KEEN-PARISON: WHICH RIVER SHOES FOR SUMMER FUN?

KEEN fans are an eclectic bunch: some live to fish, some chase whitewater thrills, and some just want to dive into that blue lagoon at the end of a sweaty hike. But before you can start splashing, you need a good pair of river shoes.

All men’s and women’s KEEN water shoes adjust with a bungee-cord closure for a snug fit and have non-marking outsoles (safe for boat decks). They’re also all machine washable, so you can throw them in the washer after a particularly mucky adventure. But which pair should you pick? It all depends on what you’re looking for. Check out this handy chart:

But the chart can’t say it all. Here’s a little more on why fans love each of these designs:

Newport H2: You may not know that the Newport started out as a boat shoe. These days, this rugged, protective water shoe is popular as an anything-and-everything summer shoe. Hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and then chilling fireside at base camp or sipping an IPA on the dock — in the Newport sandal you can do it all without a change of footwear. Razor siping in the rubber outsole helps squeeze out water (like tread on a tire), preventing slipping on wet surfaces. Shop Newport H2 sandals for men and women.

Clearwater CNX: Lightweight and low-profile, the Clearwater CNX is all about cutting down on bulk for a nearly barefoot feel that's great for SUPing or wedging into a raft. They weigh in at a scant 9.0 oz, so you might forget you’re wearing water shoes (but without the stubbed toes). Shop Clearwater CNX sandals for men and women.