Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy KEEN shoes?

Our footwear is available at a wide variety of outdoor and comfort shoe stores as well as larger retailers including REI, Dick's and Nordstrom. For a complete list of retailers in your area as well as links to our online retailers, visit Where to Buy.

Why can’t I find a specific KEEN style I want at my local dealer?

KEEN does not sell directly to end users, but our zip code search feature imbedded in the Dealer Locator (http://www.keenfootwear.com/dealer_locator.cfm) on our website makes it easy to find local retailers. Even if the local dealer does not have in stock what you’re looking for, inquire about a special order if you are certain about the size, color and style. The dealer can simply call us directly for current availability. Our dealer locator service also features links to several online dealers, with most offering free shipping and a generous return policy
Can I buy your shoes online?
My web browser has trouble with your site. What can I do about this?

The issue may be an incompatibility of Mozilla/Firefox and our website. We encourage you to try a different browser if possible or check out www.zappos.com for a Firefox-friendly site with a vast range of KEEN styles and technical information.
I want to order shoes directly from KEEN. Will you send me a catalog?

We do not currently sell directly to end users but we do appreciate your interest. Please refer to our website for details on our current seasonal styles. If you don’t find the style you are looking for on our website, it may be because the style is not featured as it is a seasonal shoe. We also encourage you to check out our online dealers (links on our dealer locator page) for an even bigger selection of KEEN, to include those styles that may be off-season.
How can I determine the best size KEEN shoe for me?

Sizing questions are best answered at an authorized dealer. You may find certain styles in the same size have a slightly different fit and feel. We also hesitate to suggest a specific size since there is no way to take into account all the important issues directly effecting how a shoe fits. Nobody knows your feet like you do. Your fit history reveals much about how your shoes fit. Take this history into consideration as a starting point with KEEN shoes. As a general rule, go up 1/2 size from your standard shoe size then work from there. A few more issues you may want to consider: KEEN with the eVent or KEEN.DRY water resistant membrane tends to have less interior volume in the toe box area of the shoe, so sizing up to some extent is sometimes necessary. Also note what time of the day you try shoes on for fit. Later in the day is best since your feet tend to be at their widest. You can find a KEEN dealer by simply using the zip code search feature on our website’s Dealer Locator (http://www.keenfootwear.com/dealer_locator.cfm). Our dealer locator page also features several links to online partners. Make sure to find out about shipping costs and return policies before ordering.
What sizes does KEEN offer for Men, Women, Youth and Kids?

What international sizes do you offer?

Do KEEN styles run 'true' to size?

Yes and no. Feet are as individual as fingerprints, so we recommend having your feet measured and trying on a few pairs in different sizes until you get the most comfortable fit. For a complete listing of retailers in you area and links to our online retailers, click here.

What widths does KEEN offer?

Our women's styles are made on a 'B' width last and men's on a 'D' width last. The exception to this is our men's Yogui, which is an 'E' width. Note also that the San Antonio line of mens styles (shoe, slip-on, clog and sandal) are all available in wide versions; roughly an 'E' width.

I hear your footwear runs a bit wider than other brands. What does this really mean?

KEEN shoes have a bit wider toe box than other shoes, but our actual shoe widths are standard. Our women's shoes come only in a 'B' width, while our men's feature a 'D' width (except the men's Yogui, which is an 'E' width). We now have the men's San Antonio (all versions) style in our BLVD category that is available in standard and wide sizes ( “E” width). Note that each style fits according to intended use. Trail running and hiking styles have a more snug performance fit, whereas BLVD category styles built for urban trekking have a more accommodating fit. We can’t restate enough the best method of arriving at the perfect size; slip shoes on your feet at a local dealer if you have the opportunity. Also remember that any KEEN style featuring the adjustable elastic bungee lace closure accommodates various foot widths
I am interested in your Commuter Cycling Sandal. It looks a lot like the Newport Sandal. Can I expect a similar fit?

NO, the fit is distinctly different than the Newport Sandal. The toe box and forefoot run narrower than the sandal. Any shoe used for cycling needs a slimmer profile for crank and frame clearance. The outsole is also stiffer to meet the demands of cycling by preventing arch fatigue while riding. If possible, we strongly recommend you try this shoe on for fit before purchasing.
What shoes do you offer in a US women’s size 12?

