Keen Vs Lowa (The Definitive Guide)
By Unlock Wilderness
10th July 2023
Are you torn between Keen and Lowa for your next outdoor footwear purchase? You're not alone. With their high-quality materials and rugged construction, both brands have earned a loyal following. But which one reigns supreme? In this article, we'll take a closer look at Keen vs Lowa. From their design philosophy and performance, to their fit and price point, we'll cover the similarities and differences. So grab your trail mix, kick up your feet, and let's dive in!
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Keen Vs Lowa
Introduction to Keen and Lowa
Are you in the market for a new pair of hiking boots? If so, you may have come across the brands Keen and Lowa. Both of these brands are known for their durable and high-quality outdoor footwear. In this section, we'll provide a brief introduction to Keen and Lowa, including their histories, missions, and values.
Let's start with Keen. Founded in 2003, Keen is a relatively young company compared to other outdoor footwear brands. The company was started by Martin Keen, a former designer for Nike. Keen's mission is to create innovative and versatile footwear that is both comfortable and durable. They also prioritize sustainability, using recycled materials in their products and partnering with organizations that support environmental causes.
Lowa, on the other hand, has been around since 1923. The company was founded in Germany and has since become a well-respected name in the outdoor footwear industry. Lowa's mission is to create high-quality boots that are built to last. They focus on providing support and comfort to hikers and mountaineers, aiming to make every outdoor adventure a little bit easier.
While both Keen and Lowa are known for producing high-quality hiking boots, they have differences that set them apart. Keen is known for its innovative designs and sustainability efforts, while Lowa is known for its traditional craftsmanship and commitment to support and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between Keen and Lowa comes down to personal preference and what qualities are most important to you in a hiking boot.
Performance Comparison of Keen and Lowa
When it comes to outdoor footwear, Keen and Lowa are two brands that come to mind for many hikers, climbers, and adventurers. But which brand performs better in terms of traction, support, comfort, and durability? Let's compare.
Traction is crucial when you're hiking on slippery rocks or wet surfaces. Both Keen and Lowa offer shoes with excellent traction. Keen's boots usually feature a non-slip rubber sole and a unique tread pattern that grips the ground firmly. Lowa, on the other hand, uses a Vibram sole that provides excellent traction even on rugged terrain.
Support is another important factor to consider when choosing outdoor footwear. Keen has become famous for its "metatomical" footbed design that contours to your foot shape and provides arch support. Lowa's boots usually feature a sturdy shank that delivers excellent stability and support, especially on rocky terrain.
Comfort is subjective, but both Keen and Lowa excel in this aspect. Keen's shoes have a roomy toe box and a comfortable fit that accommodates various foot widths. Lowa uses a Climate Control footbed that regulates temperature and keeps your feet dry and comfortable.
Durability is essential when you're investing in outdoor footwear. Keen's shoes are known for their durability and can withstand tough terrain thanks to the use of high-quality materials. Lowa also uses durable materials such as Gore-Tex and leather to make its boots waterproof and long-lasting.
Price and Value of Keen and Lowa
Alright, folks, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of finding the best shoes for your buck. For this section, we're going to be comparing Keen and Lowa in terms of price and value.
First up, let's talk cost. Both of these brands offer a range of shoes at varying prices, so there's definitely something for everyone here. However, if you're on a tight budget, you may find that Keen has some more affordable options compared to Lowa. That being said, there are also some more expensive Keen shoes that might come with extra features or technology that make them worth the splurge.
But let's not just talk about price. We also want to consider the value that comes with each brand's shoes. In other words, are you getting your money's worth? In our experience, both Keen and Lowa offer shoes with excellent performance and durability. However, there are a few standout features that might make one brand more valuable to you than the other.
For example, Keen is known for their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. If that's important to you, then supporting a brand that shares those values could make their shoes more valuable in your eyes. On the other hand, Lowa offers a generous warranty program for their shoes, which could give you added peace of mind and potentially save you money in the long run.
Keen Vs Lowa Men's Hiking Boots
When it comes to men's hiking boots, Keen and Lowa are two brands that offer a great range of options to suit any outdoor adventure. Keen's Targhee III Waterproof Mid boasts a comfortable fit, durable protection, and excellent traction, while Lowa's Renegade GTX Mid stands out for its superior versatility and stability.
