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The KEEN Zionic NXT Waterproof boot sits in that fast-and-light corner of the hiking world where agility matters just as much as protection.
KEEN calls this the next evolution of their Zionic line, and that mostly comes down to new high-rebound cushioning, a more dialed-in contoured fit, and their familiar KEEN.DRY waterproofing package.
It’s built for hikers who want something lighter, more breathable, and more nimble than the traditional leather boot, but tougher and more protective than a typical trail running shoe.
On the foot, it feels more like a rugged all mountain trail running shoe with a stability plate and a waterproof membrane baked in, which is exactly why it works so well for day hikes, shoulder-season miles, and anyone who prefers a “move quick, stay dry, stay comfortable” setup on the trail.
Key specifications
- Price: $138.75 at keenfootwear.com (down from $185 for Black Friday)
- Weight: 13.5 oz / 383 g (US men’s 9)
- Drop: 12mm (34mm at the heel, 22mm under the forefoot)
- Shaft height: 3.94in / 100mm
- Upper: Performance mesh with durability overlays, quick-dry lining, KEEN.DRY breathable waterproof membrane, and a KEEN.PROTECT rubber toe bumper
- Midsole: High-rebound, compression-resistant KATALYZE+ foam + full-length lightweight stability plate
- Outsole: KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4mm multi-directional lugs
- Extra features: Eco Anti-Odor treatment, recycled P.E.T. plastic, speed hooks for fast lace adjustment, removable foam insole, non-marking outsole
Sizing and fit
The Zionic NXT fits true to size in US sizing, and KEEN’s Contoured Fit gives it that snug, secure wrap through the midfoot while keeping the toe box comfortably roomy.
There’s enough space up front for natural toe splay on long descents or warm-weather hikes, but it never feels sloppy or loose.
I would however, love to see more sculpted padding in the collar walls, in order to improve comfort around the inner ankle areas, it breaks in eventually but this is the only area where fit comfort could be improved out the box.
If you normally wear KEEN or other trail-focused footwear in your usual size, you’ll feel right at home here.
The speed hooks for fast lace adjustment work very well too, and they give the boot that attractive traditional hiking boot look.
Performance review
The Zionic NXT hits that interesting balance of being protective without feeling too clunky.
If you’re used to KEEN’s more classic hiking silhouettes like the Targhee, or Pyrenees, for example, this is going to feel much lighter and more athletic underfoot.
That shows up most in the cushioning and the way the boot handles uneven terrain.
Cushioning & underfoot feel
KEEN’s updated high-rebound KATALYZE+ foam is genuinely springy.
It doesn’t bottom out on long days, and the compression resistance holds up better than standard EVA, especially when you’re carrying a pack.
The sensation is closer to what you’d expect from a modern trail running midsole that provides softer landings, quicker transitions, and way less leg fatigue after several hours of moving.
The 12mm drop is on the higher side for a hiking boot, but it gives your heel a smooth rolling feel on the descents and helps when you’re tired.
Stability & protection
The full-length TPU stability shank/rock plate is the unsung hero here.
You don’t feel it in a stiff, intrusive way, but it does keep the boot from twisting when you’re on loose rock or off-camber trail.
Paired with the KEEN.PROTECT toe bumper and the slightly snugger “Contoured Fit,” you get solid front-end protection and a locked-in feel around the midfoot.
The shaft height is enough to take the sting out of debris without feeling restrictive.
Traction
The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN outsole has deeper, more directional lugs than the previous Zionic, and they dig in well on dirt, wet roots, and soft trail.
On slick rock, it’s not as sticky as a Vibram Megagrip-style compound, but it’s reliable and consistent.
The studded 4mm lug pattern does exactly what KEEN says: it gives you better ground contact and smoother heel-to-toe flow with no surprises or odd slipping points.
Waterproofing & breathability
KEEN.DRY membranes have always leaned toward the “more breathable than expected” side, and that’s the case again here.
The boot does a good job venting moisture when you’re working hard, and the membrane seals out the classic annoyances: wet grass, shallow puddles, and splashy conditions.
The upper dries quickly too, which makes it a strong option for shoulder-season hiking and anywhere humidity can become a problem.
My verdict
The KEEN Zionic NXT Waterproof is a strong pick for hikers who want a lightweight, athletic-feeling boot that still carries real protection, traction, and waterproofing.
It’s comfortable right out of the box, cushioned enough for long days, and stable enough for mixed terrain.
You get almost trail-runner agility paired with hiking-boot confidence, which is why this model works so well for fast day hikes, moderate backpacking loads, and unpredictable weather.
At the current price of $138.75 at keenfootwear.com, down from $185 in the Black Friday sale, it provides real bang for your buck, right now!
If you want something burly for deep winter or heavy multi-day loads, KEEN has stiffer options. But if you’re chasing a boot that feels quick, reliable, and comfortable for long hikes, the Zionic NXT lives right in that sweet spot.
