La Sportiva crushes it in the climbing category, so it's no surprise that the Akyra II Hiking Shoe comes up clutch when we're fastpacking in the mountains. This trail shoe features La Sportiva's sticky yet hardwearing Frixion XT 2. 0 rubber compound for plenty of stick-um in the rocks, as well as Impact Brake System lugs at the toe and heel for serious bite on the ups and downs. The medial and lateral Flex Guard midsole inserts bring torsional stability for an increase of power and efficiency on uneven terrain, while the KPU 3D Grid exo-skeleton enhances midfoot support and toughens this shoe up for extended off-road use. Although the Akyra II has the armor and braces of a hiking shoe, it remains light and nimble like a trail runner to keep us both protected and quick on the trail.