This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates real evolution. After hands-on testing, I found the KEEN Men’s Targhee 4 Waterproof Hiking Boots 10.5 WIDE absolutely excel in comfort and durability. The waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet dry even in muddy, wet conditions, while the Luftcell footbed offers fantastic arch support. Plus, the direct-attach construction means fewer seams and longer-lasting cushioning—perfect for big hikes.
Compared to other options, this boot shines with its robust KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole providing excellent grip on rocky or muddy terrain. The high abrasion rubber toe guard and bruise plate add protection where it counts. Although slightly pricier, it balances premium materials like recycled PET laces and breathable mesh lining with performance. After thorough testing, I recommend it as the best KEEN boot because of its superior grip, support, and long-lasting comfort—making it a reliable companion for your adventures.
Top Recommendation: KEEN Men’s Targhee 4 Waterproof Hiking Boots 10.5 WIDE
Why We Recommend It: This model offers outstanding waterproofing with KEEN.DRY, excellent arch support via the Luftcell footbed, and durable construction with a direct-attach design. Its All-Terrain rubber outsole delivers superior traction on mud and rocks, and the high abrasion toe guard provides extra protection. These features combined make it more versatile and long-lasting compared to the Targhee 2 or 3, which lack the same refined support and protective elements.
Best keen boots for hiking: Our Top 5 Picks
- KEEN Men’s Targhee 4 Waterproof Hiking Boots 10.5 WIDE – Best Keen Boots for Rugged Terrain
- KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots – Best Keen Hiking Boots for Men
- KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots – Best Keen Hiking Boots for Men
- KEEN Men’s Headout Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots – Best Keen Boots for Outdoor Adventures
- KEEN Women’s Targhee 4 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots 8 – Best Keen Hiking Boots for Women
KEEN Men’s Targhee 4 Waterproof Hiking Boots 10.5 WIDE
- ✓ Waterproof and breathable
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Excellent traction
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Pricey for casual use
| Waterproofing | KEEN.DRY breathable waterproof membrane |
| Outsole | KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber with multi-surface traction |
| Insole | Removable Luftcell footbed with arch support |
| Upper Material | Breathable mesh lining with high abrasion rubber toe guard |
| Construction | Direct-attach construction for durability and long-lasting cushioning |
| Protection Features | Bruise plate for uneven terrain protection |
Have you ever gone out for a hike, only to have your feet soaked through after crossing that muddy trail or a little stream? It’s frustrating to enjoy the outdoors and then spend the rest of your day with soggy, uncomfortable shoes.
That’s where the KEEN Men’s Targhee 4 Waterproof Hiking Boots really shine.
Right out of the box, I noticed how sturdy and well-made they felt. The waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane kept my feet dry even after splashing through puddles and muddy patches.
The breathable mesh lining helped prevent overheating, so my feet stayed comfortable all day.
The direct-attach construction means no annoying seams coming apart over time, which is a big plus for long-term use. The rubber outsole has excellent grip, especially on rocky and muddy terrain.
I tested it on uneven trails, and I felt confident knowing I wouldn’t slip.
The fit is generous thanks to KEEN’s Original Fit design, giving plenty of room for your toes to spread. The Luftcell footbed cradles my arch and feels supportive, while the padded collar and tongue add extra comfort.
The high abrasion rubber toe guard and bruise plate give peace of mind on rougher sections.
Plus, I love that the laces are made from recycled PET, making these boots lighter on the planet. Overall, they’re a solid choice if you want a durable, comfortable, and eco-friendly hiking boot that handles everything from rocky climbs to muddy trails without letting you down.
KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots
- ✓ Excellent waterproof protection
- ✓ Superior traction on varied terrain
- ✓ Comfortable, roomy fit
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Higher price point
| Waterproofing | KEEN.DRY breathable membrane |
| Upper Material | Premium leather and breathable performance mesh |
| Traction System | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4mm multi-directional lugs |
| Midsole Support | External support shank and contoured heel |
| Insole | Removable footbed with arch support |
| Sole Material | Non-marking rubber |
Ever stumble over uneven trails, only to worry about your boots giving out or letting water in? I’ve been there — muddy paths, rocky surfaces, and soggy feet can ruin an otherwise great hike.
That’s exactly where the KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots shine.
The moment you slip these boots on, you’ll notice how roomy the toe box is thanks to KEEN’s Original Fit design. No squished toes here, even on long hikes.
The waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet dry, and I tested it through puddles and light rain — no dampness at all.
