Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX

The Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX weighs 600g per boot in Men's 11.5 and handles technical hikes and long treks with GORE-TEX waterproofing and a Vibram Megagrip outsole. The SuperFabric upper provides durability and flexibility that traditional leather boots can't match, and the aggressive lugs grip everything from loose scree to wet rock.

I bought these for technical day hikes where trail runners feel too exposed, but heavy boots are overkill. The Acrux TR hits that middle ground with enough protection for rough terrain and enough agility for fast-paced hiking. The GORE-TEX keeps feet dry in stream crossings and wet conditions.

SuperFabric Upper and Vibram Megagrip Outsole

The SuperFabric upper uses small armor plates bonded to a flexible base layer. This construction resists abrasion better than mesh while maintaining the flexibility that stiff leather can't match. The GORE-TEX membrane sits between the upper and lining for waterproof, breathable protection.

The Vibram Megagrip outsole features aggressive 5mm lugs that bite into loose terrain. The rubber compound sticks to wet rock better than standard Vibram formulations. A TPU shank in the midsole provides torsional rigidity for stability on uneven ground without the weight penalty of a full steel shank.

How Do the Arc'teryx Acrux TR GTX Boots Fit?

The fit runs true to size with a medium width. At just over 6 feet and 165 pounds, I wear my normal 11.5 with midweight hiking socks. The toe box has enough room for downhill descents without feeling sloppy on flat terrain.

Arc'teryx designed these with a precise heel cup that locks your foot in place. The lacing system pulls evenly across the midfoot without pressure points. Break-in time is minimal compared to leather boots, maybe 20-30 miles before they feel fully molded to your feet.

Loose Scree to Wet Rock Without Slipping

The Vibram Megagrip outsole excels on mixed terrain. Loose scree, wet slabs, muddy trails, the lugs find purchase where smoother soles would slip. The aggressive tread pattern sheds mud reasonably well, though clay soils can pack into the lugs on particularly muddy days.

The SuperFabric upper protects against rock strikes and abrasion without the weight of leather. I've kicked through talus fields and scrambled up rocky sections without worrying about damaging the boots. The flexibility allows natural foot movement on technical scrambles where stiff boots feel clunky.

Hot Feet Above 80 Degrees

The GORE-TEX membrane reduces breathability compared to non-waterproof hikers. On hot days above 80°F, my feet run warm. For summer hiking in dry climates, a non-GTX shoe might be more comfortable. The waterproofing earns its keep on wet days and stream crossings.

The price sits at the premium end of hiking boots. The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX offers similar waterproof hiking performance at a lower price point if budget matters more than the SuperFabric construction.

For other hiking gear, see the Lefroy Pant and Gamma LW Shorts. The best beanies for hiking cover headwear options for the trail.