Non-Metallic Toe Boots
Whether you work at a construction site or machine shop, safety is a top priority. Safety footwear can be your best defense against falling or piercing objects and electrical hazards, as well as against slips, trips, and falls — a leading cause of workplace injury. Whether you’re a carpenter, fulfillment specialist or crane operator, KEEN Utility makes a variety of safety footwear that provide different levels of protection for the work that you do.
When you think of safety toe footwear, the classic steel toe boot probably comes to mind. But a steel toe isn’t your only option. Work boots made with non-metallic safety toes are lighter in weight and offer comparable protection against worksite hazards. Depending on the work you do and the environment at your jobsite, non-metallic toe boots may be the right choice for you.
What are non-metallic toes?
KEEN Utility makes two types of non-metallic toe boots: carbon safety toe boots and composite toe boots.
Made of exceptionally strong and durable carbon, carbon toes are 15% lighter in weight than steel toes. Their lightweight, unobtrusive fit is ideal for long days on your feet.
Composite toes are also 15% lighter than steel toes. They’re a good choice for working in extremely high or low temperatures because of their low thermal conductivity. Keep in mind that upon heavy impact, composite toe work boots may not show a dent like aluminum or steel toe boots, but the material may have cracks. In this case, the boots must be replaced as the protection will be ineffective.
Pro Tip: KEEN Utility boots are designed with asymmetrical toe protection, which means that each toe cap is designed to fit your left foot and your right foot, respectively. This protects the big toe all the way over to the little toe.
Why non-metallic toe boots?
They meet OSHA requirements.
Our safety footwear meets or exceeds applicable ASTM testing standards.
They offer lightweight protection.
If you work on a construction site where falling bricks, lumber, tools, or heavy equipment are a potential hazard, you know you need safety protection. But when you’re on your feet all day, every ounce matters. Non-metallic boots are lighter in weight than steel toe boots and offer the safety protection your job requires.
They don’t set off metal detectors.
When you pass through metal detectors as part of your job, you don’t have time to take your boots off a dozen times a day. Non-metallic toe boots are airport-friendly and an ideal choice for security staff, baggage handlers, and aircraft mechanics.
Which non-metallic toe boot is right for me?
Non-metallic work boots from KEEN Utility come in a variety of styles and have different safety features to meet the requirements of your jobsite. An oil- and slip-resistant outsole comes standard with every pair to help ensure reliable footing when you’re climbing ladders or scaffolding, or working on uneven ground in all kinds of weather. Check out the guide below to find the pair that’s best for you.
If you’re looking for all-purpose versatility, look no further than the men’s Kansas City Mid waterproof boot. A synthetic and textile upper with a KEEN.DRY membrane is waterproof and breathable. KEEN.ReGEN midsole cushioning returns 50% energy with every step. For carpenters, plumbers, and others who spend a lot of time kneeling, bending, or crawling, KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology allows the boot to flex up to 3x easier. A multipurpose outsole with deep lugs means the boot works well on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, wet asphalt, or soft mud.
“Firefighter for over 20 years and needed a replacement station boot. It is by far the most comfortable boot out of the box I have ever worn!” — Shane
When your job keeps you outside on hot summer days, the breathable canvas construction of the men’s Roswell Mid work boot helps keep feet cool and dry. A unique fold-over collar lets you customize the fit to adapt to changing conditions. The KEEN.ReGEN midsole provides 50% energy return with every step to keep you feeling light on your feet all day. It’s a solid choice for landscaping, carpentry, roofing, or trucking.
“Really sweet boots. I have been wearing them daily for landscaping and construction. I wear the sides up, obviously. Super comfy and lightweight.” — Wolly
For a durable work boot with the fit and feel of a sneaker, try the men’s Red Hook waterproof boot. They’re built on our KEEN.ReGEN midsole, which provides 50% energy return with every step and propels you through your workday. An oil- and slip-resistant outsole lets you move confidently on stairs, scaffolding, or wet surfaces. A full grain leather upper with TecTuff® abrasion-resistant panels comes equipped with a KEEN.DRY waterproof and breathable membrane to keep feet dry when the job takes you outside.
“I own and operate a building inspection company. I've thrown so many miles and materials at these shoes and they have handled it all beautifully. Whether it’s walking on slick rubber TPU membranes, concrete warehouses floors, or asphalt shingle roofs, these shoes have never, ever let me down.” — David F.
If light weight is your top priority, the men’s Vista Energy shoes go all in with an athletic fit and feel. The secret is the lightweight KEEN.ReGEN midsole, which delivers 50% energy return with every step. An easy-to-wear low cut, a breathable mesh upper, and our KonnectFit heel-capture system, which keeps the fit secure no matter how you move, makes these sneakers the ideal choice for long hours of standing or logging some serious miles.
“I work in a paper mill maintenance department. I go from an office environment into some of the worst places in the mill and I constantly walk on cement floors. This shoe can pass as good-looking footwear in the office and still be tough enough to keep my feet supported through all the areas I have to travel to every day.” — Mark
For the hardworking tradeswomen out there, we recommend the women’s Dover 6” waterproof boot. Splash through icy puddles at the construction site or work through the rain on a road-paving crew. The leather upper with a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane can handle it all. Plus, it’s part of the American Built collection, which is made in Portland, Oregon, using responsibly sourced materials from around the world. If you’re looking for a waterproof boot with a wedge outsole, try the women’s Cincinnati 6” waterproof boot.
“The Dover 6” boot is wonderful. Lighter weight than the work boots they're replacing, secure on the heel with really good padded support on the ankle, roomy in the front. The heel-catch is really nice, as I am frequently up and down ladders or walking rebar cages. Comfortable just out of the box with the shoe's own insole.” — Devin
“The support you get in the Cincinnati boot is phenomenal! I’ve gone into mud up to the top of the laces, with no leaks! Rinse the boots off and they look like new again. These are so dang comfortable. I wear these all day long on a farm. You can’t beat them.” — Jenn
If non-metallic toe boots aren’t right for you, check out our aluminum toe, steel toe or soft toe work boots. With such a wide array of work boots and shoes to choose from, you’re sure to find a pair that will feel good, look good, and meet your job’s safety requirements.