Ventura line - all versions Canvas Suede Ventura II Slip-on Portland Mary Jane Charleston Lace Charleston Mary Jane Charleston Clog Briggs Presidio Some styles may not appear on our website as they might be off season. Note also that the fit varies a bit from style to style and we encourage you to try on an 11 for size as it just may fit better than expected.
Will KEEN footwear accommodate narrow feet?

Yes. Any KEEN style featuring the adjustable bungee cord lacing system works with narrower feet. The bungee lace system cinches securely over the top of the foot. We encourage you to try several pair to determine which works best for you. For a complete listing of retailers in your area as well as links to our online retailers, click here.

Why can’t I find a men’s size 15 KEEN shoe?

Sometimes dealers do not carry the entire size run of all our styles. In this case, most dealers are more than happy to place a special order for you in the size you need. We do have a few styles always available in US men’s size 15, plus a few new ones. Determine which will best meet your needs and have a local KEEN dealer confirm availability and place a special order for you: Newport leather sandal Newport Hemp Venice Sandal Copper Canyon Newport H2 sandal Venice H2 sandal Zerraport sandal Laguna Targhee II Mid Targhee II Voyageur Mid Voyageur Arroyo Portales Newport Trail Commuter Briggs
How does your sizing work for children?

KEEN sizing for children is broken down into three categories: INFANT = size range 4-7 KIDS = size range 8-13 YOUTH = size range 1-6 After youth size 6, the next size is US men's size 7.0
I (or my child) have a foot size that falls between a youth and adult size. How do I figure out the correct size?

A youth 6 (the largest youth size we offer) is the same length as a women's 8, but proportionally different. The youth size fits proportionally wider than a women's size 8. Many adults with smaller foot sizes fit well in our youth shoes, but it's a good idea to try them on. One other note is that youth shoes often have different materials and features compared to the same adult styles. It is best to define how you’ll use the shoes then check with us to make sure the shoe choice is the most appropriate for your needs.
I have a trip planned which will entail a lot of walking. What KEEN shoe style is the best for my needs?

Our Trailhead category is designed specifically for trail running and extended walking and hiking. Many shoes in the trailhead category also fit a bit more snugly, with performance and support built into the design. Our BLVD and Marketplace categories have shoes best suited for urban strolling, although most will also stand up to extended walking. When deciding on what shoe to select, consider the following criteria: • Environment: climate and terrain. Will you need insulation or a waterproof membrane in the shoe upper? • Activities: what will you be doing, and for how many hours a day? Is your body already used to this kind/amount of activity? • FIT: this is the most important item of all. Poorly fitting shoes may cause blisters, unhappy feet and legs no matter how wonderful they are in other respects. The best approach is to speak directly with a good shoe fitter at your local KEEN dealer. Provide as much information as you can about your needs. You should be able to find the perfect KEEN shoe for your trip.
Does KEEN make a backpacking boot?

Take a look at the mid-cuff height boots in our Trailhead category of day hiking styles. The Targhee II Mid has a great track record of loaded hiking all over the globe. A day hiker is not technically a backpacking boot. What defines a backpacking boot depends on whom you ask. Backpackers usually look for a stiffer, heavier sole, designed to support more weight (you and your loaded pack weigh more than you and a small satchel). The upper is often less flexible than a day hiker. The uppers are usually quite stiff with a medium to very stiff outsole. Such boots take a bit of time to break in and get comfortable in. Consider the following: 1) How heavy is your pack? 2) What kind of terrain are you planning on hiking, and in what climate? 3) How much time do you have to break in your boots? (If you're going on a trip next weekend, buying brand new traditional hiking boots is not advisable.) 4) Which shoes/boots fit you the best? This is the most important item of all. Shoes that don't fit well cause blisters, pain and fatigued legs. This is more important than any other feature or benefit the boot may offer. The best approach is to have a knowledgeable shoe and boot fitter assist with finding the perfect boot for your needs, well in advance of when you need them.
Does KEEN offer shoes that are completely Vegan/Non-Leather?

