KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 Low Height Soft Toe ESD Industrial Work Shoes Review
The KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 Low Height Soft Toe ESD Industrial Work Shoes are designed specifically for professionals in the automotive industry. With a soft toe that offers protection against minor impacts, these shoes prioritize comfort and safety without compromising on style. The steel grey and black design gives it a sleek look suitable for various work environments.
Weighing just 13.9 oz (393 g) per shoe, they are lightweight yet sturdy. Made with breathable mesh and a non-mutilating upper, these shoes ensure your feet stay comfortable and protected throughout long working hours. The innovative KEEN.ReGEN midsoles add a layer of cushioning, making them ideal for everyday wear in light-duty tasks across manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution.
Features
- Soft Toe: Asymmetrical KEEN.PROTECT soft toes provide defense against minor impact.
- Traction: Oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsoles enhance grip and meet ASTM F1677 MARK II standards.
- Water Resistant: Moisture-wicking textile lining and water-resistant materials keep feet dry.
- Support & Underfoot Protection: TPU shank adds midfoot support while reducing static electricity build-up.
- Comfort: KEEN.ReGEN technology provides superior energy return and cushioning.
Pros
- Excellent breathability with moisture-wicking properties.
- Lightweight construction minimizes fatigue.
- Slip-resistant outsole enhances workplace safety.
- Eco-friendly materials sourced responsibly.
- Removable insoles allow customization for fit and comfort.
Cons
- Soft toe may not provide sufficient protection for heavy-duty work.
- Limited color options might not appeal to all users.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 | Similar Alternative A | Similar Alternative B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13.9 oz | 14.5 oz | 12.7 oz |
| Toe Type | Soft Toe | Steel Toe | Composite Toe |
| Slip Resistance | Yes | Yes | No |
| Water Resistant | Yes | No | Yes |
| Midsoles Technology | KEEN.ReGEN | Standard EVA | Air Cushioning |
Detailed Review
The KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 Low Height Soft Toe ESD Industrial Work Shoes excel in several key areas. Their comfort is one of their standout features—thanks to the use of KEEN.ReGEN technology, you’ll experience a midsole that absorbs shock effectively, providing you with all-day cushioning. This makes them particularly well-suited for those who spend long hours on their feet.
In terms of safety, the asymmetrical soft toes adhere to ASTM standards, offering adequate protection against minor foot hazards typical in many workplaces. However, if you're looking for more robust protection such as steel or composite toes, you might want to consider alternatives.
The traction provided by the slip-resistant outsoles is another notable benefit. These shoes significantly reduce the risk of slipping on wet or oily surfaces, which can be a common hazard in industrial settings. Furthermore, the water-resistant materials help protect your feet from liquid damage, enhancing the longevity of the footwear.
While they excel in many aspects, it’s important to note that their soft toe design might not suit individuals engaged in heavy-duty roles requiring maximum toe protection. Additionally, the limited color offerings could deter those who prefer more variety in their work attire.
Overall, the KEEN Utility Men's Sparta 2 work shoes are an excellent choice for light-duty work environments where comfort and safety are prioritized. They combine several thoughtful features that cater to the needs of today’s workers—a testament to KEEN Utility's commitment to quality and sustainability.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and support for all-day wear. |
| Safety Features | 8/10 | Meets necessary safety standards but lacks heavier toe protection. |
| Traction | 9/10 | Excellent slip-resistance and grip on various surfaces. |
| Durability | 8/10 | Constructed with durable materials meant to withstand moderate wear. |
| Eco-Friendliness | 9/10 | Utilizes responsibly sourced materials and probiotic technologies. |
User Reviews
Bought these for my boyfriend for work, and he loves them! He’s a server and they’re comfortable and non slip.
I used to wear Keens years ago. They were my go-to work shoe until I started having quality issues with them. I work in a machine shop that doesn’t require safety toes, so I needed something that’s comfortable, durable, and supports my feet comfortably on concrete for long hours. After looking through Amazon, this shoe really stuck with me, so I decided to pull the trigger.Out of the box, I thought the toe boxes were a little snug, but they broke in within a day and loosened up nicely. This will obviously vary based on foot size, but don’t let it discourage you if they seem snug out of the box. There’s no break-in period with these. I’ve never owned a pair of work boots/shoes that broke in this quick.Time will tell how they hold up, but after a week, I’m very impressed with the comfort of these shoes.
My feet are sensitive, can’t stand for long but these make it bearableNot even sketchers keep them from not hurting but surprisingly these do keep them from hurting after 10 hr standing/walking warehouse shiftsOnly downside is I bought purposely for the ESD safe feature but do not test “safe” for me to not wear grounding straps— couldn’t send them back as I sweated in them so
Very light weight and comfortable!
I love the feel and comfort of these shoes. HOWEVER I rated them 1 star because, as has been said before, they are NOT ESD.When I got to work they were rejected high. I put in known good KEEN brand insoles and they still did not pass. I put the insoles back inside my Keen Atlanta Cool 2 and they immediately registered a good ESD test.I wish these worked because they are lighter and more comfortable than the Atlanta Cools. The Atlanta cools are okay but I find that their exterior "lace eyelets" tear through after only a year and the rest of the shoe has lots of life left. So I wanted to try a different pair. Too bad I can't use these in my work environment. Going back immediately.
Great shoe .Fit is perfect. Breathable ,and durable .I work at a retail home store . the blue one !.I,m on my feet all day , and these work sneakers are the perfect combo.Part sneaker , but yet rugged enough to get beat up.
A good lighter weight work shoe. Liked it but I have metatarsalgia and it just didn't provide enough support and cushion. Better than most, but not good enough for me.
I’m a ups driver,and walk 10 plus miles a day. These are the best shoes I’ve used to date!