forces from the ground. IMS 3D anatomical midsoles remove the
need to “upgrade” boots with off the shelf supports and insoles.
Breathability is ensured by the use of AKU’s
Air 8000 fabric, which gives the Pilgrim HL
a technological advantage over “normal”
fabric boots. Air 8000 fabrics have proved
hugely advantageous in the original AKU
Navy Seal and have been used with great
success throughout the Pilgrim range.
A high-wicking lining fabric is laminated to the tough 3D woven
nylon face fabric using net glue. Traditional manufacturing use
a complete layer of glue to stick the lining to the outer, greatly
reducing breathability. Net glue uses small blobs of glue in a
matrix, full of holes like a net, to ensure maximum breath-ability
and structural integrity. The face fabric is a tough 3D woven
nylon constructed with a raised and increased surface area which
providing greater abrasion resistance. The combination of these
technologies allows the Pilgrim HL to breathe 11 times better
than any of its competitors and the Pilgrim HL GTX to have
30% more breathability than conventional Gore-Tex lined boots.
Support and comfort is determined by the “Last”, a mould that
the boot is constructed around. The Pilgrim HL Last has been
designed to work perfectly with the IMS 3D midsole to allow
for a more natural walking motion and to provide a permanent
spring to reduce fatigue over long distances. The internal shape
of the Pilgrim HL has a roomy forefoot for
increased comfort over long term use
and a secure heel profile for increased
heel grip when ascending. The Last itself remains inside the boot throughout
the production process. This ensures
the size and shape integrity of every
pair made; very few manufacturers use
this process as it is expensive and time
consuming.
The Pilgrim HL retains a low profile and agile design
but thanks to the IMS it has superb impact absorption
and comfort. Traditionally constructed boots put all the
cushioning below the midsole, moving the foot further
from the ground and creating a “numb” or “remote”
sensation. It also creates instability as the large amount of
soft EVA or PU will deform on impact forcing the user to
over-compensate, creating stresses through the lower leg.
IMS places some of the EVA above the midsole reducing
the stand height of the boot, increasing stability and providing the user with more contact and sensitivity whilst
still offering effective support, cushioning and comfort.
The new higher ankle design allows for full ankle flex
(which is essential when driving or when moving into a
prone/kneeling position) but increases the support to the
lower leg and