In hiking circles, Keen is a revered name known for virtually inventing the trail sandal as we know it today. Blending the perks of a sandal with the rugged versatility of a hiking shoe, the Newport was the Oregon-based footwear brand’s inaugural product when it debuted in 2003. With its latest sneaker, the Jasper Zionic, Keen goes hybrid once more by blending two of its fan-favorite silhouettes into one stylish and capable shoe.
From the Trails to the Streets
Today, Keen has expanded considerably, even though the Newport is still its flagship product. Just last month, they debuted their first lifestyle shoe with the KS86. However, Keen sneakers weren’t unseen on the streets entirely. In fact, their climbing-inspired Jasper model has become a favorite amongst modern streetwear enthusiasts, so much so that many might forget the shoe’s outdoor prowess. First showing up in Keen’s lineup in 2008, it’s even been a go-to for other streetwear brands looking to collaborate with Keen. Now that the Jasper has been blended with the hiking-focused Zionic, it might even be able to dethrone Salomon and Arc’teryx as the new gorpcore king.
Keen Jasper Zionic Basics
Available in Orange Pepper, Safari, and all black, the Jasper Zionic still carries over the striking style from the standard Jasper approach shoe, including the suede leather uppers, but gives them a hiking-focused construction of the Zionic for better speed, stability, and comfort.
To aid you on your hiking escapades, Keen keeps the contoured fit of the Zionic, along with the more narrow toe box, lightweight stability shank, rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs for traction, and removable foam insole for all-day wear. This new hybrid silhouette will surely be seen both on and off the trail.
Going along with Keen’s mission for sustainability, you also get eco-friendly anti-odor properties, tongue-to-toe lacing, and mesh lining underneath the “environmentally preferred” premium leather uppers, sourced from an LWG-certified tannery.
Spec Sheet
Uppers: Suede leather
Lining: Mesh
Insole: Removable foam
Outsoles: Rubber
Lug Height: 4mm
Lacing: Standard
Pricing & Availability
For the ultimate trail-to-street look, get yourself a pair of the new Jasper Zionic shoes for $150. Head over to Keen’s website to learn more.
Recap
Keen Jasper Zionic
Keen combines the suede uppers of its climbing-inspired Jasper sneaker with the hiking tech of its Zionic.
