Aku's Trekker Lite III takes inspiration from the highly acclaimed Tengu Lite walking boots with the addition of a little extra cushioning around the ankle and heel for longer walks and treks.
We found the sole pretty solid and heavily cushioned too, so the bottoms of your feet are kept well protected, but the trade-off is a reduction in trail feel and therefore precision. While the sole offers effective edging and control on descents as well as reducing soreness over long walks it can at times feel a tad clunky.
Fit is slightly on the narrow side, but the carefully considered construction of the boot allows you to cinch everything in tightly in all the right places. The deep heel cup keeps the feet held firmly in place for blister free walking mile after mile and the general feeling is of solidity and comfort which makes this the ideal long-distance backpacking boot.
Suede and breathable mesh fabric adorn the upper, which is both long lasting and high performing, but a lack of decent rubber rand reduces durability in that vulnerable toe area. Overall build quality is nothing short of excellent though and we've no doubt that these boots will outlast most cheaper options.
Overall, the Trekker Lite III is a contender as a go to long-distance trekking boot thanks to excellent build quality and comfort mile after mile.
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