There’s a moment every hiker dreads. You’re miles from the trailhead, the scenery is breathtaking, but all you can focus on is the searing pain of a new blister forming on your heel, or the relentless pinching of a toe box that’s just a little too narrow. I’ve been there more times than I can count. I remember one trip in the Cascades where my supposedly “waterproof” boots became two personal swamps after an unexpected creek crossing, leading to a miserable, squelching trek back to the car. Another time, a poorly constructed sole began to separate mid-hike, turning a beautiful day into a cautious limp home. These experiences teach you a hard lesson: your hiking shoes are not just gear; they are the single most critical interface between you and the trail. The right pair can make you feel invincible, while the wrong pair can ruin an entire adventure and leave you with painful reminders for days. It’s this quest for the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and protection that leads us to scrutinize every new offering on the market.
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in
- CONSTRUCTION: Direct-attach construction provides long-lasting cushioning and reduces the chance of footwear separating over time, because the best hiking...
What to Demand From Your Next Pair of Hiking Shoes
A hiking shoe is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for navigating the unpredictable challenges of the great outdoors safely and comfortably. It’s your primary defense against rough terrain, sharp rocks, sudden downpours, and the sheer fatigue that comes from thousands of repetitive impacts. The main benefits are clear: superior traction prevents slips and falls, robust construction protects your feet from injury, waterproofing keeps you dry and blister-free, and proper cushioning and support reduce strain on your joints. Without a quality hiking shoe, you risk not only discomfort but also serious injuries like twisted ankles, stress fractures, and painful plantar fasciitis.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who takes their time outdoors seriously, whether they’re a dedicated weekend warrior tackling rugged mountain trails, a tradesperson who spends all day on their feet in varied conditions, or simply an avid walker who needs more support and durability than a standard sneaker can provide. If you have wider feet, suffer from bunions, or have found other brands to be too constrictive, a shoe built on a wider last is a game-changer. Conversely, this type of heavy-duty hiking shoe might not be suitable for those who prioritize ultralight speed above all else, such as trail runners, or for individuals who only engage in light walking on paved paths. For them, a lighter, more flexible trail running shoe or a simple walking shoe might be a better alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Fit & Toe Room: This is non-negotiable. Look for a shoe that matches the shape of your foot. A generous toe box, like the KEEN Original Fit, allows your toes to splay naturally, which is crucial for stability and for accommodating foot-swelling during long hikes. A snug heel is equally important to prevent blisters.
- Waterproofing & Breathability: A waterproof membrane (like KEEN.DRY) is essential for crossing streams or hiking in the rain. However, it must also be breathable to allow sweat vapor to escape. Non-breathable waterproof shoes will leave your feet clammy and prone to blisters, even in dry weather.
- Materials & Durability: The upper material dictates the shoe’s durability and break-in period. Full-grain leather, like that used in the KEEN Targhee 4, is incredibly durable and protective but can be heavier. Construction methods, such as the direct-attach technique, create a stronger, more permanent bond between the upper and the sole, significantly reducing the risk of delamination over time.
- Traction & Outsole: Examine the outsole’s lug pattern. Deep, aggressive, multi-directional lugs are designed to grip mud, gravel, and rock. A high-traction rubber compound, like KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN, is formulated to provide a secure footing on both wet and dry surfaces. A shoe with a built-in “bruise plate” or shank offers extra protection from sharp rocks underfoot.
Keeping these factors in mind, the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Expert Breakdown of the 10 Best Hiking Boots of the Year
- Lightweight 12 L Hydration Backpack: Super lightweight 8.5 oz hydration pack backpack with 2 L water bladder. Waterproof and tear-resistant fabric, PU...
- ESSENTIALS FOR EMERGENCY: Everything you need is in this first aid kit! Our kit includes over 150 professional-grade medical and safety supplies, all kinds...
- Stay cool, fresh and comfortable all day with our lightweight, breathable, water-resistant and quick-dry women's hiking pants.
