Gear Guide 2009: KEEN Oregon PCT Boot Review
Scramble, bushwhack, and ascend with this all-around solid boot.
All-Purpose Comfort
Testers hammered this leather-and-nylon high-top from Washington’s rugged Chelan Summit Trail to Wyoming’s Wind River Range and Utah’s Capitol Reef. Whether on trail or off, bushwhacking or scrambling, their conclusion was the same: This is a solid, core backpacking boot.
The Oregon is first-hike comfortable, thanks to soft leather uppers, a close fit in the heel and midfoot, and a huge toebox. Solid support and cushioning–enhanced by a full-length plastic midsole plate and cork in the heel–let us carry 40-pound packs without sore feet. Wet snow didn’t penetrate the proprietary membrane, which breathed moderately well. Our one minor complaint is that the lacing is rudimentary–locking lacehooks at the midfoot would offer more precise fitting. Best for medium- to high-volume feet. $160; 3 lbs. Keenfootwear.com