AKU ROCK DFS GTX £165

The Aku Rock’s DFS (Dual Fit System) lacing offers both the easy-going fit of a walking shoe and the snug foot-hugging ability of more climbing focused footwear. How? Well, traditional laces provide a standard fit for general walking, while a second fast lacing system can be used to pull the shoe in snug around the sides and top of the foot to “increase sensitivity and security” for climbing or scrambling. The system works well. It’s simple and effective.

VERDICT Although the mixture of lacing makes the upper a little busy, the DFS system works a treat. USED BY Ben Weeks, Trail senior writer USED FOR 1 year