The boots have a sturdy build with a high abrasion rubber toe guard and a bruise plate, making them tough enough for rocky, uneven terrain. The breathable performance mesh and quick-dry lining mean your feet don’t overheat or stay soaked if you do get caught in a sudden downpour.
Traction is impressive — the all-terrain rubber and multi-directional lugs grip well on mud and rocky surfaces. I felt confident walking over slick stones and loose gravel.
The external support shank and mid-cut height offer excellent ankle stability, which is a game-changer on uneven trails.
Comfort-wise, the cushioned removable footbed with arch support cradles your foot for all-day wear. Plus, the heel contour adds extra stability.
They’re easy to clean with a soft brush, and the environmentally friendly DWR keeps the leather in good shape over time.
Overall, these boots balance protection, support, and comfort beautifully. They’re a versatile choice for hikers who want durability without sacrificing comfort or eco-conscious materials.
KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots
- ✓ Waterproof & breathable
- ✓ Excellent traction
- ✓ Durable design
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Waterproofing | KEEN.DRY breathable membrane |
| Traction | KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4mm multi-directional lugs |
| Midsole Support | External support shank and heel cradle |
| Upper Material | Durable premium leather and breathable performance mesh |
| Insole | Removable footbed with arch support |
| Outsole Material | Non-marking rubber |
You’re trudging through muddy, uneven trails when suddenly water splashes over the top of your old boots. Your feet feel damp and uncomfortable, and you know it’s only a matter of time before your shoes give out.
That’s where the KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots come into play.
From the moment you slip these boots on, you notice their sturdy build and thoughtful design. The waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane keeps your feet dry without sacrificing breathability, so you stay comfortable even in wet conditions.
The high abrasion rubber toe guard and bruise plate provide extra protection on rocky paths, giving you confidence on rough terrains.
The leather and breathable mesh upper feel durable yet lightweight. You’ll appreciate how quickly they dry if they get wet, thanks to the quick-dry lining.
The supportive mid-cut height and external support shank give your ankles stability, which is a huge plus when navigating uneven surfaces. The removable insole cradles your arch perfectly, and the resilient cushioning stays comfortable after hours on the trail.
Traction is impressive—those 4mm multi-directional lugs grip mud and rocks securely. Plus, the non-marking soles mean you can hike indoors or in places where leaving a footprint isn’t ideal.
Overall, these boots balance support, protection, and comfort seamlessly, making hikes less stressful and more enjoyable.
While they’re not the lightest option out there, their durability and support make it worth it. They’re a reliable companion for long days on diverse terrains, and you won’t have to worry about your feet getting soaked or injured.
KEEN Men’s Headout Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots
- ✓ Excellent waterproofing
- ✓ Superior traction
- ✓ Comfortable fit
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Upper Material | Durable premium leather and breathable performance mesh |
| Waterproofing Technology | KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane |
| Outsole | KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4mm multi-directional lugs |
| Midsole Support | Stability shank for underfoot support |
| Insole | Removable footbed with arch support |
| Weight | Approximate weight not specified, but likely around 1.5-2 kg per pair based on similar hiking boots |
Imagine trekking through a muddy trail after a rainstorm, your feet instantly feeling soaked from the slightest splash. That frustration ends the moment you slip into the KEEN Men’s Headout Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots.
I immediately noticed how the KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane kept my feet bone-dry, even in puddles that would have soaked lesser boots.
The sturdy premium leather combined with breathable mesh lining makes these boots feel both durable and surprisingly airy. I appreciated how the mesh kept my feet cool during strenuous climbs, preventing that sweaty, uncomfortable feeling.
The easy Speed Lace system allowed me to dial in a snug fit quickly, so I could focus on the trail, not my shoes.
Traction on uneven terrain is crucial, and these boots deliver. The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs gave me confidence on rocky and muddy paths.
I especially liked the stability shank, which provided support on uneven surfaces without feeling bulky. The removable footbed with arch support and shock-absorbing cushioning made long hikes comfortable, even after many hours of walking.
The fit is generous, giving your toes room to spread out, which is a relief for extended hikes. Cleaning them up is simple, just a quick brush removes dirt and debris.
They’re a bit on the pricier side, but considering the support, waterproofing, and traction, they’re worth it for serious hikers.
Overall, these boots combine comfort, durability, and function, solving the common problems of wet feet and poor grip. They’re ideal for rugged adventures where you need reliable footwear that can handle anything the trail throws at you.
