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Three Things To Know
£125.00 at time of writing
Free of "forever chemicals: Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Very comfortable: Keen provide trademark extra space at the front of the shoe
Our rating:
Comfort and Fit
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
Materials, Durability and Quality
Weight and Flexibility
Grip and Traction
Check availability at Keen.com.
By their own admission, Keen likes to do things differently. They’re on a mission to create shoes that have the smallest footprint (we’re talking sustainability here, rather than physical footprint!).
They make shoes that perform to a high standard, making them stand out in a crowded market. And while they’re not cheap, they don’t cost the earth (in both senses of the words).
A family-owned company, Keen pride themselves on using recycled and ethically sourced materials, and are committed to becoming chemical free. Their philosophy is to make shoes that last, meaning you won’t need to buy replacements.
The Hightrail comes in men’s and women’s in a variety of colour combinations, as well as in both shoe and boot.
First Impressions
The Hightrail shoe is a solid but lightweight durable hiking shoe with a great balance of flexibility and ready-for-action features. Sustainably sourced leather trim on the mesh upper can be easily cleaned with soap and water. The rubber sole is packed with cushioning support and looks chunky, with multidirectional lugs to maximise grip on tough terrain.
The pair I tested were in the black/magnet colour, and I confess to being a little underwhelmed by them visually. Had I gone for a different colour, I suspect I would have been more instantly attracted.
On the plus side, they do look more like a casual sneaker than a walking shoe, which means you can use them for day-to-day use without looking like you’ve just stepped off the trail.
Aesthetics aside, as soon as I got my feet inside, I was smitten. The Hightrail is super snug, supportive, and made my feet want to walk. And once I started, they didn’t want to stop. I’ve been wearing this pair for about six weeks now, for a variety of activities, and not only do they still look like new, I’ve found them comfortable, hard-wearing and fit for anything.
Comfort and Fit
I’ve tested a number of Keen shoes over the years and find them as comfortable as pretty much any brand going. I have wide feet, and the trademark extra space Keen always provides at the front of the shoe is a godsend. The soles are a great cushion and the arch support relieves discomfort over a long period.
Materials, Durability and Quality
One of Keen's big boasts is that their sustainability comes from making shoes that last. The less-often you need to replace your footwear, so the thinking goes, the better for the environment. So, putting their money where their mouth is, their products are built to last a lifetime. I've had a number of different Keen shoes down the years, and can vouch for their durability. These are no different – their quality shines through.
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
Keen’s commitment to sustainability continues with their use of PFAS-free water repellent to the outer, while the breathable waterproof membrane inside doubles up on protection. I spent a good while walking through streams in this pair and not a drop got through.
Weight and Flexibility
One of the big advantages the Hightrail has over some more traditional hiking shoes is how light, flexible and easy wearing they are. As well as putting them through their paces on rough terrain, I've cycled in them for hours, and even worn them while taking a kids football coaching session.
Grip and Traction
In short, it depends on the surface. I’ve tested these on a variety of terrains – a muddy hill walk, criss-crossing streams through a nature reserve, and along the canal tow path, as well as cycling. On all of these, you couldn’t wish for better grip. But on the polished tiles of Bristol Temple Meads train station, I found them surprisingly slightly slippy. Still, I guess it’s churlish to criticise them for not performing on a surface they’re not intended for – after all, they performed well on wet rocks.
Value For Money
While £125.00 isn't a small price to pay, these boots really are worth the money.
Sustainability
Keen shoes are guaranteed free of "forever chemicals" or Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), which are a group of thousands of man-made chemicals that are widely used in various industries and consumer products due to their unique properties like water and grease resistance.
Keen also uses materials like webbing made from post-consumer plastic bottles and outsoles made with agricultural waste.
Should You Buy It?
Unless you’re planning on spending a small fortune, or planning a walk down the catwalk, you’re not going to go far wrong here.
Find out more in our guide to the best walking boots.
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