Unboxing the Targhee 4: Built Like a Trusty Land Cruiser
Pulling the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes out of the box, the first impression is one of substance. This isn’t a flimsy, featherlight shoe that makes you question its longevity. In our Triple Black colorway, the 100% leather upper has a premium, rugged feel, with tight, clean stitching and no signs of excess glue or manufacturing defects. You can immediately see the signature KEEN design language: the wide profile and the formidable, high-abrasion rubber toe guard that wraps up and over the front. This protective bumper is a hallmark of the brand, and having destroyed previous shoes by scuffing or splitting the toe area, its robust presence was a welcome sight.
The shoe feels solid and reassuringly hefty in hand. Compared to ultralight trail runners, it’s certainly heavier, but it feels purposeful—like a tool built for a specific, demanding job. The direct-attach construction, where the sole is chemically bonded to the upper, gives it a seamless, integrated look that promises durability. The padded tongue and collar are substantial, and the recycled PET laces feel tough and unlikely to fray. It has the immediate look and feel of a product that’s an evolution of a proven platform, designed to inspire confidence before you even take a single step.
What We Like
- Exceptional out-of-the-box comfort, especially for wider feet.
- Truly reliable KEEN.DRY waterproofing that holds up to real-world soaking.
- Extremely durable construction with direct-attach sole and a protective toe guard.
- Excellent all-terrain traction that inspires confidence on varied surfaces.
- Generous toe box allows for natural foot splay and all-day comfort.
What We Dislike
- Noticeably heavier than many competitors in the low-cut hiker category.
- Some users may find a pressure point near the heel during the break-in period.
Putting the KEEN Targhee 4 to the Test: From Pavement to Peak
A shoe’s specs and first impressions only tell half the story. The real truth is revealed on the trail, over miles of rock, mud, and unforgiving ascents. We put the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes through a rigorous testing process, from local park loops to a challenging 10-mile trek in the Santa Cruz Mountains, to see if its performance matched its promising build.
The KEEN Original Fit: A Revolution for Wide Feet and Long Hikes
The single most lauded feature of the KEEN brand, and the Targhee line in particular, is its fit. And let me be clear: the Targhee 4 continues this legacy flawlessly. From the moment I slipped my foot in, the difference was palpable. Instead of the typical confinement I’ve come to expect from standard-width hiking shoes, my toes had room to breathe and spread out. This isn’t just a minor comfort; it’s a fundamental design choice that pays massive dividends on the trail. During long descents, my toes never once jammed into the front of the shoe, a common source of pain and blackened toenails. As my feet naturally swelled over several hours of hiking, the generous volume prevented any hot spots or pinching from developing.
This experience is echoed powerfully by other users. One HVAC technician with “extremely wide feet that have some gnarly bunions” described the shoes as his “saving grace,” noting his feet felt near-broken after a long workday in other footwear, but the Targhee 4 gave his bunions “a lot more room to spread out.” This is precisely the audience KEEN has perfected its design for. The removable Luftcell footbed provides excellent arch support right out of the box, cradling the foot effectively. While some may eventually swap it for a custom orthotic, we found it to be more than adequate, offering a great balance of cushioning and stability without feeling overly soft or mushy. For anyone who has ever felt their hiking shoes were waging a war of attrition against their feet, the accommodating fit of the Targhee 4 will feel like a peace treaty.
Unflinching Durability and All-Terrain Traction
The Targhee 4 is built to last, and it shows in every component. The direct-attach construction is a key feature here. Unlike many boots where the outsole is simply glued on and can eventually peel away (a catastrophic failure on the trail), this method fuses the components into a single, cohesive unit. This provides not only incredible durability but also long-lasting cushioning that resists compression over time. We deliberately scraped the shoes against granite and scuffed them through thorny brush, and the leather upper and prominent rubber toe guard shrugged it all off with minimal cosmetic wear. As one user aptly noted, the covered toe is great because “that’s where I have the most problem with my shoes coming apart.”
