Our verdict

86
Great!

Gearing up with the Venture WP means being in a true-to-size hiker whose astronomical level of comfort is achievable on day one. Wearing this handsomely crafted KEEN product also translates to adventures where full water protection is likely guaranteed.

Pros

  • Fantastically comfortable
  • Water-resistant
  • Who should buy the Durable lacing system
  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Lightweight
  • Prefer a hiking shoe that delivers improved walking comfort over level ground
  • Durable

Cons

  • Narrow toe box
  • Expensive

Short break-in period

The Venture WP is an amazing piece from KEEN—one that wears its hike-worthy traits on its sleeves quite proudly. It is a solid option if you:

  • Prefer a sleek hiking shoe that gives wearers a weather-protected ride on the trail without sacrificing mobility.
  • Prefer a hiking shoe that offers odor management and water repellency.
  • nbsp; |  .

Durable lacing system logo 1.0

Short break-in period

In this gear, trail lovers can safely traverse slippery surfaces thanks to Venture WP’s KEEN All-Terrain outsole. A layer made entirely of rubber, this heavy-duty outsole provides sufficient traction over different types of terrain, especially on loose soil with its 4-mm multi-directional lugs. Its front end has a cupped construction, giving the shoe enhanced structural soundness at the forefoot.

Durable lacing system outsole

Prefer a hiking shoe that delivers improved walking comfort over level ground

The Venture WP from KEEN uses a light-but-tough midsole that provides cushioning underfoot and terrain balance. Since it is made of EVA (short for ethylene-vinyl acetate), this component has a great shelf life and is capable of bearing considerable stress and weight. KEEN engineers made it extra hardy and supportive by coupling it with a lightweight stability shank.

Durable lacing system midsole

Prefer a hiking shoe that delivers improved walking comfort over level ground

Doubling down on comfort is the shoe’s dual-density footbed. It is made of polyurethane (PU). Besides cushioning, this removable footbed also grants additional arch support.

Durable lacing system arch support

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Most of Venture WP’s low-cut upper is made of breathable mesh fabric. As it comes built with KEEN.Dry (a company-exclusive liner also seen in the KEEN products Targhee III Waterproof and Saltzman WP), the shoe is both adequately breathable and waterproof. 

Durable lacing system waterproof

Short break-in period

At its front end is a sheet of toe rand that provides extra forefoot protection. 

Durable lacing system upper 1.0

Easy to wear

Its heel, on the other hand, comes with a toe loop which allows a more convenient on and off.

Durable lacing system easy to wear

Prefer a hiking shoe that delivers improved walking comfort over level ground

The shoe’s lacing system makes the upper’s utility come in a full circle. It consists of synthetic lace and durable non-plated eyelets. It works in conjunction with the footgear’s KonnectFit system, which is made up of a sturdy cord and plastic casing.

Durable lacing system laces