Gucci’s latest closed-toe sandal has KEEN wondering: What are those?!
What’s the difference between Italian fashion titan Gucci and Portland, Oregon-based KEEN? Answer: One is a blatant rip-off of style, trend, and technology. And the other is KEEN.
That’s right! At this month’s Fashion Week in New York City, Gucci designer Alessandro Michele unveiled his latest vogue masterpiece: all-terrain sandals with bungee-cord laces, a heel strap, and an iconic, no-bullshit rubber toe bumper.
The “hybridization” of shoe and sandal no doubt wowed fashion elites. Of course, that’s probably because they’ve never seen hikers and watersports enthusiasts wearing virtually the same thing for years!
But not only are Gucci’s Leather & Mesh Sandals virtually identical to the original KEEN Newport — which hit the market more than 15 years ago — they also cost nearly 20 times more. While a pair of KEEN Newports will set you back $100-110 Gucci intends to rake in just under $900 for one pair of its “new sneaker-sandal hybrid.”
Gucci KEEN Sandal
$890 Gucci KEEN Sandals
- Fill shoe with tissue paper to help maintain the shape and absorb humidity, then store in the provided flannel bag and box
- Clean when the shoe is dry, using only neutral or same-color products to avoid staining
- Should the material become wet, dry it with a soft, dry cloth