Being a huge fan of Keen shoes, I’ve tried many of their hiking boots, water shoes, and sandals over time. The time came to put the Keen Clearwater CNX to the test on the Alta Via 1 in the Dolomites.
Our Verdict
After weeks of testing, I can confidently say that the KEEN Clearwater CNX sandals deliver an impressive combination of comfort and durability.
Although the arch support isn’t as robust as other Keen models, the Clearwater CNX sandal makes up for it with a lightweight design, outstanding traction on wet rocks, and closed-toe protection.
The washable webbing upper also enhances its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you’re thinking of investing in these sandals for the summer, check out my Keen Clearwater CNX review below to learn more about my personal experience with these versatile shoes.
Highlights
| Feature | Keen Clearwater CNX |
|---|---|
| Weight | ~8.4 oz (approx. 238 g) per sandal |
| Water Resistance | Quick-drying; not fully waterproof |
| Traction | Razor-siped non-marking rubber outsole; good grip on wet rocks |
| Comfort | Metatomical EVA footbed; moderate arch support; snug fit |
| Adjustability | Bungee lace system; non-adjustable ankle strap |
| Breathability | Polyester webbing upper; quick-drying; breathable |
| Durability | High-quality materials; abrasion-resistant; reinforced toe cap |
| Arch Support | Moderate; may require additional insoles for high arches |
| Toe Protection | Closed-toe design; KEEN.PROTECT toe bumper |
PROS
CONS
Things We Tested When We Reviewed Keen Clearwater CNX
1. Traction
On my first outing with the Keen Clearwater CNX, I found the traction to be superb.
The sandals feature Keen’s signature razor siping on the outsole, which boosts ground contact and provides more grip than some older Keen models I’ve tested.
The 4-mm lugs are moderately deep yet wide, helping them grip most surfaces effectively.
They also fit snugly, offering a stable footing on unpredictable terrain. I found them equally practical for both climbing and downhill sections.
Although I noticed a slight slip on steeper surfaces at times, overall they performed well and kept me moving.
2. Durability
The Clearwater CNX sandal is really tough with its strong polyester top and solid bottom. I wore them a lot on hard paths and they still look good, hardly any wear.
The quick-tighten laces and heel strap stayed tight and comfortable after a lot of use.
The front of the shoe keeps your toes safe and doesn’t get scratched, even when I took them over rocky ground on purpose to test them for my review of the Keen Clearwater CNX.
3. Comfort
I found the Clearwater CNX to be super comfortable, with its metatomical EVA footbed offering ample cushioning for long hikes.
The footbed conforms to the foot shape, providing a personalized fit that only improved over time.
One downside is the arch support, which could be better, especially for those who require more cushioning in this area, but I think that a good pair of insoles can help fix this problem.
4. Breathability
The Clearwater CNX sandal allows for excellent airflow, keeping you cool and dry during hot summer hikes despite its closed-toe design.
The webbing upper dries quickly after being submerged in water, further enhancing the breathability of these sandals.
I must admit that I was worried that this sandal might get hot after wearing it for long periods, but instead, it provided a good balance between style and breathability, allowing for optimal comfort both at the beach and on rougher mountain trails.
5. Weight
At just 8.4 ounces per shoe (men’s size 9), the Keen Clearwater CNX is an impressively lightweight sandal.
This feature makes it an excellent choice for those looking to minimize their load on the trail or as a backup pair of shoes to give your feet a break from heavier hiking boots.
Yet, if you are planning to head out on a longer and rougher trail, it might be better to opt for a hiking boot or, at least, a more supportive sandal or shoe, as the Keen Clearwater CNX doesn’t have the stability for this kind of effort.
6. Waterproofing
While not specifically designed for water activities, the Clearwater CNX sandal dries quickly, thanks to its synthetic webbing material.
It doesn’t become waterlogged after submersion, and its quick-drying properties make it suitable to wear in wet conditions or during water-based activities.
However, it’s essential to note that these sandals are not waterproof, so putting them through extended exposure to water may not be the best idea.
7. Support
From my experience with Keen Clearwater CNX, they offer good cushioning for town strolls and easy hikes.
The closed-toe style provides ample toe protection, and the heel strap ensures a secure fit.
