I love my Keens I bought from TE. I have the Shimano multi-release cleats on them. Someday I will get CB eggbeaters--will fit ok too.

The Keens are made to protect the toes. To help with the sides o my feet on the trail I wear some hikers SmartWool socks (breaths nicely for socks with sandles & some protection, like briars etc.). And my bone injury foot I tape up with athletic support tape.

Yea... having to put a foot down in a rock garden situation can sux if you nail the side.

Regardless of the technical part, it helps if you know the trail well & know you are likely to clear everything (no foot down). New trail known to be rocky... might use more techy shoes first trip.

For climbing purposes, I just make sure I have the tops cinched up solid near the ankle. Not had one come off thus far.

Oh... plus, I wear mine to teach spin class in too. Nice to be sockless and cooler inside.