Exploring KEEN's Approach to Fashion-Forward Outdoor Footwear
As the lines between streetwear and functional sports, military and outdoor gear continue to blur, football shirts, flight jackets and trail sneakers have all been deemed street-worthy. In our latest editorial shoot, we explore how the UNEEK silhouette succeeds as a functional outdoor shoe with fashion-forward sensibilities.
As streetwear evolves, it grows increasingly fearless, fun and free from conventions. KEEN's UNEEK shoe walks a similar path, setting itself apart visually and technically with the patented intertwined cords, an adaptive shape, and anti-odor metatomical footbed.
Not quite sandals, not quite sneakers — the UNEEK shoe is undefinable. Innovatively appropriating while simultaneously spearheading trends; like streetwear, it’s a multifaceted concept. Our shoot highlights this by sending avant-garde styling out into the wild.
KEEN's obsession with reinterpreting traditional footwear started in 2003. From their Portland base, they asked if sandals could remain open but also protect the foot, leading to the Newport sandal design. Remaining inquisitive, they launched UNEEK in 2014, which VP of Creative Michael Minter discussed with us in depth.
Take a look at our exclusive shots of the shoe before finding out more via the link below.