The metatomical midsole also offers some padding, but it might not be sufficient for those with high arches or who need more support.
On the other hand, this sandal has a better ground feeling than other Keen models, which makes it more advantageous for those who prefer a nimbler shoe feel.
8. Fit and Sizing
The Clearwater CNX sandal fits true to size but may be snug for those with high foot volume. If you’re in between sizes, consider sizing up.
Also, as I was testing the shoes for my Keen Clearwater CNX review, I felt that the non-adjustable ankle strap makes them harder to put on, especially as it combines with a closed-box style.
But the bungee lace capture system made things a bit easier, and the sandal became more fitting as I broke it in.
How Does it Compare with Other Products?
Bedrock Cairn Adventure
Pitting the Keen Clearwater CNX against the $115 Bedrock Cairn Adventure, it is easy to see that both sandals excel in various aspects, such as grip, longevity, and coziness.
The Clearwater CNX’s closed-toe design offers a protective shield for your toes, while the Cairn Adventure chooses to keep them exposed.
However, with Vibram® Megagrip outsoles, the Cairn Adventure ensures better traction than Clearwater CNX’s non-marking rubber outsole with razor-siping lugs, which is more suitable for light summer expeditions.
Although the Cairn Adventure is lighter, the Clearwater CNX provides an extra layer of defense, making it an ideal choice for walking on rocky paths.
Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV
The main differences between Keen Clearwater CNX and the Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV stand in their overall design philosophy and cushioning elements.
The Clearwater CNX showcases a metatomical EVA footbed for enhanced comfort, while the Z-Trail EV embraces a minimalistic approach with a leaner sole and reduced padding.
Both sandals deliver remarkable traction; however, the Clearwater CNX’s closed-toe design offers an added layer of toe shielding.
If you’re seeking a featherlight, minimalist sandal, the much cheaper Z-Trail EV ($79.99) might be your perfect match, but for those who prioritize comfort, the Clearwater CNX takes the prize.
Keen Newport H2
While the Clearwater CNX is designed to be lighter and more agile, catering to those who appreciate featherweight shoes, its sibling, the Newport H2 offers superior stability and a more rugged outsole, making it a reliable companion for challenging terrains.
Both models boast a closed design to ensure ample toe shielding.
However, in essence, the Clearwater CNX is the go-to choice for those who seek a lightweight and airy option, while the Newport H2, which is currently priced at $125, is tailored for users who need durability during demanding hikes or activities.
Where Keen Clearwater CNX Performs Better?
The Keen Clearwater CNX is an ideal sandal for light hiking and active days outdoors. With built-in padding and airy mesh upper, they keep your feet comfortable and secure during traversing over rougher terrain.
The flexible sole and multi-directional lugs provide great traction for slip prevention on trails and rocks. A nice bonus of the Clearwater CNX is their quick drying capabilities, meaning you can move from water to dry land without a problem.
I wore them at the beach and during my kayaking adventures, with a great response to the water.
Where Keen Clearwater CNX Falls Short in Performance?
From my experience with this model, the Keen Clearwater CNX falls short in performance when it comes to long-term comfort.
While they were comfortable right out of the box, the thin and stiff insole can cause persistent foot pains over time.
The soles also don’t provide much cushioning.
While the water-resistant upper does a great job keeping you dry, the synthetic material can lead to overheating in hot temperatures.
Additionally, the laces are a bit short, making it difficult to tie properly.
On the good side, though, I found that some of these flaws can easily be solved with a pair of aftermarket insoles and laces.
Do We Recommend It?
They have a light design with good arch support and secure fit, making them extremely comfortable and appropriate for any terrain.
Quite stylish and offering amazing comfort for water sports fun, I can only conclude this Keen Clearwater CNX review by giving these sandals a thumbs up.
I used them for a range of activities, including light hiking and casual walks, and found them more than reliable. Furthermore, even after daily usage, they remain incredibly breathable and are very easy to clean.
Though I wouldn’t recommend them for rigorous activities, at only $120, the Keen Clearwater CNX is ideal for casual walks and hikes, and I might even invest in a second pair since they are also incredibly easy to carry around.
| WHERE TO BUY? | FOR MEN | FOR WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| REI | – | – |
| Amazon | See Pricing» | See Pricing» |
| Backcountry | See Pricing» | – |
