Playtime Tester – KEEN Bryce WP

My competition win earlier in the year entitled me to two pairs of KEEN shoes from the Spring/Summer range, and two from the Autumn/Winter range. Very thoughtful of KEEN – split up the prize so I a) had something to look forward to and b) could wait for their new releases before choosing all pairs. 

This time I was looking for an all-terrain shoe (if there is such a thing), and the new KEEN Bryce WP seemed to fit the bill. I wanted a shoe (rather than a boot) that was waterproof, had toe protection (that KEEN are known for), would be comfortable for walking all day as well as other activities, and would look ok for casual wear with jeans as well as with walking trousers.

KEEN launched the Bryce range of shoes and boots at the end of August. They have leather and mesh uppers with waterproof/breathable membrane, dual density compression-moulded EVA midsole, non-marking rubber outsoles, their patented toe protection, removable footbeds, and various other features. The women’s shoes are all brown nubuck leather with a choice of green, blue or yellow mesh areas. They have a wide rounded toe area, loops to pull the heel on and the tongue up, and decent length laces to fasten them on easily.

Since they arrived I have worn them a lot. The weather has been pretty pants and so these waterproof shoes have done a lot of work for me. I have used them for walking round my usual hour-or-two-long track near my house, for all day wearing in and around town, and for just casual wear too. I like the rugged look, they are designed as functional shoes that do a job, to look after your feet. After much wear in the rain they still look fine – even the nubuck leather has held up cosmetically so far.

I wouldn’t tackle the Yorkshire Three Peaks or anything like that in these – I would absolutely wear a boot for that, but I am liking the shape and fit of these as well as the toe protection so I would be tempted by a Bryce (or other KEEN) hiking boot should the requirement come about. These are great for tracks and trails as well as footpaths and pavements. I’m pleased I chose them, the more I wear them the more I like them – there will be much playtime to come in these I can tell.

You can find out more about these shoes on the KEEN website.

See my other KEEN Playtime Tester Reviews: KEEN Arcata Shoes | KEEN Turia Sandals