KEEN water shoes are some of the best footwear for any outdoor adventure. If you’re looking for a pair that will get through any wet fun, be it waterfall swimming, kayaking, or hiking, the KEEN Women’s Newport H2 are a favorite option.
These popular shoes have excellent grip and arch support, and so many people swear by them as their go-to summer shoe. Just keep in mind that they run small, so order a half size up.
Let’s dive in to learn more about these water shoes!
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Good traction
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Suitable for different land-based and water-based activities
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Ample protection in challenging environments
-
Reliable arch support
-
Stylish designs
-
Quick-dry
-
Easy to clean
-
Closed toe for extra protection
Things we don't like:
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Heavy
-
Stiff material
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Sizes run small
Specs & Features
- Product Weight: 10.5 oz
- Available Colors: Black/Raspberry Wine, Drizzle/Porcelain, Grey/Smoke Blue, Navy/Magnet, Raya Black, Safari/Papaya
Overview
The KEEN Women’s Newport H2 are some of the most popular active summer shoes. They are designed for outdoor fun, such as fording rivers, checking out the rock pools at the beach, and whitewater rafting.
They have various colorful designs, a rare feat for functional water shoes. They also have reliable arch support and traction, allowing you to navigate challenging wet and dry environments confidently.
Comfort & Fit
Overall, these KEEN women’s water shoes are comfortable enough for different outdoor activities. Albeit, some users have mentioned that shoes from previous years are more comfortable than the current production cycle. But they are still praised for their great arch support.
These women’s shoes run small, so you are encouraged to size up to avoid all the usual problems that come with tight shoes. Especially shoes used for outdoor fun should be comfortable so give them a try out at home to make sure the fit is right.
The Newports are KEEN’s heavier version of their outdoor sandal. The sole and the toe box are thicker and studier than some of their other makes, such as the lighter KEEN Women’s Whisper. And if you don’t want a sandal at all, then the Merrell Women’s Waterpro Maipo are a full-shoe water shoe for warm weather wet adventures.
Use & Functionality
Perhaps the best thing about the KEEN Women’s Newport H2 are their traction. They have a grip reliable enough for you not to worry when navigating slightly steep terrains or wet surfaces. That said, they are an excellent choice for hiking, kayaking, and even whitewater rafting.
These water shoes provide ample protection in wet conditions. On rocky trails, you won’t have to worry about pointy surprises.
Construction & Durability
It seems their current quality control is a mixed bag. Most Newport wearers keep their shoes for years and are repeat buyer’s, but there are reviews stating that Newports have broken and parts have fallen off soon after purchase. Definitely keep your receipt handy and be ready to take advantage of any return policies.
On the upside, these KEEN women’s water shoes are available in colorful designs. They are attractive and look a lot nicer than typical water shoes.
Maintenance
These KEEN shoes are quick to dry. You won’t have to deal with soggy feet as you go about your day.
When it comes to outdoor gear, you’d want every item to be easy to maintain. That’s where the KEEN Women’s Newport H2 get plus points because they are easy to clean and machine washable. If you don’t want to wash them by hand, you can simply throw them in the washer on a gentle cycle.
Conclusion
These women’s water shoes are for women who need at least one pair of decent recreational footwear. They are a favorite for summer activities.
There have been some complaints that these KEEN women’s water shoes seem to have had changes in terms of sizing, so keep in mind they run small and order a ½ size up.
The Newport H2 have fun colors, good toe protection, great traction, and comfortable arch support. They are also easy to wash and dry rapidly after getting wet, so you won’t have difficulties maintaining them.
Are you looking for water shoes for your little ones? See the 7 Best Kids Water Shoes
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
-
Good traction
-
Suitable for different land-based and water-based activities
-
Ample protection in challenging environments
-
Reliable arch support
-
Stylish designs
-
Quick-dry
-
Easy to clean
-
Closed toe for extra protection
Things we don't like:
-
Heavy
-
Stiff material
-
Sizes run small
Frequently asked questions
If you need water shoes for outdoor adventures, the KEEN Women’s Newport H2 are a good choice. They offer reliable arch support and excellent traction in wet conditions. The toe box is roomy and gives good protection against rocks.
These KEEN shoes are available in various colors, which isn’t always the case for water shoes. You can walk around in style.
Learn more about this footwear by reading our in-depth guide here.
Most, if not all, KEEN water shoes are easy to clean. Models like the KEEN Women’s Newport H2 and the KEEN Women’s Whisper are machine washable.
You can put your KEEN shoes on a gentle cycle. All you need is a small amount of detergent. After washing, let them air-dry for a few hours, and they’re good to go.
To maintain the optimal performance of your KEEN water shoes, just let them air-dry after getting wet. Avoid using heat. After all, most KEEN shoes are quick to dry, so you won’t have to wait a long time to use them again.
Read our comprehensive buyers’ guide here to know more about proper care for different water shoes.
For whitewater rafting, you’d want footwear that can stay on your feet at all times and won’t get bogged down with water logging.
The KEEN Women’s Newport H2 are an excellent example of whitewater rafting shoes. You may read our guide here if you want to find the best water shoes for other activities.
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