Keen Uneek WK Sneaker Loafer Release Date

Keen is throwing its shoes into the mix of sneaker loafers, and it may just be doing so with the most elegant entry yet.

The Keen Uneek Loafer WK is based on its Uneek woven cord sneaker, giving it a dressier look made up of leather. Handwoven and hand-stitched, the hybrid sneaker starts with something like a classic leather upper, adding leather cords that wrap around the collar and are braided on the toe box. A saddle also carries over from penny loafers.

Underfoot is a high-rebound foam midsole with Keen-Curve tooling for natural motion and stability, as well as a contoured footbed for additional cushioning. A short-lug outsole then brings a bit of outdoor grip without adding too much bulk.

“When we began this project, we drew inspiration from the continued blurring of lifestyle and performance in footwear and how this seamlessly connects with our fan,” Carlie Satchwell, Keen director of product management and lifestyle, said in a statement. “Our fans move fluidly between work, social settings, and culture, and they need a shoe that transitions with them. We reimagined our iconic UNEEK corded silhouette and elevated it to a more formal interpretation–premium lifestyle craftsmanship viewed through the lens of performance.”

The sneaker loafer‘s upper, lining, and insole use ethically sourced leather from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group. Natural probiotics have also been used on the model to prevent odor.

Out of the several sneaker loafers that have debuted since New Balance kick-started the trend last year with the 1906L, Keen’s has the most in common with Hoka’s Speed Loafer, which also has outdoor sensibilities.

The Keen Uneek Loafer WK will release on Thursday through Keen’s website and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $190.