I just spent two weeks in Ecuador with the same shoes on my feet almost the whole time: the Briggs II leather “good for almost everything” shoes from Keen. They performed admirably on every surface I threw at them and were surprisingly comfortable the whole time.
Keen set me up with this particular model to try out after I said I was going to be pounding the pavement in a city, walking on sharp lava rocks, riding on a boat, and tromping through muddy fields checking out giant tortoises. I didn’t want giant hiking boots on my feet though—I was still going to need to walk into a restaurant now and then.
I tried these out for two weeks first in my homebound conditions: walking around the sidewalks of my pedestrian-friendly neighborhood. This is how most travelers would probably use them most of the time anyway. Then I packed them up for the trip to Ecuador, putting them to use on cobblestones in Quito then everything to be encountered in the Galapagos Islands, which is a lot.
This particular model has waterproof leather uppers, non-marking rubber outsoles that curve up to protect your toes, and a form-fitting shoe bed. Here’s the official description on that: “Cush footbed features recycled PU, cork, and memory foam for sustainability and comfort.” Worked for me.
I personally like Keens because they’re sized a little wider than most and allow for a better fit with hiking socks. Then you can just lace them a little tighter with regular socks. I’ve also found them to be well-made and durable. This pair lost a stitch in one corner of one shoe that I need to fix, which was probably the result of a sharp lava rock somewhere. Otherwise they’re still looking and feeling good after the punishment and will probably go on plenty more trips. The waterproofing held up in several drizzles.
See more on the Briggs II (listing for $95) at Keenfootwear.com
KEEN Briggs II at Backcountry.com
