If you’ve been keeping track of our best work boot recommendations, you’re probably familiar with the Keen Utility Cincinnati boots. Although they set a high bar to match, the Keen Utility Independence work boots show some promise for those who prefer a heeled boot over the Cincinnatis’ wedge. I’ve been wearing them around the shop for the past couple of weeks to help get an idea of what to expect when it comes time to replace your current work boots.
Keen Utility Independence Work Boot Design
- Hiker style
- Full-grain waterproof upper
- Removable polyurethane insole
- Luftcell midsole
- Keen.ToughSole outsole
- Direct attach construction
- Waterproof, breathable membrane
- Nylon stability shank
- 5/8-inch 90° heel
- EH rated
- Non-slip
- Oil and chemical resistant
- Cleansport NXT odor control
The Independence work boot is another hiker-style boot in Keen’s lineup. They’re reminiscent of a logger-style, although with a less-pronounced heel.
Keen designed this boot with a full-grain leather upper and a Keen.ToughSole outsole. As for the Luftcell midsole, it’s directly attached to the boot, creating a strong bond that upgrades the traditional glue (cement) attachment process. It also makes the boot a bit more flexible out of the box than welting.
The Independence line contains five men’s style options. They’re all waterproof, and you can choose between 6-inch and 8-inch heights. They come with either a soft or carbon fiber toe, and you can also choose between standard and insulated. Two of the styles give you the choice between black or brown.
Wearing the Keen Utility Independence Work Boots
Fit
I usually wear a size 12 1/2, it’s a constant struggle to choose between a 12 and 13 when half-sizes aren’t available. With Keen boots, I’ve always chosen to go with the 13, and the fit is exactly what I need. We recommend that you order your normal work boot size; the fit has always been true in our experience.
If you’ve worn Keen’s boots before, the fit is very much the same in all the right ways. The Independence boots have a heel that locks in securely and a midsection that contours appropriately to your foot. On top of that, there’s also plenty of room in the toe box.
Comfort
I’ve been primarily wearing the Keen Independent boots on hard surfaces like concrete and tile. Thanks to the air-infused midsole, I’ve found them to be very comfortable even when worn for long periods.
You’ll also notice this comfort on softer surfaces like grass and dirt. Plus, thanks to the aggressive tread pattern and nylon stability shank, you get a secure footing with a nice grip.
These boots fall somewhere between light- and mid-weight. For the 6-inch carbon fiber toe model, Keen lists the weight as 25.3 ounces per boot. We’ve tested several boots lighter than this and plenty that are heavier.
Keen Utility Independence Work Boot Price
Depending on which style you go with, the price runs from $190 to $210. The 6-inch carbon toe model we reviewed retails for $195.
The Bottom Line
The Independence work boots have the potential to sit alongside Keen’s Cincinnati as one of the best the brand has to offer. They’re comfortable, have a great fit, and offer enough customization options to please most people. Plus, their ability to cross over both hard and softer surfaces makes them a solid medium-duty pick for most work environments.