Both brands prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness, with Keen's Targhee III using environmentally preferred premium leather and a PFAS-free, durable water repellent, and Lowa's Renegade GTX featuring durable nubuck uppers and a waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX lining.
Keen's Targhee III is an excellent option for those looking for a comfortable and functional hiking boot for day hikes and light backpacking. The boots feature an injected TPU heel-capture system for stability, an external stability shank for lightweight support, and a speed-lace webbing system for a snug fit. Additionally, the boots feature a non-marking multi-directional lug outsole for increased traction, making them perfect for a variety of surfaces.
Lowa's Renegade GTX is a great choice for those seeking a versatile and stable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain. The boots feature a DuraPU MONOWRAP frame construction for stability, a full-length stabilizer for underfoot support, and a Vibram Evo sole for sure-footed traction. The boots also feature a Derby-cut styling that accommodates a variety of foot shapes, making them a great choice for those with wider feet.
When deciding between Keen and Lowa, consider what features are most important to you – are you looking for comfort, versatility, or stability? Both brands offer excellent options at a range of price points, so an investment in either will offer a long-lasting and high-performing pair of hiking boots.
Men's Targhee III Waterproof Mid by Keen
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Stay comfortable and stable on any terrain.
What makes it special? These boots are equipped with the KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane, ensuring that your feet stay dry and comfortable no matter the weather or terrain. The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole and 4mm multi-directional lugs provide superior traction, making these boots perfect for any hiking adventure. But these boots aren't just functional - they also prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness. These boots are made from environmentally preferred premium leather from an LWG-certified tannery, and feature a PFAS-free, durable water repellent and natural odor control technology. Comfort is also a top priority, with features like an injected TPU heel-capture system for stability, an external stability shank for lightweight support, and a quick-dry lining for active use. Not to mention, the Original Fit provides generous space across the forefoot for toes to spread out.
Renegade GTX Mid by Lowa
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
The best-selling hiking boot for versatile adventures.
What makes it special? This award-winning boot has been setting the standard for multifunctional boots for 25 years, and it's not hard to see why. With its Derby-cut styling and sleek yet rugged nubuck uppers, it's a stylish choice for both on-trail day hikes and light backpacking. But the Renegade is more than just a pretty face. It's constructed with DuraPU® MONOWRAP® frame construction for stability and a full-length stabilizer for underfoot support, ensuring that your feet are protected and comfortable no matter where your adventures take you. And with a durably waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX lining, your feet will stay dry and comfortable even in wet conditions. But perhaps the best feature of the Renegade is its VIBRAM® Evo sole, which provides sure-footed traction no matter the terrain. Whether you're tackling a rocky trail or a dusty dirt path, the Renegade can handle it all with ease.
Keen Vs Lowa Men's Hiking Shoes
If you're in the market for new hiking shoes, Keen and Lowa are two brands worth considering. Both offer a range of options in terms of style and features, but when comparing their flagship products, the Men's Targhee III Waterproof by Keen and the Renegade GTX Lo by Lowa, there are some clear differences to consider.
Starting with comfort, the Men's Targhee III Waterproof by Keen has a spacious, generous fit across the forefoot that allows toes to spread out. This is a great feature for hikers with wider feet or those looking for added comfort during long hikes. In contrast, the Renegade GTX Lo by Lowa offers a roomy toe box and extra cushioning around the collar and tongue, providing ample comfort and support for your feet.
In terms of durability and weather protection, Keen's Men's Targhee III Waterproof features KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane and an .ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole that can handle tough terrains. It also uses eco-friendly materials as an added perk. On the other hand, Lowa's Renegade GTX Lo offers both a waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX lining to protect your feet from the elements as well as a hybrid DuraPU/DynaPU midsole for cushioning and support.
Both shoes have impressive traction capabilities to tackle rocky trails, groomed paths, and wet fields, but Lowa's Renegade GTX Lo is known for its versatility and can be used on a variety of surfaces.
Overall, when debating between Keen and Lowa for Men's Hiking Shoes, comfort and durability are key factors. Keen's Men's Targhee III Waterproof offers generous space across the forefoot and eco-friendly materials, whereas, Lowa's Renegade GTX Lo provides extra cushioning around the collar and tongue as well as a hybrid DuraPU/DynaPU midsole for cushioning and support. It's up to the individual hiker to decide which features are most important to them.
