276°
Posted 20 hours ago

KEEN Men's Nxis Evo Waterproof Hiking Shoe

£9.9£99Clearance
ZTS2023's avatar
Shared by
ZTS2023
Joined in 2023
82
63

About this deal

On test, we did discover some downsides, including minimal cushioning and a narrow fit, which won’t suit everyone (especially if you have wide feet or just prefer a roomy toe box). Also, the fabric uppers aren’t the warmest, and though the Gore-Tex lining provides a little insulation, you still need to guard against numb toes. On the flip side, breathability was quite good thanks to the NXIS EVO’s mesh-heavy upper. Temperatures in Patagonia were quite mild, hovering in the low 50s to 60s Fahrenheit, and the boots predictably kept my feet comfortable. It hasn’t been warm enough to truly test their limits yet, but I expect them to be plenty breathable for most shoulder-season and summertime hiking (although I’d still opt for a non-waterproof shoe in truly hot temps). The two key things to prioritise when hunting for the best hiking boot for you: findingthe right boot style for the activity and getting a really good fit for your individual foot shape. The fit will vary by brand and style of boot, with some coming up much narrower (or broader) in the midfoot than others.

There’s no mistaking this for anything other than a KEEN boot; the DNA is obvious. But aside from the spaced toe box, the attention to design detail and (sorry, I’m going to have to use that phrase again) the straight-outta-the-box slipper-like comfort, there’s plenty about the NXIS EVO that’s unlike any other KEEN shoe I’ve worn. It doesn’t quite make me feel like The Flash, or Superman, or Linford Christie, but it does offer a spring to my step that makes me feel that the miles will just breeze under my soles. Five things you need to know about the Keen NXIS EVO Mid WP lightweight hiking boot Unrivalled comfort The Acrux LT GTX is a modern climbing and mountaineering boot with excellent heel-to-toe rigidity, which can take a crampon. Primarily designed for three-season alpine conditions – balancing protection, technical capability and durability with remarkably low weight – the boot has a precise feel and delivers superb climbing performance, with or without a crampon fitted. Unfortunately our testing period for NXIS EVO has been right throughout winter, so we can’t comment too much on the breathability. We certainly haven’t had any issues on that front though and, given the amount of mesh across the upper, we’d be very surprised if clamminess was an issue with these. The NXIS Evo boots have a speed-lace webbing system with top collar hooks for a comfortably snug fit. Toe boxThe styling is not particularly to my taste. The split toe design is a little bulky and looks a little strange being split across the big toe. I think this would look a lot better if it were one continuous toe protector. I’m also not a huge fan of the general colour design, with the grey soles contrasting with the red writing. The insole is particularly comfortable and seems to hug the sole of the foot, whilst also offering excellent underfoot comfort. The Keen NXIS is a fairly stiff shoe, with a solid outsole. The upper is also pretty stiff, too, with a robust and durable layered mesh, plus plenty of protection thanks to an oversized toe cap and a rand at the forefoot and the heel. The tread is sufficient for trails and paths but it has only 4mm lugs, so these shoes do not offer the best traction in mud or on steep and wet slopes. The waterproof membrane certainly does its job. We particularly like that the tongue is gusseted from top to bottom and the membrane extends right throughout it meaning you can pretty much submerse these boots right up to the top of the ankle cuff before water starts seeping in. Fit is on the smaller end (especially lengthwise), and the connected tongue makes it difficult to get the boots on.

Looking at competitors, we’d be remiss not to include KEEN’s Targhee III WP Mid, which served as the inspiration for the NXIS EVO. However, it’s important to note that the two have very different intentions: While the NXIS EVO prioritizes weight above all else, the Targhee is a slightly lighter take on a traditional hiking boot. The leather upper and sturdy outsole aren’t particularly streamlined, but advantages include better stability over rough terrain, great long-term durability, and impressive all-around protection. The Targhee also boasts good out-of-the-box comfort thanks to its wide toe box (similar to the NXIS EVO) and softer materials underfoot. For just a few ounces more, we think most hikers will still prefer the Targhee. Disclaimer: Cool of the Wild received this product free in return for an honest review. We only recommend gear that we love from companies we trust and we are under no obligation to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are that of the reviewer and we are in no way influenced by the brand or company. The boots’ first outing was a cold February day out on Dartmoor. I was able to wear the boots straight out of the box with no rubbing or hot spots on my feet. The boots proved extremely comfortable – you can really feel the cushioning in the sole – and they genuinely feel light and flexible enough to run in. Despite the room for my toes (likely too much space if you have narrow feet) my heel was held comfortably and there was no heel rubbing on steep ascents. Performance The golden rule is to buy what fits and a model that suits your main use. In terms of brands, at the more robust end of the spectrum, La Sportiva, Scarpa, Mammut, Lowa and Aku all build boots that will shame a tank, while at the lighter, summery end, Teva, Keen and Salomon bring considerable expertise to the table. FAQ What are the best hiking boot materials and technologies?Eco Anti-Odour Technology - Helps to eliminate odour causing bacteria for a fresher smell and feel.

