When I think of Keen, I imagine burly sandals or hiking boots with those trademark toe-bumpers. While that’s still the company’s bread-and-butter, Keen has also wandered into other realms and dimensions with the CNX collection of styles. The CNX shoes and sandals are lighter weight versions of their classic kicks, like the new Mercer MJ CNX, a Mary Jane style slip-on with funky style.
Features include:
- Breathable mesh and suede upper
- Adjustable instep strap
- Reverse strobel construction with KEEN.ZORB provides streamlined interior
- Metatarsal ridge for natural fit
- Contoured arch for added midfoot support
- TPU stability shank
- Proprietary lightweight PU midsole compound for long lasting support and comfort
- Non-Marking rubber outsole
Keen says their proprietary, lightweight PU midsole allows the foot to move naturally, while multi-directional flex grooves on the sole enable more natural motion, and an integrated, contoured arch and metatarsal ridge provide underfoot support. So I set out with a pair of Mercer MJs on my feet to see what the CNX is all about.
First I took these Mary Janes to Idaho on a weekend adventure. I wore them everywhere, walking from one end of town to another, biking 26 miles (road miles obviously), and of course to several different breweries. It’s as if my feet landed in shoes but didn’t know it was wearing any. The MJs are so comfortable I forget I’m even wearing shoes. After walking in them several miles and biking in them, my feet weren’t sore or tender anywhere. What more can a woman want? A pair of comfortable, multi-functional, and most importantly, CUTE, shoes.
Let me delve in a little deeper, the strap on the Keen Mercer MJ CNX is soft and comfortable. It doesn’t dig into the skin like some straps do. The breathable mesh fabric on the sides allows my feet to breathe. The only thing that bugged was the fact the suede fabric seems to get dirty fast. As for the sole, I walked on large rocks, dirt trails, and pavement without a problem.
The Mercer MJs are the perfect shoe for light hiking, riding a cruiser bike, or checking out shops in a tourist town.
Good Mercer MJ CNX: Comfortable, multi-functional, breathable, and cute.
Bad Mercer MJ CNX: Suede fabric seems to attract dirt and grime, making the shoes look… less cute after a few days.
Final Word: The Keen Mercer MJ CNX are minimalist outdoor shoes that are stylish and fun, but probably should be worn casually away from the trails.