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Kenneth Cole is a classy New York-based brand. Initially, the fashion house designed women’s shoes then diversified into apparel, jewelry, and accessories. Established in the 80s, it wasn’t until 2002 that the company delved into perfumery in collaboration with Coty, a beauty conglomerate.
The fashion brand’s offerings are all steeped in luxury, but its real claim to fame and popularity can be traced back to its penchant for using simple designs with modern styling.
When it comes to colognes, Kenneth Cole has quite a lineup with formulations falling under labels such as Reaction and New York.
However, many people may not know this as the perfumes remain somewhat off the radar. Fortunately, we are here to shine the spotlight on some of the understated gems.
What are the Best Kenneth Cole Colognes for Men?
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Best Overall
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Best for Summer
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Most Stand Out
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Best for Romance
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Best for Active Men
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What Makes Kenneth Cole Colognes Special?
Kenneth Cole colognes are not trailblazers per se, but they are all stylish, contemporary, and of high quality. They also boast distinct, light, and refreshing aromas featuring vibrant aromatic or oriental compositions anchored by woodsy undertones.
Apart from the above, Kenneth Cole fragrances have much more going for them.
- They are relatively affordable
- They’re ideal for any time of day
- Bestsellers are offered as gift sets, which include shampoo and body wash
- They offer decent sillage and longevity (generally last from 4 hours to the entire day)
Structured for men looking to make an impression, these colognes will help you stand out. You’ll find them bold and masculine, sometimes even intoxicating. Get ready to boost your confidence with a spritz or two. (What to do if your cologne doesn’t have a sprayer? Try this.)
In-Depth Best Kenneth Cole Colognes for Men Reviews
Kenneth Cole Black
Kenneth Cole Black Review
Deep, dark, and sexy Kenneth Cole Black for Men shot into the limelight in 2003. A creation of noses Harry Fremont and Sabine De Tscharner, the wildly popular cologne boasts a top-notch formulation that smells incredibly good.
KC Black comes highly recommended for men who consider themselves daring, confident, and stylish. A true classic, it’s the kind of stuff that appeals to most men, age notwithstanding. Moderate intensity, an innate freshness, and an enduring performance are all qualities that add to its deep allure.
Wearing this woody aromatic will ensure you smell good and feel elegant all day. Though dark, the heady mix of exotic spices, herbs, and rich woods is neither heavy nor loud. Besides, water-mint coupled with basil essence infuses the cologne with a fresh effect.
Also, the versatile scent transitions well into the evening and can be worn all year for all occasions, making it a superb candidate for a signature scent.
This endearing cologne is presented in a diminutive cylindrical bottle with bold dark hues emphasizing its masculine aura. The bottle’s minimalistic yet stylish design exudes a certain timelessness, while the fluid within remains undeniably modern.
For optimal results, wear Kenneth Cole Black with the effortless confidence it commands.
Top Notes: Mandarin orange, Basil, Ginger, Water mint
Middle Notes: Exotic woods, Cedar, Lotus, Incense, Nutmeg
Base Notes: Musk, Amber, Violet leaf, Suede
What we liked
- Classically stylish
- The most popular Kenneth Cole fragrance for men
- Delivers 5 to 8 hours of longevity
Kenneth Cole Reaction
Kenneth Cole Reaction Review
Kenneth Cole Reaction came right on the heels of KC Black. Frank Voelkl crafted a refreshing, summery fragrance marked by the zesty fruitiness of citruses paired with woody-musky undertones. It comes off as sensual and, at times, even addictive.
Made for any man who appreciates a fresh, clean, aromatic fragrance, Reaction cologne sets itself apart with its unmistakable manly essence.
The fruity top notes make their presence felt powerfully, making this a daytime, warm-weather scent. Still, the trio comprising lemon, lime, and sour green apple helps tone down the sweetness, preventing the fragrance from becoming cloying.
This composition is ideal for daily wear in most settings, but it’s also appropriate for date nights. And while Reaction EDT isn’t a powerhouse and may require reapplication during the day, you will enjoy smelling the invigorating spray, whether at work or at the gym.
Kenneth Cole Reaction comes in a small, clear glass bottle. The aesthetically pleasing flacon looks outstanding on any grooming table.
