A Refined Classic for Demanding Terrain
The AKU Trekker Lite III GTX is a three-season hiking boot designed for mountain walkers, backpackers, and technical trail users who want a balance of support, breathability, and waterproof protection. Handcrafted in Italy, it’s the third generation of AKU’s popular Trekker Lite line and has been refined with modern materials, a more breathable upper, and a grippy Vibram sole.
Positioned between lightweight trail shoes and heavy-duty alpine boots, the Trekker Lite III GTX is ideal for UK hillwalking, ridge scrambles, and multi-day treks in mixed conditions. We tested it across rocky ridgelines, muddy moorland, and steep descents to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 570g (Men’s UK 9, single boot) |
| Upper | 1.6mm suede leather + Air 8000 fabric |
| Lining | Gore-Tex Performance Comfort |
| Midsole | Dual-density die-cut EVA |
| Outsole | Vibram Curcuma |
| Lasting Board | 6–4 mm nylon + microporous EVA (medium stiffness) |
| Footbed | Custom Fit IMS |
| Fit Options | Standard and Wide Fit |
| Price | £215 RRP (often available for less) |
Design and Build Quality
The Trekker Lite III GTX is built with a hybrid upper that combines suede leather for durability and AKU’s proprietary Air 8000 fabric for breathability. This combination gives the boot a robust yet lightweight feel, ideal for long days on the hill.
The Gore-Tex Performance Comfort membrane is fully integrated, offering reliable waterproofing while allowing moisture to escape. The toe and heel areas are reinforced with double-layer suede, providing protection without the bulk of a full rubber rand.
The ankle collar is well-padded and contoured for comfort, and the tongue is gusseted to keep out debris and water. A rear pull tab makes the boots easy to get on and off, even with gloves.
Overall, the build quality is excellent—typical of AKU’s Italian craftsmanship. The stitching is precise, the materials feel premium, and the boot has a clean, technical aesthetic that looks at home in the mountains.
Comfort and Fit
Out of the box, the Trekker Lite III GTX feels supportive but not stiff. The Custom Fit IMS footbed offers a good balance of cushioning and arch support, and the dual-density EVA midsole absorbs impact without feeling spongy.
The boot fits true to size, with a slightly snug midfoot and a roomy toe box. For those with wider feet, AKU offers a Wide Fit version, which adds volume across the forefoot without compromising heel hold.
The lace hooks allow for precise tensioning, and the boot holds the foot securely even on steep descents. The ankle support is moderate—enough for rocky terrain and light scrambling, but not restrictive.
After several long hikes, including a 20km loop in the Lake District, the boots remained comfortable with no hotspots or heel lift. They’re well-suited to hikers who want all-day comfort without the bulk of a full alpine boot.
Traction and Stability
Underfoot, the Trekker Lite III GTX uses a Vibram Curcuma outsole with deep, multi-directional lugs. The tread pattern provides excellent grip on:
- Wet rock
- Loose scree
- Muddy trails
- Dry hardpack
The heel brake improves control on descents, and the climbing zone at the toe offers better edging on rocky scrambles. In testing, the boots felt secure and confidence-inspiring, even on exposed ridgelines and wet granite.
The midsole stiffness is rated medium, which means the boot flexes enough for natural walking but remains stable under load. This makes it ideal for multi-day hikes with a 10–15kg pack.
Waterproofing and Breathability
The Gore-Tex Performance Comfort lining provides full waterproof protection up to the ankle collar. During stream crossings and wet weather hikes, the boots kept feet dry with no signs of leakage.
The Air 8000 fabric is a standout feature—it’s up to 11 times more breathable than traditional synthetic uppers, according to AKU. This makes the Trekker Lite III GTX a great choice for:
- Warm-weather hiking
- Sweaty feet
- Long-distance treks
Even after hours of use in humid conditions, the boots remained dry and comfortable inside, with minimal moisture buildup.
Durability and Longevity
After several months of use, the Trekker Lite III GTX shows minimal signs of wear. The suede upper resists scuffs, and the Vibram sole retains its grip and structure. The lack of a full rubber rand may reduce protection on very rocky terrain, but it also keeps weight down.
The lace hardware is solid, and the stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas. With proper care (cleaning and drying after wet hikes), these boots should last multiple seasons of regular use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight yet supportive for mountain use
- Excellent waterproofing and breathability
- Vibram sole offers great traction on varied terrain
- Comfortable out of the box
- Available in wide fit
- Italian craftsmanship and premium materials
- Good value for a high-performance boot
Cons:
- No full rubber rand (less protection on scree)
- Not as cushioned as some trail shoes
- Lugs can collect mud in soft conditions
- No recycled materials used
Comparison: AKU Trekker Lite III GTX vs Scarpa Terra GTX
| Feature | AKU Trekker Lite III GTX | Scarpa Terra GTX |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (UK 9) | 570g | 655g |
| Upper | Suede + Air 8000 | Full-grain leather |
| Waterproofing | Gore-Tex Performance | Gore-Tex |
| Outsole | Vibram Curcuma | Vibram Energy |
| Fit Options | Standard + Wide | Standard only |
| Best For | Mountain hiking, scrambling | Lowland and hillwalking |
| Price (RRP) | £215 | £180 |
The AKU is better for technical terrain and breathability, while the Scarpa offers classic leather durability and a more traditional fit.
Final Verdict: Is the AKU Trekker Lite III GTX Worth It?
The AKU Trekker Lite III GTX is a virtually faultless three-season hiking boot that delivers on all fronts: comfort, protection, breathability, and grip. It’s ideal for hikers who want a boot that can handle UK mountains, European trails, and multi-day treks without the weight or stiffness of a full alpine boot.
Its combination of Gore-Tex waterproofing, Air 8000 breathability, and Vibram traction makes it one of the most versatile boots in its class. While it’s not the cheapest option, it offers exceptional value for the performance and build quality.
If you’re looking for a lightweight mountain boot that doesn’t compromise on support or durability, the Trekker Lite III GTX is a top-tier choice.
Rating: 9.4/10 Best for: Mountain hikers, backpackers, and technical trail users Avoid if: You need a full rubber rand or maximum cushioning
