KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 Low Height Alloy Toe Industrial Work Shoes Review
The KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 Low Height Alloy Toe Industrial Work Shoes in Sky Captain/Vapor combine comfort, durability, and protective features tailored for light industrial tasks. With a lightweight design weighing just 15.9 oz (per shoe), these shoes are engineered for all-day wear without sacrificing safety. The non-metallic aluminum toe provides superior protection while maintaining a sleek profile.
These work shoes are constructed on KEEN's traditional wider footwear form, ensuring a comfortable fit. The removable insoles allow for customization based on personal preference, making them suitable for various foot shapes. Additionally, the moisture-wicking textile lining enhances comfort by keeping your feet dry during long hours on the job.
Features
- ALLOY TOE: Asymmetrical aluminum alloy safety toes that weigh 35% less than steel, providing a modern look while meeting ASTM safety standards.
- TRACTION: Oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsoles ensure improved traction, compliant with ASTM F1677 MARK II and ASTM F2913 SATRA Non-Slip Testing Standards.
- WATER RESISTANT: Synthetic upper combined with moisture-wicking technology keeps your feet protected from liquids.
- SUPPORT & UNDERFOOT PROTECTION: Electrical Hazard (EH) rated and features TPU shank for midfoot support and stability.
- COMFORT: KEEN.ReGEN technology offers excellent energy return, enhancing overall comfort with a removable insole option.
Pros
- Lightweight design enhances comfort during prolonged use.
- Alloy toe provides ample protection while reducing weight.
- Excellent traction on various surfaces.
- Water-resistant materials extend the life of the shoe.
- Removable insoles allow for customized comfort.
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty industrial tasks.
- Some customers may find the width too spacious.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | KEEN Sparta 2 | Merrell Jungle Moc | Carhartt CMW6220 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alloy Toe | Yes | No | Yes |
| Slip Resistance | ASTM F1677 | Oil Resistant | ASTM F2913 |
| Water Resistant | Yes | No | Yes |
| Electrical Hazard Rated | Yes | No | No |
Detailed Review
The KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 shoes stand out for their remarkable balance of safety and comfort. Whether you are working in manufacturing, warehousing, or assembly lines, the features of this shoe cater well to light industrial demands.
From a safety perspective, the asymmetrical aluminum toe is not only lighter but also meets rigorous ASTM safety standards. This is a significant upgrade compared to traditional steel toes, which can feel bulky. The added benefit of electrical hazard protection ensures you can work confidently around live circuits.
Comfort-wise, the KEEN.ReGEN midsole technology shines through, providing an impressive energy return resulting in reduced fatigue throughout the day. The non-mutilating uppers help maintain the integrity of your work environment by preventing scratches or marks, making this an ideal choice for settings that require utmost care in maintaining surfaces.
While these shoes excel in many areas, it's worth noting they are not designed for heavy-duty tasks. They serve best in light-duty conditions, so if your job requires more robust footwear, seeking alternatives would be advisable. Additionally, some individuals with narrower feet might find the wide fit less snug than desired.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Exceptional comfort due to lightweight design and innovative cushioning. |
| Safety | 4.7/5 | Meets ASTM standards with effective protection features. |
| Durability | 4.0/5 | Constructed with durable materials but less suited for heavy-duty use. |
| Traction | 4.6/5 | Outsoles provide excellent grip on various surfaces. |
| Value for Money | 4.2/5 | Good value considering the comfort and safety offered. |
User Reviews
These are great and comfortable shoes for long hours where safety toe shoes are required. Good craftsmanship , light weight and comfortable for those long days on concrete. In 20 years on a factory floor these are the most forgiving and comfortable safety shoes I have worn.
I work in a dealership as a Diesel Technician for Ford. I work on this shoes 12 hours a day 5 to 6 days a week. They are nice with pants and shorts too. I tried different type of work shoes, boots, and even the ones from those Instagram adds about indestructible shoes, ( those lasted about 7 months and they suck but they were cheap lol). Bought my first pair of KEEN's on April 2021, that pair lasted me 13 months, although the next pair lasted me 7 months only. I just ordered my third pair, I really hope it can last at least the year. From a scale from 1 to 10 I would give it an 8 on being comfortable, a 7 for slip resistant, (most of the time holds pretty well but there has been a few instances where I slipped but thank god never fell), I'm not sure if its water resistant but i never had a concern where water got through, sometimes I wash parts with a pressure washer and never seems to get water inside. It is not Steel toe but I honestly think it's fine, it is not as heavy as a Steel Toe, feels pretty light and it has saved my toes a few times were a tool or a part fell on my feet. They will start tearing from were your foot bends on the toe part as it wears out, also the no slip part will work less as it wears down, the shoe laces when they get oily they will not hold as well, I had to often stop and tie em up again. Overall one of the best shoes for work out there, at least for my type of work. There you go. Update 11/5 This third pair lasted exactly 9 months. From February to November. This is how they look. They still feel comfortable but it's time for the fourth pair.
These are great quality comfortable shoes, but they may not be a good choice if you work on rough surfaces. In less than 3 months of use working on aircraft on hangar floors, I have worn through the toes on both shoes.
Good fit. Nice shoes.. top quality.
I normally wear a size 12 but ended up buying size 13. For me, the 12 was too tight, super comfortable shoe!
I purchased 11 and 1/2 wide but they were too tight in the steel toe area. So I was not able to wear them very long before it got uncomfortable. I would use caution if you feel that they are too tight on your toes because that can cause a bunion. Anyway I decided to cut the steel toes out of them carefully and had to use a pair of snub nose pliers but eventually got them out now they feel great. I will will see if my cuts and prying impacts the long-term longevity of their durability. I know without a doubt Keen makes the most durable sandals I've ever known that last for years and years and years. I just wish they had more wide options available in their sandal selection.
good experience
Bought for someone else for a Christmas gift.Person liked them!