Keen Midori : A Simple Spring Shoe for Men and Women

What could put a spring in my step for Spring? A lightweight tennis shoe refashioned by Keen out of organic canvas, cork, jute, and natural rubber.

Available in both men's and women's size, the Midori is a fun, urban, eco version of my old favorite tennies. Love the lace-up style, and the Midori even has the two vent holes in the inseam.

Naturally, the shoe has the ubiquitous toe bumper - but it's much more low profile than the bumpers on Keen's outdoor shoes. The midsole is made out of cork; the sole isn't as thick as those on Keen's hiking shoes but still plenty sturdy for daily wear. I like that Keen uses as many repurposed and natural products as possible in this shoe.

The organic canvas feel comfortable, even without socks, and allows my feet to breathe. I really like the simple design, the contrast stitching, and the easy fit. Also, the Midori has removable footbeds, so I can replace them with my full-length custom orthotics. They accommodate them very well; the shoe has enough depth that I don't need to to up 1/2 a size to wear my own insoles. That's nice.

I tested a men's shoe, and found it to run true to size. The Women's Midori is also available in a Mary Jane style.

Available in three colors for men: Black, Shitake, Simply Taupe. For women: Black, Shitake, Iguana, and Rust.

Eco Creds: Contains natural rubber, jute, organic canvas, cork.

Bottom Line: Another must-have shoe from Keen. Comfort. Style. And Eco Creds. A shoe I can walk tall in.--E.P. (Mar 10)

BUY ONLINE : $80,click here to shop for men's and women's Midori , click here for women's midori at altrec.com , click to shop at backcountry.com

Manufacturer's Site: www.keenfootwear.com