KEEN Women's Hightrail Low Height Waterproof Leather Hiking Shoes

In this review of the KEEN Women's Hightrail Low Height waterproof hiking shoes, the bottom line is clear: these are a great option for women who want a durable, leather hiking shoe that still feels light and nimble for faster day hikes. The shoe blends a classic leather upper with a sneaker-like profile, backed by a waterproof membrane and a responsive removable footbed, making it the single biggest buy reason for anyone prioritizing long-lasting comfort and all-weather protection on trails or wet commutes.

Key Features

• Durable Leather: Full-grain leather sourced from Leather Working Group certified tanneries holds up to abrasion and repeated use without sacrificing a polished look.
• Waterproof Protection: The KEEN.DRY breathable membrane keeps water out while allowing vapor to escape so feet stay dry on wet terrain.
• High Traction Sole: A rubber outsole with 4mm multi-direction lugs provides confident footing on mud, rocks, and roots during day hikes.
• Supportive Midsole: A stability shank underfoot gives lightweight support for uneven surfaces and long miles without excessive stiffness.
• Responsive Cushioning: KEEN LuftCell technology in the sole supplies micro air pockets for surprisingly light rebound and comfort.
• Removable Footbed: The responsive footbed is removable for cleaning or custom orthotics and resists quick compression for lasting comfort.

Who It's For

The Hightrail Low is best for women who want the durability and water resistance of a leather hiking shoe but prefer a lower, more agile profile for faster day hikes, trail walking, or wet-weather errands. Hikers who value a secure, contoured fit and a shoe that transitions easily from trail to town will appreciate this balance of features.

Those who need heavy insulated boots for extended winter expeditions or alpine mountaineering should look elsewhere, as these are designed for seasonal wet conditions and varied trail surfaces rather than extreme cold or high-altitude technical climbs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very good waterproofing with a breathable membrane keeps feet dry without sacrificing comfort.
• Durable leather construction looks better over time and stands up to rugged use.
• Excellent traction from multi-direction lugs provides confidence on mixed terrain.
• Lightweight cushioning and a stability shank combine comfort with support for longer walks.

Cons

• Sizing runs mixed for some customers; several reviewers reported they run small, so ordering half a size up may be necessary.
• As a leather shoe, it requires periodic care and cleaning to maintain appearance and performance.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The KEEN Women's Hightrail Low Height waterproof leather hiking shoes are a smart buy for active women who want a durable, water-resistant shoe that still feels light and responsive for day hikes and wet-weather use. Given the leather construction, breathable membrane, and reliable traction, they offer solid value for users who will care for them and may need to size up for best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these fully waterproof?
Yes, the KEEN.DRY membrane provides waterproof protection while remaining breathable to let vapor escape.

Do they run true to size?
Customer feedback is mixed and several people reported they run small, so consider trying a half size up if between sizes.

Can the footbed be replaced?
Yes, the removable responsive footbed can be taken out and swapped for custom orthotics or cleaned as needed.