Verdict from 5 experts and +100 user reviews

7 reasons to buy

  • Based on a majority of user reviews, the Arc’teryx Arakys is one of the most comfortable approach shoes available.
  • The lightness of this product impresses a considerable number of owners.
  • Many wearers are delighted because this Arc’teryx offering is easy to clean.
  • A lot of users declare that the Arakys performed excellently in both light hikes and approaches.
  • Putting it on and taking it off proved to be hassle-free, hordes of pleased testers have testified.
  • Some individuals comment that they are stoked with the shoe's collapsible heel.
  • Its excellent grip over various types of surfaces is exhilarating, an abundance of owners have said.

1 reasons not to buy

  • A few purchasers find the Arc’teryx Arakys expensive.

Bottom line

Outdoorsy individuals seeking for versatile approach shoes are sure to enjoy the Arc’teryx Arakys. This product earns appreciation for its unrelenting comfort, satisfying lightness, and excellent performance. However, there are people who see this as an expensive purchase. Overall, despite its declared con, the Arc’teryx Arakys still offers enough number of pros to be desired.

Good to know

  • The revamped Arc'teryx Arakys now features a closed metal buckle, replacing the open latch used in its previous closure system. Aside from this update, the shoe still carries the technologies used in the earlier version. Its one-piece laminated upper features the Adaptive Fit technology that reduces weight, eliminates hot spots, and improves comfort. 
  • Underfoot, this product uses a combination of an EVA midsole and Vibram-slash-Arc’teryx outsole. The former addresses support and cushioning. The latter, on the other hand, renders stickiness, regardless of the surface condition.

The Arc’teryx Arakys is an approach shoe that caters to both male and female outdoor lovers. According to the product experts, the women’s version has less forefoot volume than the men’s. Thanks to the brand’s Adaptive Fit and easy-to-adjust one hand closure system, wearers are provided with a customized yet supportive fit.

The Arakys employs the Vibram Arc’teryx Light Approach outsole. Its tread profile combines climbing and hiking performance. This sole is made of Vibram Megagrip compound which is known for its provision of superior grip over wet and dry surfaces. It sticks to the ground without sacrificing flexibility and rigidity.

This approach shoe from Arc’teryx cradles the foot using a leather footbed. It can be removed or swapped out to a different insole, should the owner wants to use custom orthotics. The footbed sits atop a durable ethylene-vinyl acetate or EVA foam midsole. This duo aids in shock absorption while providing precision stability.

The Arc’teryx Arakys has a lightweight ripstop nylon upper. This material is air permeable, providing utmost breathability when climbing in warm conditions. It has 0.2 mm laminated TPU film overlays that give extra protection against abrasive outdoor elements. 

As part of the Adaptive Fit Lite feature, a zonal stretch liner forms to the foot, reducing the break-in time and eliminating hot spots. Also, this approach shoe is designed with a collapsible heel that allows owners to wear it as a camp or belay slipper.

The Arakys employs the innovative one-hand closure system. It includes a memory buckle that allows quick fit adjustment. Lastly, the product designers added a tab at the top of the tongue and heel for a convenient on and off.

  • Hikers who prefer approach shoes that have a leather upper may consider looking at the TX4 from La Sportiva.
  • Surface clean the Arakys with soap and water mixture.  Remove accumulated dirt using a soft brush. Owners can re-apply DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment as necessary. Keeping the shoes clean will help preserve their overall integrity.