Anatomy Of A Shoe: Circadia

It’s time for Anatomy of a Shoe! Get to know this KEEN shoe and what it can do. We’re taking a deep dive into our bestselling designs to show you exactly what you’re getting and exactly why it matters.

Anatomy of a Shoe returns, and this time we’re sharing the story of our most accessible hiking shoe: the Circadia. Cushioned, waterproof, and grippy, it checks all the boxes for an everyday hiker that’s ready to wear right out of the box.

To create the Circadia hiking boot, we took our classic day hiker, the Targhee, and simplified it. We kept all of the key features you expect from KEEN and created a hiking boot that’s equally at home when you’re walking in a city park, camping at the lake, or climbing a mountain ridge.

The Circadia is available in a mid-cut boot and a low-cut shoe. Built with our Original Fit that has plenty of room for your toes to splay, it combines lightweight cushioning, a leather upper with a waterproof and breathable membrane, and a higher-traction outsole for reliable grip on changing terrain. A ventilated version with a mesh upper helps keep feet cool in warmer weather. And there's an insulated version for winter. The entire Circadia collection is made with one goal in mind: to make getting outside as effortless as possible.

Why we made it: to inspire you to seek more adventure in a boot that offers everything you need and nothing you don’t.

The outdoors is for everyone, and here at KEEN we want to make it easy for more people to get out in nature, whether that means discovering tidal pools, hiking a forested nature trail, or exploring a desert canyon. Fill your day pack and head out. Circadia hiking boots work to keep your mind off your feet and focused on the next adventure. Here’s how:

A. THE PART: KEEN.FUSION rubber sole

THE POINT: Packed dirt to loose gravel, a hiking shoe should help you feel confident on all kinds of surfaces. A higher-traction KEEN.FUSION rubber outsole gives you the grip you need for steep ascents and descents, walking across slimy rocks, or trekking through sand. Plus, the midsole and outsole are fused together without toxic glues and solvents for longer-lasting durability.

B. THE PART: KEEN.DRY waterproof protection

THE POINT: Rain showers happen, but your feet will stay dry thanks to PFAS-free water repellency on the outside and KEEN.DRY on the inside. Our waterproof, breathable membrane lets moisture vapour escape without letting water in. So go ahead and step in that puddle or cross that stream. Your feet won’t feel a thing.

C. THE PART: Shock-absorbing midsole

THE POINT: Got a lot of ground to cover? KEEN Luft-Core technology embeds a shock-absorbing foam core inside the midsole for comfort that lasts all day. Because it’s lightweight, you can focus on the scenery (instead of your feet) as the miles click by.

D. THE PART: Famous comfort fit

THE POINT: It happens to everyone: when you walk or hike long distances, your feet expand. Extra room for your toes to splay makes for a happier hike. Our iconic KEEN fit includes generous space across the forefoot and a secure heel fit that keeps your foot locked in place for added stability.

E. THE PART: Eco anti-odor

THE POINT: When the hike is done, don’t be afraid to take off your shoes. Our pesticide-free odour control helps keep feet smelling fresh thanks to probiotics, not nasty chemicals. While we’re on the subject, you’ll find our top tips on how to stop sweaty, smelly feet here.

Check out our whole Circadia collection in men's and women's sizing to find the right style for your next National Park adventure or campout in the woods. Be sure to take a look at our guide to choosing the best all-purpose hiking boot.