Whether you’re delivering packages all day or pulling 10-hour shifts around hot machinery, hard work can lead to hot, sweaty feet. Designed for warm weather and active jobs, KEEN Utility’s breathable work boots and shoes keep feet cool and dry during long days of standing, walking, and lifting.
Fit for Hard Work
No matter which pair you go with, know that KEEN Utility work boots and shoes are built with our tried-and-true, hiking-inspired fit. But since you’re working (not hiking), we adapted the fit specifically to meet the demands of the work environment. A spacious toe box offers greater freedom of movement, and a contoured heel cup helps keep your heel supported for all-day comfort and surefootedness.
We also make a fit specifically for the tradeswomen out there. KEEN Utility’s Tradeswomen Tested boots and shoes are created using insights from women across a variety of trades and backgrounds to ensure our footwear stands up to the requirements of hardworking women. To support the distinct biomechanics and foot structure of women’s feet, we’ve created styles with a snugger fit in the heel and a more spacious toe box for added comfort and protection at work.
To find the right breathable work boot or shoe, choose the statement below that fits you best:
Waterproof Work Boots
“I need a rugged, waterproof boot that’s still breathable.”
Landscapers, construction workers, and maintenance specialists know a thing or two about working outside in rainy weather. Long days on wet jobsites are no match for our men’s Lansing Waterproof Mid boot or women’s Lansing Waterproof Mid boot. A KEEN.DRY membrane keeps water out while allowing heat and moisture to escape. The result? Feet that stay cool and dry all day. The boot comes equipped with safety features like an EH-rated outsole and steel toe to meet the demands of tough jobs.
“I have used these for everything: hiking, working in garages and shops, working in warehouses, driving a delivery truck. They are dependable, reliable, comfortable, and breathable.” — Tom
“For his birthday, my son asked for a pair of these shoes. These are the shoes he has worn over the last three years as a mail carrier for the US Postal Service in Ventura, CA. His walking route can be over 14 miles a day and, on occasion, over 31,000 steps. He swears by these for comfort and durability.” — Gary D.
Canvas Work Boots
“I need a durable work boot that’s also lightweight.”
Built for light duty in the warehouse or the wood shop, the men’s Roswell Mid boot is one of the most versatile styles we make. The breathable canvas upper has an adjustable collar that can be turned up for extra ankle support and protection or folded down when the weather gets warm. The lightweight KEEN.ReGEN midsole delivers 50% more energy return with every step than standard EVA foam. The boot is available with a KEEN.PROTECT soft toe or a carbon-fiber toe.
“I've worn boots for work for 20+ years. To me, these are a hybrid of the typical leather work boot and my old jungle boots. The sole is grippy, with beefy lugs and good traction. The canvas construction and air vents provide a cooler feeling than all-leather construction. I found the collar comfortable both up and folded over (the sides snap into place when down).” — Jeff
ESD-rated Work Shoes
“The conditions at my job require footwear with an ESD-rated outsole.”
If your job requires Electro Static Dissipative footwear, our men’s and women’s Sparta 2 ESD sneaker is built with safety in mind, with a lightweight and breathable design that won’t weigh you down. Each pair comes with an Electro Static Dissipative (ESD)-rated outsole constructed to reduce excess static electricity for workplace protection. For a supportive feel that lasts all day long, the KEEN.ReGEN midsole provides 50% more energy return with every step than standard EVA foam, and a nylon shank adds midfoot support. A breathable mesh upper and moisture-wicking lining help feet stay dry in warm working conditions.
“These are super comfortable shoes. I just did a five-day expo event where I was standing all day long and running in and out of a Sprinter van, and these shoes were awesome. Great for long standing days at work.” —Chris
Our men’s and women’s Atlanta Cool II ESD shoe is also a great choice if you’re looking for protective footwear that breathes. A sandal-inspired work shoe that’s ideal for light industrial or warehouse work, it has a leather and mesh upper thar offers the breathability of a sandal and the protection of a leather work shoe. A responsive KEEN.ReGEN midsole keeps you feeling light on your feet, and the steel toe and ESD-rated outsole offer the protection your job requires.
“I've had my steel toes for about one month now and I must say, these are by far the best shoes I have ever had! They are light, extremely comfortable, and well ventilated. My back feels better, my legs aren't as stiff when I get home after 11 hours of continuous standing. I lovvve these shoes!!!” — D.R.
Lightweight Work Sneakers
“I’m looking for the lightest, most breathable work shoes available.”
Sometimes long hours are just part of the job. For those days when you’re on your feet nonstop, we recommend our women’s and men’s Vista Energy sneaker. Cut like an athletic shoe, it has a breathable mesh upper and a KEEN.ReGEN midsole that responds with 50% more energy return with every step than a traditional EVA foam midsole. A KonnectFit heel-capture system keeps the fit secure as you maneuver around pallets or up and down stairs. If you’re looking for the same light weight and breathability in a slip-on design, choose the women’s and men’s Vista Energy Shift sneaker.
“I couldn't be happier with the comfort of these shoes. I can't get over how light they are. Even with the composite toe, they're lighter than my sneakers. I can't recommend them more.” — Matt
“I have plantar fasciitis and am coming off of two knee injuries. Normally I wear boots, but I work 18-hour shifts, and it’s been hard. These shoes meet the safety toe and EH requirements of my job, but are only a couple of ounces heavier than my runners. If you want safe shoes that feel like sneakers, give them a shot!” — GC
With uppers made of airy materials like mesh and canvas, lightweight midsole cushioning, and loads of on-the-job protection, our breathable work boots and shoes are ready for warm days and long shifts. Forget about your feet, forget about the clock, and enjoy your day.
