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    • Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe

    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe

    Somewhat new to the world of footwear, Arc'teryx  designers now have a well-rounded offering including everything from hiking boots and approach shoes to ski boots and trail runners. They each have a distinctively Arc'teryx design, in terms of both aesthetics and function. The Acrux SL Leather Approach shoe, with their understated funky colours and tongue-free design, fit the bill.

    We have reviewed more Arc'teryx products over the years than you can shake a stick at. Look to the uber high-end Alpha IS Jacket, the Gear of the Year winning Sphene Jacket, or,  if you are feeling nostalgic, look to our review of the now extinct Beta FL. We are huge fans of their kit. 

    Here's the Acrux at the top of a local lookout point. Good for scrambling and mid-season dusty trails. 
    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe
    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe
    SHOW THE REST OF THE REVIEW / PHOTOS / VIDEOS

    Here's a shot of what I think makes this (and other Arc shoes) so unique. There's no tongue! Instead, there's an inner sock type feature that hugs you foot and breaths exceptionally well. It's the yellow piece here, in case you miss it. The technical terms for it is "Arc’teryx Adaptive Fit Lite."

    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe

    There is a gel-type substance in the upper heel pocket. You can't really see it but it is residing under the fabric beneath the rim. This has a cushioning effect that adds to the shoes' comfort on the up (and down). The heel rim, in black, can feel a little rigid on the Achilles. 

    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe

    Here's a sideview showcasing the EVA midsole under the heel. Comfy ride. Dead bird logo included for style points—on the way to the crag or chilling at your local pub. 

    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe
    Not quite a rubber rand, but there's a laminated material on the toe and heel that serves a similar function (see photo above for the later). This provides a little extra support and shape to the shoe—as well as some scuff protection. 
    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe
    There's a lot going on with the tread pattern. It's a Vibram Lite Approach Outsole and it combines "a sticky climbing zone and smearing inserts with a mountaineering heel tread for an easy stride". To me that means that it's not going to do well in mud; rather, it's a true approach shoe that'll allow for a little climbing too.
    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe
    What can I say, those calves need a tan. Nice on the "uptrack."
    Arc'teryx Acrux SL Leather Approach Shoe

    Features:

    • Custom developed 3D moulded Ortholite™ footbed 
    • Spherical heel shape 
    • Custom patterned Vibram® MegaGrip outsoles
    • Vibram® Arc’teryx Light Approach Outsole 
    • "Y" Groove split heel technology for improved braking

    Materials:

    • 1.5mm split suede leather
    • Air-permeable 3D mesh
    • Integrated sticky rubber toe cap

    Verdict:

    This is my first pair of shoes from Arc'teryx and I wasn't sure what to expect. I like them plenty, but a part of me thinks that the simplistic design they're so famous for in their outerwear hasn't carried over into this pair of shoes. Features like the abrupt heel pocket edge and liner seem a little "over-designed" to me. I'm just not sure if the design approach translates into real benefits for the user.

     I have worn the Acrux SL Leather shoes around town and on several day hikes in and around Nelson, here in the BC Interior. They hike nicely and the Vibram sole is good for scrambling up rocks. Because the leather and colouring is so darn nice, I frankly don't want to get them too dirty so they spend most of their days in urban environments.

    As with any smart shoe shopping, you should go and try before you buy. Note that my issue with the shoes' heel pocket may because I have funky feet. It may not be a factor for you and I encourage you to try them out. If you are one to compare, take a look at the Scarpa Crux review we did. The Scarpas are also an approach shoe. 

    The Acrux SL Leather shoe works in the city as well as on the trail. The contrasting colours are muted and add to their funky yet functional aesthetic. If the suede gets dusty, brush 'em up with a wire suede brush. 

    Oh.... and speaking of Arc'teryx footwear, be sure to check back in the late autumn for our review of the new Procline AR Carbon ski touring boots. Amazing. 

    PROS:

    • Muted, funky colours
    • Cool tongue-free design
    • Handy pull loops
    • Suitable for town and country

    CONS:

    • A little tricky to get into
    • Heel fits awkwardly for some people

    SPECS:

    Price: $190 CAN
    Weight (per shoe): 330 g / 11.6 oz
    Sizes: 7-13 US
    Colour:  Yellow, green, blue and black

     

    RATING: 8/10

    Innovation        1.5/2 
    Function           1.5/2 
    Aesthetics/Fit   1.5/2
    Features              2/2 
    Quality/Price    1.5/2

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    Did we miss something? Are we totally out to lunch? Let us know what you think. People like/dislike gear for different reasons so chime in below and we'll get a well-rounded evaluation. You'll need to login or register before you can comment but it only takes a few seconds, then you're good to go.

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