Whether you’re out and about exploring nature trails or hitting up the mall for holiday shopping, it’s important to keep your feeling feet warm, dry, and comfy. Now that we’re on the cusp of Winter and the temperatures are dropping, these concerns are paramount. I was recently afforded the opportunity to test out some very stylish and sturdy shoes by Keen. These snazzy shoes are called Tumalo Mid, because they rise to your mid-ankle as opposed to being full-fledged high-tops.
Upon first glance, you might confuse them for hiking boots, but if you look closer you can see they are more closely related to sneakers. Even though this is a clever design, it shouldn’t be used in all the same environments you might take a traditional hiking boot. For example, the traction on the sole of the shoe is more conductive for walking on streets or groomed nature trails. Living in the Pacific Northwest where at times it seems to rain nonstop, the Tumalo Mid can keep your feet dry for sure, but you definitely should fight the urge to reenact the famous “Singin’ in the Rain” scene. In all likelihood, it will not end well for your shoes. Also, since the Tumalo Mid shoes are made out of leather, therefore, I recommend treating the leather with weatherproofing to preserve their appearance.
In terms of comfort, I found them very friendly to my feet. I wore the Tumalos for several days on long walks in city and on some trails on a trip to Park City, Utah (before the snow arrived). They performed very well, and I suffered absolutely no foot fatigue or blistering. I have considered taking these shoes to the gym, but I didn’t want to relegate the Tumalos to being my gym kicks. I couldn’t do that in good conscience.
Keen historically has produced high quality shoes for all types of activities and occasions, and the Tumalo Mid shoes are no exception. I have worn them to the office several times, and my coworkers have positively commented on them for their uniqueness for looking like an outdoorsy hiking boot, but clearly being a sneaker. In my view and experience, they are absolutely work appropriate (unless your workplace has a draconian dress code).
These shoes are fantastic, but I think it is important to keep in mind where and how you use these. If you’re going on a long footslog that might involve traversing creeks or walking in water, you might want to consider wearing something else. However, if you are walking trails or wearing the Tumalos casually, then you hit the mark. The Tumalo Mid shoes come in two colors: Tortoise Shell and Black.
Highlights:
• Stylish and sturdy
• Resembles hiking boots
• Comfortable footbeds
• Leather exterior
• Work-appropriate
Tumalo Mid by KEEN is available on Amazon.
All photos provided by KEEN.
Note: KEEN provided me with a product sample for review purposes. The opinions expressed are my own and not influenced by the company.