AKU
Italy
AKU is an Italian outdoor footwear maker with its headquarters and factory in Montebelluna, in northern Italy. It is known for hiking and mountaineering boots such as the Slope.
| Country | Italy |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Montebelluna |
| Founder | Galliano Bordin |
| Best-known model | Slope hiking boot |
What is AKU?
AKU is an Italian boot maker whose headquarters and factory are in Montebelluna, in the Treviso province on the edge of the Dolomites. An adventure-gear publication places it among a close-knit group of Montebelluna boot makers that includes Scarpa and Asolo.
History
The founder is named as Galliano Bordin, whose last was the starting point for the brand's ELICA natural stride system. The source does not give a founding year.
Products and positioning
AKU concentrates on technical boots for the mountains. Models described include:
- the Slope hiking boot, popular for over 30 years, with a V-Light version that uses a recycled microfibre upper instead of suede
- the Aurai, a technical winter mountaineering and ice climbing boot
- boots built on the ELICA system, designed to support a more natural hiking motion
The range also includes mountain-inspired leisure wear.
Why it matters
AKU belongs to the Montebelluna footwear district in the Veneto, long associated with mountain and ski boot making. Its models show how a specialist maker combines technical boots with recycled materials in selected versions.
Frequently asked questions
Where is AKU from?
AKU is from Montebelluna in the Treviso province of northern Italy, where its headquarters and factory are located.
What does AKU make?
AKU makes hiking and mountaineering boots, including the Slope and the Aurai, as well as mountain-inspired leisure wear.