On the ground, the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole is a beast. We tested it on a variety of surfaces: slick, mossy rocks near a waterfall, loose, dusty fire roads, and sections of thick mud. The 4mm multi-directional lugs bite into soft ground with authority, providing a secure, slip-free experience. On hard-packed dirt and rock, the rubber compound felt sticky and reliable, inspiring confidence during tricky foot placements. The shoe’s inherent stiffness, aided by an internal shank and bruise plate, meant that we felt protected and stable, not the sharp jab of every pointed rock underfoot. This combination of a rugged build and a high-performance outsole makes the KEEN Targhee 4 a trustworthy companion for unpredictable terrain.
KEEN.DRY Waterproofing: Tested and Proven
The term “waterproof” is thrown around so often in the outdoor gear industry that it can lose its meaning. Many shoes claim it, but few deliver when truly tested. To verify the KEEN.DRY membrane’s effectiveness, we didn’t just walk through damp grass; we stood in a moving creek for several minutes, with the water level just below the ankle collar. The result? Perfectly dry feet. The gusseted tongue effectively seals out water and debris, and the proprietary waterproof, breathable membrane did its job exactly as advertised.
This aligns perfectly with user experiences. One reviewer stated unequivocally, “These shoes are also very much so waterproof! I’ve soaked these things in water plenty of times and they held up very nicely compared to my other so-called waterproof shoes.” But waterproofing is only half the battle. On a warmer, more strenuous section of our hike, the breathability was put to the test. While no waterproof shoe will ever be as airy as a mesh runner, the Targhee 4 managed heat and moisture well. Our feet remained comfortable and largely sweat-free, preventing the clamminess that can lead to friction and blisters. This reliable performance in both wet and dry conditions makes the shoe a versatile, all-season workhorse.
Weight and Feel: A Deliberate Trade-off for Performance
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the weight. The KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes are not ultralight. One meticulous user weighed their shoe at 19.5 ounces, significantly more than lighter-weight competitors. During our testing, we could feel this extra heft, especially when compared to the trail runners we often use for faster hikes. However, it’s crucial to frame this correctly. This weight is not a design flaw; it is a direct result of the features that make this shoe so good: the durable leather upper, the thick, protective sole, the robust toe cap, and the comprehensive waterproofing system.
This is a shoe built for support and protection, best suited for “rocky surfaces, steep hills and carrying a heavy pack,” as another user correctly identified. The weight translates to a feeling of stability and security on the trail. While you might not set any speed records, you’ll feel confident that your feet are armored against the elements and the terrain. We found that while we noticed the weight initially, it faded into the background as we hiked, overshadowed by the sheer comfort and stability. For hikers who value durability and protection over saving a few ounces, the weight is a worthwhile and easily accepted trade-off for the peace of mind the shoe provides.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the sentiment from fellow hikers and users is overwhelmingly positive, centering on a few key themes. The most common point of praise is the immediate, out-of-the-box comfort, particularly for those with wide feet. Phrases like “fit like a glove” and “comfortable from day one” appear frequently. Long-time KEEN fans confirm that the Targhee 4 lives up to the brand’s reputation for quality and a accommodating fit.
The shoe’s robust construction and true waterproofing are also consistently highlighted. Users who have been disappointed by other brands celebrate the Targhee 4’s ability to withstand real-world abuse and keep feet dry in genuinely wet conditions. However, the feedback isn’t without its critiques. The most common negative point, which our testing confirmed, is the shoe’s weight. Several users describe it as “heavy-duty” and heavier than expected. One user also reported a very specific issue with “a ridge at the front of the heel before the instep” that caused discomfort, suggesting that while the fit is great for most, it may not be perfect for every single foot shape. The price is also mentioned as being “a bit pricey,” though most feel it’s a “bargain for the cost” given the quality and durability.
