Here’s a simple question — “Can sandals also protect your toes?” The answer is yes, and the Newport toe-protective sandal from KEEN Inc. is the answer. In January 2003, KEEN Inc. was founded. The company launched the Newport sandal, which combined a hybrid design philosophy with patented toe protection technology. This sandal brought about a revolutionary change to the sports sandal industry. The hybrid design concept behind the Newport acted as a catalyst, giving rise to new products in both specialized outdoor footwear and outdoor casual shoes.
2003
The company was established in Alameda, California, USA. Number of employees: 3.
2004
The company launched the Hybrid.Care initiative. Through this charitable program, KEEN Inc. has donated over six million US dollars to environmental organizations and social groups. Recipients of the company’s donations include the Nature Conservancy, Leave No Trace (LNT), and KIVA.
2005
The company introduced the HybridLife registered trademark, establishing the brand’s cornerstone philosophy and slogan: “Create, Play, Care: It’s a way of life. We call it HybridLife.” Products began to be sold in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Central America, South America, and Europe.
2006
The company relocated to Portland, Oregon, a city where outdoor activities are popular and environmental awareness is strong. The area has a positive growth trend in the outdoor apparel and footwear industry.
2007
The company launched the Hybrid.Think registered trademark and initiated the Hybrid.Think campaign: advocating innovative thinking to find new solutions to old problems. Think twice, reuse, recycle, and achieve sustainability. This initiative also reflects the company’s core values.
KEEN promotes cutting-edge outdoor lifestyles. The company launched the Hybrid.Transport messenger bag series, using recycled materials to make backpacks.
The company established an office in Brockville, Ontario, Canada.
In line with sustainable development principles, the company launched an innovative campaign project called Hybrid.STAND. Through online competitions and campus events, individuals and groups offering innovative environmental sustainability solutions were sought, with prize money of 200,000 US dollars awarded.
2008
Upholding sustainable development principles, the company launched a new product line, the Hybrid.Sox socks. These socks are seamless, designed specifically for left and right feet, and come in multiple styles for both men and women. The socks are made from renewable merino wool or recycled polyester and organic cotton.
The company launched the Hybrid Harvest series of tote bags, made from recycled rice sacks and leftover materials. Each tote bag features unique colors and patterns, making every one truly one-of-a-kind.
KEEN developed proprietary insulation and waterproofing technologies, applying them to both specialized outdoor and casual footwear products. KEEN.WARM uses bamboo charcoal fabric, which is lightweight and antibacterial. KEEN.DRY utilizes a durable, breathable micro-porous fabric designed specifically for footwear, offering waterproofing and breathability.
The company established a European office in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
2009
During the 2009 holiday season, KEEN launched its e-commerce website (keenfootwear.com).
2010
KEEN opened its first retail store, KEEN Garage, where people can experience the Hybrid lifestyle the company promotes — discovering new possibilities, supporting great causes, and purchasing favorite outdoor gear. This 900-square-foot store is located right below KEEN headquarters, allowing the company to better understand consumer needs, conduct market research, and serve customers more effectively.
KEEN expanded its e-commerce globally, launching online stores in Canada and Europe.
KEEN’s Portland factory spans 15,000 square feet. The factory employs a streamlined direct-injection production model that conserves materials and energy. During product design and manufacturing, the use of materials and adhesives is minimized to reduce environmental impact.
2011
KEEN launched an improved line of work shoes, divided into two product categories: Industrial and Service. The Industrial category work shoes feature KEEN’s patented new asymmetrical steel toe, and all work shoes meet ASTM safety standards.
“Take a break.” KEEN launched a global campaign encouraging people to take a moment of rest amid their busy work schedules, setting aside time daily or weekly to get outdoors and enjoy physical activity. KEEN hopes this seed of hope will take root, and that those influenced by the campaign’s philosophy will maintain good health, foster innovation, and help build a better planet.
2012
KEEN, gearing up for major expansion, purchased a new headquarters building in Portland, Oregon.