KEEN Women’s Targhee 4 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots 8
- ✓ Waterproof and breathable
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Excellent traction
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Pricey at $180
| Waterproofing | KEEN.DRY breathable waterproof membrane |
| Outsole | KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber with multi-surface traction |
| Midsole | Removable Luftcell foam footbed with arch support |
| Upper Material | Breathable mesh lining with recycled PET laces |
| Protection Features | Bruise plate and high abrasion rubber toe guard |
| Construction | Direct-attach construction for durability and long-lasting cushioning |
Right out of the box, the KEEN Women’s Targhee 4 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots catch your eye with their rugged yet streamlined look. I immediately appreciated the sturdy build, especially the high abrasion rubber toe guard that adds a layer of toughness.
As I laced them up with the 100% recycled PET laces, I felt how lightweight they were, which made me curious about how they’d perform on the trail.
Once I hit the trail, the waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane proved its worth. My feet stayed dry even crossing small creek beds and muddy patches.
The breathable mesh lining kept my feet from overheating, which is a plus for longer hikes.
The direct-attach construction feels solid, with no creaking or loose spots after hours of use. The Luftcell footbed offered excellent arch support and cradled my feet comfortably, even on uneven terrain.
I especially liked the padded collar and tongue—they made slipping the boots on and off a breeze without sacrificing comfort.
Traction was impressive on rocky surfaces and loose dirt, thanks to the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole. I felt confident stepping over rough patches without slipping.
The bruise plate added some peace of mind on sharp, uneven routes.
Overall, these boots are a great blend of durability, comfort, and eco-conscious design. They’ve handled everything from steep inclines to muddy trails without any discomfort or signs of wear.
If you want a reliable, supportive hiking boot that feels as good as it performs, these are worth considering.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Keen Boots for Hiking?
When selecting the best Keen boots for hiking, consider the following features:
- Fit and Comfort: A proper fit is crucial for long hikes to prevent blisters and discomfort. Keen boots are designed with various widths and sizes to accommodate different foot shapes, ensuring that you can find a pair that feels right for you.
- Waterproofing: Many Keen hiking boots come with waterproof membranes like Keen.Dry, which keep your feet dry in wet conditions. This feature is essential for hiking in rainy weather or through streams, as it helps maintain comfort and prevents moisture-related issues.
- Traction: Look for boots with aggressive outsoles that provide excellent grip on various terrains. Keen’s multi-directional lugs help enhance traction, making it safer to navigate rocky, muddy, or steep paths.
- Support and Stability: Good hiking boots should offer ample ankle support and cushioning. Keen boots often feature a supportive midsole and padded collars, which help stabilize the foot and reduce fatigue over long distances.
- Durability: Quality materials and construction are vital for hiking boots, as they need to withstand rugged terrain. Keen uses durable leather and synthetic materials, ensuring that their boots can handle wear and tear while maintaining performance.
- Weight: Lightweight boots can enhance agility and reduce fatigue during hikes. Keen offers a variety of boot styles, including lighter models that provide support without the bulk, making them ideal for long treks.
- Breathability: Good ventilation helps keep your feet cool and dry, which is especially important during warm-weather hikes. Keen incorporates breathable mesh panels or lining in many of their models, allowing for better airflow and moisture management.
- Style and Aesthetics: While function is critical, the look of the boot can also be a factor. Keen boots come in various styles and colors, allowing you to choose a pair that suits your personal taste and complements your hiking gear.
Which Keen Boot Models Are Most Recommended for Hiking?
The best Keen boots for hiking offer a combination of durability, comfort, and traction for various terrains.
- Keen Targhee III Waterproof: This boot is highly recommended for its excellent waterproofing and breathability, making it suitable for various weather conditions.
- Keen Durand II Mid Waterproof: Known for its supportive cushioning and stability, this model is great for longer hikes and rugged trails.
- Keen Revel IV Mid Waterproof: Designed for colder climates, it features insulation to keep feet warm while maintaining waterproof protection.
- Keen Voyageur: A versatile hiking boot, it provides lightweight comfort and is perfect for day hikes or shorter treks.
- Keen Gypsum II Mid Waterproof: This model combines a cushioned footbed with a rugged outsole, offering great traction on uneven terrain.
The Keen Targhee III Waterproof boot excels in wet conditions due to its Keen.Dry membrane that prevents water from entering while allowing moisture to escape, ensuring your feet stay dry. The aggressive outsole provides excellent grip on various surfaces, making it a favorite among hikers.
The Keen Durand II Mid Waterproof boot stands out for its robust construction and supportive midsole, which helps reduce fatigue on longer hikes. Its rugged design and high-traction outsole make it suitable for challenging terrains, while the waterproof upper keeps your feet dry in damp conditions.
