If you're a fan of Keen, you already appreciate footwear that's rugged, comfortable, and ready for pretty much any adventure you throw at it. The brand has perfected the art of creating durable hiking boots and versatile sandals that can handle the trail and still look good around town.
But when you're stocking up for your next outdoor excursion, it's always fun to see what else is out there. For those who love Keen's blend of performance, comfort, and eco-conscious design, here are 23 other fantastic shoe brands that are definitely worth exploring.
Merrell is a giant in the outdoor footwear world, offering durable hiking boots, trail shoes, and casual sneakers known for their out-of-the-box comfort. Focused on performance, many of their styles feature waterproof membranes and seriously supportive soles, making them a favorite for both dedicated hikers and weekend explorers.
Compared to Keen, Merrell offers a slightly wider range of trail-specific footwear while hitting a similar sweet spot of practical, reliable design, and accessible pricing. If you want a dependable shoe that balances technical features with all-day comfort, Merrell is a can't-miss option.
Shop now at www.merrell.com
When speed and performance are the goal, Salomon is the name to know. This brand specializes in high-performance gear for trail running and aggressive hiking, with designs that are lightweight, durable, and packed with innovative tech. Their shoes are famous for their aggressive grip and nimble feel.
While Keen builds all-around rugged footwear, Salomon zeroes in on a more technical, athletic audience. If your outdoor adventures involve moving fast over challenging terrain, Salomon's cutting-edge designs and Contagrip soles offer a performance boost Keen fans will appreciate.
Shop now at www.salomon.com
A household name for all things outdoors, Columbia offers a massive selection of footwear that's both functional and affordable. From waterproof hiking shoes to casual sneakers perfect for a walk in the park, they focus on practical features like advanced waterproofing and insulation for tricky weather conditions.
Like Keen, Columbia creates versatile shoes that work well for both city life and trail adventures. However, Columbia often has a broader selection of casual styles and is generally one of the most budget-friendly options for reliable outdoor gear.
Shop now at www.columbia.com
Mostly known for its iconic outerwear, The North Face also produces an impressive line of tough and supportive footwear. Their hiking and trail shoes are built for rugged terrain, emphasizing durability with waterproof membranes and solid outsoles that can handle hardcore adventures.
The North Face shares Keen's dedication to outdoor-ready performance, but their footwear often leans into a more minimalist, functional aesthetic geared toward serious hikers and mountaineers. It's the brand you choose when you need gear that's as serious about the summit as you are.
Shop now at www.thenorthface.com
Vasque is a heritage brand that specializes in top-quality hiking boots and trail shoes built to last. They live and breathe durability, comfort, and weather resistance, often using premium waterproof leather and advanced support systems to create footwear that can tackle long, tough hikes without complaint.
If you find Keen's style a bit too modern, Vasque offers a more traditional, rugged alternative. Their boots are a favorite among purists and seasoned backpackers who prioritize bombproof craftsmanship for extreme conditions.
Shop now at vasque.com
Oboz is all about creating high-performance hiking footwear with an eco-conscious heart - a mission Keen lovers can get behind. Their boots and shoes are celebrated for their supportive fit, waterproofing (thanks to their B-DRY system), and incredible all-day comfort on the trail.
Similar to Keen, Oboz is serious about sustainability and functional design. The key difference is often in the fit, Oboz is fantastic for its specialized insoles and sculpted fit that appeals to hikers looking for premium support right out of the box.
Shop now at oboz.com
For die-hard climbers, mountaineers, and trail runners, La Sportiva is an industry leader. This brand creates highly technical, specialized footwear engineered for the most challenging environments on earth. Their shoes are lightweight, incredibly durable, and designed for precision grip and fit.
Where Keen builds great all-around outdoor shoes, La Sportiva creates high-performance tools for specialized sports. It's the perfect brand to explore when your adventures start requiring more technical gear for vertical ascents or rugged long-distance trails.
Shop now at www.lasportiva.com
With Italian roots, Scarpa has a legendary reputation for making high-quality hiking, climbing, and mountaineering shoes. Their footwear strikes a perfect balance between comfort, durability, and technical innovation, with a major focus on long-lasting craftsmanship and weather protection.
Scarpa's gear is built for tough, rugged terrain, much like Keen’s, but it leans more toward professional-grade performance. It's a brand trusted by mountain guides and serious outdoor pros who need footwear that can handle anything.
Shop now at www.scarpa.com
Hoka exploded onto the scene with its signature maximalist cushioning, and hikers' knees have been thankful ever since. Their shoes offer a ridiculously comfortable, plush ride that excels at absorbing shock, making long days on your feet feel way less punishing. Hoka makes amazing shoes for trail running and hiking alike.
While Keen prioritizes rugged versatility, Hoka is all about cloud-like comfort. If sore feet are your biggest complaint on the trail, switching to a pair of lightweight, pillowy Hokas could be a complete game-changer.
Shop now at www.hoka.com
Teva is the undisputed king of the sporty, strappy sandal. Perfect for warm-weather adventures, their footwear is lightweight, quick-drying, and surprisingly supportive. They're the ideal choice for days spent near the water, tropical travel, or just kicking back at a summer festival.
Keen makes excellent (and famously protective) hiking sandals, but Teva's offerings are more casual, minimalist, and leisure-focused. If you love the outdoor spirit but need something lighter and breezier for relaxed days, Teva is your go-to.