Top Notes: Melon, Lemon, Lime, Watermelon, Green apple
Middle Notes: Lily-of-the-Valley, Patchouli
Base Notes: Musk, Sandalwood
What we liked
- Has a pleasant, youthful aroma
- Lasts up to 6 hours with restrained projection
- Excellent for summer or spring day time
Kenneth Cole Vintage Black
Kenneth Cole Vintage Black Review
This Kenneth Cole cologne is an all-time favorite with the unique ability to be noticeable without being obtrusive. Launched in 2009, it was inspired by Kenneth Cole Black but features tequila accords, which help weave a classy flair into the woody formulation.
In this composition, we have fresh and zesty top notes, including green lime and pink grapefruit, dewy greenery, gentle lavender, sandalwood, and dry oak wood. These prime ingredients help create a timeless scent that dries down into a freshness that surrounds you like a halo.
Vintage Black Eau de Toilette is remarkably flexible, fitting effortlessly into both work and play. However, if you want to be more noticeable, try it on at night. Special occasions like weddings or get-togethers with friends or family are also ideal.
This fabulously masculine woody aromatic is worth investing in if you have a strong personality. It will not only leave an enduring impression but also attract nods of approval from all and sundry. Performance is moderate with a pronounced sillage.
Top Notes: Lime, Green notes, Grapefruit
Middle Notes: Tequila, Pepper, Lavender
Base Notes: Sandalwood, Oak
What we liked
- Powerfully masculine evening fragrance
- A classic Kenneth Cole scent
- Has an addictive aroma
Kenneth Cole Mankind Hero
Kenneth Cole Mankind Hero Review
How do you draw attention without being overly assertive? Tricky, right? Now, if you seek to impress a potential mate, look no further than Kenneth Cole’s Mankind Hero.
The contemporary composition contains woody and aromatic accords heightened with succulent fruity notes and herbal accents. Moreover, its intoxicating combination of animalic musk wrapped in oriental spices guarantees you will leave behind a lasting impression without trying too hard.
Mankind Hero captures the exhilarating power of fresh mountain air. Meantime, rich woods dance with sexy black vanilla in a sultry drydown, giving rise to an aroma that will keep you beautifully scented all day.
A perfect scent for any occasion, Mankind Hero will make your special moments unforgettable. It offers an excellent balance between warmth and strength while retaining a freshness that makes people gravitate towards you. No wonder it has a devoted following.
This one is for the hero in you. Wear it to feel like a real man. The bonus is you’ll smell amazing.
Top Notes: Mountain air, Italian lemon, Coriander seeds
Middle Notes: Clary sage, Lavender, Vanilla, Plum wood
Base Notes: Amberwood, White musk, Coumarin, Oakmoss
What we liked
- Irresistibly masculine
- A head turner with a playful edge
- Gives off an air of cool confidence
Kenneth Cole Blue
Kenneth Cole Blue Review
We wrap up with Kenneth Cole Blue Eau de Toilette, another aromatic-styled cologne whose mid notes promise an invigorating journey for the senses. It evokes the feeling of plunging into cool waters on a hot summer day.
Blue cologne comprises unique notes whose aroma makes people curious. Some will wander over to you to enquire what you are wearing.
A quick scan of the scent profile reveals seemingly simple notes, but this is one energizing cologne. Additionally, the fresh, clean aroma that wafts up your nostrils has ample depth from the woodsy accords to keep things interesting.
Kenneth Cole Blue was designed with a sporty, contemporary man in mind. But more than that, this individual exudes a classy attitude that mirrors Kenneth Cole’s quintessential style.
Citruses, marine notes, and subtle woods are the main components of cologne Blue. The fragrance beckons you closer with sparkling citrus chords at the opening, followed by an aromatic core. Finally, a tasteful, manly base featuring warm cedar and amber draws things to a subtle close.
This Kenneth Cole for men came out in 2015, and the perfumer was Mathieu Nardin.
Top Notes: Citruses
Middle Notes: Sea notes
Base Notes: Amber, Cedar
What we liked
- The fragrance concept borrows from the Mediterranean summer
- A classy and refreshing scent
- Has long staying power
Final Thoughts
Kenneth Cole scents promise to make you smell irresistible without needing to part with a fistload of cash, which is great news for newbies and fragrance enthusiasts alike. Moreover, there are options to suit every style, occasion, and mood.
If you are new to this brand but keen to explore, we suggest commencing your search with this list. We have narrowed down to the choicest picks, making it easier for you to make an informed choice.