The KEEN Seek marks the brand’s first real entry into trail running, and they’ve gone all in.
Known for durable hiking and lifestyle shoes, KEEN has built something that genuinely bridges the gap between road and trail.
After running plenty of miles in mixed terrain (and hiking), I’ve found it to be a versatile hybrid trainer that’s as capable on tarmac as it is on dirt and gravel.
What stands out most is how comfortable and stable it feels, all wrapped up in a rugged design that stays true to KEEN’s DNA, but there's so much more for me to share about these beauties...
Key specifications
- Price: $185 at keenfootwear.com | (women's version here)
- Weight: 10.9oz (308g) for US Men’s 9 (my pair)
- Drop: 6mm (heel height 39mm)
- Upper: Ultra abrasion-resistant performance textile with sock-like design
- Midsole: QuantumFoamX high-energy cushioning
- Outsole: KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4mm multi-directional lugs
- Extra attributes: Gaiter-ready, Eco Anti-Odor, reflective detailing, lace garage stretch pocket on the tongue
- Rated durability: 925-mile outsole lifespan (Heeluxe tested, and I believe it)
Sizing and fit
The Seek fits true to size with a medium width and has a nicely wide and spacious toe box.
KEEN’s “Original Fit” gives the toes room to splay naturally, and the upper wraps the foot in a secure, sock-like hold.
The grippy inner collar does an excellent job of locking the heel down, no slip, no need to over-tighten the laces.
Performance review
The Seek’s comfort is the first thing that stood out to me. The step-in feel is soft and secure, and the upper molds to the foot without any hotspots or pressure points.
Even though it tips the scale at 10.9oz (308g), it feels lighter than expected once you’re moving (so don't let that spec put you off in any way).
That’s largely due to the breathable, flexible knit upper and well-balanced cushioning that distributes weight evenly through the stride.
Stability is another unexpected area that this shoe shines, considering the nice cushioned midsole.
The broad platform, moderate stack, and well-structured heel deliver a planted, confident ride across uneven ground.
On paved stretches, it rolls smoothly and feels stable without any of that wobbly sensation some cruiser trail shoes give on hard surfaces.
The QuantumFoamX "Funnest Foam" midsole hits a sweet spot. It's soft enough for comfort, yet responsive enough to keep runs lively and fun.
It offers solid protection underfoot without muting ground feel completely.
Alastair Dixon
Breathability is excellent too.
The porous knit upper keeps airflow consistent, making this a strong warm-weather option but also on dry Fall/Winter runs.
Despite its rugged construction, the Seek stays cool and comfortable through long runs or full-day wear.
Traction is equally impressive.
The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN outsole with 4mm lugs grips confidently on dirt, rock, and gravel, while staying smooth on road sections.
That mix of grip and fluid transition is what makes it such an effective road-to-trail shoe.
Alastair Dixon
It’s also built tough. The reinforced toe bumper, overlays, and high-abrasion rubber outsole feel ready for serious mileage.
It’s not the kind of shoe you’d race in, but for daily training, long trail runs, travel, and adventure runs that mix surfaces, it’s incredibly dependable.
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My verdict
The KEEN Seek is one of the most enjoyable hybrid trainers I’ve tested this year. Although on the pricier side for this category (priced at $185), it's well worth it.
Tt's probably one of the most underrated road to trail running shoes too; hopefully my review can changes this, as more people need these on their feet.
It’s stable, breathable, and durable, yet feels smooth and light underfoot with comfort that's up there with the most comfortable trail shoes right now.
KEEN’s first trail running shoe sets a high bar. It’s a road-to-trail workhorse that feels built to last hundreds of miles without losing its comfort or composure.
Right now, it’s in my top 3 best-rated road-to-trail shoes, and one I often take on family hikes. Congrats KEEN, you have my attention in the trail running space! -Alastair
