Arcteryx Aerios FL Mid GTX Review
INTRO
Arc’teryx introduced the Aerios FL GTX and Aerios FL GTX Mid hiking shoes as lightweight waterproof options for hikes on variable terrain. I have previously owned the Aerios FL GTX and recently started using the Aerios FL Mid GTX so all opinions are based on the actual use of both shoes. I wear a size 10UK which is my regular shoe size and the Aerios FL and Aerios Mid are both true to size. The following is based on a year of use in the UK mountains and Fells in the Brecon Beacons and Lake District National Park.
WHAT IS THE ARCTERYX AERIOS FL GTX / FL MID GTX?
The nice thing about Arc’teryx products is that the clue is always in the name. FL stands for Fast and Light which is a large part of the appeal of the Aerios shoes. GTX stands for the use of GORE-TEX as a waterproof membrane in the shoe. These two characteristics mean that the Aerios FL GTX is a great lightweight hiking shoe for variable conditions. Think of the Aerios FL as an extension of the Arcteryx trail running range that is known for its lightweight comfort but with added stability and durability.
OUT THE BOX
WEIGHT
Taking the Aerios FL GTX out of the box it is possible to see the first real pro, the weight. Weighing in at 690g (size 10 UK) and 740g for the Mid, these shoes are incredibly light. The synthetic upper contributes to this massively and is pliable which will help the comfort.
SOLE
A quick look at the sole and you can see there are deep lugs that should help with traction. The sole itself is a Vibram Megagrip sole. Vibram Megagrip is a rubber compound that is both extremely durable and reassuring in terms of grip.
OUTER
The outer of the shoe is constructed out of a lightweight Cordura Mesh and sealed with TPU high abrasion protection films in the harder wearing areas. The Cordura Mesh comes in one piece, reducing the need for additional stitching on the walking shoe. This lightweight mesh doesn’t hold water so dry’s quickly when wet.
The minimal stitching on the Aerios FL is a deliberate ploy by Arc’teryx. By reducing the stitching, to the front of the shoe under the laces and along the back of the heel, Arc’teryx has also reduced the likelihood that the stitching will fail. Occasionally get ripped after rubbing against corse materials like rocks.
WATERPROOFING
Attached to the inside of the Cordura Mesh is the GORE-TEX membrane that keeps your feet dry through wet weather activities. GORE-TEX is the biggest name and still pretty much regarded as the industry standard for waterproof membranes.
BUMPER
The toes are protected by a somewhat beefy toe guard. This toe guard prevents abrasion of the shoe in an area that is high use ensuring durability.
COMFORT
The Aerios FL has a compressed EVA foam midsole that runs the length of the shoe and acts to stabilise and add comfort to the shoe. The midsole is thicker under the heel but there is ample cushioning under the toe box as well.
AERIOS FL GTX PROS
Available in two heights, mid and low top, mean that this shoe can suit a broader range of preferences.
Aerios FL is incredibly grippy across surfaces due to the Vibram Megagrip sole so you can spend less time worrying about your footing and more time enjoying the view.
An incredibly light shoe that is perfect for day hikes or for multi-day trips when reducing weight is important.
The Arcteryx Aerios FL has a nice design that looks good as well as being functional.
AERIOS FL GTX CONS
Arc’teryx products are not cheap and at £160 for the Aerios Mid, these shoes are at the upper range for shoes in the same category.
The Aerios FL isn’t overly cushioned so some people may want more in terms of comfort. The Ortholite insole that comes with the shoe offers 4mm of cushioning but this can be replaced for a more cushioned insole.
I would like to see offered in waterproof and non-waterproof versions similar to Arc’teryx trail shoes.
COMFORT
It doesn’t take long-wearing the Arc’teryx Aerios FL to realise it will not be the most cushioned shoe. Despite this, I found it an incredibly comfortable shoe. The Aerios FL is a stiff shoe and initially, this did lead to some blistering on my heel. The more I have used the shoe the softer the heel cup has become but the shoe retains its stiffness throughout the length of the sole. I have found no pressure points from the tongue or laces making this a very comfortable shoe.
GRIP
The success of a hiking shoe like the Aerios FL will most probably be decided on its traction. It is all well and good being incredibly light and comfortable but if the shoe doesn’t fill you with confidence on a range of terrain you probably wouldn’t use it. So far I have used the Aerios FL on; roads, public footpaths, fields, hills, woods, beaches and fells. Across all-terrain, I have found that the traction of the Vibram Megagrip sole was great. I haven’t slipped out, despite walking in some very wet conditions.
SUPPORT
My main concern with using the Aerios FL as my go-to walking footwear would be that it is a low top. As someone who has previously injured ankles, I prefer the support of a boot. That being said on the walks I have tested these shoes on I have had little trouble with unexpected ankle rolls. Carrying the added weight of a pack over rocks and uneven terrain caused no issues and I was generally impressed with how the shoe performed. If like me, you worry about your ankles this you should order the Aerios Mid version which will provide more support.
WEIGHT
As mentioned in the intro the Aerios FL is an extremely light pair of shoes. At 690g for the pair, it is hard to find a similar shoe on the market. I do worry with lighter products that they may lack durability over time but one year in and my Aerios FL shoes have stood the test of time.
WATERPROOFING AND BREATHABILITY
There is an argument that waterproofing in a shoe rather than a boot can be pretty pointless. The lop top design will normally lead to water entering the shoe in harsh weather conditions. The Gore-Tex held up well to rain as expected with no spots that held water.
DURABILITY
Buying Arc’teryx products often comes with a sense of reliability that befits the price tag. The Aerios FL Mid GTX are not cheap at £160 but this price tag reflects the craftsmanship. .
LOOK
The least important aspect of a hiking shoe is its looks but I guess it is still worth commenting on. The Arcteryx Aerios FL is an aesthetically pleasing shoe that doesn’t look out of place around town. This actually makes the shoe quite versatile as it could double as your walking shoe during the day and your round the town shoe at night. This could help you reduce weight in your pack and also help the price tag seem a little less steep.
AERIOS FL GALLERY
FINAL THOUGHTS
I have enjoyed wearing this shoe over the past year in a range of conditions. The shoe has stood the test of time and has been used during many walks across the fells in the Lake District and mountains of the Brecon Beacons. Overall I would recommend it to walkers who are looking for a lighter alternative to their bulky walking boots.
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