HOKA's Hopara sandals are great, but this KEEN collab with a cult Japanese outdoor brand looks even better
KEEN's Hyperport H2 SP blends technical trail performance with minimalist Japanese styling
by Matt Kollat · T3
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If you've spent any time looking at outdoor footwear over the past couple of years, you've probably come across HOKA's Hopara.
The maximalist trail sandal has become a favourite among hikers, travellers and Gorpcore fanatics thanks to its chunky midsole and closed-toe design.
On the other hand, American footwear company KEEN isn't famous for being at the forefront of outdoor style.
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The brand's products are highly functional, but KEEN doesn't have the same street credibility as HOKA, Salomon and Arc'teryx.
That said, KEEN's Hyperport H2 SP might be the better-looking option between the two, and certainly more niche than the HOKA.
That in itself might be enough to convince some people, but wait until you hear who else was involved with this handsome-looking pair of sandals.
Created in collaboration with Japanese outdoor brand Snow Peak, the sandal pairs KEEN's signature toe protection with a sculpted oversized sole and an understated all-black finish that looks just as at home on city streets as it does on mountain trails.
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Japanese design meets trail-ready performance
The Hyperport H2 SP leans heavily into contemporary outdoor style with its monochrome upper, subtle branding and speckled oversized midsole that give it a cleaner, more premium look than many of its rivals.
The sandal uses KEEN's lightweight injected foam midsole for cushioning, a quick-cinch lace system for easy adjustment, and the brand's grippy Aquagrip rubber outsole designed to maintain traction on wet rocks and muddy trails (and streets).
The familiar rubber toe bumper also returns, offering far more protection than open-toe sandals without sacrificing ventilation.
A genuine Hopara alternative
The similarities with the Hopara are obvious: both feature a chunky silhouette, enclosed forefoot, quick-lace system and outdoor-first construction that comfortably transitions into everyday wear.
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However, the Snow Peak collaboration feels more refined, with fewer visual flourishes and a distinctly Japanese design language that makes it easier to pair with technical apparel from brands such as Arc'teryx, Goldwin, nanamica or Snow Peak itself.
For anyone who likes the idea of HOKA's trail sandal but wants something you won't see on every other foot this summer, the Hyperport H2 SP could be one of the strongest alternatives currently available.
The Keen Hyperport H2 SP is available at Snow Peak UK and Snow Peak US for £120 / $130.
The Black / Castlerock Hopara retails for £105 / $135 at HOKA UK and HOKA US.