Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boots Review
A STABLE, COMFORTABLE, WATERPROOF BOOT FOR ALL CONDITIONS
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January 9, 2025
Our verdict
The KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots are supportive and wearable right out of the box. Once I broke them in through a week or so of long casual hikes, they became super comfortable without losing the rigidity of their support through the heel and ankles.
The author testing the KEEN boots in warm and hot weather and all types of terrain.
On my cooler-weather, late-fall, and early-winter hikes that were more technical, I found that they continued to excel, remaining supportive and comfortable while keeping mud, snow, ice, rain, and all other debris out of my shoes. Their waterproofing is effective and consistent—in hours of hiking with on-and-off downpours, my feet remained fully dry for the journey.
Their comfort, stability, and durability were reliable and consistent on all terrains. On sketchy loose rock and steep scrambles, the KEEN Targhee IV waterproof boots proved themselves durable and able to resist the abrasion of even the off-the-marked trail excursions. Their traction is superb—whether on ice, snow, or loose leaves, the outsole stays grippy. That said, the KEEN Targhee IV boots were not breathable enough for me to find them comfortable hotter-weather hiking boots. Because of this, I’d say they’re great hiking boots for almost all weather—but if you run hot, these boots may not be the most comfortable selection for extended use in hot conditions.
In addition, on hard-packed dirt or concrete, the cushioning is insufficient for hikers prone to foot or ankle pain. I switched out the insoles these boots came with for a pair of my own and found the impact reduced greatly—but for those seeking a super-cushioned boot, this one might not be the best choice.
Men's
Women's
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Specs
Weight per pair: 2 lbs, 8 oz (men's); 2 lbs, 1 oz (women's)
Materials: Nubuck leather upper
Available sizes: 7-15 regular and wide men's; 5-12 regular and wide women's
Available colors: 7 choices for men, 3 for women
Outsole: KEEN.RUGGED outsole
Waterproofing: KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane (PFAS-free)
Comparison table
Men’s
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH | AVAILABLE SIZES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof | Mid | $170 | 2 lbs, 8.6 oz | TPU | Luftcell polyurethane | Nubuck leather | KEEN.Dry | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX | Mid | $220 | 2 lbs, 4 oz | Vibram Fuga with Megagrip | Vibram SPE | Leather | GORE-TEX | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX | Mid | $170 | 1 lb, 15.7 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather and mesh | GORE-TEX | Medium, wide | 7 to 15 |
| La Sportiva TX Hike GTX | Mid | $190 | 2 lbs 2.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO | Compression EVA | Recycled air mesh | GORE-TEX | Medium | 38-49.5 (EU sizing) |
| HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX | Mid | $195 | 2 lbs, 4 oz | Vibram Megagrip | Sugarcane EVA | Nubuck leather | GORE-TEX | Medium, wide | 5.5 to 11 |
Women’s
| HIKING BOOT | HEIGHT | MSRP | WEIGHT PER PAIR | SOLE MATERIAL | MIDSOLE | UPPER MATERIAL | WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY | WIDTH | AVAILABLE SIZES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof | Mid | $170 | 2 lb, 2.6 oz | TPU | Luftcell polyurethane | Nubuck leather | KEEN.Dry | Medium | 5 to 12 |
| Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX | Mid | $220 | 2 lbs | Vibram Fuga with Megagrip | Vibram SPE | Leather | GORE-TEX | Medium, wide | 5 to 11 |
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX | Mid | $170 | 1 lb, 13 oz | Vibram TC5+ | Merrell Air Cushion | Leather and mesh | GORE-TEX | Medium, wide | 5 to 12 |
| La Sportiva TX Hike GTX | Mid | $190 | 1 lb, 12.6 oz | Vibram Ecostep EVO | Compression EVA | Recycled air mesh | GORE-TEX | Medium | 36 to 43 (EU sizing) |
| HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX | Mid | $195 | 1 lb, 13.4 oz | Vibram Megagrip | Sugarcane EVA | Nubuck leather | GORE-TEX | Medium, wide | 5.5 to 11 |
Who is it for?
Any hiker who needs a do-it-all supportive hiking boot that’s consistently waterproof would likely find what they’re looking for in the Keen Targhee IV. After a short time wearing these boots in, I found them comfortable and supportive in hikes on terrains ranging from Uruguayan sand dunes to New York snowfields. Especially for hikes in cooler climates where there are wet or snowy conditions requiring supportive boots with reliable and excellent traction on slick ground, the KEEN Targhee IVs are a great pick.
How we tested
Testing the KEEN Targhee IV boots was truly a global process. They’ve covered some serious ground—climbing sand dunes in Uruguay, steep rock slabs in New York, and a full sprint through the airport in São Paulo, Brazil.
