Latest news with #KEEN
Cision Canada
4 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
KEEN Encourages Fans to 'Run for the Trails' Français
New Seek trail runner brings KEEN's iconic comfort and durability into trail running with longer-lasting cushioning and traction. BRAMPTON, ON, July 18, 2025 /CNW/ - For 22 years, KEEN, Inc. (KEEN) has protected public lands, helped make hiking and getting outside more accessible to all, and created durable, comfortable, protective shoes and boots to get folks closer to nature. Now, the innovative shoemaker is taking its trail DNA and Consciously Created approach into trail running with the Seek trail running shoe. "After supporting our fans for thousands upon thousands of trail miles, we started to wonder: if we have proven better-for-your-feet fit, out-of-the-box comfort, and best-in-class durability and protection, why couldn't we make something for those fans who want to move a little faster?," says Will Schuh, director of product management at KEEN. "We built this shoe with the fan, for the fan, in a way that we haven't ever done before." KEEN's innovation team spent nearly two years developing the Seek trail runner – starting with in-depth interviews with runners to learn more about what they were looking for in a trail running shoe and working with a team of wear testers around the country to fine-tune the geometry and design through multiple prototypes. One of the lead developers at KEEN, Scott Robertson, ran 900 miles last year wearing prototypes that became the Seek. Engineered with relentless innovation, genuine runner insights, and love for the trail, Seek is built better for feet, the planet, and longer runs. This wide-forefoot trail running shoe provides extra room in the toe box for natural toe splay and improved comfort during runs on uneven terrain. It leverages cutting-edge technology and a highly energetic midsole for a responsive, durable ride that's optimized for heel strikers – the predominant foot strike pattern for recreational runners. It's tough, pinnacle performance and comfort for every runner on the trail – beginners and longtime runners alike. Technical features include: Longer-lasting, high-energy QuantumFoam midsole provides a responsive, comfortable, and stable ride for more fluid runs. 4mm high-abrasion rubber lugs provide incredible durability and traction, rated by Heeluxe to last 925 miles until worn smooth. A lower 6mm heel-to-toe drop and a wider forefoot, which allows for a more natural foot strike, positioning the feet for proper splay on the trail. Pre-molded TPU heel counter and lockdown-knit fit hold the foot snugly in place for fast movement on the trail. Lace garage parks laces for a quieter on-trail experience. Breathable upper with padded tongue and stretchy knit collar for ultimate comfort. Reflective laces for visibility with a weave that helps keep laces tied. Eco Anti-Odor made with natural probiotics that are safe for the environment. Light in weight at 10.9oz (men's) & 8.75oz (women's) Seek launches globally on July 25 in men's and women's sizing for $230/CAD at and at select retailers. More KEEN trail running styles are planned for 2026 to round out the offering for all terrain and performance levels. About KEEN Family-owned and values-led for over 20 years, KEEN is striving to make the most original, durable, Consciously Created footwear on the planet and using its business to do good. In 2003, KEEN started a revolution with the introduction of the original hybrid sandal, the Newport – combining the openness of a water sandal with the toe protection of a rugged shoe. KEEN has continued to create industry-changing innovation for life outside on trails, jobsites, sidewalks, and water. Its Targhee IV hiking boot was awarded a Best Invention of 2024 by Time Magazine for its revolutionary durability. KEEN has been PFAS free since 2018 and is taking everything it knows as a conscious shoemaker and putting it in service of people and the planet – sharing its sustainable innovations to do more good together. Learn more at
Business Wire
08-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Khasm Labs and New Use Energy Solutions Announce Strategic Partnership Following Successful Off-Grid Deployment
BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In a major step forward for energy resilience and tactical edge communications, Khasm Labs, an innovation platform helping startups and enterprises build, test, and deploy next-gen technologies at the edge, and New Use Energy Solutions (NUE), a trusted leader in rugged, portable solar and battery systems, are proud to announce a strategic partnership to deliver quick and easy to deploy off-grid 5G solutions. The partnership follows a successful field test during a recent military exercise. During the exercise, KEEN — powered by NUE's portable energy packs — demonstrated real-time data transmission and resilient 5G connectivity without reliance on grid infrastructure. This proof-of-performance validated the joint solution's capability to support mission-critical communications in even the most remote environments. The collaboration combines Khasm Labs' KEEN (Khasm Enterprise Edge Network) — the nation's first of its kind fully off-grid private 5G network — with NUE's rugged, portable battery and power systems designed for high-mobility missions. Together, the integrated solution ensures secure, high-performance connectivity in austere or remote environments where traditional power and communication infrastructure are unavailable or compromised. 'This is more than a technology partnership — it's a mission-aligned collaboration,' said Jim Brisimitzis, Founder and General Partner at Khasm Labs. 'Together with New Use Energy, we're delivering a field-proven system that brings real-time connectivity and power to where it's needed most — whether it's the battlefield, a wildfire response zone, or a remote industrial site.' 'We don't just each build technology. Together we build tools that can help save lives or complete a mission,' added Paul Shmotolokha, CEO of New Use Energy. 'With deep roots in disaster response and three years experience powering communications and electronic warfare with the Ukrainian military, we saw a natural partnership to enable Khasm Lab's portable communications solutions to deploy faster, communicate clearly, and focus on protecting people — not just surviving the moment. We have learned a lot of lessons these last years and one of them is the need for stealthy battery based power with a clean waveform to effectively run communications equipment.' The partnership was initiated through the Crucible NavalX Challenge, where both teams aligned around a shared vision: enabling mobility, speed, and survivability for defense, disaster response, and critical infrastructure operators. Real-World Impact: Improving Safety and Saving Lives In crisis moments — from natural disasters and wildfires to frontline deployments — the ability to communicate in real time can mean the difference between life and death. Traditional infrastructure often fails when it's needed most, leaving responders in the dark and communities vulnerable. The KEEN + NUE solution was built with these realities in mind. By combining advanced wireless networks with mobile, renewable power, the system can be rapidly deployed in disaster zones, remote regions, or conflict areas to enable faster response, better coordination, and safer outcomes. Whether helping firefighters detect flare-ups, connecting medics in the field, or restoring power and communications after a hurricane, this solution helps those at the edge stay connected — and protected. 'As a retired first responder, I've seen how limited connectivity can slow down help when seconds matter,' said Scott Waller, CTO of Khasm Labs. 'This solution ensures that frontline teams never have to operate in silence. We're delivering something that doesn't just work — it saves lives.' As two homegrown companies based in the greater Seattle region, Khasm Labs and New Use Energy are deeply committed to supporting both national security missions and community resilience. This new partnership lays the foundation for expanded commercial and public-sector deployments — from remote energy sites and emergency response operations to the next generation of smart infrastructure. About Khasm Labs Khasm Labs is a global innovation ecosystem bringing together multi-stage startups, enterprises, global technology platforms and investors to connect and collaborate on developing disruptive new technologies and bridging the chasm between startup innovation and enterprise adoption. Since 2019, the Lab has attracted world-class corporate and industry partners and 146 multi-stage enterprise startups, collectively raising $3.338B of venture capital. The Lab employs a model of open collaborative innovation, where corporate partners work directly with ecosystem startups to accelerate commercialization through proof of concept, go-to-market, and other engagements and opportunities. About New Use Energy Solutions NUE leads the development and distribution of proprietary, state-of-the-art, ruggedized mobile solar generator systems that adapt to a diverse set of the most demanding commercial and industrial applications, delivering clean, renewable power wherever it is needed. For more information about the KEEN + NUE bundled solution, or to inquire about partnership opportunities, visit Khasm - Home
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Arc'teryx named REI Co-op's all-around Vendor Partner of the Year for 2025
