AKU’S 100% VEGAN Superalp V-Light GTX boot shortlisted for Outdoor Industry Award

This month’s Outdoor Trade Show in Liverpool proved a successful show for Italian manufacturer AKU, represented by UK distributor Ardblair Sports Importers Ltd (ASI). In addition to quality meetings held with retailers and media alike the AKU’s new 100% vegan Superalp V-Light GTX boot, available from this autumn, was selected as a finalist in the UK Outdoor Industry Awards Footwear category. All finalists will be put forward to a consumer vote which will take place online between 20 June and 19 August and the winner will then be announced at the OIA conference on 7/8 September.

Commenting on the show, Chris King, head of sales at ASI: 
“We had the ideal balance of number and quality of meetings throughout the three-day event.  After many years, it feels like the outdoor industry has found the right balance of limiting the choice of market format – shows, showrooms, and shop visits – in order to make OTS the success it is.  We’re delighted that AKU’s forward-thinking and dedication to quality, low environment impact footwear has been recognised by the judges and hope those voting will lead to a well-deserved ‘winners’ badge.” 

The Superalp V-Light GTX, along with other models in the V-Light family, stood out on the ASI stand with the striking blue and orange colourway. Available in sizes 3-13, the boot weighs in at almost 100 g/pair lighter than AKU’s existing Superalp GTX, mainly thanks to the recycled microfibre upper (30% lighter than suede) and midsole. It offers the same high spec qualities and support as the existing Superalp GTX and NBK GTX models so suitable for longer distances, particularly when carrying heavy loads, thanks to superb underfoot cushioning and the right level of flex in the upper.

Bringing to market a Vegan boot is a natural step for AKU as it is a footwear brand that is well known for its ‘reACT Responsibly’, less waste, less consumption, less impact ethos. Back in 2018 AKU was the first and only company in the footwear sector to have calculated and certified the environmental impact of the Bellamont Plus and pioneered the use of Zero Impact leather (chrome and heavy metal free) on other models in the AKU range.

AKU takes seriously its responsibility to retailers and consumers (and has done for over a decade) and is transparent regarding the production methods and origin of its products. The brand’s commitment goes beyond the fact that they produce highly functional footwear with a focus on the constant search for innovative design solutions with low environmental impact, reusing resources, and abiding by the principles of the circular economy.