comfortable for devouring the miles, or a precise technical shoe for more vertical ground?

Aku’s Rock DFS GTX aims to make that decision redundant. Its DFS (Dual Fit System – nothing to do with sofas) lacing claims to offer both the easy-going fit of a walking shoe and the snug foot-hugging ability of more climbing-focused footwear. How? Well, we’ll get to that below, but from our early testing it’s fair to say that the system works, and works well. It’s simple and effective, even if it does make the shoe a little fussy to look at.

In addition to this low GTX model (£189.90), there’s also a GoreTex mid (£199.90) and an unlined shoe (£164.90). There are more DFS options being released in Spring 2022, so Aku clearly feels that the system works and is worth including on more of its footwear. And while it might be nice to see a little more refinement in future incarnations, if the same level of performance can be married to a neater finish, we’re inclined to agree.