Best for: Walking and day hikes on variable surfaces  

Plusses: Super light, snug fit, practical plush sole
Minuses: Uppers are not durable, care needed with lacing tension

660g

Features: The Versacore Speed is an ‘athletic hiker’ that combines a light breathable upper with a durable and protective sole chassis that’s optimised for comfort. Keen’s All-Terrain outsole is their highest traction compound. It features a multi-directional tread designed to grip on a range of surfaces. There’s a protective rubber toe bumper, and the high rebound EVA midsole and strobel board absorb the shock.

Fit: This model is considered wide for its class compared with some other lightweight shoe brands, but the Versacore is narrower than Keen’s signature wide fit. For my relatively wide feet the low-volume toe box didn’t feel quite right. But the fit throughout the rest of the upper is excellent – particularly the closely contoured heel cup and sock-like snugness through the arch and midfoot.

Comfort: The generous midsole and extended heel give the shoe a plushness that my feet appreciated on everything from neighbourhood walks to rocky and irregular hiking tracks. The lightweight mesh uppers are highly breathable and have scuff protection at the heel and toe, but my feet did feel vulnerable on rough terrain, particularly at my foot’s widest part. The tongue is not thin for this style of shoe, but if I didn’t get the lace tension just right, the laces put pressure on the top of my foot.

In use: Super light to wear, agile and precise thanks to a contoured fit and well- designed sole. The shoes felt good overall on the trail, and I liked that they’re suitable for anything from gym workouts to trail runs and light hikes. The mesh upper isn’t waterproof, so wet grass left socks soggy, but it excels in the heat, reducing sweat and chafe. I’d appreciate more scuff protection on the outsides of the forefoot, which would protect the foot and extend the life of these lightweight uppers.

Value: They’re priced mid-range for their class, making them reasonable value, but they could be more durable for the price.

Verdict: These light and reasonably priced shoes ticked a lot of boxes for an all-round walking and lightweight hiking shoe, but some small improvements would elevate them from good to brilliant.