There’s a particular kind of misery that only a bad pair of hiking boots can deliver. I remember it vividly from a trek years ago in the Appalachians. What started as a glorious morning ascent quickly devolved into a painful limp. My boots, supposedly top-of-the-line, were pinching my toes, rubbing my heels raw, and turning every rock on the trail into an instrument of torture. By the time we made camp, my feet were a mess of blisters and hot spots, and the joy of the hike was completely overshadowed by foot pain. This experience taught me a crucial lesson: the wrong footwear doesn’t just make a hike uncomfortable; it can ruin it entirely and even create safety issues. Finding a boot that works with the natural shape of your foot, provides steadfast support, and can handle the elements isn’t a luxury—it’s the single most important gear choice an avid hiker can make.
- 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...
What to Consider Before Buying a Hiking Boot
A Hiking boot is more than just an item of footwear; it’s a key solution for protection, stability, and comfort over demanding terrain. It’s the critical interface between you and the trail, designed to absorb shock, prevent ankle twists, keep your feet dry, and provide the grip necessary to navigate slippery rocks and loose soil. The main benefits are injury prevention and enhanced endurance. With the right boots, you can hike further, carry a heavier pack with more stability, and focus on the scenery around you instead of the pain in your feet. They are an investment in your safety and your ability to fully enjoy the outdoors.
The ideal customer for a boot like the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot is someone who regularly ventures onto varied trails, from well-groomed park paths to rugged mountain inclines. They likely have wider feet or simply prioritize a spacious toe box that allows for natural foot splay, which is essential for comfort and balance on long treks. This boot is for the day-hiker, the weekend backpacker, and the outdoor enthusiast who demands reliable performance without a punishing break-in period. Conversely, this type of mid-weight hiker might not be suitable for extreme mountaineers who need rigid, crampon-compatible boots, or for ultralight trail runners who prioritize minimal weight and maximum flexibility above all else. Those individuals might consider specialized mountaineering boots or trail running shoes, respectively.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Fit & Sizing: This is the most critical factor. Look for a boot that matches the shape of your foot. The KEEN Targhee II is famous for its wide toe box, but you need to ensure the heel locks in place without slipping and that there’s enough room to wiggle your toes, especially when accounting for foot swell on long hikes.
- Traction & Performance: The outsole is your connection to the ground. Analyze the lug pattern and depth; deep, multi-directional lugs, like the 4mm ones on the Targhee II, are excellent for gripping in mud and on loose dirt. The rubber compound also matters, as it dictates grip on wet rock surfaces.
- Materials & Durability: Hiking boots are typically made from full-grain leather, split-grain leather combined with synthetics, or entirely synthetic materials. The Targhee II uses waterproof nubuck leather, which offers a great balance of durability, flexibility, and water resistance. Pay attention to how the sole is attached (glued vs. stitched) and the quality of the hardware, like lace eyelets.
- Waterproofing & Breathability: Most quality hiking boots feature a waterproof, breathable membrane like GORE-TEX or a proprietary version like KEEN.DRY. This is designed to keep water from streams and rain out while allowing sweat vapor to escape. This feature is non-negotiable for anyone who hikes in anything but perfectly dry conditions.
Keeping these factors in mind, the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot stands out in several areas, particularly its legendary fit and reliable all-terrain performance. You can explore its detailed specifications and current availability here.
While the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot 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:
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First Impressions of a Trail-Ready Classic
Unboxing the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot in the Canteen/Dark Olive colorway feels like greeting an old friend. The design is iconic and instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with the hiking world. There’s no complex assembly; they are ready for the trail right out of the box. The initial feel is one of substance without excessive weight. At just over 14 ounces per boot, they feel surprisingly nimble for how robust they look. The waterproof leather has a quality texture, and the prominent, high-abrasion rubber toe guard—a KEEN signature—promises serious protection from rocks and roots. Compared to more streamlined, modern synthetic hikers, the Targhee II has a classic, almost ruggedly handsome look. The lacing system, with its combination of webbing loops and speed hooks, looks highly adjustable, a feature praised by users for accommodating different sock thicknesses and foot shapes.
What We Like
- Exceptional out-of-the-box comfort with minimal break-in time required.
- Generous “KEEN Original Fit” wide toe box is ideal for wide feet and prevents toe-splay issues.
- KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane provides reliable protection from the elements.
- KEEN ALL-TERRAIN outsole with 4mm lugs offers confident traction on varied surfaces.
- Mid-cut design and External Support Shank deliver excellent ankle support and stability.