When hiking, I used them primarily on moderately challenging trails and some more intense hikes with off-trail rock scrambles and steep, snowy slabs. On fall and winter hikes in New York, the KEEN Targhee IV boots kept my feet dry and warm while providing good ankle support and overall stability. Whether for long or short excursions, in dry leaves or snow, the KEEN Targhee IV boots were always ready to go. In snow, they provided great traction on steeper sections covered in icy dead leaves and on an infamously steep, somewhat icy driveway.
For more casual testing, these boots accompanied me on regular urban and suburban walks around Maldonado, Uruguay. We traversed many miles in varied weather, from on and off downpours to steaming 80°F days. I loved these boots for their stability and support in all terrains I’ve utilized them in, but wished for greater cushioning in the soles on rocky trails and packed dirt, as well as more breathability in warmer conditions.
The biggest cold-weather test I put these boots through was a late-December hike of Mt. Washington. Though I anticipated extremely cold weather, I was told the conditions were more like springtime for there. Nonetheless, there was quite a bit of snow on the ground and ended up being some ever-so-slightly off-trail adventuring with some postholing. Through it all, I found the KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof boots kept my feet dry, my ankles from rolling, and my shoes free of debris, snow, and ice. They also worked well with my microspikes—which I was quite grateful for at the time since it was my first winter hike in the White Mountains.
What we liked
Great ankle support on slippery hikes—no rolling of ankles on leaves, sand, or snow
Broke in relatively quickly with no deterioration in the stability of the sides and back of the shoe
In all terrains– from South American sand dunes to New England trails in winter– the traction was excellent.
What could be better
Lacked cushioning in the soles, less rebound than I’d expected
Arch support was insufficient for especially higher-arched hikers
Not breathable enough for all-day use in warm or hot conditions
Features
Upper material
The mesh and leather upper of the KEEN Targhee IV boots have proven themselves resilient—brambles, abrasive granite, and sliding down a partly-frozen trail have nothing on these bad boys. While walking through the snow next to my steep, melted-then-refrozen icy driveway, I was pleased to find that no snow entered my shoes and that they didn’t crease as I backed down the hill.
However, they are not breathable enough for comfort during use for exercise in warm or hot weather. I felt my feet overheating many times on days hotter than 70ºF. All-day wear in temperatures hotter than that was doable but sometimes downright miserable—at times I wanted nothing more than to kick them off and let the dogs breathe.
On the other hand, in temperatures ranging from 60-70°F to subfreezing, these boots kept my feet dry and warm while maintaining traction on any and all surfaces that I walked or hiked on. All in all, I wouldn’t recommend them as summer hiking boots—but for fall and winter, they’re excellent.
Waterproofing
The upper and the soles of this KEEN shoe are fused together, without glue or chemicals.
KEEN.DRY is KEEN’s own waterproofing technology that is designed to keep your feet dry and your shoes free from PFAS and forever chemicals. The KEEN Targhee IVs were effective at keeping water, dirt, sand, snow, and more from entering my shoes. Whether the rain was hitting the ground so hard dirt bounced up with it or slush lay over the sidewalks, my feet stayed dry in the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots. That said, I found the breathability left something to be desired on longer and warmer hikes, which is typical with waterproof boots.
Midsole
The midsole of the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots are created with KEEN’s air-injected, solvent-free polyurethane material called Luftcell, which is lighter than traditional polyurethane materials but still durable and cushioning. The shock absorption of these boots is good, making them a comfortable choice most of the time. On softer ground and uneven terrain, they feel springy. I found that cushioning was lacking only when walking on packed dirt or concrete.
Outsole
Outsole of the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots.
The Targhee IVs are made with KEEN's proprietary KEEN.RUGGED outsoles. They're abrasion-resistant, and KEEN claims that they are twice as durable as rubber.
To test the traction of the KEEN.RUGGED outsole of the KEEN Targhee IV boots, I put them through the ultimate tests of slip-resistance on slippery rocks, mud, sand, and freshly-soaped slick linoleum floors. I found their traction great in all the places I tested them. Whether on snow, sand, wet sidewalks, dirt roads, or slick quartzite slabs the traction has not yet let me down.
As someone who walks quickly but also habitually drags his feet, the performance of the traction on boots I wear outdoors and in variable conditions is essential. The KEEN Targhee IVs didn’t let me down.
KEEN.FUSION construction
On the KEEN Targhee IV boots, the KEEN.FUSION construction means the upper and the sole of the shoe are one—they’re fused together without the use of glue. Not only is this more environmentally friendly because it uses fewer construction materials, it also helps prevent delamination—separation of the sole and the upper—which makes these boots longer-lasting and more durable by preventing one of the most common hiking boot killers. Since the sole and upper are just one solid, fused rubber piece, delamination seems near physically impossible.
