In modern footwear, the lines between the functional and the fashionable continue to blur. In terms of what companies produce and consumers demand, shoes are increasingly aimed towards threading the needle between those once mutually exclusive worlds. Allow us to reintroduce the UNEEK, KEEN’s tentpole sneaker that is meticulously sewing together the fabric of the outdoors and city life.

Turning 10 in 2024, the UNEEK falls perfectly in that growing overlap more than ever, firmly existing in the crossover category birthed by the organic adoption of the most authentic brands and products. Born in Portland, OR, the UNEEK has planted its foot across the globe, particularly in trendsetting epicenters like New York City and Tokyo, and the movement is only growing. Better get ahead of the curve.

Structurally, the UNEEK is deceptively simple as a microfiber heel anchor ties in with a network of interlacing cords to secure the foot. Put simply, it’s “two cords and a sole.” Compositionally, recycled PET plastic fibers are woven into that bungee cord upper. Add that to a tailored lace toggle and it’s a Consciously Created one-two punch complete with an individual fit.

As warm weather ushers in whirlwind months of city treks, weekender jaunts, and last-minute get-aways, we partnered with KEEN to showcase how the UNEEK can slide into your wardrobe for occasions equally fit for the great outdoors and an afternoon hang. Here’s our selection for the pairs that should crack your rotation no matter where your summer takes you; all are available right now on keenfootwear.com.

For men, the pair in all-black presents the best daily driver option, true to the “goes with everything” motto while still maintaining all the benefits of the UNEEK model. In all-white, the shoe leans towards a statement piece, eye-catching in radiant shades and a perfect match for seasonal summer outfits. Rounding out the trio, “Dark Olive/Black” doubles down on the UNEEK’s outdoorsy origins, pushing earthy overtones to the forefront yet grounding the design in reliable, nocturnal tones underfoot.

On the women’s side, easily the pair with the most pop in the catalog comes in “Cork,” boasting lively peach shades and a classic gum sole formula underneath. “White Cap” off-white brings a classier look to the UNEEK, adding dressy occasions onto the long list of environments the model is built for. Finally, a “Martini Olive” colorway evokes natural hues once again with clean contrast coming from the light tan liner and sole.