Men's Targhee III Waterproof by Keen
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Hiking shoes that provide superior comfort, support and traction.
What makes it special? For starters, they come equipped with the KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane, meaning your feet stay dry and comfortable no matter the weather conditions. The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole and 4mm multi-directional lugs ensure superior traction on even the toughest terrains. The injected TPU heel-capture system Provides stability, thereby reducing the risk of injury, while the external stability shank delivers lightweight support. I appreciate that these shoes are made with environmentally preferred premium leather from LWG-certified tannery. Additionally, they are PFAS-free, durable water repellent, and have Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control. The Original Fit–Iconic KEEN fit with generous space across forefoot for toes to spread out makes them incredibly comfortable, even after a long day of hiking. With a quick-lace system for a comfortably snug fit, a quick-dry lining for those active use days, and a removable PU insole for long-lasting comfort, these shoes truly have everything you could want in a hiking shoe. And let's not forget the non-marking multi-directional lugs for increased traction.
Renegade GTX Lo by Lowa
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Conquer any terrain with ease.
What makes it special? The hybrid DuraPU®/DynaPU® midsole provides unmatched cushioning and support, allowing for a comfortable hike for longer periods of time. The roomy toe box and extra cushioning around the collar and tongue also contribute to the overall comfort of this shoe. In terms of durability and weather protection, the Renegade GTX Lo does not disappoint. Its durably waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX lining ensures that your feet stay dry during wet hikes, while also allowing for breathability so your feet do not become too hot. What sets the Renegade GTX Lo apart from other hiking shoes is its versatility. This shoe can handle rocky trails, wet fields, and groomed paths with ease, making it a great option for hikers who like to switch up their routes.
Keen Vs Lowa Women's Hiking Boots
Are you torn between Keen and Lowa when it comes to finding the perfect pair of women's hiking boots? Let's take a closer look at what each brand has to offer.
Starting with Keen, their Women's Voyageur Mid boasts excellent ventilation, high-traction grip, and a comfortable fit. The mesh insets provide airflow to keep your feet happy, while the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole and 4mm multi-directional lugs offer the necessary traction for uncertain terrain. And with a contoured heel lock and external stability shank, you can trust that your feet will be well-supported. The Voyageur Mid is also made with environmentally preferred premium leather and PFAS-free, durable water repellent, so you can feel good about your ethical and eco-friendly purchase.
On the other hand, Lowa offers their Renegade GTX Mid Ws, a boot with 25 years of multifunctional excellence under its belt. With a Derby-cut styling and DuraPU MONOWRAP frame construction for stability, this boot is a reliable and comfortable choice. The VIBRAM Evo sole provides excellent traction, and the GORE-TEX lining ensures that your feet stay dry. Plus, the sleek yet durable nubuck upper adds a touch of style to your hiking gear.
When it comes down to it, both Keen and Lowa offer strong options for women's hiking boots. Keen's Voyageur Mid emphasizes comfort, ventilation, and eco-friendliness, while Lowa's Renegade GTX Mid Ws focuses on stability, traction, and a durable design. It all depends on what you prioritize in a hiking boot. So take a close look at each brand's offerings, try them on if possible, and make the choice that works best for you and your hiking needs.
Women's Voyageur Mid by Keen
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Stay comfortable and secure on the trails.
What makes it special? This boot has everything you need to stay comfortable and secure on the trails, whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out. One of the standout features of the Voyageur Mid is its ventilation system. Mesh insets offer continual airflow to keep your feet cool and comfortable, even on hot and humid days. And when it comes to traction, the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole and 4mm multi-directional lugs provide a higher-traction grip on all kinds of terrain. But this boot isn't just about performance - it's also designed for a comfortable and secure fit. The contoured heel lock and external stability shank offer support and stability, while the Speed-lace webbing system ensures a snug fit without any hassle. And with environmentally preferred premium leather from an LWG-certified tannery and PFAS-free, durable water repellent, you can feel good about your purchase from an ethical and eco-friendly standpoint.
Renegade GTX Mid Ws by Lowa
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Trusted by hikers for 25 years, this affordable boot won't fail.
