The phrase “get out!” might bring to mind memories of door-slamming teenage fury, or the eerie tension of Jordan Peele’s psychological thriller. But when Oregon-born shoe brand KEEN says it, it’s imbued with an air of encouragement—an open invitation to embrace the great outdoors. “Our fans are curating all kinds of outside experiences to improve mental health,” explains the brand’s senior director Blaine Conrad. “They want performance, function and style that can span all the activities of their day.”
Enter the brand’s latest release, a hybrid shoe designed to be out there. The Jasper Zionic fuses a longtime staple in KEEN’s lineup (the Jasper) with the more technical Zionic hiker, combining elements of both to create a shoe suited for everything from outdoor pursuits to daily life. Its tongue-to-toe lacing—a hallmark of traditional climbing shoes—anchors it in climbing culture, while the premium suede uppers give it the sort of everyday style that wouldn’t look out of place in a city setting. It’s this crossover appeal that positions KEEN within the ongoing conversation about the rise of gorpcore—a trend that has seen functional, outdoors-inspired fashion infiltrate streetwear and high fashion alike. And the Jasper Zionic steps into this space with the confidence of a brand that has long been embedded in outdoor culture.
While much of the conversation around gorpcore tends to focus on its aesthetics, brands like KEEN emphasise the functionality that underpins this movement. The Jasper Zionic’s climbing shoe heritage, along with details like its rugged tread and eco-conscious construction, give it an edge in a market where performance still matters. With a studded rubber outsole offering superior traction and a contoured fit designed for comfort and agility, the shoe speaks to a broader trend of hybridised gear that can easily transition from outdoor excursions to more casual settings. Made without harmful forever chemicals (PFAS) and with leather sourced from certified tanneries, the Jasper Zionic exemplifies KEEN’s commitment to sustainability—a value that resonates with today’s environmentally conscious consumers.
Much like its predecessors, the Jasper Zionic is a reflection of the current cultural moment, where fashion, outdoor culture, and sustainability intersect. As functional fashion continues to gain ground, KEEN’s latest offering captures the spirit of this shift, bringing together the best of outdoor gear and practical style.
The Jasper Zionic is available via KEEN, and at selected stores.
Paid partnership with KEEN.
