KEEN Newport Sandals

Overview:
KEEN is a relatively new company in the shoe world. As they tell it "KEEN began in January 2003 with a moment of pure vision, with a simple challenge: Can a sandal protect toes? The answer was yes. The answer was Newport. The end result was the outdoors, reimagined. KEENs imagine a hybrid life merging the desire to be in nature with the reality of our urban and suburban lives. Their company strives to maintain coporate responsibilty, and a philosophy in keeping with the longings of most urbanites who feel compelled to support a company with loftier goals than just profit. You can visit the KEEN website here: http://www.keenfootwear.com/

Specs from Zappos:

The Newport is the foundation of the Keen footwear line.

Designed to perform in the adverse conditions of a marine environment, the razor sipped outsole and 3mm lugs provides excellent traction both on land and on the slick surfaces of boat decks or river rocks.

A true hybrid, the waterproof nubuck upper withstands the abuse of saltwater and dirt, while providing supple comfort and a stylish look.

Non marking outsole rubber compound provides superior coefficient of friction for all environments.

Razor sipped pods on outsole provide increased surface area for greater traction on smooth surfaces.

Compression molded EVA midsole is contoured for superior comfort and support of the foot structure.

Elastic Closure with Cord Lock creates a quick, snug fit, while allowing flexibility.
Waterproof nubuck leather upper wraps around the foot for stability, allowing generous ventilation.

3M Reflective pull tabs provide added visibility during night time adventures.
Toe guard so you can worry about the activity, not your toes.

AntiMicrobial EVA footbed inhibits foot odor and controls moisture.
Sandal weighs 13.9 oz.

Reviews:

In general KEENs get great reviews. Here are 36 reviews from REI a popular northwest outdoor retailer. http://www.rei.com/pwr/product-reviews/Footwear/Sandals-Men-s/Watersport-Sandals/Keen/p/701676-Keen-Newport-Sandals-Men-s.html

Price:

KEEN has several different versions of sandals, standard Newports, and H2 are the most popular. Adult KEEN Newport sandals are around $50-70. Kids, around one half of adults. These sandals are seasonal so look for sales after the summer season. If you are shopping Ebay expect to pick up adult KEEN Newports in good condition for $25-35 and kids KEEN Newports for about half price. Things to look for in KEEN Newports. 1) check for sole wear - If there is significant wear on the sole there isn't much life left. 2)Make sure the toggle that tightens the bungee cord isn't broken and the bungee is in good condition. 3)Tight stitching all the way around. 3)If you buy a pair of KEEN Newports with additional velcro closures make sure there is the velcro is "sticky" and doesn't have alot of junk in it. You can get the junk out but it takes some picking. Everything else is cosmetic and depends on your "vanity quotient".

Here are pics of Two KEENs. The first is the H2 with the additional velcro closure. The second is the standard Newport.