Montreal, Canada, July 1, 2020 – AKU, an Italian footwear brand known for designing and producing some the world’s most comfortable, hand-crafted hiking and trekking boots, is introducing Dual Fit System (DFS) technology in its spring/summer 2021 collection.  DFS is a double lacing system that allows the wearer to adjust the comfort and precision of the fit during different phases of use: a traditional lace for maximum comfort while walking or hiking, and a secondary fast lace that increases sensitivity and precision during climbing. The technology will be available in AKU’s new Rock DFS GTX, Rock DFS MID GTX , and Rock DFS footwear in spring/summer 2021.

“This technology is the result of years of excursions on the mountain paths near our home in Montebelluna, Italy.  We’ve improved on previous boot models to come up with the Rock collection with the DFS lacing technology to make an AKU boot that is more versatile, comfortable and performance-driven than ever,” said Rick Cook, President of AKU Outdoor Inc.

The Rock DFS collection is more than just a dual lacing boot. While the laces cinch the top of the foot like a traditional lace, they also feature interior laces within the fabric of the upper that wrap around the foot to customize the fit. The midsole incorporates an EVA foam for cushioning, and a PU heel for added support.  The midsole is wrapped with a protective rubber rand that protects the inside foot and toe area. Together with a Gore-Tex breathable liner and Vibram Approcciosa sole with Megagrip, the resulting Rock DFS collection offers a high-performance approach shoe for all day comfort, even while climbing.

The Rock DFS collection is available in the following styles:

  • Rock DFS Mid GTX: Men’s sizes 8-12,13; weight is 400g per shoe (men’s size 9)
  • Rock DFS GTX: Men’s sizes 8-12,13 & women’s sizes 5-10,11; weight is 300g per shoe (men’s size 9)
  • Rock DFS: Men’s sizes 8-12,13; weight is 380g per shoe (men’s size 9)