Shop now at www.teva.com
Coming from a background of Scandinavian minimalism, Ecco delivers outdoor footwear that is sleek, functional, and exceptionally comfortable. The brand is known for using high-quality leathers and direct-injection sole construction to create a fit that feels amazing and holds up over time.
Ecco shares Keen's commitment to comfort and support, but with a more refined, modern aesthetic that transitions seamlessly from trail to town. If you want outdoor performance without sacrificing style, Ecco's hiking boots and casual sneakers are a fantastic choice.
Shop now at www.ecco.com
Timberland is legendary for its iconic yellow work boot, but the brand's offerings go far beyond that. They produce a great lineup of rugged hiking boots and outdoor shoes designed for durability and GORE-TEX waterproof performance, infused with a distinct urban edge.
Like Keen, Timberland makes reliable shoes for outdoor living. The biggest difference is Timberland's stronger connection to street style - their boots are just as likely to be seen on a city sidewalk as they are on a muddy trail, making them a super versatile pick.
Shop now at www.timberland.com
Montrail is Columbia's sub-brand that's purely dedicated to the high-performance trail crowd. These shoes are engineered for technical terrain, with lightweight designs, powerful gripping treads, and weather-ready waterproofing that runners and fast-hikers demand.
If you love the reliability of Keen but need something with more agility and speed for trail running, Montrail is the way to go. It takes Columbia's accessible approach and injects it with a serious dose of athletic performance.
Shop now at www.columbiamontrail.com
When the conditions get seriously messy - think deep mud, swamps, or freezing rain - LaCrosse is the brand you want on your feet. They specialize in ultra-durable, waterproof boots for hunting, fishing, and outdoor work, with exceptional insulation and protection.
Keen makes tough shoes, but LaCrosse boots are on another level of utilitarian-grade resilience. Their designs are less about all-around hiking and more about providing impenetrable defense against extreme weather and demanding jobs.
Shop now at www.lacrossefootwear.com
Arc'teryx is synonymous with premium, high-performance outdoor gear. Their footwear line is no exception, offering technically advanced shoes for hiking and mountaineering that feature cutting-edge materials, incredible grip, and a sleek, minimalist design aesthetic.
Compared to Keen, Arc'teryx is a more premium and technical brand targeting purists who demand the absolute best in performance, often with a higher price tag to match. Their gear is for fast-and-light adventures where every ounce matters.
Shop now at www.arcteryx.com
PFG stands for Performance Fishing Gear, and this special line from Columbia creates footwear perfect for time spent on the boat or near the shore. These shoes are lightweight, dry incredibly fast, and feature non-slip soles designed to provide excellent grip on wet surfaces.
PFG shares Keen's love for outdoor utility, but narrows its focus specifically to water-based activities. If your adventures are more about casting a line than climbing a peak, this gear is made for you.
Shop now at www.columbia.com/pfg
Hailing from Canada, Kamik knows a thing or two about cold weather. This brand specializes in waterproof, heavily insulated winter boots designed to keep your feet warm and dry even in the deepest snow and slushiest conditions. Their footwear is cozy, practical, and built for winter fun.
While Keen has great winter hikers, Kamik is all-in on cold-weather utility. They offer an especially deep range of insulated boots at a slightly more affordable price point, making them a fantastic choice for anyone braving a harsh winter.
Shop now at www.kamik.com
Sorel masterfully merges rugged outdoor functionality with modern fashion. The brand is renowned for creating incredibly stylish yet powerfully protective winter boots. Their insulated, waterproof designs are perfect for looking chic while navigating snowy city streets or relaxing at a ski lodge.
Compared to Keen, Sorel puts a much stronger emphasis on fashion. If you want winter footwear that makes a style statement without sacrificing warmth and protection, Sorel combines a perfect blend of both.
Shop now at www.sorel.com
The Moab is more than just a shoe - it's an icon. This specific collection from Merrell has become one of the best-selling hiking shoes in the world for a reason. They offer legendary comfort and reliable support right out of the box, with options for both waterproof and ventilated styles.
In many ways, the Moab is Merrell's direct answer to Keen's most popular hikers, like the Targhee. It checks all the same boxes: durable, versatile, and trail-ready, with a classic design that has remained a favorite among loyal outdoor enthusiasts for years.
Shop now at www.merrell.com
Another superstar shoe from a great brand, the Oboz Sawtooth is built for rugged trails and all-day comfort. It's known for its excellent support, durable construction, and fantastic traction that give you confidence on uneven ground. It's built for logging serious miles.
Like many of Keen's flagship models, the Sawtooth champions sustainability and high-performance design. Where it often stands out is in its supportive fit, particularly in the ankle and arch, making it a go-to choice for long-distance backpackers.
Shop now at oboz.com
Chaco is defined by its iconic Z-Sandal, a simple yet bombproof design featuring adjustable straps that custom-fit to your foot. Famous for their durability and unparalleled arch support, Chacos are a beloved companion for river guides, campers, and anyone living an active, outdoor lifestyle.
While Keen sandals offer more toe protection, Chaco sandals provide a more open, free-feeling fit with incredible arch support. If you love the idea of a do-anything outdoor sandal and prioritize long-term durability and a custom fit, you might just become a devoted member of the Chaco-nation.
Shop now at www.chacos.com
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