KEEN Men's Arroyo II Hiking Sandal Review
The KEEN Men's Arroyo II Hiking Sandal in Black Olive/Bombay Brown is a unique fusion of hiking boots and sandals crafted for outdoor enthusiasts. With waterproof premium leather and open vents, these sandals ensure both durability and breathability, making them an excellent choice for various terrains.
This all-in-one design features a performance underfoot cushioning system that guarantees lasting comfort during long hikes. The multi-directional lug outsole provides superior grip on slippery or rugged surfaces, while the moisture-wicking lining keeps your feet feeling fresh.
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Features
- Water-Resistant Upper: Durable leather upper protects against the elements while preventing drying.
- Traction & Protection: 4 mm multi-directional lugs deliver superior grip; non-marking rubber outsoles leave no imprint indoors.
- Support & Comfort: External stability shank enhances mobility; hydrophobic mesh lining maintains coolness.
- Fit & Insole: Runs ½ size big; removable metatomical dual-density EVA footbed offers lasting comfort.
Pros
- Excellent traction on various terrains.
- Water-resistant leather upper enhances durability.
- Comfortable cushioning supports long wear.
- Stylishly designed for outdoor activities.
Cons
- Runs larger than expected, requiring a size down.
- Limited color options compared to other models.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | KEEN Men's Arroyo II | Teva Men's Hurricane XLT2 | Merrell Men's Jungle Moc |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | Yes | No | No |
| Sole Material | Rubber | EVA | Vibram |
| Weight | 13.07 oz | 10.24 oz | 14 oz |
| Cushioning | Dual-density EVA | Polyester | Air cushioned |
Detailed Review
Design & Aesthetics: The KEEN Men's Arroyo II Hiking Sandal sports a rugged yet stylish look, suitable for both casual outings and intense hiking adventures. The Black Olive/Bombay Brown colorway adds a touch of sophistication, making it versatile for various outdoor settings.
Comfort & Fit: Designed for comfort, these sandals feature a removable footbed that accommodates different foot shapes and sizes. However, it’s essential to note that they run about half a size big, so it's advisable to order a smaller size for the perfect fit.
Performance: These sandals are engineered for outdoor performance, offering outstanding traction and stability even on challenging terrains. The water-resistant upper and hydrophobic mesh lining also mean you won't have to worry about wet conditions ruining your adventure.
Care & Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials, the Arroyo II is built to last. For maintenance, regular cleaning with a leather conditioner will help sustain its appearance and functionality over time.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Exceptional cushioning and support for prolonged wear. |
| Traction | 4.8/5 | Outstanding grip on various surfaces, including wet terrain. |
| Durability | 4.7/5 | High-quality materials ensure long-lasting use. |
| Style | 4.3/5 | Stylish design suitable for both outdoor and casual settings. |
User Reviews
I even wear these "shoes" where perhaps, I should something more proper. Since being guided to these sandals (my regular shoes), they are what I wear on my feet. Hey, great for river exploring too. Water don't hurt these at all. "Sure-footed Comfort". I had a problem"turning" my ankles". Not with these wider low to the ground-shoes. These are good looking "shoes" but I will wear them till they come apart, but that takes a really long time. I often have "newer pairs" for dress. We love our Keen's!!!
I have worn sandals for decades in many different climates and environments. in that time I have developed a view of what constitutes a good hiking/walking/everyday sandal. Keen’s Arroyo 2 ticks many boxes. They have a tough and gripping sole for wet, slippery or gravel surfaces. They have a closed heel which prevents entry of pebbles, sticks and grit. They have a closed and tough toe line which protects the toes from street and forrest detritus. They are comfortable and light weight, and cool. They also look classy enough to travel in. Be care to buy the right size as you may experience trouble with tightening. I have four pairs and regard them as the best of dozens of sandals I have used.
I have several Keen branded footwear - hiking boots, sandals, and now these hybrid shoe/sandals. I love the coverage around the heel and toe, so no grit or pebbles get in. At first I didn't like how loose they felt and feel like they might slip off my foot, but that's what makes them really comfortable to walk in (and they don't fall off). The cord isn't bungee like you get on the Newport sandals (a pair I've owned for 20 years and still wear), but it synches up the shoe pretty snug. Now that the weather is warmer I find that I'm looking for these when I head out the door more than any other shoe I wear. The soles are very rugged and you're about an inch taller with these puppies on. I'd buy again and looking forward to their long life protecting my tootsies.
I really like KEEN products, because they have a reputation for holding together and being well-made. I bought these, planning to take them on a big hiking trip down the west coast this summer - I figured with the beaches and water and the inevitable dip in the ocean, these would be great, right? Well, maybe.First off, I notice that they are ever so slightly larger than normal. I usually wear a size 13 shoe, and the way my feet are, the closest size to match my standard shoe size is a 13M. They are a little long, but that's nothing too terrible.The real reason why I gave these 4 stars instead of 5 is because of one flaw in the design. On the back of the heel, they have a bit of stitching that seems innocent enough. I recently strapped these sandals on a local walk to start breaking them in. About 2 miles into the walk, the stitching on the back of the heel had started to rub away at my heel, causing a nice friction rub. I still had 3 miles to go before I could cross the bridge and get back to my car and return home, and by the end of the 5-mile (rough estimate) walk, I had a pretty good wound on both heels.Keep in mind that I was not wearing socks, and I honestly believe that, had I been wearing socks, this wouldn't be an issue, and I would likely be leaving a 5-star review here instead.I had thought about returning them, but I don't think Amazon would take too kindly to me returning sandals with dried blood on the inside of them. So, I will keep them, as they are still excellent sandals, but if you are one of those people who cringes at the thought of wearing socks with sandals, these are most definitely NOT for you!Other than the above issue, these sandals are great! They are very supportive and offer excellent ventilation! The draw-string closure can get a bit annoying, but I just tuck it under the front lacing to hold it in place, so not really to big of a deal.Overall, I would say that these are excellent sandals. Just remember that these are HIKING sandals, and not your flip-flop beach sandals - they require socks with them - and you'll be fine. If that isn't your forte, these aren't for you.
They ran big. I normally take 11.5, but returned for an 11. After that, confortable from day one, feels rugged and well constructed. Perfect for autumn hiking weather.