Hello! I’m Seki, the manager of the outdoor shop “FITTWO” located in Ueno.
Today, I’d like to introduce a brand-new series from the American brand KEEN, called “UNEEK PLT”, which debuted in 2025.
This updated model is based on KEEN’s hugely popular summer sandal “UNEEK,” now combined with a thick, cushioned sole. The series includes three models: “UNEEK PLT,” “UNEEK PLT MARY JANE,” and “UNEEK PLT TASSELL.”
In addition to the original UNEEK, there are several updated models like the “UNEEK ASTORIA” with a higher heel and the “UNEEK O3” with a covered heel. However, what really sets the UNEEK PLT apart is its thick and supportive sole!
First, let’s quickly go over the basics of UNEEK before diving into the PLT series!
TOC
【KEEN】UNEEK PLT Series
What is UNEEK?
The unique woven design of UNEEK is crafted with just two cords, allowing the sandal to conform flexibly to the shape and movement of your foot.
The open structure between the cords ensures excellent breathability, making it perfect for barefoot wear or styling with socks to expand your outfit options.
Although UNEEK looks slim and low-profile over the instep, it fits a wide range of foot shapes! I personally have wide and high-arched feet, and many of our customers with wider feet have found that once they slip their foot in, the fit feels just right without any tightness.
The opening can feel a bit narrow when putting them on, but pushing the toes in first and then pulling up the heel makes it easier to wear.
Another notable feature is the outsole. The front part of the sole has fine cuts known as “laser siping,” which provides better grip even on wet surfaces!
That’s a quick overview of UNEEK! If you’d like a deeper dive into the details, please check out our full article below:
Now, let’s dive into the details of the UNEEK PLT!
UNEEK PLT
This is the basic model of the “UNEEK PLT.” The upper and the top part of the sole have the same iconic look as the original UNEEK!
It features a thick platform sole that is noticeably higher compared to the “UNEEK O3” and the thick-soled “UNEEK ASTORIA.”
Thanks to this new sole design, the look has shifted from outdoor functionality to a more urban and everyday style.
This model also comes with a central “bungee shoelace” similar to the original UNEEK, allowing for easy adjustment of the fit!
The heel area is designed with internal cords for a secure fit. The heel is also made of a softer material, which helps prevent discomfort and blisters!
The footbed, where your foot touches, uses the same “microfiber” material as the regular UNEEK, helping to release moisture and preventing slipping even when worn barefoot!
However, unlike the original UNEEK, the outsole of the PLT model does not have the flex grooves that appear when the sole bends.
UNEEK PLT MARY JANE
As the name suggests, this version features a “Mary Jane” style with a strap across the instep!
Compared to the standard UNEEK PLT, the middle section is open, giving it a more breathable design and a more feminine silhouette!
The strap is adjustable and made with elastic material for added comfort and flexibility.
UNEEK PLT TASSELL
This model features a decorative tassel on the center!
Compared to the other models, the upper fabric area is wider, giving it a less “sandal-like” appearance, making it easier to wear in more casual settings!
Note that the instep strap on this model is not adjustable.
Comfort
The comfort is comparable to the original UNEEK, as they share the same sole structure. Cushioning is great, but due to the thicker sole, it doesn’t flex as easily as the original UNEEK.
However, the added thickness makes the shoe much more comfortable by reducing the impact from the ground.
The upper material feels slightly thicker compared to the original UNEEK, giving a firmer sensation against the foot.
Sizing
All three models are unisex and available in full sizes only, ranging from 23cm to 28cm (in 1cm increments).
They run slightly small compared to regular sneakers, so if you plan to wear them with socks, we recommend sizing up!
Summary
What did you think?
The new 2025 “UNEEK PLT” series offers a brand-new style of KEEN sandals, combining the unique UNEEK fit with a trendy thick-soled design!
If you’re looking for a casual, outdoor-friendly sandal, the original UNEEK is perfect. But if you want something more urban and stable, the UNEEK PLT is the way to go!
You can purchase them in-store or through our online store below, so please check it out!
Comments