I’m not the sandal type of person – or so I thought. After wearing the KEEN Uneeks almost everywhere, I’ve grown to like the feeling of air flowing through my toes and the freedom of sandals. While most shoes can only be used for just one activity, the Uneeks are perfectly suited to whatever traveling throws at you, whether walking along the beach, doing a city tour or hiking.
What really sets these sandals apart from other sports sandals is, or course, the ‘unique’ design and structure of the Uneeks. The design is so simple yet practical it makes you wonder why no one had thought of the “two cords and a sole” design earlier.
I’ve tested the Uneeks in black, however they also come in 15 other colors for men, not to mention the 16 more colors in the women’s version.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Versatile
- Good traction
- Durable
- Sexy?
In an attempt to push the sandal’s limits, I tried doing my usual run – except with the Uneeks on. The wind blew through the sandals keeping my feet cool After running two miles in the Uneeks, my feet felt fine, although the back strap started to tug on my achilles tendon. A couple of tiny pebbles got into the sandals as well. I think I’ll stick to my Sauconys when it comes to running, but the Uneeks were a viable backup.
You can do basically anything with the Uneeks on, as long as the weather’s right. The open design allows them to be worn in the water, and I’ve even tried showering with them on. That could be useful the next time I have to take a shower in a dodgy hostel.
The Uneeks do a good job at merging the comfort and freedom of sandals with the durability of hiking shoes. You could hit the trails on a hot day with the Uneeks on, or walk casually in the city.
This is up for debate, but I think the “two cords and a sole” design looks pretty cool. Wired magazine seems to disagree:
Nothing screams “I’m an adventure dork/hippie!” like brightly colored parachute cord woven into an intricate web around your foot.
I guess you could say ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’. Let me know if you think the Uneeks are ugly in the comments below. One thing’s for sure, the KEEN Uneeks are definitely unorthodox.
Fit:
The Uneeks are extremely comfortable, and a lot of that comes down to the fit of the sandals. I’ve noticed that they also have great arch support and really mould to the shape of your feet. With the Uneeks on, you should feel comfortable standing, walking or hiking for several hour long stretches.
The Uneeks run a bit small, so you may want to size up by half a size.
The lace up system is good as well and I prefer it over the normal velcro straps found in most sandals. The laces are elastic, unlike the cord which make up the upper. They can be tightened by using the draw cord. Compared to velcro, the laces allow you to tighten certain areas and loosen others.
Cons:
- Heavy (1.5 lbs for one pair size 9)
I really don’t have many negative things to say about these sandals, although one minor issue I have is that they weigh as much as my lightweight hiking shoes. Since sandals are made with less material compared to hiking shoes, I imagine they should be lighter but that’s not the case. Most of the weight of the Uneeks comes from the soles which are quite thick and rugged, making the Uneeks a bit heavy, something you may want to consider if you’re traveling ultra light. (The thick soles add to the durability of these sandals.)
The Verdict:
For the travelers looking for a pair of sandals that live up to their adventures, the Uneeks fit the bill. KEEN Uneeks can be used for strolling down city streets, hiking, going to the beach and even the occasional run. With their unconventional design and practicality the Uneeks are sure to become a favorite of any adventurer.
The Uneeks cost $100, which I’d say is reasonable and normal for most sandals of this caliber.
KEEN Uneek Ratings
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Comfort - 9/109/10
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Design - 10/1010/10
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Durability - 10/1010/10
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Value - 8/108/10
Where to Get it:
- You can find the Keen Uneek shoes on KeenFootwear.com
- On Amazon.com
- On Backcountry.com
- Or on REI.com
Do you think the KEEN Uneeks are ugly or awesome? Leave a comment below.
The KEEN Uneek Sandals were provided for this review. As always, this KEEN Uneek review contains only my honest views and opinions. Some links found in this review are affiliate links, meaning that we get commission if you decide to make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. This helps to fund the site. 🙂
Honestly I think the uneeks look pretty cool.
Exactly what I think, Jason!
I love the look, just wish they were lighter to be carried as a “camp shoe” when backpacking. Are they durable enough for river crossings?
True – if they were lighter they would be a lot easier to carry. Yes, I think the Uneeks would be durable for a river crossing. The cord material is really strong and I’ve been wearing mine for 6+ months now without any issues.
why are there different model uneeks for men? 8mm, slice, etc… do you know the difference?
Just bought some yestetday & they are amazing! My high arches LOVE them & are the most comfortable sandle I have ever bought! They do look different…but as you said beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And I for one like them in look & feel.
I too love these sandals/shoes.
I have a very wide foot, so they are snug.
Is there a way to stretch these out a little to fit better?
Thanks,
Bill
Thanks for commenting, Bill! As for stretching the Uneeks out, I’m not really sure if that’s possible. The paracord (which the entire upper is made from) doesn’t stretch. Maybe you could replace the elastic lacing system with something larger? Probably the easiest way to fix the issue would be sizing up, but then the sandal could be too long.
I am the proud and happy owner of three pairs of UNEEK sandals. They are cool, comfortable and eye catching. I wear them almost anywhere- to work, for my jogs, and for when going out. I LOVE the colour range and the zany design. 10 out of 10 KEEN.
Molly
St Lucia, Australia
LIKE! Comfort, look, support. LIKE!!
What are the differences between the styles? I got the “Rock” style at REI for $79, but see much less expensive styles on the keen website.
I can’t say for sure, but I think Keen rolled out a newer, updated version. So the less expensive ones might be the older model?
My sister sent me a pair (I’m in the PH, she’s in the US) two Christmases ago and I’ve been using them for my hikes ever since. Two years later, it still feels the same as when I got it. Definitely the best find, ever. Tbh, anything from Keen is amazing.
Yes, I’ve been wearing my Uneeks for almost a year and a half now and they’re still like new!
In my web surfing, looking for flip flops, I stumbled across Keen woven sandals and could not get them out of my head. Ordered a pair and wore them 1 day and ordered 3 more pair. I see zero cons with these sandals and the design is beautiful. I have gotten several, “Where did you get those” in just 3 days. I live in Florida and these are my every day footwear, work and home. I may have lost my mind but I love wearing them and, as I said, the symmetry of the design and the uniqueness is over the top. IMHO! (But I am right!)
Had to post again. I dont understand why some folks have a problem with the weight of the sandals. It never occured to me to be an issue and I was, for years, a flip flop guy. They are extremely comfortable and, I thought, light weight. My one issue I had was with the constant stretching and relaxing of the cords that, after a certain amount of wear, one of the cords could wear thru and break, which, since there are only 2 cords, would be a nightmare to fix. However reading the reviews as I have, that is apparently NOT an issue. Still happy as a clam with the sandals.
This is one ugly sandal.
I just purchased a pair of these with the full back. I had never heard of them until a friend took us to the factory outlet in Phuket. He raved about them and I love them. I live in Penang and they are great when riding my Vespa. I can feel the wind blowing around my feet which helps to keep me cool. Searching now for a pair for my other half. Having a problem finding his size. Happy adventuring in Keens. Cyndy