Home / Style / Sneakers

This Is One of the Most Hyped Shoes on the Internet — And It’s from an Unexpected Trail Brand

Keen is best known for its capable outdoor footwear, but its upcoming release offers a surprising departure from the brand’s usual playbook.

Close-up of dark brown leather Keen shoe with visible logo on the strap.Keen
Add Gear Patrol as a Preferred Source on Google

By Hayley Helms

Published

·

Updated

If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more

In August of this year, Keen did something wholly unexpected: the OG hiking brand, known for its granola sneakers and sandals, released an extremely on-trend sneaker-loafer hybrid.

The drop managed to tap into the footwear zeitgeist and maintain Keen’s unique aesthetic — and people noticed. (Weird footwear is having a moment, after all.)

Pair of dark brown leather woven moccasin loafers with thick black rubber soles on a brown surface.
The new Keen loafer hybrid manages to look dressy and comfortable at the same time.
Keen

The individually numbered, ultra-premium sneaker-loafers outfitted in handcrafted, ethically sourced leather sold out in less than 48 hours, proving the style resonated.

Now, Keen is about to debut a fresh take on its out-of-the-box hybrid, this time in a rich new hue.

Dress to impress

Tomorrow, December 18, the Uneek Loafer will return, this time in a deep, earthy brown the brand is calling “Cordovan.”

The polished, sort-of dress shoe retains Keen’s signature visual identity, borrowing its hand-stitched and woven upper from the brand’s Uneek sandal.

Black woven leather slip-on shoe with a thick sole and KEEN logo on the insole.
The leather upper, lining and insole are from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group for their environmental and social practices.
Keen

A bouncy, rockered proprietary midsole created to propel the foot forward with each step and high-rebound foam enhance the cushiony feel of the hybrid loafer, while the high-traction rubber outsole ensures each stride is solid.

Pair of black woven leather slip-on shoes with brown insoles and black rubber soles.
Keen’s new Uneek Loafer WK “Cordovan” is stitched and woven by hand, using classic shoemaking techniques.
Keen

The Uneek Loafer WK “Cordovan” isn’t just another odd shoe attempting to cash in on the fashion and outdoor worlds’ current obsession with strange style.

Close-up of a black woven leather KEEN sandal with a braided design and branded strap.
The woven upper directly reflects Keen’s brand identity and manufacturing methods.
Keen

This trail-meets-city stepper is a genuinely cool option that blends dressy vibes with Keen’s proven comfort — and makes the idea of wearing a loafer all day an appealing prospect.

Availability and pricing

Similar to the first iteration, the Keen Uneek Loafer WK “Cordovan” is a limited release, and each pair is individually numbered.

The hybrid shoe will be available in unisex sizing starting on December 18th for $200 USD, on Keen’s official website and select retailers.

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

Read More

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

add as a preferred source on google
,