Eight years ago Keen made one simple yet visionary design change from the traditional sandal that has reshaped an entire outdoor industry and re-imagined the way people approach their own outdoor adventures. Since introduction of the Newport, Keen has continued crafting innovative products that are not only functional but inspire the individual to get outside and let their outdoor soul thrive.
So when KEEN decided to take on the traditional flip-flop, rest assured they added their own unique style and attitude.
Here’s the deal, too often the summer months seem to force an unwanted decision upon us. The comfort of flip-flips or the more rigorous summer adventures of hiking, biking and just general exploring. If you’ve ever found yourself in that position, then fear not for the KEEN Waimea H2 Sandal perfectly blends the worlds of comfort and adventure together in one seamless package.
This flip-flop uses KEEN’s patented rubber toe protection and quick-drying polyester webbing straps so you can wade through the river without a worry. This lightweight sandal includes a shaped EVA footbed for comfort and support. And speaking of comfort, the Waimea’s EVA midsole absorbs shock with ease relieving pressure on your heels, back and hip joints.
Both the midsole and neoprene liner are treated with the Aegis Microbe Shield for odor resistance. In other words, your sandals won’t smell like the roasted pig at your next Luau which is a good thing when you’re trying to meet that little hula dancer.
It was once said, “the place where you lose the trail is not necessarily the place where it ends.” For those moments when the trail goes on this is the flip that you’ll want to have with you. Like its namesake, the Waimea offers kick around style along with tremendous support and protection for roaming wherever your trail may take you.
Our Gumption Crew’s favorite feature? The Waimea’s multi-directional lug pattern on the non-marking rubber outsoles. Simply put, it provided the best traction in any flip tested to date ensuring solid footing on slick shoreline rocks and boat decks alike.
The only critique from our field team about the Waimea was a belief that the heel cup errs on the narrow side, but otherwise this flip felt true to size in every other aspect.
With little doubt the Waimea is one of the most versatile and adventure ready flips the Gumption Crew has had the pleasure of testing. Add to that the comfort, stability and sticky grip and the Waimea H2’s ensure that no longer will you be forced to choose between summer comfort or adventure. The Waimea H2 from KEEN ensures that you get both in one great package.