Verdict from 9.6 hours of research from the internet
8 reasons to buy
- It required little-to-no breaking in, as testified by many wearers.
- The majority loved how comfortable the KEEN Gypsum II Mid Waterproof was. They said that they did not want to take it off.
- The ankle support of this day hiking boot was applauded by a handful.
- Numerous consumers liked how it provided them warmth on cold conditions. One even sent a pair to her son in Alaska. She said that it served her son well.
- KEEN’s Gypsum II Mid Waterproof was indeed a lightweight hiking boot, as claimed by a lot of users.
- Some were amazed with the fit of these boots.
- The outsole of the Gypsum II Mid Waterproof received approvals from a considerable number of wearers. They attested that it did not retain mud or snow during their hikes.
- Several users appreciated the roomy toe box. They mentioned that they have enough space to wiggle their toes.
4 reasons not to buy
- A couple of Gypsum II Mid Waterproof purchasers were disappointed with its durability. One noted that the soles separated after two months of use.
- A handful of wearers found the pair to be too warm for the summer season.
- The metal hooks on the top of the boots broke off. This was experienced by a significant number of users.
- Some disliked the insufficient arch support from KEEN’s Gypsum II Mid Waterproof. They had to replace the insoles to get better support on their arches.
Bottom line
When it comes to comfort, KEEN Gypsum II Mid Waterproof delivered well. Its minimal break-in period, the ankle support, and roomy toe box were some of the reasons why consumers felt satisfied with this pair. The insulation and well-performing outsole were also acknowledged by wearers.
On the flip side, users experienced issues in the sole and metal hooks. Everything considered, it's a comfortable boot for hiking, yet consumers have to be cautious of its signs of wear and tear and be prepared to use its product warranty.
Tip: see the best hiking boots.
Expert reviews:
- 90/100 by Comfort Work Boots
User reviews:
- 4.6/5 by Amazon (+200)
- 4.3/5 by Amazon UK (+200)
- 4.3/5 by Zappos (+50)
- 4.1/5 by REI (+20)
- 5/5 by SportsShoes (2)
- KEEN has furnished the Gypsum II Mid Waterproof with technologies to let users travel for miles. It uses a non-marking rubber outsole that has 4 mm multi-directional lugs to promote traction. The KEEN.Protect provides additional forefoot protection.
- The cushioning and support are handled by the components in the midsole. A metatomical dual-density EVA footbed, ESS shank, heel support structure, and the KEEN.Zorb work together to render optimal performance. The Cleansport NXT takes care of the freshness of the boot's interior.
- Using a durable nubuck leather and breathable mesh upper, the Gypsum II Mid Waterproof maintains comfort. The KEEN.Dry sustains the boot’s waterproofing.
The Gypsum II Mid Waterproof from KEEN is offered to men and women. The traditional front lace-up grants users a customized fit. Overlays are connected to lacing system to deliver support.
The KEEN Gypsum II Mid Waterproof is equipped with a grippy, non-marking rubber outsole. It has 4-millimeter, multi-directional lugs to ensure that mud and dirt do not remain stuck on its surface. The design of this outsole also creates a channel to let water out when traversing wet areas, thus maintaining its grip.
The footwear company's patented toe protection—KEEN.Protect—is also incorporated into this day hiking boot. It safeguards the foot against accidental bumps.
KEEN Gypsum II Mid Waterproof makes use of a removable, Metatomical, dual-density EVA footbed. Metatomical, a term coined from the fusion of metatarsal and anatomical, is engineered to give arch support. It conforms to the overall shape of the boot providing comfort and support. Moreover, the dual-density EVA foam adds cushioning and flexibility.
To maintain the freshness of the environment inside the boots, KEEN has applied the Cleansport NXT in the Gypsum II Mid Waterproof. This technology works naturally by breaking down odor-causing bacteria. It involves microbes that are activated by sweat. They remain dormant until reactivated.
Providing an additional layer of comfort is the KEEN.Zorb. This full-length cushioning is shock absorbent and delivers instant relief.
Securing every step on the trail is the ESS shank. It renders torsional rigidity which stabilizes and adds midfoot support in every stride. The stability of this day hiking boot is further enhanced by the heel support structure.
To provide the Gypsum II Mid Waterproof a durable yet breathable upper, KEEN has combined nubuck leather, mesh and textile lining together. Nubuck leathers are known for their resistance to abrasion and wear accounting to its durability.
KEEN.Dry—a patented waterproofing technology from KEEN keeps the feet safe against wet outdoor conditions. It also allows moisture from the inside to escape, preventing blisters and hot spots.
The KEEN Gypsum II Mid Waterproof has a gusseted tongue which provides additional protection against debris. The pull loop on the back of the heel and the top of the tongue warrants smoother adjustments, while its soft, padded collar renders comfort.
-KEEN recommends using a leather cleaner and conditioner (found in most footwear dealers) to rid this boot of dirt.
-Another offering from the same brand is the KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid.
Size and fit
How Gypsum II Mid Waterproof compares
