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KEEN Ridge Flex Mid
Where to Buy
Our Conclusion
Simply put, the KEEN Men's Ridge Flex Mid is an excellent average all-around hiking boot. You can use these on trails and off trails in the spring, fall, and winter conditions. The lug layout is good, but the depth of the lugs means very muddy surfaces might be a little challenging.
The Keen BELLOWS FLEX is a system designed into the boot to increase flex in the mid-section without the wear and tear that similar boots get. This innovative design also means the boot is quick to break in for use out on the trails.
The support, performance, protection, comfort, durability, waterproofing, and traction have had time to be tried and tested by a good number of users.
The Keen BELLOWS FLEX is a system designed into the boot to increase flex in the mid-section without the wear and tear that similar boots get. This innovative design also means the boot is quick to break in for use out on the trails.
The support, performance, protection, comfort, durability, waterproofing, and traction have had time to be tried and tested by a good number of users.
Where to Buy
Pros & Cons
Pros
Comfortable
Supportive
Protection
Water Proof
Spacious FIT
Cons
A few users suggest durability could be better ( not a big issue)
Traction, average-ok
Key Features
Key Features
Good for use
On trails
Off trails
Moderate technical terrain
Cooler seasons
Comfort and stability
From the day of purchase, these are ready for the trail. Break-in time is minimal due to the KEEN BELLOWS FLEX design feature, enabling more flexibility while using less energy.
Comfort is notable due to the molded EVA foam midsole for cushioning support. The stability shank and midsole region are designed to provide support and protection when a terrain surface becomes challenging.
The lacing system is user-friendly and works well with the ankle cuffs to provide stability and support. The mid-cut height and ankle support are combined features for giving extra support over rough surfaces.
Durability
The uppers are made using leather, and this provides the level of durability expected when using this material for footwear. Some mesh is designed around the tongue, it has durability, and its purpose is ventilation.
Designed into the boot on top of the uppers is a rubber patch that allows flexibility in the area where the leather will tend to crease and crack due to constant bending. The durability of this part of the boot is possibly extended due to this design feature.
The rubber sole is heavy-duty material known for durability.
Water Proofing
User feedback regarding the Keen Dry waterproof membrane is positive. Water protection in wet weather is good, including wading through water. This level of waterproofing is reasonable in terms of breathability in damp and cool weather.
Protection
A robust solid rubber toe guard, leather uppers, ankle padding, and rubber sole work together. User feedback does look very positive regarding protection.
Traction
The blend of rubber compounds for the sole allow, and the lug layout pattern does give grip.
Traction is good on smooth stone surfaces, loose screen, and generally all trail surfaces in various weathers. User feedback suggests the 4mm lugs can be challenged when hiking in deeper wet surface mud.
Weight
For a mid-cut hiking boot with ankle support, the weight is an average of 1.21 kg | 2.66 lbs.
On trails
Off trails
Moderate technical terrain
Cooler seasons
Comfort and stability
From the day of purchase, these are ready for the trail. Break-in time is minimal due to the KEEN BELLOWS FLEX design feature, enabling more flexibility while using less energy.
Comfort is notable due to the molded EVA foam midsole for cushioning support. The stability shank and midsole region are designed to provide support and protection when a terrain surface becomes challenging.
The lacing system is user-friendly and works well with the ankle cuffs to provide stability and support. The mid-cut height and ankle support are combined features for giving extra support over rough surfaces.
Durability
The uppers are made using leather, and this provides the level of durability expected when using this material for footwear. Some mesh is designed around the tongue, it has durability, and its purpose is ventilation.
Designed into the boot on top of the uppers is a rubber patch that allows flexibility in the area where the leather will tend to crease and crack due to constant bending. The durability of this part of the boot is possibly extended due to this design feature.
The rubber sole is heavy-duty material known for durability.
Water Proofing
User feedback regarding the Keen Dry waterproof membrane is positive. Water protection in wet weather is good, including wading through water. This level of waterproofing is reasonable in terms of breathability in damp and cool weather.
Protection
A robust solid rubber toe guard, leather uppers, ankle padding, and rubber sole work together. User feedback does look very positive regarding protection.
Traction
The blend of rubber compounds for the sole allow, and the lug layout pattern does give grip.
Traction is good on smooth stone surfaces, loose screen, and generally all trail surfaces in various weathers. User feedback suggests the 4mm lugs can be challenged when hiking in deeper wet surface mud.
Weight
For a mid-cut hiking boot with ankle support, the weight is an average of 1.21 kg | 2.66 lbs.
Comparison
For a comparative option that will give good support, comfort, traction, waterproofing, and protection, the KEEN Targhee II Mid Hiking Boot is worth consideration.
As with the Ridge Flex Mid, the price is not budget; many innovative features and good quality materials will mean a higher price tag.
Another great product we reviewed is the KEEN Tempo Flex Mid WP, so make sure to check it out as well.
Another great product we reviewed is the KEEN Brixen Waterproof Walking Shoes, so make sure to check it out as well.
Snap shot features
100% Leather
Breathable leather lining
KEEN DRY waterproof membrane
Padded collar
Padded tongue
Multi-directional lug layout-4mm lugs
Heel lock
Ghillie lacing
Rubber toe bumper
Weight 17.4 oz / 493.3 grams
This mid-height boot offers many similarities with a minimal difference for performance features. User feedback is good. Comparatively, both these boots are cold and wet weather performers. If used in hot weather, expect warm feet.
As with the Ridge Flex Mid, the price is not budget; many innovative features and good quality materials will mean a higher price tag.
Another great product we reviewed is the KEEN Tempo Flex Mid WP, so make sure to check it out as well.
Another great product we reviewed is the KEEN Brixen Waterproof Walking Shoes, so make sure to check it out as well.
Snap shot features
100% Leather
Breathable leather lining
KEEN DRY waterproof membrane
Padded collar
Padded tongue
Multi-directional lug layout-4mm lugs
Heel lock
Ghillie lacing
Rubber toe bumper
Weight 17.4 oz / 493.3 grams
This mid-height boot offers many similarities with a minimal difference for performance features. User feedback is good. Comparatively, both these boots are cold and wet weather performers. If used in hot weather, expect warm feet.
Verdict
Keen does produce very good hiking boots, and the Ridge Flex Mid is not an exception to their excellent quality products.
These are an obvious good choice for those looking for a boot that hits the mark for performance, comfort, stability, protection, waterproofing, and durability.
Suitable for wet weather conditions, including sleet and snow, the price tag signals good quality and is worth adding to your cooler season's hiking gear.
These are an obvious good choice for those looking for a boot that hits the mark for performance, comfort, stability, protection, waterproofing, and durability.
Suitable for wet weather conditions, including sleet and snow, the price tag signals good quality and is worth adding to your cooler season's hiking gear.
Where to Buy
Where to buy
Best offer on: Apr. 23. 2024
