Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX

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Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX: Review

“A lightweight shoe for agile and fast hiking experiences.”

Overview


The Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is a high-performance hiking shoe designed for those who prioritize speed and lightness on the trails. This model is part of the Arc’teryx lineup, known for its innovative designs and quality construction. The Aerios FL GTX combines several advanced materials and technologies to offer a superior hiking experience, particularly for day hikes and light excursions.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight Construction: Utilizes synthetic materials and a streamlined design to minimize weight, enhancing mobility and reducing fatigue.
  • Waterproof Capability: Features a Gore-Tex membrane that provides reliable waterproofing to keep feet dry in wet conditions.
  • Advanced Traction: Equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole that offers excellent grip on various terrains, ensuring stability and safety.

The Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is an ideal choice for hikers who need a light, agile shoe that does not compromise on protection or performance. Its waterproof and traction capabilities make it suitable for a wide range of hiking conditions.

Verdict

The consensus on the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX


The Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX has garnered praise for its exceptionally lightweight design combined with effective waterproofing and comfort. It excels in providing a light, agile feel on the trail, making it perfect for day hikes and quick excursions. However, it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty or multi-day hikes where more support and durability are needed.

The shoe's comfort is highlighted by its immediate out-of-the-box ease and the use of soft, breathable materials that conform well to the foot. The inclusion of a Gore-Tex membrane ensures that the shoe remains waterproof, a feature that has proven reliable in various wet conditions. Traction is another strong point, with the Vibram Megagrip outsole performing well on most surfaces, though it may fall short in very cold or highly technical terrains.

Despite its many strengths, the Aerios FL GTX is not without its limitations. The shoe's lighter construction means less support, which could be a drawback for those carrying heavier loads or traversing very rugged landscapes. Additionally, the durability of the outsole may be compromised in urban settings due to its softer compound.

Overall, the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is highly recommended for hikers seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof shoe for shorter, less demanding trails.

Comparable Shoes


The La Sportiva Spire GTX offers better traction, comfort, and support compared to the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX. It is a suitable alternative for hikers who need a more robust shoe for challenging terrains.



The Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex is a lightweight option that provides better comfort, support, and traction than the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX. It strikes a balance between lightness and trail performance, making it a good choice for a variety of hiking conditions.

Special versions of Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX




The Arc’teryx Aerios FL Mid GTX is a variant of the Aerios FL GTX with a mid-cut design that offers additional ankle support and protection. This version is better suited for hikers who need extra stability and protection without significantly increasing the weight of the shoe.

5 Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Extremely lightweight, enhancing agility and reducing fatigue on hikes.
Equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane, suitable for various wet conditions.
Features Vibram Megagrip outsole for superior traction on diverse terrains.

2 Cons

Less supportive for heavy loads or very rugged terrains.
Durability may be compromised in urban or abrasive environments.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is crafted from a lightweight, durable synthetic material that offers both flexibility and protection. This design choice contributes to the shoe's overall lightness and aids in reducing fatigue during long hikes. The upper is also equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane, ensuring that it remains waterproof yet breathable, making it suitable for a variety of weather conditions.

Midsole

The midsole of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX uses compressed EVA foam, providing a balance of cushioning and responsiveness. This material helps absorb shock while maintaining a firm enough feel to support quick movements and agility on the trail. The presence of a TPU shank adds additional stability, which is beneficial for maintaining balance on uneven surfaces.

Outsole

The outsole of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX features Vibram Megagrip technology, known for its superior traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The design includes strategically placed lugs that help grip the terrain, enhancing stability and safety during hikes. However, the softer rubber compound may wear down faster on hard, abrasive surfaces like concrete.

Size/fit

The Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX tends to run slightly long, which could affect the fit for some users. It is recommended to consider this when selecting a size, especially for those who are between sizes. The shoe provides a medium volume fit, which should accommodate most foot shapes comfortably.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX, with users noting its excellent out-of-the-box comfort. The shoe's design includes a soft, padded collar and a flexible upper that molds to the foot, reducing the likelihood of blisters and discomfort during hikes.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is provided by a compressed EVA midsole, which offers a responsive feel underfoot. This setup is ideal for hikers who prefer a firmer, more grounded sensation while still benefiting from adequate shock absorption.

Breathability

The breathability of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is enhanced by its lightweight, synthetic upper and the use of a Gore-Tex membrane. This combination allows for good air circulation while preventing water from penetrating the shoe, keeping the feet dry and comfortable in various conditions.

Stability

Stability in the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is achieved through the use of a TPU shank in the midsole, which provides torsional rigidity and support. This feature is particularly important for maintaining balance on uneven terrain and contributes to the overall secure feel of the shoe.

Durability

While the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is designed with high-quality materials, its durability may be challenged in harsher environments. The synthetic upper and the softer rubber outsole are susceptible to wear over time, especially when exposed to rough, abrasive surfaces.

Grip

The grip of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is one of its strong points, thanks to the Vibram Megagrip outsole. This outsole provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, making the shoe a reliable choice for hiking in diverse conditions.

Who should buy the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX?


The Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is ideal for hikers who value lightness and speed on the trails. It is particularly suited for those engaging in day hikes or short excursions where agility and minimal weight are prioritized. The waterproof and breathable features of this shoe make it a great option for hiking in variable weather conditions.

Who should not buy the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX?


Hikers planning for multi-day treks or those who frequently tackle very rugged and technical terrains might find the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX less suitable. Its lighter construction and softer sole provide less support and durability under heavy loads or in extreme conditions. For such scenarios, a more robust hiking shoe or boot would be recommended.

Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX: What's it good for?


The Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is excellent for day hikes and light trekking adventures. Its lightweight design and effective waterproofing make it suitable for a wide range of weather conditions, while the advanced traction offers stability on varied terrains.

3 Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX FAQs


Is the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX suitable for wet hiking conditions?

Yes, the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane that provides excellent waterproofing, making it suitable for hiking in wet conditions. The shoe's design ensures that feet stay dry, even when trekking through puddles or rain.

How does the weight of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX compare to other hiking shoes?

The Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX is one of the lightest hiking shoes available, weighing approximately 346 g for men and 301 g for women. This lightweight design makes it ideal for hikers who prefer a nimble, agile feel on the trails.

Can the insole of the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX be replaced with orthotic insoles?

Yes, the Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX features a removable insole, allowing hikers to replace it with custom or orthotic insoles for personalized support and comfort.

Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX alternatives

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Similarity
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released
Released
Nov 2019
Jan 2020Sep 2022Jan 2023
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Weight
Weight
M: 346 g
W: 301 g
M: 454 g
W: 354 g
M: 451 g
W: 380 g
454 g
M: 323 g
W: 272 g
Usages
Usages
Speed hiking
Speed hikingSpeed hikingSpeed hikingUrban hikingDay hikingSpeed hikingLight hikingSpeed hiking
Brand
Brand
Arc’teryx
adidasMerrellScarpaScarpaThe North Face
Antimicrobial
Antimicrobial
Heel brake
Heel brake
Techs
Techs
Gore-TexOrthoLiteVibram
Gore-TexGore-TexMerrell Air CushionVibramGore-TexVibramGore-TexOrthoLiteThe North Face Futurelight
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Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX: what the experts say (1 review)

Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX: 1 Manufacturer video

Arc’teryx Aerios FL GTX characteristics and specifications

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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