Sizes: UK 2.5 – 9.5
TL;DR Review
The Keen Zionic waterproof hiking shoes are a great option for those of us looking for a lightweight and reliably waterproof shoe, that doesn’t come in the standard black and brown colourways.
Intro
Keen have a great reputation for producing top quality footwear. And it’s well deserved. Here at Active Traveller, we’ve been fans of Keen’s products for years, testing everything from sandals and lightweight shoes like the Zionics, to the more hardcore trekking boots.
A US brand that proudly makes a good chunk of their products at home in a factory in Portland, Oregon, they also have impressive Green credentials, such as eliminating ‘forever chemicals’ from their products entirely, and upcycling waste products to be reused in new footwear.
Who are the Keen Zionic Waterproof Hiking Shoes aimed at?
The Keen Zionic waterproof hiking shoes are perfect for spring and summer hikes, where your priorities are comfort and agility, but you still need the technical capabilities to be able to tackle rough terrain and cross the odd stream or inconvenient puddle.
These are not what you would wear on a multi-day trek through mud and lashing rain, but are perfect for more laid-back day hikes.
Keen Zionic Waterproof Hiking Shoes materials & their meaning:
The Zionics may look fun and understated, but these shoes pack a technical punch. They feature a KEEN.DRY waterproof but breathable membrane, and a PFAS-free, durable water repellent outer layer that keep your feet dry when you’re wading through dewy grass or hopping over a flooded path.
We found the Zionics held up well to stepping through Welsh streams, and being out on the trails when the inevitable rain clouds came calling. Being a low cut shoe, you can’t escape some water ingress from above if you’re out in a torrent, but these will keep you protected in most conditions.
A sturdy outer sole featuring 4mm multi-directional lugs to help with traction is also a great addition, and helped us feel stable and safe while heading up some rocky mountain paths and rain-slicked hillsides.
In terms of durability, the shoes also have performance ripstop mesh uppers to protect against bumps and scrapes. A quick-dry lining for active use is also a plus for when you’re working up a sweat.
Keen Zionic Waterproof Hiking Shoes Style, fit and features:
Style-wise, the Zionics are a breath of fresh air among a sea of black and beige. These shoes come in four different colourways, ranging from an attractive plum purple, to an eye-catching electric blue. We tested a pair in tangerine, which, sadly for citrus lovers, is no longer available in the UK.
However, apart from the impressive colour choices, these shoes fly under the radar when it comes to style. Not overflowing with technical features, they are easily able to blend in on the highstreet as they are on a mountain, which just adds to their versatility.
We found the fit to be on par with other Keen shoes if you have some familiarity with the brand. They have a fairly wide fit and roomy toe box, which we count as a major plus. More generally, we’d say they fit fairly true to size – no need to size up or down.
The Zionics also feature a ‘Contoured Fit’ that follows the shape of your foot to offer a snug fit, and an Achilles pad in the heel for an extra-cushiony feel. They also have a removable, resilient foam insole with arch support which is great for walkers with low arches.
You’ll also find a two-finger webbing loop on the heel for easy pull-on.
Tester’s verdict:
Overall we love the Keen Zionic waterproof hiking shoes, and found them to be a great choice for day hikes and less technical walking. Perfect for when you want the comfort of a shoe, but can relax knowing that they have great quality materials and waterproofing for when the weather takes a turn.
