Born from a trail runner and built as a fast hiking shoe, the original Zionic was created after the pandemic, when KEEN noticed more people hiking in athletic sneakers that were not well-equipped for the trail. On a mission to serve these outside athletes, KEEN developed a capable hiker that was athletic, agile, and lightweight. The Zionic became an instant bestseller when it launched in July 2023.

Zionic NXT takes everything KEEN fans love about Zionic, and puts it in a nimble & light hiker that can handle more trail miles. Integrating upgraded cushioning, meticulously selected to provide the just-right balance of lightness, softness, stability and resilience, the Zionic NXT has been designed to keep adventurers stay light on their feet, with compression-resistant cushioning that bounces back, mile after mile. KEEN’s product development team worked on material innovations in the upper, opting for a lighter yet more durable mesh made from 100% recycled P.E.T, reinforced with protective overlays to help stand up to wear and tear on the trail and constructed using a lightweight, minimal-waste build method.

Durability is a cornerstone of KEEN’s Consciously Created approach – because a longer-lasting shoe is a more sustainable shoe. And, like all KEEN shoes, the Zionic NXT is made without harmful antimicrobials or intentionally added PFAS for the health of people and the planet. Other features include:

• Technical traction: Studded lug pattern offers better ground contact and heel-to-toe flow.
• Long-lasting cushioning: Compression-resistant, high energy Katalyze+ midsole cushioning stays resilient and springy mile after mile.
• Enhanced stability: Full-length stability shank delivers lightweight stability, protection and responsiveness on uneven and technical terrain.
• Heel crash pad: The outsole wraps around the heel to help absorb impact.
• Breathable waterproofing:DRY waterproof breathable membrane lets vapor out without letting water in.
• Athletic fit: A contoured fit keeps your foot comfortably snug for a more secure, performance fit.
• Pesticide-free odor control: Eco Anti-Odor uses natural probiotics that are safe for the environment.

The Zionic NXT will be available in men’s and women’s specific editions (mid WP £160, low WP £150) at  www.keenfootwear.com and select retailers from July 2025.