Keen vs. North Face Hiking Boots, both are great options for hikers. But if you can’t invest in both, you need to know the difference between them to choose the best one!
Top Rated Best Budget Keen Hiking Boots for the money
Top Rated Best Budget North Face Hiking Boots for the money
Keen vs. North Face Hiking Boots: Comparison Table
Regarding boots and shoes for hiking, you can’t go wrong with models from Keen and North Face. They give you the features you need to safely and smoothly trek or hike.
But depending on the person, one may be better than the other. So we came up with this post to help you decide which is better for you.
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Keen And North Face Hiking Boots: Main Differences
Brand
- Keen
Keen is an American footwear company based in Portland, Oregon. Martin Keen and Rory Fuerst founded it in 2003, quickly gaining worldwide popularity.
The products of this brand are available in retail locations throughout the domestic American market and distributed worldwide.
Known as one of the big names in regards to footwear. Keen’s shoes and boots are the perfect choices for people who are looking for something different.
- North Face
The North Face brand officially started in 1966 and has endeavored to become one of the leading retailers of outdoor performance gear, and their hiking shoes/boots are no exception.
Although this brand might be more famous for its ski clothing, outerwear, and outdoor gear, we know how excellent footwear it is.
Characteristic
- Keen
Comfort, quality, and safety are the words we would use to describe Keen hiking boots.
Keen hiking boots are overall lightweight and breathable than leather boots with Vibram soles. They will make a substantial difference in your gear weight.
These models also make less calf fatigue, while many other products force you to give up some muscle toning and conditioning by going lighter.
Regarding comfort, Keen hiking boots will feel nice on your feet, even if you hike 10 miles or 14 miles. Yet, you should be careful in choosing the size. The larger size might create a balance issue while navigating rocky terrain or going uphill.
One of the things we like most about Keen boots is that they are truly waterproof instead of repellant. As a result, you will gain confidence when walking on wet terrain.
Keen boots also quickly dry when they get soaked. After walking through a wet area and stopping for a break, we could see these boots drying in the breeze.
Their ankle support is reasonable for such lightweight boots. You will feel well supported while navigating through swampy areas. These boots will give you confidence on rocky slopes.
But honestly, they won’t provide the same excellent ankle protection as some rigid, high-sided leather boots. So if you have “weak” ankles and want to navigate over loose rock, that footwear might not be ideal for you.
The fast lacing system is decent. So you can expect it to be easy to put on and take off. Finally, Keen offers quality at a fair price tag. It has variations within a wide range of prices, allowing you to choose what you feel comfortable with.
- North Face
If you’re searching for reliable hiking shoes/boots that are comfortable, deliver excellent grip, and keep your feet protected, North Face will be one of your best bets.
We believe some of the more underrated outdoor models on the market currently are the North Face hiking boots.
These boots are incredibly light, making it easier for you to hike longer distances. You will almost feel like there’s nothing on your feet at all.
North Face Hiking Shoes work well on summer hikes, and many hikers consider them some of the best warm weather boots for hiking on the market.
North Facing hiking shoes provide the functionality you might want on trails and are designed to be multi-purpose and lightweight. They are not only useful for outdoorsy trips, and you can utilize them for daily activities.
Strength
Keen
- Dry quickly.
- Fair price point.
- Fast lacing system.
- Feel lovely on your feet.
- Breathable and lightweight.
- Ankle support is reasonable.
- Truly waterproof instead of repellant.
North Face
- Stable when hiking.
- Offer incredible grip.
- Multi-purpose.
- Incredibly light.
- Highly durable.
- It might be waterproof and breathable.
- Maximizing stability and performance.
Keen and North Face Hiking Boots: Which brands are best for you? Final Verdict
Generally, North Face and Keen hiking boots are comfortable, deliver superior grip, and protect your feet well, which a decent pair of hiking boots should have.
Both are great options for hikers and whether one is better than the other is up to the individual. In our opinion, the Keen hiking boots are slightly superior.
FAQs
So that’s all the differences between the Keen and North Face Hiking Boots. If you still have more questions about these two brands, this section will greatly help.
Are Keen Boots Worth It?
Overall, KEEN boots’ quality is average. They might be a good brand for hikers with wide feet and the average day hiker.
These boots are best known for their comfort and wide toe boxes that allow your toes to wiggle. KEEN hiking boots and shoes are ideal for average hikes.
Are Hiking Keens Good?
Keens hiking boots are a great choice, and we recommend them to everyone who wants to hike on hot days. They are also perfect for rocky and gravelly trails.
Instead of struggling with heavy boots and sweaty feet, you will be comfortable and get protected with Keen footwear.
Are Keen Hiking Boots Durable?
These boots are waterproof, durable, and have a moisture-wicking lining that KEEN promises would keep you high and dry.
Are Keen Boots Actually Waterproof?
One of the great things we prefer most about Keen boots/shoes is that they are truly waterproof instead of repellant. That means they will give you great confidence when hiking or trekking on wet roads.
What Makes Keen Shoes So Special?
Keen boots are famous for their wide-toe boxes and other features that bring a comfortable fit.
- They have a wider toe box than most shoes, offering breathability and comfort. This additional wiggle room is ideal for people who are on their feet all day working and hiking.
- Many Keen products also have elastic bungee lace closures that can be adjusted to suit various foot styles and provide a perfect fit.
- Keen shoes’ durability is no joke.
- After a long period of use, Keen shoes have no significant performance-reducing wear. Also, these boots maintained their waterproof features despite this considerable usage.
How Long Should a Pair of Keens Last?
Keen footwear lasts half a year to one year. A pair of Keen hiking shoes will typically stick approximately 800 miles.
In addition, many Keen models come with a 12-month guarantee, bringing absolute peace of mind to customers.
Are Keen Boots Made in America?
Keen products are assembled in Portland, Oregon, utilizing the best materials worldwide.
This brand brings footwear manufacturing back to the United States and does it all in one of America’s most modern factories, where it focuses on craftsmanship and quality is magnified.
Where Do Keen Shoes Come From?
Keen manufactures its shoes in Portland, Oregon, using the finest materials from around the world.
Are North Face Boots Any Good?
Yes. Many North Face boots are waterproof and offer superior traction and balance on any terrain, including uneven ones.
Are North Face Hedgehog Boots Waterproof?
The North Face Hedgehog works well in repelling dewy grass, light rain, and the occasional stream dunk.
Their upper material will begin to absorb moisture after a while, but it will dry reasonably well because of the thin construction.
Do North Face Hiking Boots Run Small?
The North Face shoes typically fit true to size, so take your standard fit. Opt for the size up if you are after a roomier fit or slightly baggy style.
