KEEN UNEEK LOAFER WK RETURNS IN CORDOVAN

Summary:

• KEEN launches second version of UNEEK Loafer WK on December 18 in dark burgundy colorway
• Premium dark brown leather sourced from LWG-certified tanneries with hand-stitched details
• Priced at $200 with KEEN.CURVE midsole technology and unisex sizing

KEEN introduces the second release of its UNEEK Loafer WK on December 18, 2025. The footwear brand presents the hybrid design in a Cordovan colorway after the black version sold out quickly during its initial launch earlier in 2025.

The Cordovan edition features dark brown leather throughout the upper. KEEN sources this material from tanneries with Leather Working Group certification, an organization that audits environmental compliance in leather production. The brand hand-stitches each pair and numbers them individually.

The design merges two distinct shoe types. The base structure comes from KEEN's UNEEK sandal, which uses a corded construction method. The brand adds elements from traditional penny loafers to create what it describes as outdoor formal footwear. This approach started with the Spring/Summer 2025 collection.

The toe-box displays woven leather work done by hand. This detail connects conventional shoemaking methods with modern materials. The first black version used dark hide with gold branding. The Cordovan model takes a different direction with polished brown leather as the primary material.

Performance features include the KEEN.CURVE midsole system. This component provides cushioning and promotes forward motion while walking. The technology appeared in the original black release and carries over to the new colorway.

KEEN offers the loafer in unisex sizes. The retail price sits at $200. Buyers will find the shoes through KEEN's direct channels starting December 18.

The first UNEEK Loafer WK launched in black during 2025. That version emphasized a darker aesthetic with metallic accents. The response led to the shoe selling out before KEEN planned additional production. This created demand for a follow-up release.

The Cordovan name refers to the deep burgundy-brown shade. Traditional cordovan leather comes from horse hide, though KEEN does not specify the exact animal source for this version. The color provides an alternative to the previous all-black design while maintaining a formal appearance.

The hybrid construction addresses a specific market gap. Traditional loafers offer formality but lack the breathability and flexibility of sandals. The UNEEK system brings ventilation and adaptability through its corded structure. Adding loafer elements creates a shoe suitable for settings where sandals would appear too casual.

Each pair receives individual numbering, which suggests limited production quantities. KEEN has not released specific production numbers for either the black or Cordovan versions. The numbering system adds collectibility to the functional design.

The LWG certification indicates environmental standards in leather processing. Certified tanneries meet requirements for water use, waste management, and chemical handling. This certification has become more common as brands respond to consumer interest in production transparency.

The hand-stitched details require more labor than machine assembly. This approach increases production time and contributes to the higher price point compared to standard KEEN models. The craftsmanship element positions the UNEEK Loafer WK as a premium offering within the brand's lineup.

The December 18 release date places the shoe in the holiday shopping period. The timing also positions the Cordovan colorway for winter wear, when darker brown tones align with seasonal preferences.