• Metatomical Low Durometer EVA Footbed
• Compression Molded EVA Midsole
• Non-Marking Siped Rubber Outsole
• Patented Toe Protection
• AEGIS Microbe Shield (T) Treated SBR Lining
• Washable Waterproof Leather Upper
• V Strap Forefoot Capture Design

Arrival [return to top] The sandals arrived on May 25, 2006, in a standard retail shoe box. The box was received undamaged. Inside the box I found the sandals wrapped in KEEN-printed paper. Inserted in each sandal was a cardboard-like form (right) to keep the shape during shipping. Attached to one of the footbeds was a small label (below) with graphical care and/or material information. There was also a small folded card with KEEN Sandal Product Care instructions. There were no other contents, and all contents appeared undamaged

Description [return to top] The Venice is the newest KEEN sandal, and appears to be a lighter, more open variation of the Newport, previously tested here at BackpackGearTest.org. It has a V-strap design that allows the tongue to float, giving the sandal – and the foot – increased flexibility.

The upper is a perforated waterproof leather, brown (Bison) in this case, backed by black neoprene throughout. The sandals are pre-laced with a non-removable elastic cord and cordlock that allows for variations in tightness, as well as ease of getting the sandals on and off. At the top of the tongue and the heel strap are pull loops of webbing – with reflective stitching – to assist in putting the sandals on.

The midsole, which is marked “ANTI-ODOR” and “ANATOMIC FOOTBED”, has a sueded surface and sturdy arch support. It has enough friction to keep my foot from sliding around, but not so much to feel rough or uncomfortable. On a side note, I seem to be able to defeat most ‘anti-odor’ technology and these sandals are – unfortunately – no exception.

The sole of the Venice is made of a non-marking rubber, and has siping (grooves) cut into it, as opposed to a blocky tread. This should allow for water to get out from under the sole as well as increase the contact area, which could be important on surfaces like wet rock. In the front, the sole material continues up and back over the toes to provide toe protection. This protection extends over my first 4 toenails.

First Impressions [return to top] The sandals are exactly what I expected based on the web site. They are supportive, comfortable, stable and secure. I’m going to enjoy this test.

Field Information [return to top] Our Boy Scout troop camps monthly, generally in the wooded areas of southeastern Pennsylvania and the Pocono Mountains. Almost all of these outings include a minimum of 2 nights of camping, with temperatures expected to be from lows around 45 ºF (7 ºC) to highs around 95 ºF (35 ºC) during the 4-month test period. Elevations will range from sea level to approximately 1,500’ (457 m). Our new Scoutmaster has added monthly hikes to our schedule as well. My wife and I, who between us have 3 First Class boy scouts (ages 14, 15 and 16), are also looking into additional camping without the scouts, and there are possibilities of some AT section hikes (two down – many to go!) in Pennsylvania and New Jersey with my son as he works towards the Hiking Merit Badge. My son has begun working on the Hiking Merit Badge, which requires the completion of five 10-mile (16 km) hikes and one 20-mile (32 km) hike, and needs a buddy to accompany him on these hikes (i.e. me). These hikes, only two of which have been done so far, will likely be done at relatively low elevations in southeastern Pennsylvania, with a possibility of doing a short section of the Appalachian Trail (in Pennsylvania) for the 20-miler. I started wearing sandals in 2003, when I picked up a cheap pair at a department store. I grew to really enjoy the airyness (is that a word?) and comfort as something to change into when I got home from work, or to just slip on and go on the weekends. I spent the majority of the last two summers, starting in mid-spring, in some other store-brand and brand-name sandals – including wearing them to the office – and really appreciated the comfort, as well as the buckle that let me put them on and off without having to re-Velcro or re-adjust them every time. I have been considering sandals as a hiking/trail shoe alternative to my lightweight boots or sneakers, due to their ability to keep my feet cool and to dry quickly, and have worn them on a few trips so far, and am now looking forward to the opportunity to try out a pair made for the purpose.

Things I am/will be looking for: Fit. Do they fit me? Is the sizing accurate? Are they wide enough? Materials. Is the upper durable? Is it waterproof? Comfort. Can I wear the sandals with socks? Do they provide good arch support (and, if not, can other insoles be used)? Do they hold my feet securely while walking/running/hiking? Traction. Do they slip at all on wet rocks? How about wet pavement? Do they shed mud well? Smell. Do the footbeds develop an odor? If so, can it be washed out? Appearance. Can I wear them to work? Out to dinner? Do they ‘work’ with pants? With or without socks? Washability. Are there special instructions? Are they easy to follow? Do they dry well? Do they hold much dirt in the first place?

My findings so far: Fit. I am quite happy so far. Comfort. Good arch support. Secure. Smell. The footbeds managed to acquire an odor after 3 continuous days of wearing (no socks). It washed out. Appearance. I have been wearing them everywhere (except 2 short Memorial Day Scout functions) for the past week, all without socks. Washability. Machine wash, Gentle cycle. Air dry. After washing, I set them on my dresser overnight. Temp in my bedroom was in the mid-80s °F (28-29 °C), without much breeze, and they were dry in less than 3 hours.

Things I like [return to top] Light. Comfortable. Supportive. Things I don't like [return to top] They start to have an odor fairly quickly, but it does wash out.

Thank you for your time. Chuck Kime a.k.a. Fuzzy

Reviews > Footwear > Sandals > Keen Venice > Chuck Kime > Initial Report