KEEN, Inc. is an American brand of footwear. The shoe company, which was founded by Martin Keen and Rory Fuerst in 2003, is based in Portland, Oregon and . The brand is widely distributed in the United States through a thousand store locations. As KEEN shoes began to get world recognition, the brand is also marketed in Central America, Northern America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

Because of the leap taken by KEEN, Inc., it was recognized as the “Launch of the Year” for 2003 by Footwear News.

History of KEEN shoes

The first sandals under the Keen brand were designed to protect the toes of the wearer. To do this, they have the black bumper that covers the toes. This became the signature of KEEN shoes in the following years.

From the first sandal design of 2003, KEEN shoes launched the Bronx the following year, which is an everyday type of footwear that can also be used for the outdoors. In 2005, KEEN continues to widen its market by creating new styles including the Trailhead, Blvd, Waterfront, Market St., and Kids. It also added Vancouver as part of the women’s line. This also marks the launch of Boulder and Arroyo, which are hybrids of trail shoes and sandals. Beach footwear, such as the Yogui, is also added to the collection.

Who wears KEEN shoes

The early KEEN shoes found a market through those who engage in sailing and other water and outdoor activities. As the brand continues to develop, KEEN also offered shoes that would address the requirements in other sports and activities leading to the increase in the size of their market.

KEEN’s fulfillment of its social responsibility

Less than a couple of years after the launch of the company, the Tsunami occurred. As a response to this tragic event, KEEN used its advertising funds to establish the KEEN Foundation that will support environmental and social causes.

In 2006, just after the launch of hybrid shoes, KEEN established another program, which is called Hybrid Life. Through this program, the consumers share stories of their outdoor adventures and their passions with the community.

In 2007, KEEN made another step to protect the environment by using the Hybrid Box. This is 30% smaller than the old box and uses 100% recycled materials. It takes less energy to manufacture the box and is also easy to recycle. With the growing popularity of the brand, KEEN gives back to the community through its environment programs and sponsored social activities.