We make shoes to make a difference, which includes getting more and more people out into nature.
Which is why we loved supporting UK-based women's collective Athene Club this summer to help them on their mission of opening the outdoors to more women. With monthly hikes, sports, and community gatherings, co-founders Olivia Jankowska and Zaineb Abelque are leading the way in making the outdoors more accessible and inclusive.
For the club's biggest milestone yet, their first overnight camping trip, we equipped participants with KEEN hikers and trail runners, plus other essentials, to help them take on the challenge with confidence.
Here's a quick recap of the weekend from Athene Club:
"The goal was clear: to dismantle the anxieties and logistical hurdles that often discourage women from outdoor adventures."
From learning to set up camp to spending a first night in a tent, trail running, and conquering Mam Tor, the weekend was both adventurous and empowering. Guided by India Clare, a qualified mountain leader from Zora Trip, alongside the Athene Club Team, participants gained confidence in essential camping skills while taking in the beauty of the Peak District. Designed as an accessible introduction to camping for beginners and those with some experience, the trip welcomed women of all skill levels.
The first official camping trip, supported by KEEN, aimed to make the outdoors more accessible to women through overnight stays. This opens up destinations not feasible for single-day visits, such as the Peak District, Lake District, Wales, Scotland, and Coastal Regions like Cornwall and Devon.
As these areas can be costly and time-consuming to reach, the club sought to lower barriers of travel, expense, and safety by organizing a well-supported group adventure for 15-25 women. With KEEN's support, major costs like travel, food, and footwear were offset, enabling participants to focus on personal gear and camping essentials. Each attendee received a pair of Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boots and KEEN's new Seek Trail Running Shoe for the weekend's activities.
The goal was clear: to dismantle the anxieties and logistical hurdles that often discourage women from outdoor adventures. By creating a safe, inclusive, and well-organised group experience, Athene Club continues to foster confidence, community, and a lasting love for the outdoors.