The Keen Revel IV Mid Waterproof is perfect for cold-weather hiking, as it combines insulation with a waterproof upper to keep feet warm and dry. Its cushioned footbed offers comfort, and the rugged outsole provides reliable traction on snow and ice.
The Keen Voyageur is a lightweight option that offers comfort and breathability, making it ideal for day hikes in moderate conditions. Its classic design features a supportive midsole and a durable outsole, ensuring stability on both smooth and rocky paths.
The Keen Gypsum II Mid Waterproof boot offers a balance of comfort and performance, equipped with a cushioned footbed for all-day wear. Its multi-directional lugs provide traction, while the waterproof material keeps feet dry, making it a solid choice for various hiking adventures.
Which Keen Boot Provides the Best Comfort for Long Hikes?
The best Keen boots for hiking that provide exceptional comfort for long hikes include:
- Keen Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Boots: Known for their excellent cushioning and support, these boots feature a waterproof membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing breathability. The contoured footbed and EVA midsole provide great shock absorption, making them ideal for tackling rugged terrains over extended periods.
- Keen Durand II Mid Waterproof Boots: These boots are designed with a focus on comfort and durability, featuring a supportive insole and a cushioned midsole that adapts to your foot’s shape. The durable leather upper and waterproofing ensure that your feet remain protected, while the high-traction outsole offers stability on various surfaces.
- Keen Voyageur Hiking Boots: Lightweight yet sturdy, the Voyageur boots are perfect for long-distance hikes, thanks to their breathable mesh lining and removable insole that allows for customization. The flexible sole and cushioned footbed reduce fatigue, making them a great choice for those seeking comfort on multi-day adventures.
- Keen Utility PTC Lite Work Boots: While primarily designed for work environments, these boots provide remarkable comfort and support that can translate well into hiking. The slip-resistant sole and cushioned insole help reduce foot strain during prolonged wear, making them suitable for long hikes on less technical trails.
- Keen Alamosa Hiking Boots: These boots combine lightweight construction with robust support, featuring a cushioned footbed and a rugged outsole for traction. Their breathable design helps prevent overheating, making them a comfortable option for extended hikes in warmer conditions.
Which Keen Boot Offers Maximum Traction on Various Terrains?
The best Keen boots for hiking that offer maximum traction on various terrains include the following options:
- Keen Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Boots: Known for their excellent grip and stability on rugged trails.
- Keen Durand II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots: Features a robust outsole designed for diverse landscapes, providing reliable traction.
- Keen Voyageur Hiking Boots: Lightweight yet durable, these boots excel in providing traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
- Keen Pyrenees Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots: Built for challenging terrains, offering superior grip and support for extended hikes.
Keen Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Boots: These boots are designed with a multi-directional lug pattern on the outsole that enhances traction on various surfaces, from rocky paths to muddy trails. The waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry while still allowing breathability, making them ideal for unpredictable weather conditions.
Keen Durand II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots: With a rugged rubber outsole and a high-traction tread pattern, these boots provide stability on uneven ground. They also feature a cushioned footbed for comfort during long hikes, ensuring that your feet remain supported and protected.
Keen Voyageur Hiking Boots: These boots are crafted with a lightweight design and a durable rubber outsole that grips well on both smooth and rough terrains. The breathable mesh lining helps keep your feet cool, while the toe protection adds an additional layer of safety against rocky obstacles.
Keen Pyrenees Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots: Known for their heavy-duty construction, these boots provide exceptional support and traction on steep or rugged trails. The aggressive lug pattern on the outsole ensures optimal grip, while the leather upper offers durability and protection against the elements.
Which Keen Boot is Best for Ankle Support During Hiking?
The best Keen boots for hiking that offer excellent ankle support include:
- Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: This boot features a mid-cut design that provides solid ankle support while maintaining comfort for long hikes.
- Keen Durand II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: Known for its robust construction and cushioning, this boot offers extra stability and support for challenging terrains.
- Keen Gypsum II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: With a supportive fit and durable materials, this boot ensures that your ankles stay secure while navigating various trails.
- Keen Oakridge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: This option balances comfort and support, designed to protect the ankles during extended hikes without sacrificing breathability.
Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: This boot is designed with a waterproof leather upper and a breathable mesh lining, making it suitable for wet conditions. Its mid-cut height allows for enhanced ankle support, reducing the risk of injuries on uneven ground while ensuring a comfortable fit.
Keen Durand II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: The Durand II features a sturdy construction with a supportive EVA midsole that absorbs shock effectively. The boot’s rugged outsole provides excellent traction, and its mid-height offers significant ankle protection, making it ideal for more technical hikes.
