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Customer Services
Product FAQ's
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Answers to the most common questions about AKU footwear: sizing and fit, wide fit options, materials and waterproofing, care and maintenance, replacement parts, repairs/resoling, warranty, and restocks. |
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Size Guide
Size Guide → |
Care & Maintenance
Care & Maintenance → |
Repairs / Resoling
Lancashire Sports Repairs → |
| Do AKU boots fit true to UK size? | Most customers start true to size in UK sizing. AKU is performance-oriented, so the fit is designed to feel secure through the heel and midfoot. Aim for comfortable toe room, especially on descents. |
| What does “Wide” fit mean? | Some models are offered in a Wide version for more room through the forefoot/overall volume (same length size with increased width). |
| How do I know if my model is waterproof? | If the model name includes “GTX”, it uses a GORE-TEX® waterproof membrane. Always confirm on the product page for your exact model. |
| How do I dry AKU boots properly? | Dry naturally with airflow, away from direct heat. Open the boot up and remove insoles so moisture can escape evenly. |
| Can I wash AKU boots in a washing machine? | No. Machine washing can damage materials and construction. Clean by hand with a soft brush/cloth and allow to dry naturally. |
| Should I use spray or cream to protect them? | Use spray for suede/nubuck/fabric; use a suitable leather cream for full-grain leather. Light, regular maintenance is better than heavy over-treatment. |
| Can I buy replacement laces or insoles? | Yes — AKU replacement laces and footbeds are available on the AKU UK website under Accessories. |
| Do you offer repairs or resoling in the UK? | Yes — many repairs and resoles can be handled via Lancashire Sports Repairs (UK). Check their current process and options before sending. |
| My boots are leaking — are they faulty? | Not always. Leaks can be caused by wear, damage or care issues, but a failed waterproof membrane can be a warranty issue if there’s no external damage. |
| A model is out of stock — will it return? | Restocks depend on seasonal supply and product status. Use “Email me when available” where shown. If a model disappears from the site, it may be discontinued. |
| How do AKU boots fit compared to standard UK sizes? | AKU UK footwear is sold in UK sizing. Most customers start true to size, but AKU is performance-oriented so the fit is designed to feel secure through the heel and midfoot. A good fit should still allow toe room (especially walking downhill) and feel supportive rather than loose. |
| What is “Wide fit” and who is it for? | Some AKU models have a “Wide” version for customers who need more room through the forefoot/overall volume. AKU describe Wide as the same length size but with more width (for example, a 42 in length with increased width). Look for “Wide” in the product name, and if you’re unsure, try indoors first with your usual walking socks. |
| Can I return boots if they hurt after wearing them outside? | Fit discomfort is usually sizing/model mismatch or break-in. If boots have been used outside and show wear, they are not returnable for comfort reasons. Always test fit indoors first (socks you’ll wear, laced properly) before committing. |
| How do I know if my model is waterproof? | If your model name includes “GTX”, it contains a GORE-TEX® waterproof membrane. Always check the product page for the exact lining/material specification. |
| Should I use a spray or a cream to protect my boots? | It depends on the upper material. In general, sprays are best for suede/nubuck/fabric because they protect without flattening the nap or reducing breathability. For full-grain leather, a nourishing cream can help keep leather supple. We offer dedicated care products here. |
| How should I clean my boots after muddy use? | Let mud dry, then brush off with a soft brush. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth moistened with cold water. Avoid solvents or aggressive chemicals that can damage materials. |
| Can I use a pressure washer or washing machine? | No. AKU advise not to wash footwear in a washing machine and not to use pressure washers, as high temperatures/pressures can damage components. |
| My boots smell — what can I do? | Remove insoles and dry everything naturally with airflow. Clean/refresh the footbeds if needed, and only reinsert when fully dry. Persistent odour often improves with better drying and occasional insole replacement. |
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Best practice after wet walks
Dry naturally with airflow, avoid direct heat, open the boot up and remove insoles. For more guidance, see AKU Academy Care & Maintenance. |
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Replacement laces
Replacement laces are available on the AKU UK website. Match the lace type and length to your existing pair. |
Replacement footbeds (insoles)
AKU footbeds are designed to restore comfort and support. Choose the version that matches your boot construction (e.g. IMS where applicable). |
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If the upper is still in good condition but the tread is worn and grip has dropped, resoling can be an excellent way to extend the life of your boots. AKU Academy recommend Lancashire Sports Repairs for repair needs. |
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Do you offer repairs/resoling in the UK?
Yes — for many models, resoling and repairs can be arranged through Lancashire Sports Repairs. Turnaround varies; check their current guidance before sending. |
My boots are damaged — are they repairable?
Many issues (worn tread, rand separation, broken hardware, some stitching repairs) can be assessed by a specialist. Clean and dry boots before inspection, and use the LSR process for assessment. |
Lancashire Sports Repairs (LSR) →
| My boots are leaking — are they faulty? | Not always. Leaks can come from wear, damage, or care issues, but a failed waterproof membrane can be a warranty issue if there’s no external damage. AKU UK state boots are covered by a 2-year warranty against manufacturing defects and outline what is/ isn’t covered. |
| What is hydrolysis / why did my sole crumble in storage? | Hydrolysis is an age-related breakdown that can affect polyurethane (PU) components in some footwear, especially when stored for long periods. AKU UK note hydrolysis is not covered under manufacturing defect warranty. Keeping boots clean, dry, and stored in a ventilated place helps reduce avoidable damage. |
| I bought my boots from another retailer — what should I do? | Warranty and returns should be handled through the original place of purchase. AKU UK can process claims only for orders placed directly on aku.co.uk. |
| Will an out-of-stock size be restocked? | Restocks depend on seasonal supply and product status. If a product page offers “Email me when available”, use it for notifications. If a model disappears from the site entirely, it may have been discontinued or replaced. |
| Can you help replace a discontinued model? | Often yes — we can usually guide you to the closest current equivalent by category (hiking, backpacking, approach, mountaineering, tactical), materials, and fit intent. If you want help, send the old model name and your intended use to our team. |
| Do you have different colour options? | Colours vary by season and model. The product page shows the currently available colourways on our website. |
If you’d like to try a model in person, use the UK stockist list. Availability varies by model and season, so it’s worth calling ahead to check stock in your size.
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Need help choosing a model?
Tell us the terrain you walk on, the loads you carry, whether you prefer a snug or roomier fit, and the socks you wear. We’ll guide you to the best AKU model and fit. |
