Review: Mybeerbuzz Highlights The KEEN Utility Liberty 6-Inch Waterproof Work Boot

I spend most of my day, every day, wearing boots. And whether that’s because I’m at work, I’m working in the yard, or even when I’m going out to have a beer, I’m probably wearing boots. With that in mind, I’ve been lucky enough to try out quite a few different styles and brands, but stay tuned as I highlight what has to be one of my all-time favorites.

The brand I’m talking about KEEN Utility, and if that sounds familiar, it’s likely because I reviewed their San Jose 90° boot, and their Red Hook Boots. In both cases I loved the boots for their comfort and features, and today I believe I found a pair of KEEN Utility boots I like even more.

As an avid hiker and backpacker, I’m familiar with KEEN from their hiking and backpacking boots, but you may not know just how good their work boots are. This is where KEEN Utility fits in.

Today I’ll be testing out the KEEN Utility Men’s Liberty 6-Inch Waterproof Carbon Toe Boots and I’ happy to say that right out of the box, they look great…in fact Mrs. BeerBuzz thought that they looked so good on me, she didn’t want me to actually do work in them; instead just wearing them as fashionable boots. Of course I had to do more than just wear them to go out to dinner, but that just shows how good looking these boots are.

As KEEN describes the boots:

New for Fall ‘24, KEEN Utility introduces the Liberty, an American Built work boot with jobsite-classic looks, featuring thoroughly modern comfort and safety. With a workday enhancing fit, product highlights include a Luftcell air-infused midsole for all-day support you can feel, streamlined carbon-fiber safety toe, and comfort from the first wear. KEEN.FUSION construction forms a lasting bond between the upper and sole for a blend of durability and flexibility. The 6” upper, built with extra-thick leather from LWG- certified tanneries, combines high quality with a planet-friendly supply chain. With a heritage of innovation, KEEN Utility’s Liberty is currently available in a waterproof version for men. Traditions evolve with this 6″ American Built waterproof style, featuring our ultra-comfortable fit, premium leather from LWG-certified tanneries, and air-infused midsole support.

Of course I can’t wait to test drive these KEEN boots, so off we go.

The KEEN Utility Liberty boots fit comfortably right out of the box. It’ always a balance with new boots between the need to break them in and the need for comfort, but I can say the KEEN Liberty boots felt comfortable, broken in yet durable as soon as I put them on. KEEN Utility recommends going up a half size, and I’d concur that this worked well for me. The top cuff is soft and the KEEN dry fabric liner not only made the boots more comfortable, but it simply felt great against my socks and feet.

The Liberty boots are waterproof, so of course I had to test them out washing the car, walking through wet grass and even dunking them up to the bottom of the laces in one of the many puddles from the constant rain and flooding in the northeast. In every case, the KEEN Dry Waterproofing kept my feet dry. I also noted that my feet were still able to breath, avoiding the sweating  issues I encounter with many waterproof boots. I should also mention that KEEN accomplishes this without using PFAS or any forever chemicals, which is very important in my mind.

I’ve talked about comfort and waterproofing for casual wear, but what about actually working in the Liberty. Of course this is where the boot really shines with work-related features like LuftCell comfort technology, a Carbon Toe, an oil and slip-resistant sole, a heat resistant outsole, an EH rate sole for electrical workers; they are American built with a KEEN Toughsole, they use barnyard-resistant leather and they even use environmentally preferred leather. This all adds up to a comfortable boot that also feels safe and slip-resistant and is environmentally conscious.

The KEEN Liberty boots are the perfect height at 6-inches, and the leather hook and lacing system allows for easy on and off. I particularly liked the lacing setup with thee eyelets, followed by three hook lugs, followed by one eyelet for a secure, comfortable and easy lacing fit. I don’t typically test the toe protection, but I have every reason to believe the Carbon Toe would protect my toes in a drop-risk work environment.

Finally, I tested out the Liberty on my slippery and wet epoxy garage floor. This is where I compare most boots and where I almost fall most of the time, but the KEEN Liberty boots were perhaps the most slip-resistant boots I’ve ever tried on that floor. Simple walking and even running a bit felt safe, and even when I intentionally tried to slide in the water, they gripped the floor nicely.

Overall I think the KEEN Utility Liberty 6-Inch boots check a LOT of boxes. They’re comfortable, durable, waterproof and loaded with workplace features. So whether you choose to work in them or just wear them casually (or both), you can’t go wrong with this boot.

Be sure to try out the KEEN Utility Liberty boots for yourself, and when you do try them, be sure to let us know what YOU think.  zzubreebym

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