KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool II, Men's, Shitake/Rust, Steel Toe, EH, Low Hiker (10.0 D) Review
The KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool II is your go-to solution for a work shoe that blends style, comfort, and safety. With its innovative design, this low hiker promises superior performance without compromising on aesthetics. Made with durable, water-resistant leather, these shoes not only keep your feet dry but also provide exceptional breathability thanks to their non-mutilating mesh uppers. Weighing in at 21.55 oz / 611 g per shoe, they are lightweight yet sturdy enough for a variety of tasks, making them ideal for lighter-duty work in landscaping, maintenance, warehouse distribution, and auto-manufacturing.
Features
- Leather and mesh upper with reflective webbing
- Innovative KEEN.ReGEN cushioning midsole for 50% energy return
- Steel toes for unobtrusive protection
- Slip-resistant and oil-resistant outsole
- Removable PU insoles compatible with custom orthotics
- Moisture-wicking lining to keep feet dry
Pros
- Excellent slip-resistance and traction
- Lightweight design enhances mobility
- Comfortable cushioning for long hours of wear
- Removable insoles allow for customization
- Breathable materials keep feet cool in warmer climates
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work environments
- Some users may find sizing runs large
- Limited color options available
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Product | Weight | Slip Resistance | Steel Toe | Water Resistant |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool II | 21.55 oz | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Caterpillar Second Shift | 24 oz | Yes | No | Yes |
| Timberland PRO 6" Pit Boss | 29 oz | Yes | Yes | No |
Detailed Review
The KEEN Utility Atlanta Cool II showcases remarkable features designed to enhance both safety and comfort on the job. The standout aspect is undoubtedly the KEEN.ReGEN cushioning midsole, which offers an impressive 50% energy return with every step, enabling you to stay comfortable even during extended wear. This feature greatly reduces fatigue, allowing you to focus more on your tasks without being distracted by discomfort.
In terms of safety, the steel toe design provides essential protection against workplace hazards while still ensuring a secure fit through the lace capture system. Additionally, the external stability shank adds midfoot support that is particularly beneficial for those who spend long hours on their feet.
The shoe's slip-resistant outsole excels when it comes to traction, as the siped design quickly disperses fluids underfoot, providing peace of mind in slick conditions. Furthermore, the use of breathable mesh uppers ensures your feet remain cool, even in hot weather, which is crucial for maintaining comfort throughout the day.
While these shoes shine in lighter-duty applications, it's important to note that they might not be suitable for more strenuous industrial environments where heavier duty footwear is required. However, for roles such as maintenance or light construction, they strike an excellent balance between safety, comfort, and style.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and support for extended wear. |
| Safety | 8/10 | Steel toe protection meets necessary safety standards. |
| Traction | 9/10 | Highly effective slip-resistant outsole for various surfaces. |
| Durability | 7/10 | Robust materials; best for lighter-duty work. |
| Style | 8/10 | Modern aesthetic suitable for various settings. |
User Reviews
I work in a manufacturing environment and have for almost 21 years and have tried many brands and styles of steel toe shoes. These Keens are the lightest and most comfortable by far and it's not even close. Also my work is hot in the summer and warm in the winter so there are the coolest of any show I've ever tried. Literally feels like I'm wearing my Sketchers slip one. Already had to look down to make sure I changed my shoes and once or twice the answered was no.
If you are like me (230lbs) on your feet all day, this is THE BEST pair of shoes for YOU! They are super lightweight, super comfortable, super breathable, absolutely buy them. For increased comfort buy the $20 keen insoles from Amazon (the thicker one for your toes). Bonus, Make sure to select WIDE toe for those toes. Take this Keen challenge, you'll never go back. Unless you have to run. This is NOT a running shoe. In which case, they make awesome running/ exercise shoes & even sandals too. Hope this helps.
This was delivered with good packaging. I bought these to replace my old Keens that I wear for work in an office located in a park on the Oregon Coast. Those are still in good shape just looking their age and I will use them on my acreage. Keens always seem to hold up. I still have hiking boots and sandals that I purchased a decade ago. This pair fit great and very comfortable. I deal with some heel issues, and these give good support. Probable my 9th or 10th pair I have purchased over the years.
I had a pair of the previous version for the past two years, and was very pleased with them. They are an excellent light work shoe. This version seems much more stiff and runs smaller.
Been wearing them about a year now. They are comfortable and supportive, but cant get them to stop squeaking. Not a problem when i am in the plant, when i walk in the office where it is quiet, they can hear me coming.
Owned for 2 months now. As an HVAC tach I typically walk 8000-12000 steps a day. And I have been in the habit of slipping shoes on and off for years, these shoes easily allow me to do. If you like shoes to be tight fitting these may not be for you. Or they could if you replace the bungee lace with normal shoe laces. I like the bungee lace for easy on/off slippage though.I gave it a 3 star for water resistance and I want to explain. About lower half of shoe is solid water resistant if not water proof! The upper half is not at all whatsoever. It is very breathable.I walk in wet grass all the time and my socks are always nice and dry. But if I get the top breathable portion wet at all it may easily get my sock a little wet.I just hope these last. If I can get more than a year out of them I will def repurchase. Very very comfy.Also fwiw I always double up on insoles cuz my feet are a little flat and I need double support. They are very comfy for long periods.
I'm amazed at how expensive these shoes are when there are so many other better options out there for way less. I ended up going for a $30 steel toe sneaker and I'm glad I did. These shoes are made of very rigid material all around, so they are very uncomfortable to wear and it digs into your heels and ankles. They are also incredibly heavy. Other steel toe shoes are much lighter. After wearing them for just a minute I decided to send them back. Definitely not worth it. I can't even imagine how they'd feel after a days work.
The shoes are very comfortable. And they look great