KEEN Utility Flint 2 Low Height Leather Soft Toe Work Shoes Review
The KEEN Utility Flint 2 Low Height Leather Soft Toe work shoes represent an evolution of comfort and protection. Crafted with KEEN's innovative REGEN cushioning midsole, these shoes deliver a remarkable 50% energy return with every step you take. The soft toe design, compliant with ASTM F2892 EH standards, ensures that your feet are safeguarded against minor impacts without compromising on flexibility.
Made from durable, water-resistant leather, these shoes not only offer a rugged exterior but also feature a moisture-wicking lining to keep your feet cool and dry throughout the day. Weighing in at 19.05 oz (540 g) per shoe, they strike a balance between lightweight comfort and long-lasting construction.
Features
- SOFT TOE: KEEN.Protect soft toe caps meet or exceed ASTM F2892 EH standards.
- TRACTION: Oil- and slip-resistant, non-marking rubber outsoles for superior grip.
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: KEEN.ReGEN technology provides 50% more energy return than standard EVA foam.
- UNDERFOOT PROTECTION: EH-rated footwear for secondary protection against live electrical circuits.
- ADDITIONAL SAFETY FEATURES: Reflective webbing for visibility and non-mutilating leather upper.
Pros
- Exceptional comfort thanks to KEEN.ReGEN cushioning technology.
- Durable and water-resistant leather construction.
- Good traction with oil-and slip-resistant outsole.
- Removable PU insoles allow for easy replacement.
- Meets safety standards suitable for various light-duty jobs.
Cons
- The soft toe may not provide as much protection as steel-toe alternatives.
- Some users may prefer a heavier build for added durability.
- Limited color options available compared to other models.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | KEEN Utility Flint 2 | Other Comparable Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Toe Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | Yes | Varies |
| Energy Return Technology | KEEN.ReGEN | Brand-Specific Tech |
| Siped Outsole | Yes | Depends on Model |
Detailed Review
The KEEN Utility Flint 2 Low Height Leather Soft Toe work shoes excel in both comfort and practicality. With their focus on providing a hiking-inspired design tailored for work environments, you will appreciate the balance of style and functionality. The inclusion of KEEN.ReGEN technology transforms the experience of wearing safety footwear by minimizing fatigue over extended periods. This is vital for those who spend hours on their feet.
The moisture-wicking lining keeps your feet dry, which is crucial in maintaining overall foot health, especially during hot weather. Furthermore, the presence of a siped outsole enhances traction, reducing the risk of slips on various surfaces, making them ideal for environments like construction sites or auto-manufacturing floors.
While the soft toe design offers reasonable protection, it may fall short for individuals working in more hazardous conditions where reinforced steel-toe boots are necessary. Additionally, the limited color options might restrict those looking for a specific aesthetic. However, for daily tasks in landscaping, general maintenance, or lighter-duty roles, these shoes present a reliable choice.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Exceptional cushioning and lightweight build. |
| Durability | 4/5 | Sturdy materials but may be less durable compared to steel-toed models. |
| Traction | 4.5/5 | Excellent grip on slippery surfaces. |
| Safety Features | 4/5 | Meets necessary safety standards for soft toe footwear. |
User Reviews
I tried this shoe 6 months ago and it was exactly what I needed being on my feet all day. I'm a big guy 350 and wear a 14EE. They are so comfortable I literally wear them almost everywhere everyday. I definitely would recommend to anybody looking for a sturdy comfortable work shoe or a nice shoe for just about anywhere.
I work as a janitor at a gym with showers, a pool, sauna, and steam room. I am frequently getting my feet wet, so I needed shoes that were still comfortable and still breathable, while being somewhat water resistant. These are great, super comfortable, and I used the heck out of them but they lasted a full year, and I'm about to buy a second pair. They also don't leave a mark on wet floors that I just mopped.The thing that wore out first for me was the back of the heel. But it might be because I have a bad habit of pulling the shoes on and off without untying first. It still took almost a full year to happen.
Fit great, look nice and last! Well worth the price.
The only disappointment is the width. I wore them for the first week of work, which is mostly standing and walking. I noticed an improvement in support and overall comfort than the shoes I've been wearing. You can tell just by looking at them, that it's a quality product. They are expensive, but worth it. I thing an insert or orthotic might be beneficial for me, because of having pain issues with my feet.
No issues, long life, comfortable. Very happy with this shoe, fits true to size.
I have never owned a pair of Keen work shoes but decided to purchase a pair when my sketchers wore out. I have had 3 pairs of the sketchers rilar work shoes and each lasted at least 2 years so i was hesitant to venture from them, but I did so any way for a change. At this point I am glad that I did the Keen shoes fit me well they are comfortable and required no break in. They seem to be well built. I will not know how well until I have them for a period of time, but at this point which I have had them a couple of months, they are holding up well. I have even purchase another pair of them, not in the steel toe version, to wear as my everyday shoe at home when working around the house and yard.
This is my second pair of these. I got just around a year out of the first pair, which is pretty good for work shoes for me.What I like about these shoes:They're comfortable and breathable. I work long days and am on my feet a lot. I find that these are easier on my feet and back than some other shoes. They breath well enough that my feet don't sweat excessively.The fit - typical Keen fit, which means a little extra room in the toe area. I'd say the length is normal or average but I like that many Keens give my toes a little room to move without having to step up to an extra wide size. This, while being properly snug in the heel, is very nice.These are slip-resistant, which is a must for me and the work I do.The toe protection is nice. You don't get the crush protection of steel or composite toes but these are mush more comfortable.What I don't like:These are one the heavy side. They aren't like lead weights but anyone who calls them light is smoking some good stuff.Durability or construction is spotty, apparently. My first pair held up great for a year, and I only bought a new pair because I'd worn the tread off the soles, which is not the fault of the shoe. But with my second pair, the entire midsole on each shoe is beginning to separate from the upper after only a few months.I'd rate these 5-stars all day, every day, except for the fact that the soles may be beginning to separate prematurely on my second pair. I'm very concerned that they're going to fall apart soon, because this did not happen to the first pair. I'm deducting just one star for this but time will tell whether these shoes hold up long term.UPDATE: Didn't wear these all winter (not waterproof), and now the left one is falling apart - midsole separating from upper and last, going to be unwearable if I don't glue them or something. Haven't owned this pair nine months yet and probably only wore them daily for about four months, and they're falling apart. Very disappointing because I loved the first pair but I think I'll stick to Merrell for now. Too bad, I like the fit and slip resistance, and the one thing I don't get with Merrell is a slip-resistance rating, but they seem to hold up better. Taking this rating down to three stars, which I think is probably too kind.
My husband is on his feet all day at work, looking for comfort these seem to be working out for him