Potential Drawbacks
- Numerous user reports raise concerns about long-term durability, specifically sole delamination.
- Included footbed offers moderate arch support; many users recommend immediate replacement for optimal comfort.
Deep Dive: Putting the KEEN Targhee II to the Test
A boot’s reputation is forged on the trail, not in the box. Over weeks of testing on a variety of terrains—from muddy forest floors and creek crossings in the spring to rocky, high-elevation scrambles—we put the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot through its paces to see if the legend holds up. We focused on the core pillars of what makes a hiking boot great: comfort and fit, traction and stability, and weather protection. Here’s our in-depth breakdown of its performance.
Out-of-the-Box Comfort and The Famous KEEN Fit
The single most lauded feature of the Targhee II is its comfort, and our testing confirms this reputation is well-deserved. The experience starts with the KEEN Original Fit. For those of us with wider feet, or what one user affectionately called “duck feet,” slipping this boot on for the first time is a revelation. The toe box is spacious and anatomically shaped, allowing your toes to spread out naturally. This isn’t just a comfort feature; it’s critical for maintaining balance and preventing painful conditions like blisters or Morton’s neuroma, which another long-time user noted these boots helped them manage. Unlike many competitors that require miles of painful break-in, the Targhee II felt supple and ready to go immediately. The leather is flexible, and the padding around the ankle collar and tongue is generous without being bulky.
The lacing system plays a significant role in this custom-fit feeling. The webbing loops that extend down towards the toe allow you to fine-tune the snugness across the entire forefoot, while the speed hooks at the top lock your heel securely into the back of the boot. This prevents heel slip, a primary cause of blisters on ascents. We found this system, as one user review pointed out, makes it easy to adjust for different sock thicknesses, from thin summer liners to heavy wool winter socks. The one weak point in the comfort equation is the stock insole. It’s adequate, but it lacks the pronounced arch support that many hikers, especially those with conditions like over-pronation, require. We echo the sentiment of a multi-pair owner who recommended immediately replacing the insoles with a higher-quality set. With that one small modification, the comfort of the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot is truly class-leading.
All-Terrain Dominance: Traction and Support on the Trail
On the trail, a boot is only as good as its grip. The KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot is equipped with the brand’s ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole, featuring aggressive 4mm multi-directional lugs. Our experience was overwhelmingly positive. On slick, muddy inclines where other boots would have us slipping, the Targhee II dug in and provided confident footing. The spacing of the lugs seems to shed mud effectively, preventing it from caking up and reducing traction. On rocky terrain, the non-marking rubber proved its worth, gripping well on both dry granite and damp, mossy stones. We did notice what some users reported: right out of the box, the soles can feel a bit slick on smooth, hard surfaces like tile or pavement. However, after a short walk to “rough them up,” this slickness disappeared, and they became impressively grippy on the trail.
Beyond grip, stability is paramount. The mid-cut height of the boot provides excellent ankle support, wrapping securely around the ankle bones to prevent rolls on uneven ground. This is further enhanced by the integrated External Support Shank (ESS). This internal plate adds torsional rigidity, preventing the boot from twisting under load while still allowing for a natural forward flex as you walk. It’s this balance that makes the boot feel both supportive and agile. We felt this most acutely during descents on loose scree, where the boot provided a stable platform that inspired confidence with every step. The bruise plate embedded in the sole also does its job admirably, protecting the bottom of the foot from sharp rocks and roots that would be felt through less substantial footwear.
The Durability Dilemma: A Long-Term Perspective
This is where the review becomes more nuanced. The KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot has legions of fans, many of whom, like one user who has owned five pairs, buy them repeatedly for their unparalleled comfort. We also found stories of incredible longevity, with one hiker logging over 1,300 miles and years of use on a single pair. Our boots held up perfectly during our testing period, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs on the leather. However, it would be a disservice to ignore the consistent chorus of negative feedback regarding long-term durability that has emerged in recent years.
