Our verdict

79
Good!

Give your daily hikes a delightful spin by sporting the Tempo Flex Waterproof. In this KEEN hiker, agility takes center stage. That said, your ninja-like prowess in it is matched with remarkable control and cushioning that overflows with plushness. While not perfect on all fronts, the Tempo Flex Waterproof is still a generous giver, especially for wearers with slender-to-regular feet.

Pros

  • KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof
  • Waterproof
  • Secure arch
  • Grippy
  • Light
  • Attractive (women’s version)
  • Stabilizing

Cons

  • Restrictive
  • Ventilation issues
  • Expensive

Who should buy the KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof

The Tempo Flex Waterproof is by no means a tough sell. That being said, it pays to know more about it before leaping on its bandwagon. You are its main audience if:

  • You highly value footbeds (stock ones, in particular) that give incredible arch support.
  • Add a product.
  • Your hikes include lightly muddy inclines and soft-soiled terrain.
  • A combination of rearfoot mobility and heel stability is what you're after in hiking shoes.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof buy

Who should NOT buy it

For a more forgiving forefoot fit, look in the direction of the Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry instead. If your tootsies sweat easily, you're better off with the non-waterproof Tempo Flex Waterproof: Perfect for moving.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof no1

Same brand only

Forward momentum is core to the Tempo Flex Waterproof’s existence. Just look at its forefoot—yes, it easily resembles Kylo Ren’s pretty iconic helmet. But to cut to the chase, this ridged part of the shoe (a.k.a. KEEN.Bellows Flex) gives springier push-offs minus that feeling of awkwardness at the flex point.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof kylo4

This exclusive tech, however, is not alone in making the Tempo Flex Waterproof such a propelling piece. Yes, boosted strides are yours in this agile KEEN hiker, thanks in part to its highly flexible collar and moderately rockered heel and toe zones.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof collar

Break-in-free suppleness

The KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof is “extremely comfortable” on day one, say numerous trail-goers.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof comf

Waterproof indeed

Many adventurers are impressed with the shoe’s impermeable confines. It gives its name absolute justice.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof water

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Attractive womens version KEEN must-haves, this flexible offering delivers immense slip and skid resistance on various surfaces.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof grip

Clasping at the front

Adventurers from both gender camps believe this is so about the shoe, particularly around the toe box.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof toe1

Weightless steps in the waterproof Tempo Flex

Testers find the KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof liberatingly lightweight. FYI: this kick per pair is roughly 100 g lighter than the average.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof light

A powerful arch

To experienced hikers, the Tempo Flex Waterproof’s arch zone is immensely supportive, preventing underfoot pain like a champ.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof arch

Sweat-inducing shell

The Tempo Flex Waterproof could be more breathable, experienced trail-goers say.

KEEN Tempo Flex Waterproof sweat