Heel-capture system
The heel-capture system of the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots means that the boot's interior is designed to keep the heel stable within the boot and reduce friction from this movement while traveling on uneven terrain. It was effective at locking my heel in place during use on hikes with and unmaintained dirt roads with potholes alike. On rocky, dry-leaf-covered descents and lopsided sidewalk segments, my feet stayed put in the boots and I didn’t experience any of the dreaded sliding within the boots that usually precedes my ankle rolling. For hikers with ankle instability, the heel-capture system would be an effective—and especially appreciated—feature of these boots.
Fit
I have roughly average-width feet, perhaps somewhat wider than average in the front, and sized down a half-size from usual with these. The fit is supportive without being overly snug, so the Targhee IVs would be a great pick for someone with average or wider-width feet (they also have a wider model).
Eco anti-odor technology
If you had ample opportunity to air these shoes out during the day or at night, odor control measures could certainly help to maintain relative freshness over time. However, after even just a few hours of wear, they had already begun to acquire an odor. In a warm and humid environment, they only aired out enough with the laces fully undone, and even then, they weren’t great in the scent department. If it were drier and cooler out I’m sure it would have helped since they wouldn’t have had as much funk to marinate in.
But with consistent use, especially on longer hikes, any hiking boot will stink at least a little—and these were no exception. After over a month of consistent testing in different environments (cold, dry, autumn versus warm, humid summer), I am proud to say that the KEEN Targhee IVs have earned their musk—and it seems permanent.
Anatomical footbed
A removable dual-density EVA footbed for arch support and a contoured fit is a mouthful, but it has a simple meaning. The anatomically designed footbed of the KEEN Targhee IV boots is made from a common foam-like material found in footwear called ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). The one used here has varying density levels in different impact zones to provide greater cushioning, comfort, and durability.
The arch support was sufficient for most of my walks and hikes in these boots, and would be suitable for most people as-is. I have especially high arches and found the arch support of these boots lacking—but that’s almost always my experience with most insoles that come with hiking shoes or boots. The insoles of the KEEN Targhee IV boots have more significant arch support than most boots I’ve worn, and they’re easily removable so I could switch them for my preferred insoles in under a minute. Removable arch support is a perk regardless—with enough use over time, insoles eventually will flatten out, become less cushiony, and need replacing.
Moisture-wicking lining
The moisture-wicking lining of the KEEN Targhee IV boots kept my feet relatively dry during extended wear. After hikes or walks that lasted over five hours, especially on warm or hot days, I found the liner not especially effective at wicking and evaporating moisture, leading to something of a sauna-like effect inside the shoe.
On colder and/or drier days, this was less of an issue—but during extended wear in warm weather, if you (like me) are a sweatier individual, you will likely find the moisture-wicking lining only somewhat effective. My feet stayed more or less dry, but ideally, a waterproof hiking boot will keep your feet dry most of the time and in most conditions. These kept my feet consistently dry in cold and already dry conditions but failed to do so in humid and warmer conditions, which led to a few blisters during the break-in process. That said, during my winter hike of Mt. Washington– in which my gaiters were poorly secured due entirely to user error– my feet stayed just about dry all the way back down to the parking lot. That hike convinced me these shoes are definitely best suited for colder weather hiking– but will work for a warm weather hike in a pinch or if you don’t run hot.
PFAS-free materials
KEEN footwear is known for its environmentally conscious design, including (but not limited to) its PFAS-free construction. PFAS, or per and polyfluoroalkyl substances are known as “forever chemicals” because they break down so slowly. They’re widely present chemical pollutants found in many types of manufacturing and have been used in the construction of waterproof and water-resistant outdoor gear. KEEN has been constructing their products without the use of PFAS since 2018, meaning that the KEEN Targhee IV Mid waterproof boots are free from these forever chemicals.
In addition, KEEN uses harvested materials from post-consumer plastic bottles—in fact, the laces of the KEEN Targhee IV boots are made from 100% recycled materials.
Performance in the field
On the wettest of trails, the KEEN Targhee IV boots keep your feet dry.
The KEEN Targhee IV keep sand out, too!
In every situation that I’ve put them in, the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots performed as I hoped they would—they were reliable and supportive on uneven ground, and had great grip in terrains that were rocky and wet or steep and icy, to dry, soft sand dunes. I found them best in cooler weather, and they were effectively waterproof in rain, slush, and snow. For extended treks in cool or cold weather, they’d be great—and for shorter hikes and jaunts in just about any weather, they’re still a great choice and comfortable in all but the hottest of conditions.
Sustainability
The author hiking through sand and various terrain to test the uppers and materials of the KEEN Targhee IV.
