The company is looking to upend the traditional footwear manufacturing process through the use of robotics, automation and creative engineering. The brand’s first application, which was showcased at the recent Outdoor Retailer Summer Market show, is the UNEEK footwear robot which Keen claims is the first of its kind to be introduced to the footwear industry and used in manufacturing. The robot was developed in partnership with ID-based House of Design, an ABB Robotics integration company.

The robot automation concept was a strong match for Keen’s UNEEK shoe because the footwear’s upper is made from two completely independent yet engaged cords. ... Log in to view full article.