KEEN Seek Review: A New Trail Running Shoe Put to the Test
KEEN Seek Trail Running Shoe Review: Hitting the Trails with Confidence
Thanks to KEEN, the well-respected outdoor footwear brand from Portland, Oregon, for sending me a pair of the new Seek trail running shoes to test. Over the past few weeks, they've accompanied me out on the trails across the Netherlands, giving me plenty of opportunities to see what they're really capable of. KEEN is a brand that many outdoor enthusiasts will already know. Their hiking footwear has built a strong reputation over the years, but trail running is a relatively new direction for them. Naturally, I was curious to see how the Seek would perform when taken beyond the shoebox and onto real trails.
Out of the box a very comfortable shoe.
First Impressions OF THE SHOE
First impressions always last, and the first thing I noticed was that the Seek model (I felt) looked different from many trail shoes on the market. In a sometimes-flooded shoe market, the styling is unmistakably KEEN, with eye-catching colourways that stand out from the crowd without feeling too flashy or overpowering. The trail shoe looks and feels built for adventure, designed for enthusiasts to have a great time out on the trails. It gives the impression of being designed for runners who want to explore more and embrace the run rather than simply chase race times.
Fit and Comfort
Side profile of the SEEK and natural colours look good.
Comfort is one of the Seek's biggest strengths. The shoe offers a secure midfoot fit while providing ample space in the forefoot and toebox, which I need in a shoe. On longer runs, particularly on warmer days, that extra room is something I really appreciate. I found the sizing to be true to size, and the shoe felt comfortable from the first run. I’m a UK 10.5, and choosing this size left plenty of room. There was no need for a lengthy break-in period, which is always a welcome bonus; the shoes simply felt comfortable from the start. Whether I was running local woodland trails near Rotterdam or spending long days in the hills of the Peak District or Lake District, I know the Seek will remain comfortable throughout.
Out on the Trail
The KEEN SEEK has a comfortable sock like upper around the ankle, which makes a snug and comfortable fit.
Of course, comfort only gets a shoe so far. What matters most is how it performs when the terrain becomes more challenging. The Seek has handled everything I've thrown at it surprisingly well. Forest paths, sand, gravel tracks, muddy sections, rocky trails, and steep climbs and descents have all been part of the test. The outsole provides dependable grip across a wide range of surfaces. The tread feels confident without being overly aggressive, making it a versatile option for runners who encounter a mix of terrain during a typical run. One thing I liked was how balanced the shoe feels. There's enough cushioning to remain comfortable over longer distances, but not so much that you lose connection with the trail beneath your feet. The grip and traction felt good, and I always felt stable and in control of my movements.
Key Features
Comfortable fit with a roomy toe box - great for me
Secure midfoot hold
Grippy multi-directional lug pattern
Durable upper construction
Distinctive KEEN styling
Suitable for a variety of trail surfaces
Good balance between cushioning and trail feel.
Technical Details
KEEN Seek
Weight: Approximately 292g (Men's UK 10.5)
Drop: 6mm
Lug Depth: 4mm
Best For: Daily trail running, mixed terrain and longer adventures
Final Thoughts
What I like most about the KEEN Seek is that it feels honest. It's not trying to be the lightest shoe on the market, nor is it aimed solely at elite runners chasing podiums. Instead, its unique selling point is a focus on everyday adventures: delivering comfort, reliability, and durability for runners who want confidence underfoot, no matter the trail or distance. During my testing, the Seek performed well on Dutch woodland trails, the hills of the Peak District, and the rugged landscapes of the Lake District.
It consistently made me want to keep running. For a brand relatively new to trail running, KEEN has taken an impressive first step. The Seek is a comfortable, capable and dependable trail shoe that deserves a place on the shortlist of runners looking for a versatile companion for everyday adventures. And ultimately, that's what trail running is all about—not just chasing finish lines, medals and times, but enjoying the moment and journey along the way.