Current vegan styles vary from season to season. One mainstay vegan option is the original Ventura Canvas shoe. The upper features organic canvas while the foot bed is constructed from a combination of cork and natural latex. The Ventura is finished with a natural rubber outsole and recycled eyelets, making it possibly the perfect earth and animal-friendly shoe. Feel free to contact us directly by email or phone and we’ll list the other vegan styles currently available. Please note that even though KEEN vegan styles do not contain any leather products, we cannot guarantee that the glues and solvents used in construction are 100% vegan. We are currently working on finding a more ecologically friendly alternative. We appreciate your commitment to supporting ecologically and animal friendly products. For those products containing leather, all the material comes from the US and is a bi-product of the beef or dairy industry. Furthermore, we source our leathers only from those tanneries adhering to certified environmental quality and humanitarian standards and regulations.
Does KEEN offer a professional line of shoes like white nurse shoes, steel toe and ESD (electro-static dissipation) certified styles?

Although we appreciate your interest in wearing your KEEN shoes 24/7, we do not currently offer a professional line of work shoes. We are at our core, a casual shoe company.
I would like to special order a size, color or unique product feature that you don’t offer. How can I do this?

Although we get quite a few requests for shoe sizes beyond our standard range or special-use footwear such as golf shoes, nurse shoes and even steel-toe KEEN shoes, we regret we are unable to meet such requests. We do appreciate the interest and thank you for supporting KEEN Footwear!
I need a single shoe. Can you help me?

KEEN is not equipped to provide single right or left shoes for amputees, lost single shoes or other reasons. There are however some outstanding organizations meeting just this need. The most notable is the National Odd Shoe Exchange (N.O.S.E), a non-profit organization serving as a resource for new or slightly used, quality footwear for those requiring single shoes or shoes of different sizes for any number of reasons. Visit their website at www.oddshoe.org to see if they can help you out.
What is the difference between the Newport and Newport H2?

Both the Newport and Venice sandals coming in standard or H2 versions. The standard Newport and Venice have leather uppers, while the H2 models feature synthetic (polyester webbing) uppers. Both are fine for use in and out of water, but if you plan on submerging them on a regular basis, the H2 is a better choice – the nylon webbing upper and rubberized foot bed dry faster, absorb less water and subsequently stay lighter during water use. Finally, the nylon webbing straps will not expand when wet.
Do you offer a warranty on KEEN product?

KEEN offers a one year warranty on all our products (excluding our Harvest Collection) from the original date of purchase. If you believe your KEEN footwear, bag or socks are defective for any reason, please contact the KEEN dealer where the original purchase took place. The dealer is the best place to get your warranty issue resolved. The dealer can usually accommodate an immediate replacement or credit toward a special order for new product if a replacement is not in stock. The dealer can contact KEEN directly for any warranty questions or additional concerns. Please note: This policy does not apply to product that has been damaged by misuse, accident, modification, or unauthorized repair and is limited to the original purchaser. Harvest Collection: KEEN offers a 30 day MANUFACTURING WARRANTY on our Harvest Collection. The KEEN warranty covers manufacturing defects in stitching and craftsmanship only, while tears and slight irregularities should be seen as unique attributes and are not covered under the warranty. If you believe your KEEN Harvest bag has manufacturing defects, please contact the KEEN dealer where the original purchase took place within 30 days of purchase. The dealer is the best place to get your warranty issue resolved and can contact KEEN directly for any warranty questions or additional concerns. Please note: This policy does not apply to product that has been damaged by misuse, accident, modification, or unauthorized repair and is limited to the original purchaser.
How do I care for my bag from your HARVEST collection?

We thank you for purchasing this product and giving these materials a second life. To extend this second life, resist overloading this product and do your best to keep it dry. MANUFACTURING DEFECTS IN stitching and craftsmanship are covered by the KEEN warranty, but tears and slight irregularities should be seen as unique attributes and are not covered under the warranty.
I need to warranty my KEEN product, but the return period at the dealer has expired. What do I do now?

We offer a one year warranty and we can assist if you are unable to resolve the issue with the dealer. The best channel for assistance is email. Send an email to info@keenfootwear.com with some details about your product issue. We will get back to you with further instructions on how best to handle your issue depending on the details.
Can I get my KEEN shoes re-soled?

KEEN shoes cannot currently be resoled. Although this is an ideal way to maximize resources and materials, the technology and shoe construction required is not compatible with our shoe styles.
My KEEN shoes are way beyond their one year warranty but they need repair. Do you repair your footwear?

