FAQs About KEEN Newport Sandals

The Newport is the original hybrid sandal. It's the first shoe we designed when we started in 2003, and it's still our #1 bestseller. And we still get a lot of questions about it!

For more on the Newport, click here:
https://www.keenfootwear.com/blogs/keen-blog/who-wears-the-worlds-ugliest-sandal


What is the difference between the Newport and Newport H2?

The Newport and Newport H2 are both built with the same last or foot form, so they will fit and feel almost identical in support and structure. The differences are in the materials used. The Newport is built with leather straps and a microfiber footbed for maximum comfort. The Newport H2 was built for the water, so instead of leather, the straps are built with nylon webbing and microfiber. The H2 footbed uses an EVA material instead of microfiber. The result: Newport H2 dries much faster than the original Newport.

Can the Newport be used for backpacking and thru-hiking?

Hybrid versatility is part of the Newport design, but it completely depends on your personal hiking needs and preferences. Some backpackers and thru-hikers pack a pair of Newports to wear in wet conditions or while in camp. Generally people will wear an enclosed hiking boot or shoe and just bring the Newport to supplement that. We recommend medium to light day hikes with the Newport.

How do you wash the Newport?

All KEEN water sandals are machine washable. We’ve also taken great care to develop leather uppers that will not crack, shrink or stretch when washed. Even KEEN leather Newport sandals are machine washable! Use a small amount of detergent, wash on gentle cycle and air dry.

Have there been any changes to the Newport?

The Newport design has not changed since we released it in 2003. In the production year of 2008, we switched manufacturing locations and some customers who were on the edge of their size ended up needing to size up after that. This is the same time that we officially started suggesting a 1/2 size up from your normal KEEN size, but they've always fit a little small.

Does the Newport use any odor control?

Yes, all KEEN insoles are infused with Eco Anti-Odor that uses probiotics, not pesticides, to control odor. By using a natural alternative, we eliminate 7 tons of hazardous chemicals from going into the environment every year.