This brand new boot from AKU is absolutely gorgeous, both to look at & to wear. Virtually all the components were sourced from Italian suppliers & the boots themselves were designed & hand made by AKU in their Montebelluna factory in northern Italy. They just ooze quality. The key to the comfort & stability of AKU boots is their IMS system. Normally the midsole (the boots backbone) is made from a flat stiff board or plate, but IMS uses a 3D anatomically shaped midsole that cradles the foot in a natural position reducing internal movement & encouraging a naturally relaxed foot. What this means is that your feet feel less tired as they are not constantly working to provide support, the IMS is doing all that. The sole unit of the Superalp has been constructed using the new Exoskeleton construction which provides protection & stability without compromising the weight of the boot. The Exoskeleton is made up of a softer material to absorb impact shock & a more rigid material to provide stability, lateral retention & the perfect torsional rigidity. A Vibram self-cleaning outer sole supplies oodles of grip on a loose ground & has a reinforced toe area for secure grip on rock, if you fancy a bit of scrambling. The Nubuk leather is supplied by an Italian tannery that guarantees a sustainable & environmentally friendly production process resulting in the best quality 2.6mm leather. These sublime leather uppers are then backed by a 3D Gore-Tex lining for complete waterproofing & breathability. Stretch zones have been built into the ankle area to allow full movement without compromising support. In fact your ankle is superbly protected & cossetted by padding which becomes apparent as you slide your foot in. A full rubber rand finishes off the uppers to provide abrasion resistance. An even lacing tension is guaranteed by the use of roller eyelets that allow a smooth lace pull from the toe to the ankle, & you can separate the upper & lower lacing tension with a 45 degree lace lock. I really cannot convey in words how fantastically comfortable these boots are, your feet feel completely relaxed & cosseted, yet secure & stable at all times. Nubuk leather uppers Gore-Tex lining Flex zones Padded ankle IMS midsole Exoskeleton support system Vibram sole unit