Customer Reviews KEEN McKenzie

I love my Keen sandals, but I had to return these shoes because they were quite uncomfortable. For some reason, the way they bend or "break" while walking caused my left big toe to become very painful at the joint. I was actually limping by the end of the afternoon. I have never had this happen before. I like the Keen styling and thought these shoes would be a comfortable alternative to my sandals to wear this fall, but unfortunately that was not the case.

I love the purple and grey version of this shoe. I could have lived with the slightly clownish toe-shape, but there just wasn't enough support overall. I don't think replacing the insole should be required in order to achieve some modicum of comfort in a shoe at this price.

I love my Keen Whispers (I'm on my third pair) and Voyageurs, but I've had the McKenzies for a few months and they are just not keepers. I wanted something to wear at gravelly beaches that would keep the rocks out (Whispers don't), which the McKenzies do, but they are much less comfortable than my other Keens. They are not well-finished inside so tear up my feet, and this has not improved with more wear. They even tear up the socks when I wear them with socks. They are too wide, and the heel is cut too low, so I slop around in them. They don't cinch up tight like the Whispers. As a result I don't feel solid scrambling over rocky areas in them, and they get pulled off easily.

I wanted something close to the Whispers I love so much except with mesh to keep rocks out. The McKenzie is too loose in the heel, and I wish it had stretch laces. Those are not deal-breakers, but after months of wear, they are still so scratchy and rough inside that I have to wear fairly thick socks or else get sore spots and blisters on the tops of my feet. They even kind of tear up the socks in a couple of spots. They are also heavy, and the footbed is less cushiony than my other Keens. Disappointing. I love my Whispers and Voyageurs.

Keen makes great shoes, but 0nly in medium width. I would be a loyal customer if Keen make wider versions of its shoes.

When I absolutely HAD to replace my Keen Whispers, after wearing them almost every day for over two years, it was winter so I looked for a shoe rather than a sandal. I loved the look of the Mckenzie and got a pair in gray. I have been so disappointed. I planned on them being my go-to shoe when I have to be on my feet for long periods. Unfortunately I immediately began having trouble with plantar fasciitis after wearing the Mckenzie, which I had never had before. Research says it can be caused by shoes with poor support. I invested in really good inserts and can wear them now, but do not wear them all day. Also, the front of the ankle is too high or narrow for my foot and tends to dig in. I am going to get another pair of Whispers now and look for a good shoe again in the fall. I can't believe the same company that makes the Whisper also made the Mckenzie. I would give it a 0 stars in comfort if I could.