KEEN does not have a for-hire repair facility. If your shoes are beyond the warranty period we encourage you to find a reputable cobbler or shoe/gear repair service. Note you may have better results if inquiring with a local mountain or outdoor gear shop for repairs to KEEN sandals. Additionally, although our shoes cannot be resoled, the uppers can usually be repaired depending on the nature of the issue. We recommend Shoe GOO as a great repair option for the tread or outsole. This product works well since it applies like an adhesive and cures to the consistency of rubber, with all the inherent wear properties of rubber. Regarding seam issues, outdoor gear shops often have repair facilities or can offer a suitable referral.
What exactly is the Metatomical footbed and what does it do?

KEEN footwear equipped with the Metatomical foot bed features an insole and last that are anatomically designed to provide better support. They are built around the overall shape of the foot with special emphasis on the first metatarsal joint (big toe). The term Metatomical is a fusion of metatarsal and anatomical.
Does KEEN offer replacement footbeds?

Given the number of styles of KEEN shoes with various insoles, we are not able to maintain a full and adequate range for replacement purposes. We regret if this causes any inconvenience. There are excellent aftermarket insoles that work well with our footwear. Spenco and Superfeet both offer a good selection of replacement options. It may help to clean your current insoles: simply remove them from the shoes and soak them in warm water with a mild detergent (a bit of antibacterial dish soap may help), gently scrubbing with a soft brush or washcloth. A bit of Tea Tree essential oil rubbed into the dry insole works wonders in keeping further odor at bay. Tea Tree Essential oil is a non-allergenic natural antiseptic.
Which KEEN styles work best with aftermarket insoles or my own orthotics?

Many of our shoes feature removable insoles. Add in the roomy KEEN toe box and you have shoes ready for aftermarket insoles. Custom orthotics are compatible with any shoe featuring our removable, metatomical foot bed and most styles with a fully enclosed heel cup (not just a strap around the heel) are custom orthotic-compatible. Although your custom insoles should fit, we strongly encourage you to make certain the KEEN insoles are in fact removable and then test fit your orthotic in the shoe before making your purchase.
Does KEEN offer replacement laces?

Unfortunately, we are unable to replace other lace styles. We recommend purchasing after-market laces at your local dealer or shoe repair shop.To request replacement bungee style laces, click here.
My KEEN footwear squeaks. Is there a remedy?

Although seldom, occasionally the slick material in our shoes slides around and creates a noise with each footstep. The remedy is simple, as suggested by our product development team; start by removing the insole/foot bed, take a small piece of medium grit sand paper and gently buff the leather lining around the inside and bottom of the shoe interior, rough up the bottom of the foot bed in the same way. If this doesn’t work then the squeak is probably coming from the outsole, which could indicate a defect in workmanship. Although this does not diminish performance, it can be annoying. If you believe you have a defective pair of shoes, we encourage you to contact your local authorized KEEN dealer to facilitate an exchange. The dealer can often replace the shoes immediately from existing inventory or even place a special order for replacement.
How come my “waterproof” shoes leak?

Our “waterproof leather” shoes are made from treated leather that will not shrink, crack, or stain if you get them wet. However, the shoes are not designed to keep your feet dry when submerged. If you feel the shoes did not perform to the extent you thought they would, we ask that you contact us via email at info@keenfootwear.com. For a truly waterproof shoe, check out one of our styles that feature eVent or KEEN.DRY waterproof/breathable technology, such as the Targhee, Wasatch Crest or Newport Trail. The number of styles with a waterproof membrane changes from season to season so contact us directly for a current list of styles.
I think I am allergic to your shoes. What can I do?

If skin irritation occurs gradually or after you’ve had your shoes for a while, it may be a result of external contamination picked up on the shoes – not the shoes themselves. Wash your shoes thoroughly according to the correct procedure (machine wash for water sandals, Nikwax products for nubuck and leather, mild soap/cold water for synthetic uppers and those styles featuring waterproof membrane technology). If you think they may have been exposed to Poison Oak or Poison Ivy, you might consider using Tecnu, or another similar product designed to remove plant oils. KEEN does not currently use any latex or neoprene in our products, with the exception of the Water Bootie (neoprene) and Sienna Ballerina (latex and natural rubber). The neoprene-like material lining the inside of our sandals is actually SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) or hydrophobic mesh in more recent versions. While SBR is a petrochemical based closed cell foam like neoprene, the polymers of the SBR do not contain Nitriles – the root of neoprene allergies. Occasionally someone does have an allergy to SBR, or to our antimicrobial treatment. Even more rarely, people are allergic to the Chromium found in some of our dyes. In these cases the shoes cause skin irritation from day one. Unfortunately, we are not able to make custom shoes without certain materials, but we would be happy to replace your shoes with a different style which may remedy the issue. If this is the case, contact us at info@keenfootwear.com for additional information.
My water sandals smell funny. What can I do?