What makes it special? This boot has been a standard in the multifunctional boot category for a whopping 25 years, and it's easy to see why. The Derby-cut styling is accommodating to various foot shapes and the DuraPU MONOWRAP frame construction ensures stability while you're out on the trail. But don't worry - you won't sacrifice comfort for this stability. The Renegade boasts a full-length stabilizer for underfoot support and a sleek yet durable nubuck upper that hugs your foot just right. Plus, with a VIBRAM Evo sole, you won't have to worry about traction when you're traversing tricky terrain. These boots provide excellent grip, so you can stay sure-footed even in slippery conditions. The cherry on top is the durably waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX lining. You'll never have to worry about soggy socks or damp feet, even in the rainiest of weather.
Keen Vs Lowa Women's Hiking Shoes
When it comes to Women's Hiking Shoes, Keen and Lowa both offer a wide range of options, but their individual strengths lie in different areas.
Keen's Women's Targhee III Waterproof is perfect for those looking for durability and reliability, with a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane and a KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole providing all the traction and stability you need for any terrain. Additionally, the Eco Anti-Odor technology and Original Fit–Iconic KEEN fit with plenty of space in the forefoot make for a comfortable and fresh hiking experience.
On the other hand, Lowa's Taurus Pro GTX Lo Ws is a great choice for those seeking a lightweight shoe designed for easy on-trail hikes with a light day pack. The GORE-TEX lining and full-length stabilizer provide excellent support and protection, while the rubber outsole with proprietary tread designs specific for intended use offers the grip you need.
Ultimately, the choice between Keen and Lowa comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If durability and a spacious fit are your top priorities, then Keen's Women's Targhee III Waterproof is a great choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a lightweight shoe with excellent waterproofing and support, then Lowa's Taurus Pro GTX Lo Ws is the way to go. Regardless of your decision, both brands offer exceptional quality and features that are sure to enhance any hiking adventure.
Women's Targhee III Waterproof by Keen
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Hike in comfort and style with this eco-friendly shoe.
What makes it special? IWith a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane and a KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole, this shoe is perfect for any weather or terrain. Plus, with 4mm multi-directional lugs, you'll have all the traction you need to tackle any hiking trail. The injected TPU heel-capture system provides stability and the external stability shank delivers lightweight support for your feet. Additionally, the environmentally preferred premium leather from a LWG-certified tannery and PFAS-free, durable water repellent make these shoes eco-friendly and long-lasting. Plus, the Eco Anti-Odor technology ensures that your shoes stay fresh even after lots of use. And with the Original Fit–Iconic KEEN fit with plenty of space in the forefoot for your toes to spread out, your feet will be comfortable on even the longest hikes.
Taurus Pro GTX Lo Ws by Lowa
Our rating: ★★★★★
Price: $$$$
Lightweight hiking shoes for women's outdoor adventures.
What makes it special? Made specifically for women, these shoes feature a durably waterproof/breathable GORE-TEX lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable no matter the weather. And with a full-length stabilizer and a PU MONOWRAP® frame for support and stability underfoot, you'll be able to tackle any terrain with ease. But what really sets the Taurus Pro GTX Lo Ws apart is their lightweight construction. The polyurethane midsole material provides ideal support without weighing you down, while the LOWA RUBBER OUTSOLE with proprietary tread designs specific for intended use ensures you have the traction you need without adding unnecessary bulk.
Final Verdict
So there you have it, folks! Our Keen Vs Lowa showdown has come to a close. But before we bid adieu, let's reflect on what we've learned.
Both Keen and Lowa are top-notch brands that offer superior craftsmanship, durability, comfort, and style in their products.
While Keen is known for its signature toe protection and versatile designs that cater to a range of outdoor activities, Lowa is revered for its exceptional hiking boots that are engineered to tackle the most challenging terrain.
But at the end of the day, choosing between Keen and Lowa is entirely subjective. It ultimately boils down to your personal preferences, needs, and style.
If you value toe protection and prefer a more casual, everyday look, Keen may be your go-to brand. On the other hand, if you're an avid hiker who demands the best in support and traction, Lowa is the way to go.
So, to sum it up, we won't declare a winner in this battle because both brands are equally suitable choices. You won't go wrong with either, and it all comes down to what you are looking for in your next pair of shoes.
Happy shopping and happy adventures.
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