How the Targhee 4 Stacks Up Against the Competition
No shoe exists in a vacuum. To give you the full picture, it’s essential to see how the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes compares to other popular options on the market. We’ve selected three key alternatives to highlight the different choices available to hikers.
1. Salomon X Ultra Pioneer Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- BEST FOR: Single-day routes, hiking, and mixed outdoor terrain, the X Ultra Pioneer Mid Waterproof men’s hiking boot is the go-to option for outdoor...
- CLIMASALOMON WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY: The ClimaSalomon waterproof technology features a flexible, lightweight, fully waterproof bootie designed to provide...
Salomon has built its reputation on creating agile, athletic-feeling hiking footwear, and the X Ultra Pioneer is a prime example. Compared to the Targhee 4, the Salomon typically features a much narrower, more athletic fit, especially in the heel and midfoot. It’s designed for hikers who prioritize speed and nimble footwork over spacious comfort. While it offers excellent traction with its Contagrip outsole and reliable waterproofing, those with wide feet or bunions will almost certainly find the Targhee 4’s generous toe box to be a superior choice. If you have narrower feet and prefer a shoe that feels more like a ruggedized trail runner, the Salomon is a worthy contender.
2. KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- WATERPROOF & PROTECTION: KEEN.DRY breathable membrane keeps feet dry and comfortable by allowing vapor out without letting water in; Bruise plate for...
- MATERIAL & CONSCIOUSLY CREATED: Durable premium leather and breathable performance mesh; Quick dry lining for active use; KEEN sources hides from Leather...
This is a classic comparison, pitting the new generation against a beloved predecessor (in its mid-height, women’s version). The Targhee II established the reputation for comfort and durability that the Targhee 4 builds upon. The core DNA is the same: a wide toe box, reliable waterproofing, and a focus on trail-ready toughness. The primary difference here is the cut; the Targhee II Mid provides additional ankle support and protection, making it a better choice for those carrying heavy packs or navigating highly unstable terrain where ankle rolls are a concern. The Targhee 4 Low offers more freedom of movement and is ideal for day hikes and situations where that extra ankle support isn’t necessary.
3. NORTIV 8 Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Waterproof construction keeps feet dry and comfortable for outdoor activities
- Slip resistant rubber outsole provides durability and traction on various terrains
The NORTIV 8 represents the budget-friendly end of the spectrum. It offers many of the same on-paper features as the KEEN Targhee 4: a waterproof design, a mid-height cut for ankle support, and a protective toe cap. For the casual or beginner hiker, it can be a compelling value proposition. However, the trade-off typically comes in the quality of materials, long-term durability, and the refinement of the fit and waterproofing technology. The KEEN Targhee 4 uses premium leather and a proven, proprietary waterproof membrane, backed by years of research and development. The NORTIV 8 is an excellent choice for those on a tight budget or who only hike occasionally, but for serious, frequent use, investing in the superior construction and proven performance of the Targhee 4 is advisable.
The Final Word: Is the KEEN Targhee 4 the Right Hiking Shoe for You?
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is clear: the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes is an outstanding piece of outdoor footwear that honors and elevates the legacy of its predecessors. It is an unapologetically robust, comfortable, and reliable shoe designed for the serious hiker who values protection and foot health above all else. Its greatest strengths lie in its famously accommodating fit—a true gift for those with wider feet—and its bombproof construction that promises years of faithful service on the trail. The waterproofing is not a gimmick; it works flawlessly when you need it most.
While its weight may deter the ultralight crowd, for most hikers, this is a fair trade for the immense stability, protection, and durability it provides. This is the shoe we would recommend without hesitation to friends and family who are tired of sore, cramped, or wet feet ruining their adventures. It’s an investment in countless miles of comfortable, confident hiking.
If you’ve decided the KEEN Targhee 4 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes is the right fit for your adventures, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API