Keen has built their brand by producing high quality outdoor footwear for years. The McKenzie water shoes share the same bomber build and attention to detail that have made the company so popular with adventure seekers. For the past four months I have tested the McKenzies all over Utah: from the slot canyons of the Escalante to alpine lakes in Idaho these water shoes have taken a beating and kept my feet feeling great every time.
Part shoe, part sandal and all awesome is a good way to sum up the McKenzies. The non-marking rubber soles are equipped with multi directional lug patterns that make for great grip. I wore the McKenzies during a canyoneering trip to Escalante and was impressed with the traction. Whether I was sloshing through the river or climbing boulders in Ringtail Canyon I never had to worry about slipping.
The uppers are constructed with a synthetic and polyester webbing complete with lightweight mesh to keep debris out. Other sandals have large spaces in the uppers that allow big pebbles to enter the shoe and work their way below your feet, a guarantee for discomfort. Only the finest sand and smallest of rocks were able to penetrate the McKenzies while river walking and swimming in lakes; however, you will still need to clear the shoes of debris from time to time to avoid buildup. Compression molded midsoles made sure my feet were feeling good while kicking back in camp. The fit is completed with the help of the pull string lace system- just yank the string, pull down the compressor and you’re locked in.
Can you say “toe caps?” My buddies sported traditional water shoes without caps and complained about banging into rocks or getting stabbed by wayward sticks on our canyon hike. I never had to worry thanks to the full coverage rubber caps on the McKenzies. And it gets better- all this comfort and protection weighs in at 12.5 ounces. With a weight that low you’ll never have to wonder if you should bring them on your next trip- throw them in your backpack and your feet will be thanking you later.
If you need a water shoe/sandal that can do it all, picking up a pair of McKenzies is a no-brainer. Whether you’re canyoneering, day hiking or just lounging around during summer, these shoes have you covered in style. If you manage to stink up the Aegis Microbe Shield just throw them in the washer and you’re good to go. With an MSRP of $90 the only question left is what color you want yours in.
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