KEEN Launches Grounding-and Groundbreaking-Trail Runner

New lower-profile Wander trail running shoe features EcoEnd*, an industry-first solution to combat waste and microplastics at end-of-life.

For runners who want a more connected feel on the trail, KEEN, Inc. has united performance and sustainable innovation to deliver that in a revolutionary way.

The conscious shoemaker’s new Wander trail running shoe features a lower stack height and heel-to-toe drop for more ground feel, plus a new bio-enhanced midsole that organically biodegrades at the shoe’s end of life.

“We run to connect-to ourselves and the world around us,” says Shaun Bohnsack, VP of performance footwear at KEEN. “So, in addition to creating a trail runner with a more minimal profile to enhance that connection, we found a way to reduce its impact on the planet at its end of life, too. It delivers a closer-to-earth feel in every way.”

Wander is KEEN’s lowest-profile, most-connected trail runner. Designed for runners who want heightened terrain awareness and a confident stride across diverse trail conditions. The wider forefoot and KEEN’s signature fit help to deliver a stable ride that’s capable on rugged to moderate trails, where enhanced agility is needed.

Like KEEN’s Seek and Roam trail runners, Wander features an ultra-durable, abrasion-resistant rubber outsole that’s engineered for multi-surface grip on unpredictable terrain. It’s rated by Heeluxe, an independent biomechanical footwear testing lab, to last over 925 miles until worn smooth. That’s nearly double the industry average. The low-stack, compression-resistant KEEN.ReGENX cushioning works together with a rock plate for protection and stability.    

Technical features include:

• Lighter, more compression-resistant KEEN.ReGENX midsole for a softer, more connected feel.
• EcoEnd-enhanced midsole organically biodegrades at end-of-life
• Breathable performance mesh is reinforced with overlays for structure and added durability.
• A lower 4mm heel-to-toe drop and wider forefoot allow for a more natural foot strike and toe splay.
• 3/4-length plate for added protection and stability on rugged terrain.
• 3mm abrasion-resistant rubber lugs provide incredible durability and traction, rated by Heeluxe to last over 925 miles until worn smooth.
• Reflective laces for visibility with a weave that helps keep laces tied.
• Eco Anti-Odor made with natural probiotics that are safe for the environment.
• Light in weight at 9.95oz (men’s)
• Stack height of 27.5mm (men’s) & 25.5mm (women’s)

Wander launched in the U.S. on June 2nd, 2026, in men’s and women’s sizing at www.keenfootwear.com and at select retailers.

*About EcoEnd

EcoEnd solution accelerates biodegradation to reduce landfill impact and microplastics at a shoe’s end of life.

EcoEnd is KEEN’s new midsole technology designed to help reduce footwear waste and microplastic pollution at the end of a shoe’s life. Integrated into KEEN’s performance foam midsoles, the solution uses a blend of organic compounds that accelerates biodegradation in biologically active landfill conditions while remaining inactive during normal use. KEEN plans to introduce EcoEnd across all trail running styles beginning in 2026, starting with the new Wander trail running shoe.

KEEN
www.keenfootwear.com | @keen

Family-owned and values-led for over 20 years, KEEN is striving to make the most original, durable, Consciously Created footwear on the planet and using its business to do good.

In 2003, KEEN started a revolution with the introduction of the original hybrid sandal, the Newport – combining the openness of a water sandal with the toe protection of a rugged shoe. KEEN has continued to create industry-changing innovation for life outside on trails, jobsites, sidewalks, and water. Its KEEN.FUSION-constructed Targhee IV hiking boot was awarded a Best Invention of 2024 by Time Magazine for its revolutionary durability. KEEN has been PFAS free since 2018 and is taking everything it knows as a conscious shoemaker and putting it in service of people and the planet – sharing its sustainable innovations to do more good together.

All images courtesy of KEEN.

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