The most common complaint, which appeared in multiple user reviews, is sole delamination. This is where the glued layers of the outsole begin to separate from the midsole or the upper, often starting at the heel or the flex point near the toe. Some users reported this happening within five to six months of regular use, while others experienced it after about a year and a half. Another recurring issue mentioned was specific lugs tearing off the bottom of the sole. This seems to be a clear trade-off. To achieve its lightweight feel and out-of-the-box flexibility, the Targhee II relies on a glued construction that, for a subset of users under heavy strain, appears less robust than more traditional, stitched-sole boots. It’s a gamble: you might get an “Energizer Bunny” pair that lasts for years, or you might get one that shows premature failure. This inconsistency is the boot’s biggest weakness and something every potential buyer must weigh against its incredible comfort.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing feedback from a wide range of hikers reveals a clear, albeit divided, consensus on the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot. On the positive side, the praise for its immediate comfort and accommodating fit is nearly universal. One user stated it’s the “best fitting shoe I have ever worn,” a sentiment echoed by many, especially those who struggle to find footwear with a wide enough toe box. Long-term loyalists speak of hiking thousands of miles, from the Rockies to Hadrian’s Wall, with dry and happy feet, often buying the same model repeatedly over a decade. These users value the lightweight feel and reliable waterproofing that define the boot’s performance in its prime.
However, the negative feedback is just as specific and consistent. The primary concern revolves around a perceived decline in manufacturing quality, leading to durability issues. One disappointed fan noted their most recent pair, less than six months old, was “falling apart so fast” with the rubber heel breaking away and the sole ungluing. Another user showed an identical failure on their second pair after just five months, where the same lug broke off. This paints a picture of a legendary boot that may be struggling with quality control. The overarching theme is that when you get a good pair, they are among the best boots you’ll ever own; but the risk of getting a pair with a shorter-than-expected lifespan has noticeably increased.
How Does the KEEN Targhee II Compare to the Alternatives?
The hiking boot market is crowded with excellent options. While the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot excels in comfort and fit, its durability concerns might lead some buyers to consider alternatives. Here’s how it stacks up against three notable competitors.
1. Oakley LT Assault 2 Boot
The Oakley LT Assault 2 Boot comes from a more tactical background, and it shows in its design and performance. It is significantly lighter and more flexible than the Targhee II, feeling more like a high-top athletic shoe. Its primary advantage is agility and breathability, making it a superb choice for hot, dry climates or for users who prioritize speed and a minimalist feel. However, it sacrifices the rugged protection and robust waterproofing of the Targhee II. A hiker who sticks to well-maintained trails in arid environments and wants a fast, light boot would prefer the Oakley. In contrast, someone needing all-weather protection and superior underfoot stability for rocky terrain should stick with the KEEN.
2. Timberland Chocorua Trail Mid Waterproof Boots
- Upper made with waterproof premium Timberland leather and mesh fabric
- Rustproof speed lace hardware with lace hooks at top
The Timberland Chocorua represents a more traditional approach to hiking boot construction. It features a full-grain leather upper that offers exceptional durability and a classic aesthetic. While also waterproof, its fit is generally narrower than the KEEN Targhee II, especially in the toe box. The break-in period for the Chocorua is typically longer, but the payoff can be a longer-lasting boot that molds perfectly to your foot over time. A hiker who values classic leather construction, prioritizes maximum durability over out-of-the-box comfort, and has a standard to narrow foot width would likely be happier with the Timberland. Those with wide feet will find the KEEN to be a far more comfortable choice from day one.
3. KEEN Men’s Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots
- 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...
The Targhee III is the direct successor to the boot we’re reviewing, and it serves as the most logical alternative. KEEN aimed to address some of the durability concerns of the Targhee II with the III, introducing a slightly sleeker design and an injected TPU heel-capture system for added stability. It retains the famous wide toe box and general comfort profile, though some users feel it has a slightly snugger fit than the II. If you love the concept of the Targhee but are wary of the II’s durability issues, the Targhee III is your best bet. It offers a more modern take on the same winning formula, making it the ideal choice for a loyal KEEN customer looking for the latest iteration.
Our Final Verdict on the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot is clear: it remains a comfort king in the world of hiking footwear, but it wears a tarnished crown. Its primary strength is its incredible out-of-the-box comfort, driven by the generous and accommodating wide toe box that has made it a savior for hikers with wide or problematic feet. For day hikes and moderate weekend backpacking trips, its combination of solid traction, reliable waterproofing, and excellent support is hard to beat, especially for the price.
However, the persistent and well-documented concerns about its long-term durability cannot be overlooked. The gamble of whether you receive a pair that lasts for years or one that fails within a season is its greatest flaw. We recommend the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot for hikers who prioritize immediate comfort and fit above all else and are engaged in light to moderate trail use. For those embarking on demanding, multi-month thru-hikes or who are particularly hard on their gear, it may be wise to consider a more robustly constructed alternative, including its successor, the Targhee III.
If you’ve decided the legendary comfort and trail-ready performance of the KEEN Targhee II Mid Wide Hiking Boot is the right fit for your adventures, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API