The Keen Wander is a simple, low-profile trail shoe that does more with less

Introduction to the Keen Wander

TAYLOR: I’ve always been a little “different.” In the Midwest, this translates to being a genuine weirdo, but I’ve come to terms with that a long time ago. I proudly own the atypical, whether that’s pertaining to my own thought process or gear that I’m reviewing.

While that doesn’t mean I’m attracted to the boisterous, it more often means I notice the nuances and quirky details that make something unique. Keen is one of those unique brands for trail running, specifically.

The brand is one of the most experienced outdoor footwear companies in the world. Even so, they very recently took their first forays into trail running footwear themselves. Keen’s first launch was more of a “generalist” in trail-running footwear. The Seek was a fantastic first offering from the brand in an extremely competitive category. The Keen Roam offered a little more non-technical specificity as a road-to-trail shoe (a hot category right now as well).

Then, they released the shoe we’re discussing today. The Keen Wander also enters a highly contested sub-group of trail-running shoes. This one falls into the more natural, low-stack/low-drop category. Connection to the ground and natural foot movement is the whole premise with shoes here — shoes like the Altra Lone Peak 9, Topo Athletic Terraventure 5, and Inov8 Trailfly v2. All tout lower-to-the-ground stack heights and more anatomically shaped designs.

What’s keen about the Keen Wander is its use of strikingly simple materials and slightly lower-than-average cost at $140. Admittedly, I do not often run in such a low-profile trail running shoe; however, when I choose to pull one off the shelf, it is for a specific purpose, and the quality needs to be in check.

Let’s see how the Keen Wander ticks those boxes.

What we like about the Keen Wander

TAYLOR: That last comment makes me sound like an absolute snob… which I can be on certain things. Coffee, sunglasses, and running packs are among them. So are low-profile shoes.

In my mind, the best models from the “natural” trail running movement leverage a design that allows runners to pretty much forget about any elements of the shoe and support a connection to the ground that promotes an unmechanized foot strike. Spoiler alert: I feel that the Keen Wander did that quite well.

First, I really want to point out a design philosophy that’s obvious across their three trail running options. All of them have continuity in design, namely fit, while separating themselves just enough to diversify the use case and/or customer. You can find a suite of shoes from a single brand that would likely please you. While many brands try to do this, it’s actually a hard-earned accolade.

Why I bring that up is because I genuinely enjoyed all aspects of the Keen Seek. The initial step into the Wander made me think right back to that shoe. What’s notable is a fit that’s relaxed in the right areas, letting the foot splay. The heel width is fairly average, while the midfoot gains a little more space and even a little more toward the toe. The Keen Wander has more of that “mitten” fit rather than a “glove. What I appreciated most was that my foot reaped the benefits of the foot-shaped fit (comfort) without slipping about within the upper. In both the Wander and Seek, I felt a confidence-inspiring sense of security as well.

The upper materials certainly contributed to overall comfort, with a standard breathable mesh and a moderately structured construction. The tongue itself is quite cushioned and allowed for cinching up as I desired. For me, that meant eating up some of the volume for a more secure fit while letting my forefoot chill in the oasis of space.

Underfoot, simplicity continues with a new ReGenX midsole foam. It’s a recycled material that lets you stick to running without much else on top of it. Good! While I don’t know the exact composition, this feels very much like a quality traditional EVA with the potential of softer material folded in.

At any rate, there were trace amounts of sponginess and protection (also enhanced by the outsole). This is honestly preferable in a package that’s only a 24/20mm stack. While many shoes try to wow with a midsole sensation, the Keen Wander aims to provide approachable protection and the right flexibility to promote a healthy amount of trail sense.

The thin rock plate also helps sift out some of the underfoot invaders from the trail. While we don’t see rock plates much anymore, this was another savvy design move to, again, create a shoe that’s approachable in the low-stack space. As for the grip department, I have my reservations; however, I can’t argue with the fact that the subtle lugs and tacky rubber allowed the Wander to attack a healthy amount of trails and conditions.

This package is made even better by a lightweight feel. Most shoes in this category are… I mean, it’s at least 12mm lower than the traditional modern running shoe these days, so it should be!

What we don’t like about the Keen Wander

TAYLOR: Value will be my biggest concern here. The lightweight, simplistic build has many positives, but durability is a potential risk. The soft traditional mesh and softer rubber are showing some signs of wear after my 40ish-mile testing period. It’s not deteriorating at an alarming rate, but it is something to be aware of if you frequent more rowdy terrain. That said, it should be able to handle the more gentle stuff without worry.

Even though the Keen Wander is perhaps the cheapest in its category at $140, the Altra Lone Peak 9 ($145), Topo Athletic Terraventure 5 ($145), and Inov8 Traifly v2 ($160) all have more durable uppers and rubber outsoles.

Along similar lines, the outsole did struggle to gain traction on wet surfaces and softer terrain.

Final thoughts on the Keen Wander

TAYLOR: Take this from a runner who mixes in a low-profile trail shoe strategically for easy effort or low-mileage days. I’ll also use a similar shoe for hiking, general yard work, and similar activities.

The Keen Wander is a simple and tasteful addition to their ever-expanding lineup. It is a shoe that will likely please everyone, from those who routinely choose a natural running shoe to those exploring these options for the first time. It easily ranks up there with our favorites in the category for comfort and performance, but it raises some concerns about durability.

You can pick up the Keen Wander for $140 from Keen by using the buttons below.