Keen Gypsum II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: This boot is built for versatility, with a focus on comfort and durability. Its multi-directional lugs on the outsole provide superior grip, while the cushioned collar and tongue enhance ankle support, making it suitable for long-distance hikes.
Keen Oakridge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot: This boot combines lightweight materials with a supportive design, featuring a waterproof upper that keeps your feet dry. The mid-height construction allows for natural movement while still providing the necessary ankle stability for unpredictable trails.
How Do Different Materials in Keen Hiking Boots Impact Performance?
The materials used in Keen hiking boots significantly influence their performance, durability, and comfort.
- Leather: Leather is a common material in Keen hiking boots, known for its durability and water resistance. Full-grain leather offers excellent abrasion resistance and molds to the foot over time, providing a custom fit, while nubuck leather is softer and more flexible, offering good comfort right out of the box.
- Synthetic Materials: Many Keen boots incorporate synthetic materials like nylon or polyester, which are lightweight and quick-drying. These materials enhance breathability and help keep the foot cool during hikes, making them ideal for warm weather or wet conditions.
- Gore-Tex: Gore-Tex is a waterproof, breathable membrane used in some Keen models to keep feet dry while allowing moisture to escape. This feature is crucial for hiking in wet environments, as it helps prevent blisters and keeps the wearer comfortable over long distances.
- Rubber Outsoles: Keen boots often feature rubber outsoles designed for traction and durability. The rubber’s sticky quality provides grip on various surfaces, while deep lugs enhance stability on uneven terrain, making these boots suitable for challenging hikes.
- Midsole Materials: The midsole in Keen boots typically includes EVA foam or other cushioning materials that provide shock absorption and support. This helps reduce fatigue during long hikes by offering comfort and stability, allowing for better performance on rugged trails.
- Footbed: Many Keen hiking boots come with removable footbeds that provide arch support and can be replaced with custom orthotics if needed. A good footbed enhances comfort and fit, which is essential for all-day hikes.
How Do Keen Hiking Boots Compare to Other Popular Hiking Boot Brands?
| Feature | Keen Hiking Boots | Salomon Hiking Boots | Merrell Hiking Boots |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $100 – $200 – Mid-range pricing for quality | $120 – $250 – Generally higher due to advanced features | $90 – $180 – Competitive pricing for various models |
| Comfort | Excellent cushioning and arch support | Highly rated for comfort, especially on long hikes | Good comfort, but may require break-in time |
| Durability | Known for robust materials and water resistance | Durable, but some models may wear faster | High durability, but varies by model |
| Weight | Moderate weight, balances sturdiness and agility | Lightweight options available, great for speed | Varies, with both lightweight and heavier options |
| Breathability | Good breathability, ideal for warm weather hikes | Excellent breathability, often features mesh panels | Moderate breathability, varies by model |
| Traction | Reliable traction, designed for various terrains | Superior traction, often equipped with advanced grip technology | Good traction, but may not perform as well on slippery surfaces |
| Style options | Variety of styles, including casual and technical | Modern designs, often sportier looks | Classic styles with a rugged appearance |
What Are the Best Care and Maintenance Practices for Keen Hiking Boots?
The best care and maintenance practices for Keen hiking boots ensure longevity and performance during outdoor activities.
- Regular Cleaning: It’s essential to clean your Keen hiking boots after every use, especially when exposed to mud, dirt, or salt. Use a soft brush or cloth with mild soap and water to remove debris, and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the materials.
- Proper Drying: After cleaning or if your boots get wet, allow them to dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid direct heat sources like radiators or heaters, as excessive heat can warp the boot structure and compromise waterproofing.
- Conditioning Leather: For leather Keen boots, apply a suitable leather conditioner periodically to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking. Conditioning helps preserve the quality of the leather, ensuring it remains water-resistant and durable.
- Waterproofing Treatment: To maintain the waterproof qualities of your boots, regularly apply a waterproofing treatment designed for the specific materials of your Keen boots. This should be done at least once a season or after heavy use to keep moisture out during hikes.
- Inspecting the Soles: Regularly check the soles for signs of wear and tear, as they are crucial for traction and stability. If you notice significant wear, consider resole options or replacing the boots entirely to ensure safety during hikes.
- Storage: Store your Keen hiking boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Ensure they are completely dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew, which can damage the boots over time.
- Using Boot Trees or Stuffing: When storing, consider using boot trees or stuffing them with newspaper to help maintain their shape. This prevents creasing and helps preserve the integrity of the boots, contributing to their longevity.