Innovation and functionality have always been the core of American outdoor footwear brand KEEN. For its latest project, KEEN has collaborated with New York fashion label Engineered Garments to transform its signature UNEEK hybrid slide into a sleek and premium leather huarache.

Led by Japanese designer Daiki Suzuki, Engineered Garments’ vision of re-imagined American clothing has nurtured a cult following since the early days of the brand’s establishment. The new collaboration, the UNEEK Premium Leather Slide, is definitely an upgrade from the stock “two cords one sole” outdoor shoe that we’re familiar with. Crafted from smooth-grain woven leather cords and soft Nappa leather lining that conform to the wearer’s feet, the leather slide features an asymmetrical “twin” design with a smooth leather upper on the left and rough underside upper on the right. Two colourways are available and you can choose from the low-key all-black version or a light brown example that’s more in-line with Engineered Garments’ American style.

Like other UNEEK shoes, functionality and comfortability are a crucial part of the latest release. The new model features a cushioning PU midsole and EVA insole with arch support. And it’s not just about how great UNEEK Premium Leather Slide looks, fits, or feels — they’re consciously handcrafted in environmentally-preferred and vegetable-tanned leather certified by the Leather Working Group. The eco anti-odour technology for natural odour control is completely pesticide-free.

KEEN has been busy in the past year, with a long list of Japanese brands joining Engineered Garments as collaborators —  such as UFO, United Arrows, Journal Standard, Beams, Timai, and Rebirth Project.