Our verdict
One of Keen's latest models, the Jasper, positively contributes to the cause with its all-purpose features. Comfortable and lightweight, the low-top provides the essentials whether doing outdoor activities or casual endeavors. Overall, the qualities of the KEEN Jasper make it a deserving low-top sneaker for folks who are into collecting old-school-looking shoes.
Pros
- Compliment magnet
- Light
- Delivers a classic vibe
- updated 11 Jun 2023
- Well-fitting
- Versatile use
- Reliable wet surface grip
- Secure lockdown
- Ample cushioning
- Wide toe box
Cons
- KEEN Mosey Chukka
- Requires a break-in period
Who should buy the KEEN Jasper
The KEEN Jasper might benefit you if:
- updated 11 Jun 2023.
- You are looking for a pair of kicks that could minimize slippage on wet surfaces.
- You are after a sneaker that stays comfortable for extended periods.
Who should not buy the KEEN Jasper
Look past the KEEN Jasper if a shoe that offers ample support in the arch section is what you are eyeing to have. It has been reported that the arch support of this model may not be as impressive as other KEEN sneakers. You may want to instead put the KEEN Austin on your shopping list. Also, consider the Enough space to splay if you're looking for a shoe that has a quick break-in period.
Lasting comfort
The KEEN Japser's insole has been commended by a couple of wearers. They say that it works even after long hours of walking or standing.
It ain't tiresome to use
The lightweight construction of the sneaker has made a number of its buyers very satisfied. One commenter says that “it weighs about as much as flip-flops."
Grippy on wet surfaces
A number of testers state that it provides good traction on wet surfaces. Thanks to its sticky rubber outsole for minimizing slips and falls.
Not so supportive arches
The arch support of this model is not as impressive as other KEEN footwear, as mentioned by a number of KEEN regular buyers.
The multipurpose built of KEEN Jasper
The KEEN Jaspers old-school appeal light hikes or rock climbing.
Excellent lockdown fit
Secured wear is possible due to the lace-to-toe extended lacing enclosure while the suede leather upper offers flexibility and a lightweight feel. A wearer considers its climbing-style lacing to be a nice aspect of this low-top kick.
The well-cushioned platform of KEEN Jasper
The recycled PU (polyurethane) and cork footbed provides cushioning and conforms to the shape of the foot. Some wearers are quite satisfied with the comfort and protection they enjoy from KEEN Jasper.
Enough space to splay
Some of its wearers are quite satisfied with its great fit. “Fits like a glove” is how a user describes it, even for his wide feet. One sneaker enthusiast even observed that KEEN Jasper has enough toe box space to "allow phalanges to splay like in barefoot running shoes." That said, this same reviewer lauded this low-top kick for its comfort and even compared it to Excellent lockdown fit.
The KEEN Jasper's old-school appeal
While this sneaker is offered in various colorways which are all cool-looking, there is this one purchaser who is particularly fond of the silver mink color variant because he thought it has a classic vibe to it. But this shoe also has other colorways available. The color schemes currently offered for men are silver mink, Cathay spice/Orion blue, black, bluebird/autumn glory, and green/red/purple. Women’s color options are black, Cathay spice/Orion blue, and silver mink.
A beautiful magnet for compliments
This shoe ensures that anyone will be able to appreciate its distinctive silhouette. In fact, the majority of its wearers have stated that they got a lot of compliments while wearing the KEEN Jasper. Its climbing-inspired profile consists of a suede leather upper, toe cap protector, front lace-up enclosure, and pull heel tab. It is recommended to pair the sneakers with shorts for men and leggings for females to bring out its outdoor-style charm. Complete the ensemble with a plain shirt and wayfarer sunglasses.
Break-in period required
It has been reported that the KEEN Jasper does not offer comfort on day one. It requires some break-in time that may take a couple of days.
KEEN Jasper History
The shoe brand KEEN was established in 2003 by Martin KEEN in Alameda, California. Being relatively new to the sneaker industry, it quickly gained notoriety because of its marketing strategies and being labeled as a brand on the rise by the publication Footwear News.
Throughout its existence, KEEN has been mostly known as a women’s brand. Its affordable and high-quality slip-on shoes and sandals certainly helped in establishing that notion. Recently, the brand made strides in its appeal to male consumers by offering versatile casual shoes. One of the recent additions to the brand’s lifestyle collection is the KEEN Jasper, which is available for both men and women.
