The Keen Seek Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The KEEN Seek is a durable trail running shoe designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfort during long adventures. With a focus on stability, the shoe's construction supports varied terrains effectively.

Its verified 12 mm drop makes it particularly suitable for heel strikers, providing enhanced cushioning throughout extended runs. The combination of breathable materials and flexible design ensures a roomy fit that caters to different foot shapes.

Despite being slightly heavier compared to some competitors, the robust build and dependable cushioning contribute to its overall performance, making the KEEN Seek a reliable choice for those prioritizing durability in their footwear.


Pros

  • High shock absorption
  • Remarkable overall durability
  • High-quality knit upper
  • Super-comfy sock-like tongue
  • Advanced outsole design
  • Works well for hiking too
  • Handles well cold temperatures
  • Flexible despite high-stack build

Cons

  • Price may be high for some
  • Heavier than competitors
  • Not ideal for narrow-footed individuals
  • Limited heel stability

Key Features

  • Materials: Ultra abrasion-resistant performance textile uppers for long-lasting durability and breathability during warm weather runs.
  • Comfort: High-rebound foam cushioning enhances your comfort and movement, complemented by a padded tongue and collar for added protection around pressure points.
  • Traction: Non-marking rubber outsoles with 4mm multi-directional lugs provide excellent grip on rugged terrain, ensuring that you stay stable on your hikes.
  • Support: Features a removable responsive footbed for lasting comfort that won't compress quickly, along with a speed-lace webbing system for a snug fit.
  • Fit & Care Tips: KEEN's Contoured Fit adapts to the natural shape of your foot, while maintenance is simple—just brush with a damp sponge and air dry away from heat.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole Material: Rubber
  • Outer Material: Mesh
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up

Keen Seek Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

KEEN Seek HOKA Mafate 5 Hoka Mafate Speed 4 New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3
Price $185 $185 $185 $160
Trail terrain Light Light Moderate Moderate
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.8 oz / 305g 11.1 oz / 315g 10.3 oz / 293g 10.6 oz / 301g
Drop lab Drop brand 8.6 mm 9.0 mm 7.2 mm 7.1 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Mid/forefoot Mid/forefoot
Size - - True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Normal Normal
Toebox durability Good Decent Good Very bad
Heel padding durability Good Decent Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good -
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Medium Narrow Narrow
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Moderate Stiff Stiff Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Flexible Moderate
Lug depth 4.1 mm 4.4 mm 3.9 mm 5.0 mm
Heel stack lab Heel stack brand 36.3 mm 42.9 mm 38.0 mm 38.6 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 27.7 mm 33.9 mm 30.8 mm 31.5 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Orthotic friendly
Ranking Top 40% Bottom 1% Top 36% Top 43%
Popularity Bottom 14% Top 33% Top 23% Top 6%