New hiking boots and light hikers from the US hybrid footwear specialist.
Hybrid specialist Keen may have an untypical new lightweight running shoe due out in spring 2011, but their new stuff for this autumn 2010 is much more in the classic Keen mould with a new hiking hybrid and an all-weather, three-season walking boot hitting the shops this month.
Cold Weather Hiking Boot
The new Keen Delta is a proper walking boot, albeit with Keen's distinctive toe shape and wide forefoot fit. The upper is made from a combination of a tough nubuck leather and mesh along with a watertight tongue and KEEN.DRY waterproof and breathable membrane for wet – aka 'British' – conditions.
For snowy use, the boot has 200g of KEEN.WARM insulation along with a removable, reflective Thermal Heat Shield footbed to minimise underfoot heat loss. Speaking of underfoot, there's an injection-moulded EVA mid-sole for cushioning and TPU shank for stability.
Interestingly, the outsole uses Keen's Dual Climate Rubber which hardens in cold conditions to give more bite into snow and ice. Maybe a good option for cold-footed British walkers or for a snowsports trip. Price is £120 and there are both men's and women-specific versions.
All-round Light Hiker
The Red Rock is maybe a more typical Keen offering. Keen says it's been designed for 'quick movements and fast hikes on tough terrain, as well as for high intensity everyday use'.
You get a nubuck and mesh upper with KEEN.DRY waterproof liner, a carbon rubber outsole with multi-directional 4mm lugs for all-round grip, TPU shank and a molded EVA and PU mid-sole.
Keen says it's a light shoe, but doesn't sacrifice function. In the shops this month priced at £90.
More information at www.keenfootwear.com.