KEEN, Vuori, Gregory and Atomic also recognized as leaders in the categories of footwear, apparel, outdoor hardgoods, and action sports SEATTLE, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Specialty outdoor retailer REI Co-op gathered its vendor community today to celebrate its Vendor Partner of the Year awards. The annual program recognizes brands that make significant contributions in product innovation and performance, progressive and efficient business practices, experiences with REI customers and staff, and doing the right thing for people and planet. Arc'teryx won the all-around Vendor Partner of the Year award. KEEN, Vuori, Gregory and Atomic were recognized as leaders in the categories of footwear, apparel, outdoor hardgoods, and action sports respectively. "For over 30 years, our Vendor Partner of the Year awards have celebrated the co-op's most valued brand partnerships that drive positive change. Out of more than a thousand brands carried in our stores and online, only 16 vendors make the final round – a remarkable achievement," said Kristin Shane, REI's chief merchandising officer. "Arc'teryx's win for overall Vendor Partner of the Year is well-deserved. Across the co-op, we thank them for their shared vision and congratulate their recognition. As a true industry leader in both sustainability and innovation, they continue to set the pace with no signs of slowing down." REI 2025 Vendor Partner of the Year overall winnerHeadquartered in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Arc'teryx was founded in 1989 on the idea that there is always a better way. This is Arc'teryx's first time receiving REI's overall Vendor Partner of the Year award, in addition to receiving the apparel divisional recognition in 2019 and 2024. The brand consistently demonstrates its outdoor specialty retailing and partnership focus through product innovation and newness, best customer experience, collaboration and more. Arc'teryx also led the way to become the fastest growing brand for trail run apparel at REI. In addition, Arc'teryx is a leader in science aligned emissions reduction targets and ranks in the 90th percentile of overall sustainability efforts for REI's Product Impact Standards. REI Vendor Partner of the Year divisional awardsIn addition to naming an overall Vendor Partner of the Year, REI also recognizes leaders across footwear, apparel, outdoor hardgoods, and action sports. For 2025, divisional awards went to: Footwear – KEEN: Family-owned and based in Portland, Oregon, KEEN has made consciously created hybrid footwear since 2003. As a long-time partner to the co-op, KEEN is the leading footwear brand. The values-led company prioritizes REI in its innovation and collaboration, delivering best-in-class execution across inventory, training, and sustainability. KEEN's leadership in per- and polyfluoroalkyl elimination (PFAS) and sustainable outdoor footwear sets the bar for the industry. KEEN has set bold science aligned emissions reduction targets and ranks in the 95-100th percentile of overall sustainability efforts for REI's Product Impact Standards. The brand was REI's overall Vendor Partner of the Year in 2004. Apparel – Vuori: Based in San Diego County, Vuori has defined the athleisure category since 2015 through apparel inspired by the active coastal California lifestyle. Their modern designs and iconic DreamKnit™ fabric have become an industry benchmark. Vuori's growth is fueled by a clear understanding of the customer who are trend-forward consumers who respond to fresh seasonal colors, continuous newness, and full head-to-toe outfitting that blends lifestyle and performance. Partnering with REI since its earliest days, their commitment goes beyond product. The brand collaborated closely to evolve REI's in-store experience. Outdoor hardgoods – Gregory: Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Gregory is a global leader in expedition, backpacking, daypacks, lifestyle, travel, and camping gear. As one of the co-op's most engaged partners, the brand emphasizes education with co-op's retail employees across the country that results in industry leading customer service and love from REI's members. Gregory also supports increasing youth participation in the outdoors through their partnership with Big City Mountaineers, an organization committed to connecting youth with nature to strengthen their emotional well-being and mental and physical health so that they may become better stewards of the planet. The iconic brand is holding themselves accountable to a higher sustainability standard by powering their facilities with renewable energy while also committing to substantial emissions reduction by 2030. Action sports – Atomic: With global headquarters in the heart of the Alps at Altenmarkt, Austria and a North American office in Ogden, Utah, Atomic is the largest ski manufacturer in the world. As a premier ski brand for more than 70 years, Atomic is regarded for its authenticity and innovation. Atomic bridges elite racing performance with North American freeride culture—an achievement few brands can claim. Its product line, especially the Bent series, has become an industry benchmark, reshaping the skier experience