How the UNEEK Was Born.

It all began in 2013, when Rory Fuerst Jr., director of innovation for KEEN, decided to completely rethink the conventional footwear manufacturing process to create a shoe that fits the foot perfectly .

Traditional shoe construction relies on flat, 2D pieces of material and sewn together and shaped to form the uppers; however, attaining an ideal fit for a three-dimensional object (a foot) requires meticulous processes and materials and flawless construction.

The breakthrough came using cords. By utilizing cords, KEEN created a more form-fitting upper. Taking it a crucial step further, the company introduced a second cord and a junction point where the two cords intersected, making the upper work harmoniously with the foot.

“Perfecting the prototype was not easy, and no factory wanted to make it. It was so different from anything the industry was used to. As a result, Rory, Jr. relentlessly pursued how to bring this to scale with countless trips to the factory to make it happen. And KEEN did not stop there. For ten years, the company has perfected the UNEEK and now houses all production in KEEN family-owned factories—increasing efficiency. What originally took 57 minutes to make now takes just 15 minutes per pair,” reported KEEN.

Today, customers get to experience the latest and most advanced features, which include, “Adaptable and Original Fit, Consciously Created Materials, Goes Everywhere Traction, Breathable Comfort, Support Underfoot.

Women's UNEEK

Men's UNEEK