KEEN Women's Steens Vent Low Height Breathable Hiking Shoes Review
The KEEN Women’s Steens Vent Low Height Hiking Shoes in Shitake/Crown Blue are designed to keep your feet comfortable on all types of terrain. From canyonlands to desert trails, these vented shoes offer a combination of durability, breathability, and support. Constructed from waterproof leather with a moisture-wicking lining, they weigh only 15.87 oz (499.9 g) per shoe, making them lightweight yet sturdy.
These shoes feature KEEN's traditional wider fit, ensuring comfort during extended wear. The Eco Anti-Odor technology helps keep your shoes smelling fresh, while the PFC-free water repellent treatment protects against wet conditions, emphasizing KEEN's commitment to sustainability.
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Features
- WATER-RESISTANT: Premium full-grain leather upper treated with a PFC-free water repellant.
- TRACTION: KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with high-traction grip and non-marking properties.
- SUPPORT: Torsion stability External Support Shank (ESS) for support on uneven surfaces.
- FIT & COMFORT: Low-profile upper with padded collar; removable EVA footbed and breathable mesh lining.
- CARE TIPS: Recommended use of leather cleaner and conditioner for maintenance.
Pros
- Comfortable and breathable design suitable for various terrains
- Lightweight construction enhances agility
- Excellent arch support from the metatomical footbed
- Durable materials ensure longevity in outdoor conditions
- Sustainable manufacturing process reduces environmental impact
Cons
- Some users may find the fit too wide if they have narrow feet
- The color options might be limited for those seeking more vibrant styles
- Requires maintenance to preserve leather quality over time
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | KEEN Women's Steens Vent | Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator | Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 15.87 oz | 16.2 oz | 16.2 oz |
| Water Resistance | PFC-free treatment | Yes | GORE-TEX lining |
| Arch Support | Yes, EVA footbed | Yes, contoured footbed | Yes, Ortholite footbed |
| Traction | High-traction rubber outsole | Vibram outsole | All Terrain Contagrip outsole |
Detailed Review
Upon wearing the KEEN Women’s Steens Vent Low Height Hiking Shoes, you'll immediately notice their comfort level, thanks to the cushioned EVA insole that molds perfectly to your foot's contours. The breathable mesh lining is particularly advantageous on warm days, allowing for adequate airflow and preventing sweat accumulation.
The shoes' traction capabilities excel while hiking on both muddy paths and rocky terrains, owing to the high-traction rubber outsoles designed with multi-directional lugs. This feature provides confidence in every step, whether you're navigating rugged environments or leisurely trails.
Moreover, the torsion stability provided by the External Support Shank (ESS) adds a layer of security when walking on uneven ground, making them suitable for challenging hikes. The low-profile upper ensures a snug fit around the ankle without compromising freedom of movement, which is crucial for an enjoyable hiking experience.
While the shoes are durable, daily wear and exposure to nature can lead to scuff marks and dirt accumulation. Users should follow care tips for cleaning and conditioning the leather to maintain its look and performance over time.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Exceptional cushioning and breathable materials enhance comfort for long hikes. |
| Durability | 4/5 | Constructed with robust leather, though requires maintenance to prolong life. |
| Traction | 4.5/5 | Outstanding grip in diverse outdoor settings, providing stability and confidence. |
| Support | 4.5/5 | Excellent arch support and stability, ideal for varying terrains. |
| Value for Money | 4/5 | Quality construction justifies the investment for serious hikers. |
User Reviews
I have always been loyal to another brand of hiking shoes but the deal on these was to good to pass up. Glad I bought them. They are very comfortable and did not need anytime to break in. Love the extra space in the toe area. Recommend.
These are very comfortable shoes. Size ia accurate.
Like all Keens, they fit comfortably and need very little, if any, break in time. Love them for trail walking, snow or ice.
Update: I've worn them for about a month now and they have contoured very nicely to my feet. They've gotten a lot of wear in the last month and are holding up nicely. The outside saw some rough country, very muddy, but they have cleaned up well. The only problem I have with them now is that they have a severe squeak (the right sole) and they came that way, it wasn't the wearing of them that caused it.. I think, and maybe it is why they were "on sale", that they were actually seconds, the sole not completely or permanently glued to the shoe... Don't know, but it is very annoying. But other then that, if I'm not walking on a tile/wood floor, the sound isn't that noticeable...Just got them and compared them to the Keens I’ve had for 5 years. Those were the second (or maybe 3rd?) pair of Keens I’ve worn. I LOVE Keen shoes because they are wide enough to fit my foot that was crushed and healed with a wide bunion. But this pair seems a tad bit longer, and a tad but narrower then my past shoes, even though their literature says they were molded on the original sizing (paraphrased). I’m going to keep them because I think (hope) they will work. They are leather sided so hopefully they will stretch.
These are the most comfortable hikers EVER! I have plantar fasciitis in my left foot, along with some other painful quirks, and I have real problems finding running/walking shoes and hiking shoes that offer the right cushioning, plus support, plus a wide enough toe box. Mind you, I don't have wide feet...they're fairly average in width. But so many brands of shoes lately seem to be narrowing their toe boxes for some reason. Keens overall are always accommodating in that respect, however. And I've got to say that these Steens hikers are, hands down, the most comfortable shoes I've had on in ages. I've been wearing them nonstop since I got them because they're more comfortable than my high-end, cushy running shoes. I've walked and hiked in them, and have just worn them all day around town, and in every case, I've had them on my feet for hours and there's no place that rubs, no hot spots, and my feet aren't tired when I take them off. For me, they're true to size. I typically wear an 8 1/2 in runners and hikers, and that's what I bought in these. They just fit so well. They're perfect. I've already purchased a second pair because (and anyone else who has foot issues will understand this) when you find a shoe/boot that's magic, you stock up on it and stick to it!
I bought these for the wide toe box associated with Keens. No complaints on that front, but ultimately did not enjoy wearing these shoes. When I first got them, the tongue would bunch up under the laces and hurt the top of my foot. I could only alleviate this by tying them less tightly, which caused my foot to slide around. Then, they developed a hole on the inside near my heel and that was also painful. I ultimately ended up duct taping over the hole until I could purchase a different pair of shoes. I will not be buying these again. I love my Keen sandals, so I'm sad that these didn't work out.
Great shoes! Excellent support and comfortable.
Great shoe as always keen puts out a great product! These run a half size larger than the style I usually wear!