What are the differences between keen work boots vs hiking boots? This post will discuss their features and help you pick the most suitable footwear.
Top Rated Best Budget Keen Work Boots for the money
Top Rated Best Budget Hiking Boots for the money
Keen Work Boots Vs. Hiking Boots: Comparison Table
| Features | Keen Work Boots | Hiking Boots |
| Material | PU or EVA materials like rubber or leather | Mainly rubber and plastic materials |
| Price | Around $100 to $300 on average | Around $50 to $100 on average. |
| Designed for | Working and moving on rocky and rugged surfaces
Keeping you comfortable and safe while working and boosting your productivity |
Protecting your ankles and knees when hiking on off-road and rugged terrains
Optimal for physical activity like walking and hiking |
| Pros | It can resist cold weather, water, moisture, high heat, and shock.
It can protect you better from cuts and pointy objects Higher durability with higher-quality materials used Greater protection for your feet overall |
Higher flexibility and breathability
Suitable for hot weather and doing physical activity Lightweight and more comfortable overall More affordable price Allow you to move around easier |
| Cons | Less flexibility and breathability
Heavier weight Less comfort and ease of movement overall High price |
Less protection for your feet
Prone to cuts, abrasions, heat, and moisture Less durability and shorter lifespan |
What Are The Differences Between Hiking Boots Vs. Work Boots?
Since the two product lines are designed for specific purposes, they possess unique features and qualities. So, what are the advantages of keen work boots over hiking boots?
When should you choose a hiking boot over a keen work boot? How are they different? Follow the section below, and I will show you!
Protection And Durability
KEEN work boots are made of thick and durable materials like rubber and leather, giving them a more classy look and higher durability. Meanwhile, hiking boots feature lightweight and more flexible materials like nylons or polyesters.
Therefore, the protection and durability KEEN work boots bring are far superior to what hiking boots can do. They can resist heat, electrical hazards, cuts, and punctures on the work site effectively.
Meanwhile, hiking boots can wear down or get damaged from these threats.
In addition, the special heel design and the toe protection of KEEN work boots can protect your ankle and feet parts better, giving you more peace of mind.
Unless you use high-quality products, most cheap hiking boots will wear down or deteriorate in quality after a few months. Meanwhile, KEEN work boots can last for years, even if you wear them on a regular basis.
Comfort And Flexibility
The KEEN work boots come with waterproof membranes and thicker materials to provide better protection for your feet and ankles. For this reason, KEEN work boots are usually heavier and less flexible than hiking boots.
Most KEEN work boots feature very lightweight and high comfort, but the hiking boosts are still more comfortable for hiking. They’re made of nylon or polyester material with higher breathability.
Therefore your feet won’t get obstructed and reduce the risk of muscle pain when staying active for many hours.
In addition, the sole purpose of KEEN work boots is to protect your feet from scratches, cuts, and hazards on the work site.
Meanwhile, hiking boots are optimal for hiking tracks and outdoor activities.
They can adapt to different weather conditions better. For these reasons, hiking boots provide higher comfort and flexibility in general.
Price
The average price of KEEN work boots ranges from $100 to $300, depending on their materials and designs. Meanwhile, you can easily find high-quality hiking boots for less than $100.
The high prices of KEEN work boots come from more expensive materials and more complex designs.
However, you also have to pay more for their brand name and recognizability, given that KEEN is a very famous shoe manufacturer.
Therefore, hiking boots are a better choice for your pocket. It doesn’t mean KEEN work boots are bad, but they won’t give the highest value for money.
Hiking Boots Vs. Work Boots: Which One Should You Choose?
In summary, the KEEN work boots possess higher quality and exceed in terms of durability, features, and utility.
They come from a more expensive and durable material, giving a more premium and classy look than hiking boots.
However, the KEEN work boots are significantly more expensive. So, you should consider your usage needs and purposes to make the wisest option.
If you want an affordable product for regular hiking trips, a pair of hiking boots are the best option with higher comfort.
Meanwhile, KEEN work boots are optimized for indoor working with their excellent protection and support.
FAQS
So that is everything you should know before selecting between keen work boots and hiking boots. Here is some additional information related to these two products you may need.
Are Keen Work Boots Good For Hiking?
There are hiking-style work boots from Keen that can give you great comfort and flexibility when hiking. They have a spacious forefoot and snug heel cup to maximize your comfort on rough terrains.
They can also cope well with extreme temperatures in cold places like high mountains, making them a perfect choice for hiking and working.
Can I Wear Hiking Boots As Work Boots?
You can still wear hiking boots when working as long as the working area is not too extreme or dangerous. The hiking boots bring more ease of movement and flexibility, helping you relax and focus more on the job.
However, if your feet are exposed to potential punctures or cuts, a hiking boot doesn’t provide sufficient protection.
Can You Wear Keens For Hiking?
Many Keens are an ideal option for hiking with their supportive footbed, toe protection, and durability outsoles. They bring you great comfort and ankle support on rough and rocky trails.
In addition, the Keen sandals can be hand-washed and hygiened easily, so you can wear them for regular hiking.
Are Keen Boots Good For Work?
Keen also produces excellent work boots with high comfort and protection.
Their work boot products are notorious for their lightweight and slickness without compromising their durability and protection capacity.
What Is Better, Keen Or Merrell?
Both brands produce high-quality footwear with great comfort, durability, and a beautiful appearance. However, Merrell is a better brand if you prioritize durability in the product.
Meanwhile, Keen shoes and footwear are ideal for outdoor activity with a better water-proof capacity.
Are Keen Boots Worth The Money?
Keen boots are significantly costlier than the footwear provided by the other brands. Their products totally deserve the high cost with excellent durability and beautiful appearances.
However, you’ll have to pay more for their brand and recognizability.
What Brand Is Similar To Keen?
Keen is one of the most famous and reliable shoe providers, but they are not the sole option. You can look for products from reputable brands like Merrell, Teva, or Birkenstock as a substitute.
Some mid-end brands like Timberland, Skechers, or LL Bean also provide great products at more affordable prices.
Are Keen Shoes Good For Standing All Day?
Keen shoes are so comfortable that you can stand on them for many hours without getting your feet sore or muscles strained. They are also durable and can withstand pressure for a long period without wearing down.
Are Keen Boots Good On Concrete?
Keen work boots are optimal for indoor working on dry and hard surfaces. Therefore, they are an excellent choice for concrete working sites.
Plus, these boots are immune to water and electrical hazard to give you more peace of mind.
Where Are Keen Work Boots Made?
The Keen work boots distributed in America are manufactured in Portland, Oregon. Therefore they are labeled as “made in the USA” and produced using modern, innovative technologies with adept craftsmanship.
Should You Size Up In Keens?
The Keen shoes may come in the same size while having different fits and heels design. Therefore they may not best fit your feet even when the size matches.
For this reason, it is advisable to go ½ size up from your feet size when choosing a Keen product. Consider sizing up more with shoes that have water resistant membranes.
