It’s been five months since Keen Inc. moved its U.S. footwear factory to Shepherdsville, Ky., from Portland, Ore., and the facility already has big goals.
Kevin Oberle, Keen Utility’s senior director of global insights and engagement, said one of the driving forces behind the relocation was the need for more space. “We’ve been placing a bigger emphasis on our American Built products, especially for Keen Utility, because we know that resonates with our consumers,” he said. “But we were about tapped out from a capacity standpoint at the location in [Portland].”
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With the new, larger space, Keen Utility will continue to support growth of its Liberty series that launched this year. And it also recently soft launched a U.S.-made work boot version of its popular Targhee hiker.
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Todd Lewis, Keen’s senior product director, said of the Targhee IV Work, “We took that rugged trail product and made it work-ready by adding a 90-degree heel. It’s also got a direct-inject midsole — which is better for work than it would be for the trail — and it’s got the slip-resistant and heat-rated rubber sole [and carbon safety toe].” More color and height options will roll out next year as part of the 20th anniversary celebration of the Targhee.
Beyond the work category, Keen sees opportunity to produce more outdoor and running products in the U.S. According to Lewis, the American Built line could increase by 50 percent in 2026.
Oberle noted there are other advantages to the Kentucky facility, including improved shipping efficiencies (since the factory is located mere feet from Keen’s distribution hub). That’s already providing cost savings and environmental benefits. And it gives the company a strategic and economic advantage amid increased tariffs for shoe imports.
In May, Keen announced that it would not implement any tariff-related price increases for the balance of 2025.
In a letter to the company’s partners, founder and chief executive officer Rory Fuerst wrote, “We recognize this is not a simple or easy choice in today’s climate—but it’s the right one.”
He went on to add, “We believe it’s our responsibility to support our retail partners and fans through this period of uncertainty. By holding our prices steady, we aim to help you maintain strong consumer relationships and continue delivering the value and quality people expect from Keen.”