with accessible and aspirational designs. With a specialty-focused distribution model, the brand's close collaboration with REI last year resulted in double-digit growth. Atomic boots are a top choice for REI fitters and their ski helmets and goggles offer standout safety and clarity features. As a leader in sustainability and industry collaboration, the company hosts the Ski Industry Climate Summit and publishes an annual Impact Report that includes their 2030 emissions reduction target. REI will make a donation on behalf of each brand to the REI Cooperative Action Fund. The REI Cooperative Action is a community-driven nonprofit that supports nonprofits doing essential work to create a more equitable outdoors for everyone and research nature's impact on health. Since its 2021 inception, the Fund has granted nearly $31 million. REI Co-op Vendor Partner of the Year criteriaEstablished in 1993, REI's Vendor Partner of the Year awards program honors brand partners that demonstrate remarkable philosophy and partnership with the co-op and that drive impact for the outdoor industry. Employees from stores, distribution and headquarters nominate vendors that represent the co-op's four merchandising divisions – footwear and basics, apparel, outdoor hardgoods, and action sports. Award criteria include inspiring people with innovative and sustainable product, delivering positive financials results, and seamlessly executing operational business practices, all while keeping REI's customer for the future in mind, driving participation and frequency. All brands considered for recognition also play a key role in advancing key social and environmental best practices as outlined in REI's Product Impact Standards. Past recipients of the REI Vendor Partner of the Year Award include Arbor Collective (2018), Atlas Snowshoe (1999), Black Diamond Equipment (1994, 2006), Bell Sports (1997), Brooks (2012, 2016), CamelBak (2008), Cannondale (2019), Cascade Designs (2001), Columbia Sportswear (1998), Eagle Creek (2000, 2005), Eagle Nest Outfitters (2014), HOKA ONE ONE (2020) Keen Footwear (2004), Kühl (2013, 2015), NEMO Equipment (2017), On (2023), Osprey (2007, 2024), prAna (2003), Smith Optics (2002, 2009), Vasque (1995, 1996), Vibram (2010, 2011) and Yakima (1993). About the REI Co-opREI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation's largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 25 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op's many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE REI Co-op Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Footwear company Keen moves manufacturing facility out of Portland
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Portland-based footwear company Keen has moved its manufacturing facility out of the Rose City, the company says. According to the footwear company, Keen's transition from its Portland facility was completed in April as part of a 'planned shift' to its new U.S. factory in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, which will be fully operational by June. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, Keen planned the move 'long before,' President Donald Trump imposed global tariffs against U.S. trading partners. 310 animals seized from Bandon safari park 'The decision to consolidate U.S. manufacturing in Kentucky was driven by both long-term strategic and operational advantages,' Keen said. 'The new Shepherdsville facility is centrally located, placing the brand closer to several of its core suppliers and our U.S. distribution center. This will allow KEEN to reach 80% of its U.S. consumers within two days via ground shipping, helping the brand reduce both transportation costs and carbon emissions.' 'Operating from a single, scaled facility also allows KEEN to streamline operations, concentrate investments in advanced manufacturing technology, and reduce logistical complexity, all while staying true to its values of efficiency, sustainability, and responsible growth,' the company continued. It is unclear how many jobs were affected by the Portland factory closure; however, Keen says the impact was 'limited' adding, 'several of the team members have relocated to Kentucky to continue in their roles.' 'Completely ghosted us': PNW customers detail financial losses, unfinished jobs tied to local contractor Keen said the company offered a comprehensive transition support package, which included relocation options, along with extended healthcare coverage, and career transition services to impacted employees. While the manufacturing facility has moved out of state, the company says Keen's Global Headquarters will stay in Portland. 'Portland continues to serve as a critical hub for KEEN's product design, innovation, sales, operations, brand leadership teams, and community engagement efforts,' Keen said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Sign in to access your portfolio
