Keen’s Popular Work Boot Just Got Turned Inside Out, Literally
The uncharacteristically fashion-forward collab gives off serious Dr. Martens vibes.
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Keen's undeniable calling cards are its Newport sandals and burly hiking shoes . But the Portland-based footwear brand has a serious workwear side as well.
Enter the Evanston, a work boot introduced in 2024 that blends traditional jobsite protection with athletic shoe comfort. Available in several configurations, the original pairs a carbon fiber safety toe with waterproofing and a Keen.ReGen midsole that the brand says can return up to half the energy expended with each step.
Keen teams up with French footwear designer Phileo on an unusual take on its Evanston work boot. - Credit: Keen
Now, however, the Evanston is getting a decidedly less conventional makeover. For Fall/Winter 2026, Keen has teamed up with an avant-garde footwear designer to turn the work boot's utilitarian foundation into a design statement.
The new edition turns the original inside out, literally putting normally hidden details on the outside, such as the toe cap and heel counter. - Credit: Keen
Inside out
In tandem with French label Phileo, the limited-edition rework takes an inside-out approach, incorporating its protective toe, heel structure and composite elements into the overall aesthetic rather than hiding them underneath the leather.
There's also a botanical design embroidered on the inside, revealed when folded down. - Credit: Keen
The soles of the boots are pre-dirtied, as though they've already spent time at the jobsite. - Credit: Keen
There's even a botanical illustration hidden on the reverse side of the leather, revealed when the boot's collar is folded down. It's an unexpected twist on the work boot and instantly reminded me of something from Dr. Martens .
The premium leather comes from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries, while Keen's Eco Anti-Odor treatment uses natural probiotics to combat the inevitable foot stench. Importantly, the makeover doesn't abandon the Evanston's utilitarian roots. The Phileo edition retains the roomy forefoot, along with a rugged, high-traction outsole that's been known to be quite versatile.
Reminiscent of Dr. Martens boots, the new Evanston opts for a glossy black upper instead of the rugged skins usually put on the boot. - Credit: Keen
Unlike the standard Evanston, which comes in conventional workwear shades such as brown or a rugged all-black, the collaboration takes a more unique approach. While its upper is still finished entirely in black, it's a much glossier texture than we're used to (again, the Dr. Martens reference). Also, exposed stitching and Phileo's signature red flag provides contrast on the upper.
However, the most interesting touch is the pre-dirtied soles, which looked authentic at first glance, as though these boots had already been in use on the jobsite.
Available November 5, the boots will have a $355 price tag. - Credit: Keen
Price and availability
The Evanston Phileo Edition will go on sale November 5 from Keen's website. It's priced at $355.
The duo also collaborated on the Providence Clog ($210) and the Targher Shoe ($225) with the same aesthetics.
Keen x Phileo Evanston Boot
About the Author: Ethan Brehm is an associate editor at Gear Patrol writing about footwear, watches, spirits, EDC and more. When he's not shopping for his next G-Shock, he spends his time watching movies and planning a future road trip with his family. He firmly believes CDs sound better than vinyl.
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