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I have a pair of Keen Waimea H2 sandals that I found at a discount store and bought them on a 'whim.' The turned out to be the best sandals I have ever worn! As a swimmer, lifeguard, paddler, climber, hiker and general outdoor enthusiast I have never had an unhappy day with these sandals. The sole of the shoe is reinforced, has great treads (which means that you won't slip) and do not wear down as other flip-flops might. This is also the only flip-flop that I have ever worn that actually provides good heal support and arch support, (although, after 4 years of constant wear, the arch support did wear-down - but this would happen with any well-worn and well-loved shoe.) The cloth that makes the straps is thick and soft, and does not rub or cause blisters. This flip-flop also offers something that no other sandal of this type does - big toe protection! For an outdoor enthusiast, the rubberized area that extends from the sole around the large toe provides protection against banging, or rocks, or anything else that a flip-flop wearer might encounter. (It's like getting closed-toed-shoe protection, while wearing an open-toed-shoe!) In addition, this 'big toe protection' provides stability for your foot, meaning that your foot does not slip forward and cause the 'thong' part to dig in between your toes - like so many other flip-flops do.
In addition, I get compliments every time I wear them. People love the way the look and love that they provide toe protection!
I have found only two 'downsides' to this shoe - as a flip-flop it is a little bulky, as I have noticed when I try to travel light and could easily fit a pair of flimsy flip-flops in my bag. The other downside is that when these get wet, it takes a little while for the cloth straps to dry. While these are 'downsides,' it is easy to forgive Keen as there is no way to build a shoe as versatile, supportive and comfortable as the Keen Waimea W2 without creating a slightly larger sandal or making the straps out of a material that does not rub or blister.
I have been so happy with these shoes that I recently bought myself a second pair, so now I can wear them... twice as much!
Rating:  [5 of 5 Stars!] |
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