Aku Rock DFS II Gtx Review

The Aku Rock DFS II Gtx are versatile low-cut shoes, designed with a concentration of technical solutions resulting from the reinterpretation of a model that was already highly appreciated and previously tested by us.

Designed for approaches and easy climbs, they offer comfort, stability, and a quick fit. These qualities also make them suitable for day hikes on all types of terrain, where the traction of the Megagrip Approach tread compound is appreciated.

Technical features Aku Rock DFS II Gtx

• Upper: 1.6 mm suede + microfiber + Air 8000, 3D cross exoskeleton, 3D printed external protection
• Lining: Gore-Tex Extended Comfort
• Lacing: Aku Dual Fit System (DFS)
• Outsole: Vibram® Approach, Vibram® Megagrip rubber
• Midsole: dual-density EVA and PU
• Insole: 2.0 mm polypropylene
• Footbed: Ortholite® Hybrid Plus-Recycled
• Weight (verified): 430 g size 42 1/2 half pair
• Country of manufacture: Vietnam
• List price: €199,90

Test mode

I used the Rock Dfs II Gtx for about 2 months, during which time I made approaches in the mountains with short, easy climbs, day trips with elevation gains of up to 1800 m, approaches to cliffs, and as walking shoes in all weather conditions.

Aku Rock DFS II Gtx on-site test

Design

Building on the success of the Rock DFS Gtx, Aku now offers version 2.0 with some targeted improvements, especially on the heel, to improve comfort and climbing performance.

The Rock DFS II Gtx has a technical and attractive look and is available in two colorways: olive-dark orange (the ones I tested) and gray-orange, both understated but with an appealing touch. Compared to the previous model, the different construction of the heel stands out, with a band reminiscent of climbing shoes and a slightly modified collar geometry. The build quality is very high, with attention to detail. They are not very light, but the weight is well balanced and appropriate for their category.

Putting on

They are quick and easy to put on. I particularly appreciated their practicality in the mountains and on cliffs, when you need to quickly switch from climbing shoes to approach shoes: the Rock DFS II Gtx can be slipped on in an instant, even without completely unlacing them, thanks to the eyelets on the heel and tongue and the adjustable lacing system. A real advantage in many situations.

The Double Fit System (DFS) combines traditional laces for “comfort walking” mode and a fast lace system for “precise climbing” mode. This is the real unique feature of this model: it allows you to adjust the volume of the shoe according to its use, offering great versatility. The three closure holes also allow for different solutions, including lock lacing (double eyelet), by choosing which two holes to use.

Personally, I use comfort walking and precise climbing for more technical approaches and during climbing, with lock lacing between the top and inner eyelets: this setup provides excellent sensitivity and precision, and the heel remains firmly in place. For short hikes, I prefer comfort walking only, while on the crag I opt for precise climbing for speed of use, threading the traditional laces into the shoe without tying them.

It should be noted that compared to the previous version, the fast laces have been lengthened, allowing for betteradjustment. In summary, the ability to customize the lacing makes this shoe extremely versatile.

Flaws? I would have preferred a wider rear eyelet, perhaps similar to that of the Aku Rocket, because the current one is a bit small. Furthermore, the Rock DFS II Gtx cannot be resoled: a real shame for a shoe of this quality.

Comfort and stability

The Rock DFS II Gtx is a comfortable, snug-fitting shoe that can truly be worn all day long. The midsole combines two materials, EVA and PU, integrated with Elica technology, while the Ortholite HybridPlus-Recycled footbed guarantees comfort in every situation and a smooth, natural roll. Compared to many competitors, it is slightly softer, a feature that broadens its range of use without making it too specialized.

Stability and precision are always top notch. As a seasoned rock climber, I put it to the test on challenging approaches with a heavy backpack: the shoe always remained firmly planted on the ground, exactly where I wanted it. Protection is also very good, thanks to the wide TPU band that runs along most of the shoe and the upper, both of which are solid and reliable.

Traction

The sole is entirely designed by Vibram, with an Approach tread and Megagrip compound. The result is excellent: the Rock DFS II Gtx adheres to any terrain with surprising grip, especially on rock. On via ferrata and easy climbs, the grip is further enhanced by the climbing zone, which is smoother than the rest of the tread.

The good overall softness of the shoe also allows it to be used in much the same way as a climbing shoe, ensuring excellent thrust and great precision even when flexing.

Breathability and waterproofness

The Aku Rock DFS II features a Gore-Tex Extended Comfort membrane, designed for the summer months and generally for mild or warm climates, combined with an upper made with Aku’s Air 8000 technology.

This combination has proven to be very effective: impeccable waterproofing (the usual one-minute ‘soaking’ test passed without any problems) and surprising breathability for a shoe with a membrane, even on very hot days. I admit that I am not a big fan of Gore-Tex in approach shoes, but in this case I have to acknowledge that the Rock DFS II Gtx never made my feet sweat excessively, even when I used it as a hiking shoe during the hottest weeks.

Fit

The Rock DFS II Gtx is easy to wear: it has a spacious interior, a wide sole and a traditional shape without any marked asymmetries. My ‘Greek’ foot, with the second toe longer than the big toe, immediately felt comfortable.

The comfort is immediate: the upper is soft enough that it does not require breaking in, although after a couple of months of use it has softened further. Thanks to the spacious interior, choosing the right size is easy: just go with your regular walking shoe size. Those who, like me, often find themselves between a half size (42 ½) and a full size (42), may want to consider the full size.

Recommended for

The Rock DFS II Gtx has proven itself to be a versatile, well-constructed shoe capable of meeting a variety of needs. Easy to wear, comfortable and natural when walking, it nevertheless retains a technical soul that is best expressed on rock, thanks to its excellent grip, stability and precision.

Its ideal terrain remains approach routes, easy climbing and via ferrata: you can put them on in the morning and keep them on until you return in the evening, without discomfort or limitations. At the same time, their versatility allows them to be used for light weekend trekking, leisurely walks or simply as an all-day shoe, in total relaxation.