Mainly sandals. Aside from hiking they can be used for other purposes such as water activities. See multi-sport hiking sandals.
Good to know
Casual hikers can choose day hiking footwear or multi-sport sandals. More info here.
Waterproofing
Water-repellent boots offer basic protection from water splashes and rain and still have some breathability. But if you want full protection, go for the waterproof options.
Features
Lightweight
Shoes that weigh less than 16 oz (450 grams)
Orthotic friendly
Shoes with easily removable insoles that can accommodate custom orthotics.
Zero drop
Minimalist hiking shoes in which the heel is placed at the same height as the toes, as if you were standing on something flat. This allows for a more natural walking experience. Not recommended for beginners though.
Resoleable
Shoes designed in a way that their worn out sole can be replaced with a new one.
Heel brake
Placed in the heel section of the outsole, this component helps to minimize slipping and sliding on steep descents.
Antimicrobial
Shoes with a special lining that prevents growth of harmful bacteria.
Red lace
Red laces serve more for style than function. A nod to retro hiking shoes.
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Be trail ready with a pair of KEEN waterproof hiking shoes. Since 2003, KEEN has been creating footwear that has accompanied both newbies and experts to many miles on the trail. They have a vast offering which includes some of the best multi-sport sandals and a number of watertight shoes for hiking. These products from KEEN, together with their desire to make a difference in the outdoor community, made them one of the sought-after gear brands today.
The technology used to make KEEN hiking shoes waterproof
You may be wondering what makes KEEN hiking shoes waterproof. The brand’s specialists aim to offer optimal waterproofing by creating a proprietary membrane for weather protection, and that led them to develop the KEEN.Dry.
KEEN.Dry is a waterproof and breathable membrane incorporated in a majority of KEEN hiking shoes. It lets moisture from the inside to escape and prevents water from getting in. An attribute that sets this apart from other waterproofing technology available is the antimicrobial feature. Shoes with KEEN.Dry are also treated to an odor-free interior, thanks to the Cleansport NXT odor control.
Some of the best KEEN waterproof hiking shoes for men and women
Best KEEN waterproof hiking shoes - May 2019
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof
This iconic hiking shoe from KEEN offers durability, protection, and performance on and off the trails. The KEEN men’s and women’s Targhee III WP has a leather and mesh upper lined with KEEN.Dry. This combo of materials will allow you to function on most outdoor activities without worrying about sudden weather changes. Its midsole and removable footbed are both made of EVA, rendering lightweight cushioning. Underfoot, an ESS shank and an internal resilient shank work together to stabilize and support the foot. The All Terrain rubber outsole makes it adherent to most ground surfaces.
KEEN Oakridge Waterproof
This waterproof version of the KEEN Oakridge delivers all-day comfort. Its upper is made of leather and textile. Aside from the KEEN.Dry lining, it also has a breathable mesh inside which promotes a cozy in-shoe feel. Its EVA midsole and footbed are paired with a stability shank to create a balance between cushioning and firmness. Its outsole has 4 mm multidirectional lugs that yield 360-degree traction.
KEEN Terradora Waterproof
This women’s-only KEEN waterproof hiking shoe delivers optimal comfort and fit through its mesh and synthetic upper. The KEEN.Dry membrane makes it waterproof while Cleansport NXT keeps it odor-free. The low-density EVA midsole used in the Terradora Waterproof grants cushioning without adding bulk. Its dual-density PU footbed supports the arches. Lastly, its non-marking rubber outsole makes it suitable for use indoors and outdoors.
KEEN Saltzman WP
The Saltzman WP from KEEN is a watertight hiking shoe for men. Its mesh upper optimizes flexibility while its KEEN.Dry membrane protects the users against wet encounters. It has a PU midsole for a responsive and cushioned ride. A metatomical EVA footbed, on the other hand, provides arch support. It has a solid, rubber outsole which makes it stick to the ground.
Caring for your waterproof hiking shoes from KEEN
If you know how to care for your hiking shoes properly, you will be able to extend its service life. You may refer to the below list for some care tips.
It is recommended to clean waterproof shoes in cold water with mild soap.
Let it dry naturally without using any external heat source.
A silicone-based waterproofing spray can enhance your shoe’s performance. It is suggested to reapply treatment once every three months.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I purchase replacement laces for my KEEN waterproof hiking shoes?
Shoe owners can order replacement laces through KEEN website. If your preferred lace is not available through the brand’s website, you may send an email to KEEN and put “lace request” in the subject field for further assistance.
Can my KEEN waterproof hiking shoes be resoled?
Unfortunately, no. According to KEEN, the construction method and technology used in their waterproof hiking shoes would not allow them to resole (replace the sole).
There is a squeaking sound coming from my KEEN waterproof hiking shoes. How do I resolve it?
To remedy the squeaking sound from your shoes, start by removing the footbed. Gently buff the lining around the shoe interior using a small piece of grit sandpaper. Perform the same process on the footbed’s bottom layer.
If the procedure above failed, the sound might be coming from the outsole. This may indicate a defective pair, and in such case, KEEN recommends filing a warranty claim.