Outdoor Retailer: Keen Preview

(The Keen Cascade CNX Water Shoe)

In spring 2013 the Portland-based shoe company will unroll the biggest product launch since 2003. Dubbed CNX (which we understand to be short-hand for “Connects” rather than some sort of acronym), Keen‘s new models will stretch across the entire product platform, including water, multi-sport, lifestyle, and kid’s models—and each of the 20 modelswill weight 10 ounces or less.  The new, low-profile design includes a lightweight polyurethane midsole, contoured arch support, a 4mm drop from heel to toe, and Keen’s original toe protection. Adult prices start at $90.

Their new, casual Maderas line, also out in spring 2013, should appeal casual travelers looking for comfortable, light kicks.  The vulcanized rubber soles are heat- and pressure-molded to the canvas uppers to create a glue-free shoe.  The shoes are made in—and entirely sourced from—Thailand. The old-school designs will come in a variety of bright colors (as demonstrated by the lace model pictured) starting at $80.

We also love the cool new design accents slated for the Keen’s kids line over the next season, including a Velcro version of the Maderas line and fun graphics on the shoe soles.