The first and perhaps most obvious thing to say is that they are ridiculously comfortable. I don’t think I’ve written a review of KEEN footwear without using the phrase ’slipper-like comfort’ to describe how unusually un- hiking-boot-like their shoes feel on your feet. So it was reassuring, if not surprising, to discover that the NXIS EVOs continue that heritage. It’s not always easy to balance this level of comfort with the kind of protection you need from a versatile hiking boot, and while KEEN have certainly managed to do just that hugely successfully in the past, this new boot takes it to a new level. Do you remember that pair of shoes you had as a kid that made you feel like a superhero? Maybe that was just me, but I very definitely remember having a pair of high-topped trainers that made me feel like I could run at the speed of light. I’d pull them on, lace them up, and I was The Flash. Or Superman. Or, at the very least, Linford Christie. I’m 43 now, and it’s been a long time since I’ve felt that ‘magic shoe’ phenomenon, but I was reminded of it when I first tried on the new NXIS EVO mid boots from KEEN. With generous space for toes to spread out, the toe box also offers high levels of protection around and under the front of the foot. The split toe design is a bit of a curve-ball on the classic Keen bumper design. Cushioning KEEN boots are consistently high on quality, and the NXIS EVO is no exception. Despite their lightweight build, the boots feel relatively uncompromised: The front of the foot is protected by a burly toe cap that guards against direct hits, while the upper is made of tightly woven mesh that’s highly abrasion-resistant and protected by generous TPU overlays. All of the smaller components are equally well sorted, including high-quality laces and metal eyelets that are holding up well thus far. I’ll follow up here as I continue testing, but all signs are positive that they’ll have a long and healthy lifespan—which isn’t always the case with hiking boots this light.I thought I’d ease myself into this test, opting for a pretty gentle dog walk at first. Nothing too heavy, just a stride around the local woods on reasonably flat ground in the Plain of Vic, Catalunya. Stiffer than many trail runner-inspired competitors and less agile than expected considering their light weight. They are lightweight, nimble, 100% waterproof and a super comfy cushioned sole. What I don’t love so much about the Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boots I have always worn 3/4 season leather walking boots which are perfect for my winter walks across Dartmoor but less well suited to long summer days on trails. I was therefore delighted to get the opportunity to try out these EVO boots from Keen.

The Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boots are best for 3 season trail walking and come in all sizes, for men and women. I am hugely impressed by these boots. I love their low weight, excellent grip, high levels of comfort and waterproofing. I also think that they are very reasonably priced, given their quality and comfort and especially being waterproof. One feature I am particularly impressed by is the waterproofing. The membrane runs throughout the boot which means you can submerge your feet in water up to the heel line and stay 100% dry. I have only been wearing these boots for a couple of months so it is difficult to make a comment on durability – they do, however, look well-built and have a high-quality feel. Versatility Features of the Keen NXIS EVO Waterproof Boots Uppers Made from KEEN.DRY, the waterproof, breathable membrane lets vapour out without letting water in. The upper is PFC-free and seems to be durable, so far. No terrain is the same (NXIS). Meet the light and fast version of Keen's bestselling hiker. The Nxis Evo has the same room-for-your-toes comfort, protection, and stability of Keen's iconic hiker with a running shoe feel including a waterproof, engineered knit upper and all-terrain tread.The Salomon Predict Hike Mid is a boot with plenty of bounce. In the manner of a Hoka One One model (although without the head-turning looks), these really do bounce you onwards with each stride, especially on harder surfaces. The sole unit is fairly still but flexes enough to contribute to the bouncy ride. The build quality is solid, with the mid-height cut delivering ankle support, and the Gore-Tex keeps rain at bay effectively. Despite being inspired by a traditional leather boot, the NXIS EVO has a very sleek and modern design. Outdoor tech has come a long way in recent years, with huge strides being made in the way the best hiking boots are designed and built, from tech geared to keeping your toes warm in sub-zero conditions to innovations that help you stay upright on the most treacherous and slippery trails. Some of the most useful technologies and features include Vibram Megagrip (enhanced traction), Gore-tex (improved waterproofing), NestFit (bio-mapping for comfort), Thermo Tech Application technology (better support), and CleanSport NXT (odour control). Do I need specific boots for hiking? The midsole also features Graphene, this time in the shape of G-Fly foam, its presence being a first for hiking boots. The knitted upper conforms to the foot, allowing the foot to swell over longer distances without requiring adjustment, as well as offering excellent breathability.Coming in at a stupidly lightweight 390g, the Inov-8 ROCFLY G390 has already been used to break distance and speed records, namely James Forrest’s new record time for a solo and self-supported hike of Great Britain’s National Three Peaks. A stability shank might not be stiff enough for higher-level adventures, but it’s enough for casual rambles in comfort – a featherweight 332 grams per shoe certainly won’t tire you unnecessarily. Keen’s signature wide toe box is also present and correct, ensuring that the wide forefoot doesn’t get cramps or hotspots. Breathability is decent thanks to the mesh upper, and there’s an environmental nod in the PFC-free water repellent to boot.

Asda Great Deal

Free UK shipping. 15 day free returns.
Community Updates
*So you can easily identify outgoing links on our site, we've marked them with an "*" symbol. Links on our site are monetised, but this never affects which deals get posted. Find more info in our FAQs and About Us page.
New Comment