THE GEAR:
The new Red Rock Mid is a light, waterproof, day hiking boot from Keen. The boot enlists a KEEN.DRY membrane to ensure breathablility while keeping water out. The upper is composed of waterproof nubuck leather and mesh. The Red Rock Mid also features 4mm multi-directional lugs, a dual density compression molded EVA and PU midsole, and a non-marking rubber outsole.
THE TEST:
I took the Red Rock Mid out on quite a few hikes over the last half of the summer. A fitting test of the boot's comfort and ability however, was Saddle Mountain in Oregon's coast range. Featuring steep rocky slopes, long dirt switchbacks, and even the occasional cyclone fenced path, the trail to the summit of Saddle Mountain will put any boot through its paces.
The boots were instantly comfortable, and light on the feet. The higher cuff of the mid offered a nice bit of extra support without the constriction and weight of a full fledged boot; making it ideal for long day hikes and overnight backpacking trips. The boots did well on loose rock, and were comfortably sturdy on the more conventional parts of the trail.
On wetter trails and creek fords, the Red Rock Mid gripped nicely and remained 100% waterproof. After 3 months of use, the boots show an appropriate level of wear with no signs of trouble.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
If you're a fan of Keen footwear, these boots are a no-brainer. If you haven't been impressed in the past, perhaps it's time to try again. The Red Rock Mid is remarkably light, sturdy, and comfortable. Add the fact that they're waterproof, and you have the ideal boot for Pacific Northwest hiking.
Red Rock Mid features and specs:
- 4mm multi-directional lugs
- Drop in EVA heel insert
- Dual density compression molded EVA and PU midsole
- KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane
- Removable metatomical dual density EVA footbed
- Torsion stability TPU shank
Price: $120
Weight: 19.20 oz / 546.624 grams
Lining: Waterproof breathable lining
Upper: Waterproof nubuck & mesh
Rubber: Non-Marking
Type: Shoes
Weather: Wet – waterproof
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
Comments
These sound great and reasonable too!
Sounds like a great boot and priced right.
I have always loved Keen. These sound like an excellent hiking boot :)
Finally a Keen review. Thank you. I won't wear anything else.
I have a lot of Keens but not a hiker. I'll have to check it out.
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