KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 Low Height Alloy Toe ESD Industrial Work Shoes Review
The KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 Low Height Alloy Toe ESD Industrial Work Shoes are specifically designed for those in the automotive industry and other light-duty work environments. These shoes combine style and functionality with non-conductive ESD technology and a breathable mesh upper that prioritizes comfort during long hours on your feet.
Weighing only 13.6 oz per shoe, they are notably lightweight compared to traditional work boots, yet still provide essential protection with their aluminum alloy toes that meet stringent safety standards.
Features
- ALLOY TOE: Asymmetrical aluminum alloy safety toes that weigh 35% less than steel toes.
- TRACTION: Oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsoles designed to enhance grip and reduce surface marking.
- WATER RESISTANT: Moisture-wicking textile lining keeps your feet dry; water-resistant materials help maintain footwear integrity.
- SUPPORT & UNDERFOOT PROTECTION: ESD construction reduces static electricity while providing stability through a TPU shank.
- COMFORT: Incorporates KEEN.ReGEN technology for superior energy return and cushioning.
Pros
- Lightweight design makes them comfortable for all-day wear.
- Effective slip resistance enhances safety on various surfaces.
- Water-resistant materials protect against moisture damage.
- Removable insoles allow for custom fit and easy cleaning.
- ESD compliant, making them suitable for sensitive electronic environments.
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy-duty industrial use.
- Some users may find them slightly narrow due to KEEN's traditional wider form.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | KEEN Utility Sparta 2 | Similar Product A | Similar Product B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toe Type | Alloy | Steel | Aluminum |
| Weight | 13.6 oz | 15 oz | 14 oz |
| Slip Resistance | ASTM F1677 | ASTM F2913 | ASTM F1677 |
| Water Resistant | Yes | No | Yes |
Detailed Review
When it comes to work footwear, safety and comfort are paramount. The KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 excels in both areas, catering particularly well to individuals in less demanding work settings like manufacturing and warehousing. The lightweight aluminum toes not only provide adequate protection but do so without adding unnecessary weight, which is a relief when you're on your feet all day.
One of the standout features is the ESD compliance, which is crucial for industries dealing with sensitive electronics. The breathable mesh upper ensures that your feet remain cool, minimizing sweat build-up thanks to the CleansportNXT technology that combats odor.
Additionally, the non-mutilating design prevents marks on workplace surfaces, a detail often overlooked but appreciated by employers and employees alike. However, while these shoes shine in light-duty scenarios, they may fall short for those needing robust support for heavy-duty tasks.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Lightweight with excellent cushioning from KEEN.ReGEN technology. |
| Safety Features | 4.7/5 | Meets ASTM standards with effective slip resistance and alloy toe protection. |
| Durability | 4.2/5 | Constructed with high-quality materials, though suited for light-duty use. |
| Value for Money | 4.3/5 | Competitive pricing considering the quality and features offered. |
User Reviews
This shoe looks way better in person, the website pictures don't do it justice. So far they have held up well with hard daily use, usually I would have at least one rip by now but nope. And they are SUPER comfortable. I would purchase again for sure.
This is my second pair. When I original bought the first pair, I went to a store and tried one nearly twenty pairs of safety toed tennis shoes. The Keens were the best by far. I have both wide and flat feet. I had worn cheaper steel toed shoes with inserts. They do not even compare to these. No insert required. The toe is aluminum, not steel, which helps to make the shoe even lighter. I will buy another pair once these need to be replaced.
These shoes have served well, and they're comfortable enough, even with my orthotics inserted, but after 9-10 months, the fabric is coming apart on the upper, where the toe bends. The safety toe is good.
I have been an Amazon customer for over 10 years and I have never been compelled to write a review as quickly as this one.These shoes are incredibly confortable. I have no idea how they managed to make work shoes this comfortable. They look pretty nice as well.I always struggle to find good shoes since I have wide feet. I ordered 10 wide and these are actually wide. Most shoes say they are wide, but they still fit me snug. I’m ok with snug running or workout shoes, but not for shoes I will be using walking around a 100,000 square foot warehouse.I have only worn these shoes for 10 minutes and I am loving them. As long as they keep making them like this, I will keep getting these until I retire. Even then, they may be of some use when doing work around the house or on my cars.Thank you Keen for helping me start off 2023 with awesome work shoes.
Perfect fit and super comfortable, box for tours is a great shape also
I bought these shoes for their esd capabilities,they failed within 1 months after Amazon return window. Filed a claim with keen, got a bs reply they just copied and pasted, since it said enter customer name. Saying they don't warranty their esd sole. What the hell they don't cover their key feature of the shoe. Joke never buying from them again
I’m a big guy. 6’3” and 400 pounds. I’m also an automotive technician. My shoes are subject to all kinds of chemicals and other crap. Needless to say, I’m hard on my shoes and hard on my feet. To make matters worse I wear a size 15 and I have very flat feet. I can’t go to the store to try shoes on because the store doesn’t have my size. I have to rely on the internet to buy shoes that almost never even fit me right and then I have to send them back. Every now and then I get lucky and find the golden shoes that just happen to fit my big flat feet right. Then if the shoe seems to hold up to my abuse, I’ll buy the same pair over and over again as I wear them out.I wanted a low top safety toe work slow and tried these. They have an arch that makes the front of my foot (in front of where a normal arch would be) sort of hover and not even make full contact with the sole and also my pinky toes rub on the sides of the toe boxes. I’m not sure what that’s about but I’ve never had that problem in any shoes. I know it’s going to cause blisters. Couldn’t even walk around my yard without foot pain. I rated 3 stars because I know my feet are not the normal.
Lightweight, durable so far only had for 3 months. Most of my keen shoes only last 8 months before lace loop hols start to break and the area where it is ventilated on the shoe starts to rip.