February 1, 2023 AKU Introduces Latest Low-Impact Footwear

Footwear brand Aku announces two new projects that feature lightweight, recycled, and vegan-friendly innovations – all of them designed to reduce overall impact.

Aku is the Italian brand specializing in premium quality outdoor shoes with a focus on responsibility and a low impact approach to its production processes. Combining this ethos with a commitment to keeping the quality and durability intact, Aku has developed two new series for the Fall22/23 season: V-Lite and Nativa Plus.

V-Lite series

The V-Light family targets hikers looking for maximum protection and comfort during many hours of use. It is also Aku’s first collection where they have substituted leather with a 57% recycled microfiber.

This Vegan-friendly solution offers up to a 30% reduction in weight, and by using its Carbon Footprint of Product Systematic Approach, Aku was able to calculate this version results in a 50% reduction in carbon emissions. Other circular elements include recycled laces, a partially recycled midsole, and a recycled Gore-Tex laminate.

Nativa Plus

Another new model in the mountain-inspired family, Nativa Plus is a versatile shoe, made for urban use, travel and for leisure in contact with nature. It also embodies Aku’s commitment in seeking design solutions with reduced environmental impact.

“Made in EU, we designed Nativa Plus to include lower impact materials wherever possible such as climate-compensated DANI Zero Impact Leather, partially recycled midsoles, recycled laces and natural footbeds made of coconut, latex and bamboo – just to name a few,” share Giulio Piccin, Sustainability Manager at Aku.

“Also, as a result of Aku’s commitment to transparency and concentration of over 70% of its production in company-owned facilities, 100% of components are fully traceable and the details for each style are available on our website.”

Photos: AKU