In an effort to kick some much-needed positivity into the workforce, footwear manufacturer KEEN has pledged to give out 100,000 pairs of its shoes and boots, valued at about $10 million, “to the workers on the front lines and the families at home fighting through the COVID-19 crisis.”
KEEN offers highly engineered hiking-style boots and shoes engineered for a diverse range of jobs and recreational activities.
“While shoes may not be a priority for some at this moment, making shoes that help people get outside and get the job done is what KEEN does best. KEEN is working with fans to create a movement based on helping others,” the Portland, Ore.-based manufacturer stated.
The process is nomination based, so just provide your email to keenfootwear.com; instructions and a verification code will be sent almost immediately. You’ll enter that code along the nominee’s email address and a personal note (optional). KEEN will then reach out to selected nominees to obtain information including mailing address, shoe size and type of shoe or boot desired.
The KEEN Utility line is highly regarded for boots that balance ergonomics, comfort and safety, and this is a fast and free way to thank any truck or van driver, warehouse worker, or first responders.
Common features include waterproof membranes, no-slip soles and lightweight carbon-fiber toes. Several were highlighted at the first-ever Industrial Wearable Fashion Show held by sister brand Industry Week last year.
There are dozens of options to choose from, most named after American cities. Here are a few the company said are ideal for drivers:
Flint II Work Boot
- KEEN.ReGEN lightweight midsole for superior underfoot cushioning and shock absorption
- Slip-resistant EH-rated rubber outsole
- KEEN.Dry waterproof, breathable membrane
- Asymmetrical steel and carbon safety toe
- Antimicrobial lining
- Models for men and women
- Sport model also available
KEEN Utility Portland Medium Duty Work Boot
- KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology that flexes and folds with up to three times less torque than other work boots
- Feels like wearing a sneaker, but as durable as an industrial workboot
- Asymmetrical carbon-fiber safety toes
- Antimicrobial lining
- KEEN.KonnectFit heel-capture system offers a locked-in, securefit and feel.
- Abrasion-, oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsole
“The Together We Can Help initiative is fundamentally about enabling people to take positive action and build connection in a time of increasing isolation. We believe allowing people to “pay it forward” by providing someone in their community with a free pair of shoes, will help build connection at a time of great need,” said Erik Burbank, KEEN Global GM Outdoor, Lifestyle, Kids.
