Gear Review & Photos by: Kayla L. (@wilderness_kay)
Is it just me, or have you ever worn sandals and experienced pain? Jammed your exposed toes while hiking on rocky terrain? Or have you ever fallen or slipped on rocks while crossing a river? If you said ‘Yes!” to all these questions, I hate to break it to you but it may be time to level up your footwear.
In the past, I have always wondered if being clumsy led to my downfall or if it was because of the sandals I would wear. Simply put, the solution lies in the importance of finding a dependable pair of sandals. Over the years as an avid explorer, who loves numerous outdoor activities, I have learnt that proper sandals can make a huge difference!
This past month I tested out the KEEN Newport H2 sandals and the KEEN Hyperport H2 sandals, to see how well they would support my feet during multiple activities.
Both sandals do not shy away from “water-to-trail-to-everyday” challenges: when hiking terrain quickly turns into a river crossing or when you need stability getting up on a stand up paddleboard.
For the sake of this testing period, I will dive into more details, features, and occasions of when to use the Keen Newport H2 and the Keen Hyperport H2 sandals.
The Keen Newport H2
The classic design of the Keen Newport H2 sandal offers immense durability. Here are 3 reasons why you need this sandal for your next adventure.
Highly-Durable
My brief history with sandals has always been a tumultuous one. In the past, straps would snap and buckles would bust. In contrast, the Newport H2’s are highly-durable, with its secure hydrophobic mesh lining material and its secure-fit bungee cinch strap. It seemed to really withstand and survive the rugged adventures I usually put most of my shoes through.
Suitable for Slick and Rocky Terrain
With its heavy-duty materials and its razor-siped traction, this sandal performs well on rocky and rooted terrain during river crossings, cliff jumping, and slick switchbacks when hiking coastal and or forested trails.
Breathable
Furthermore, if you are anything like me and your feet sweat a lot. There’s nothing better than the refreshing feeling of immediately taking off your hiking boots or climbing shoes and putting on the Newport H2 sandals. Your feet and toes will thank you for letting them breathe, stretch, and have some wiggle space!
Speaking of toes, the Newport H2’s and the Hyperport H2’s feature the patented, KEEN-branded toe protector. This mighty toe protector escalates each pair to a level where rugged and active pursuits protect you from all kinds of mayhem.
Overall, you can count on longevity and durability when the Newport H2 sandals are in charge.
Hyperport H2
Next, the eye-catching Keen Hyperport H2 sandals are a modern take on the classic Keen Newport H2’s. Here are 3 reasons why you need this sandal for your next adventure:
Immense Comfort
I am a huge fan of these, not only because of the stylish spin but the generous amount of cushioning from its high-rebound insole and extra thick midsole offering immense comfort.
Best of Both Worlds
To me they almost feel like a hybrid between a sneaker and a sandal. As a lightweight shoe that has incredible shock absorption, they definitely added an extra pep to my step! Making them the perfect sandal for long-distances: running, long walks, and open trails.
High-Performance Traction
Moreover, the Hyperport H2’s are a must-have item to pack with you on your next vacation. Just like the Newport H2’s, the Hyperport H2’s are also waterproof and offer aqua-grip soles to boost grip traction for any water-based activity.
Above all, I love the Hyperport H2’s for all-day comfort while I chill by the pool, paddleboard, or walk over sun-drenched sand.
Ultimately, both sandals offer many valuable qualities and overlapping features: footbed arch support, good drainage, quick drying time, eco anti-odour for natural odor control and gripped traction on wet and dry surfaces.
No matter the activity, even for everyday wear, I know that the Keen Newport H2 and the Keen Hyperport H2’s are remarkable hybrid sandals for comfort, functionality, and are versatile for multiple adventures!
Stay wild!
About the Author
Kayla is a Digital Content Creator (@wilderness_kay) from Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. As an avid hiker, gear enthusiast and novelty-seeking adventurer, she specializes in promoting a fun outdoor lifestyle. Her journey has been one of growth and healing as she explores the mountains and travels into the unknown. She truly believes that we can all create a beautiful painting of our lives when we try new things and when we awaken to the heart of the wild.