Like any water shoe, there may be cases where the insole or upper material gets a bit funky with use. We have a few solutions, however. Your sandals are machine washable – just use cold water, gentle cycle and mild detergent. Be sure to AIR DRY only; never use heat of any kind. (the sandals will shrink or possibly melt in the dryer or if placed near a heat source). Another option is hand-washing in the sink with Nik Wax Base Wash. This product works well in eliminating odors in synthetic materials used in outdoor gear. If Nik Wax Base Wash fails to work, you might try Greased Lightning multipurpose cleaner and degreaser. It comes in a spray bottle. Spray the webbing upper and let stand for about an hour or so to soak in. Make sure you fully saturate the material, then machine with the Base wash or other detergent. This should clear up the issue for several weeks. Once the sandals are clean and dry, rub Tea Tree essential oil into the upper lining and foot bed. Essential Tea Tree Oil is a non-allergenic natural antiseptic. You may also try Odor Eaters Powder applied directly to the inside of the shoes after wearing them. This powder has odor-absorbing properties. Such odor often originates from the sweat in the SBR (neoprene-like) lining of the sandal. Paxton’s Sandal Saver is a great, all natural product as well. If none of the above options work, there may be an issue with the antimicrobial agent applied to the shoe when they were made. If you’ve tried everything and think this is the case, contact us via email at info@keenfootwear.com for further warranty instructions.
Wait, I own a pair of KEEN shoes that are not sandals. They have a strong smell. What can I do about this?

Step number one: Clean the insoles. Remove them from the shoes and wash by hand in the sink with warm water, mild soap or detergent, and a soft brush or washcloth. Once air dried (remember, never use any heat), rub the insoles and inside lining of the shoe with a small amount of Tea Tree essential oil – a non-allergenic natural antiseptic. If none of the above solutions work, we may be able to assist with warranty if the shoes are less than one year old. Contact us via email at info@keenfootwear.com for further information.
How do I care for my KEENS?

Sandals
Sandal Washing Instructions
All KEEN water sandals (both leather and polyester webbing upper) are machine washable and have been treated with AEGIS Microbe Sheild, antimicrobial technology that helps prevent odor, staining and deterioration. We've also taken great care to develop leather uppers that will not crack, shrink or stretch when washed. Even KEEN leather Newport sandals are machine washable. Use a small amount of detergent, wash on gentle cycle and air dry.

Leather
Caring for Leather
We've carefully selected leather uppers designed to last. Then again, if you're wearing your KEENS daily, they won't always be scuff and dirt-free. To treat day to day wear and tear, especially on lighter color leathers, we recommend using a nubuck leather cleaner and conditioner (Nikwax is a brand we use) found at most better footwear dealers and outdoor gear shops.

Waterproof/Breathable Technology
Caring for Waterpoof/Breathable
KEEN's Targhee and Targhee Mid feature waterproof-breathable technology to keep your feet dry and comfortable. To enhance product performance, we recommend cleaning your footwear in cold water with mild soap or detergent and air dry with no heat.

Synthetics
Caring for Synthetics
Many of KEEN's Trailhead and Waterfront performance styles utilize synthetic fabrics. We recommend cleaning these products with mild soap and cold water. To remove excess dirt of spot clean, use a stiff brush or soft cloth. Let shoes air dry with no heat.

Footbeds
Caring for Footbeds
Many of KEEN's styles feature removable footbeds. After extended use, we recommend you remove the footbed, wash by hand using a soft cloth and light detergent and air dry.

My KEEN shoes have wool uppers. How do I clean them safely?

Make sure you do NOT put wool shoes in the washing machine. Although a light brushing with a medium bristle brush works well, use spot-removing foam for heavy contamination, followed by a brushing. One other option involves "dry cleaning" in the dryer. Place the shoes in a dry cleaning bag and follow the steps outlined for the dry cleaning solution. Some pilling is inevitable with wool. You may be able to eliminate a good portion of this pilling by passing a disposable razor lightly over the surface of the shoe upper.
 
 
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