Sure, winter is fun, with all the snowshoeing and skiing and ice camping and wearing coats that look like giant sleeping bags. But with the crocuses peeking out and the ground drying out (a bit? Maybe? Next week?) – spring is pretty great too. Plus, it means sneaker season is back.
With sunnier weather on its way, we wanted to share tips for choosing lightweight, casual sneakers. And since we are KEEN, our sneakers aren't just for kicking it and kicking back – they can take you from farmer’s market to the U-pick patch, from spring soccer games to fresh trails. Because what’s the point of spring if you spend your whole time on cement?
Depending on where you live, March may roar on into April and showers may pour into June. You can still swap winter boots for sneakers or slip-ons, just choose those with waterproof uppers or sealed seams (this appears as both WP and “waterproof”). Look for shoes with PFAS-free water repellency and a KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane that lets vapor out without letting water in. (All without forever chemicals.)
For versatile sneakers that can go from city to trail, we like the Versacore and Zionic waterproof hikers. They are light and springy for full-agenda days.
Zionic
No one hates sweaty feet more than us – hence why we invented that KEEN.DRY membrane. But when it comes to warmer weather, you want sneakers featuring keywords like “breathable,” “knit,” and “vent.”
For warmer days of spring, check out our original open-air sneaker, UNEEK, or vented versions of our hiker-sneaker hybrids: Versacore Speed, Zionic Speed, and Targhee Vent.
UNEEK
This is the sweet spot for spring sneakers – particularly for women. For travel, you want a sneaker that is light and comfortable, and also has some flexibility in how you wear it.
The new leather KNX sneakers are light and minimal, making them go with so many things. You might also consider the colorful Jasper for a fun, versatile spring travel shoe.
KNX
As one of our coworkers put it, “I think I’m too old for sneakers.” We think that’s bananas, but sometimes you do want to look like you put a little effort into your spring outfit…yet you’re still not going to sacrifice comfort. Boy, do we feel you.
Luckily, we’re leading something of a dress sneaker revolution at KEEN, with some high-quality styles that take you from work to wine tasting without anyone batting an eyelash. Check out stylish leather lace-ups like the men's Austin or or women’s Presidio shoes.
It’s a thing. It’s happening. You should try it. It’ll be fun.