KEEN has been committed to utilizing eco-conscious practices in their design and construction process for years, shown through a variety of choices they make in each shoe, including the Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots. The waterproofing of KEEN footwear has been made from a durable, effective PFAS-free alternative since 2018. And pesticide-free odor control is included in KEEN footwear such as the Targhee IVs. While it may not prevent the classic hiking shoe funk after extended use, it’s much better for the ecosystem– and no hiking boots stay odor-free forever, anyway.
As part of their commitment to cleaner, more environmentally-friendly manufacturing practices, KEEN uses leather from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group—a nonprofit that works in sustainability in the leather industry. Plus, KEEN uses recycled materials such as water bottles in the production of some components of its footwear—the laces of the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots are made from 100% recycled materials. These are only some of the commitments KEEN has made to reducing its impact on the environment in the long-term—see more on the website.
KEEN footwear certainly strives to lower its environmental impact while making durable, high-quality footwear that will hold up in the long run. In doing so, it reduces the need for replacement gear, keeping well-loved gear going and out of the landfill. One way the Targhee IV boots do this is with their KEEN.FUSION, one-piece upper and outsole that prevents delamination—the separation of the outsole from the rest of the boot—a common reason that hiking boots have to be retired.
Should I buy the Keen Targhee IV?
POV: You’re a dry, crunchy leaf on a trail in late fall, about to get stepped on by a KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boot.
The KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof would be an excellent choice and worth its price, especially for anyone seeking a versatile, supportive, primarily cool-weather hiking boot that’s durable and will keep their feet protected from rain, snow, and debris while not being too heavy to hike challenging trails. They’re a durable pick and can take some serious abrasion—for technical trails, they keep your foot and heel locked while remaining supportive of your ankles and bending with you as you move.
If you need a casual hiking boot or shoe for hot-weather, generally drier pursuits, these might not be the right boots for you. But if you need a supportive, waterproof hiking boot that can take on the technical trails of your dreams, the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots would be a great pick—especially if they go on sale.
Keen Targhee IV vs. Similar Boots
Merrell Moab 3
Weight: 1 lb, 15.7 oz
Materials: leather, mesh, EVA foam, nylon shank
Outsole: Vibram TC5+
Available sizes: 7 to 15 men’s and 5 to 12 women’s
Available colors: 2 choices each for men’s and women’s
The Merrell Moab 3 boots are a similar weight to the KEEN Targhee IV boots. I haven’t used the waterproof ones, so I can’t vouch for their supposedly excellent waterproofing, but I will say that they provide comparable support through the ankles, a similar anatomical footbed and heel-locking capabilities. In addition, the Merrell Moab 3 boots have greater cushioning through the outsole and heel, with comparable arch support. In situations where I don’t need waterproof boots, I find the Merrells more comfortable because of their greater cushioning. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots.
Men's
Women's
Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX
Weight: 2 lbs, 4 oz
Materials: Leather
Outsole: Vibram Fuga with Megagrip
Available sizes: 7 to 15 men’s and 5 to 11 women’s
Available colors: 3 choices for men’s and women’s
I tested the Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX boots in many of the same conditions as the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof ones, sometimes swapping them out periodically over the course of longer hikes. While I ultimately felt that the KEEN Targhee IV boots were more supportive and kept my foot more stable and secure while I hiked, I found that the Danner Mountain 600 Leaf boots had greater cushioning and got more compliments when I wore them in casual or work situations. It’s all about finding boots that match what you’re looking for.
Men's
Women's
Hoka Anacapa 2
Weight: 1 lb, 13.4 oz
Materials: Nubuck leather, synthetic
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Available sizes: 5.5 to 11 men’s and 5.5 to 11 women’s
Available colors: 3 each for men and women
The HOKA Anacapa 2 mid GTX boots are also lightweight, waterproof hiking boots, but with a narrower fit and greater cushioning. They’re a comparable weight to the KEEN Targhee IV hiking boots, and while I haven’t tested these ones personally, word on the trail says they (and most HOKA hiking footwear, really) have excellent cushioning and support that makes them a great pick for hikers with foot, ankle, and knee pain.
Men's
Women's
Hoka Kaha 2
Weight: 1 lb, 15.4 oz
Materials: GORE-TEX, waterproof/breathable synthetic
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Available sizes: 6 to 11 men’s and 6 to 11 women’s
Available colors: 3 colors
Like the aforementioned HOKAs, I haven’t personally tested the HOKA Kaha 2 GTX boots, but I hear they’re also super comfortable, lightweight, and effectively waterproof hiking boots with great traction on all terrains. These boots are best suited for hikers with wider feet who want greater cushioning and support without sacrificing waterproofing or weight.
Men's
Women's
About the author / Why you should trust us
The author on the descent of Mt. Washington in the KEEN Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking boots. Photo credit Serena Ryan of the Notch Hostel.
Elliot Koeppel is a graduate of Tufts University with a B.A. in History. He finished his thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in December 2023 and the Colorado Trail in August 2024. In his free time, he can be found birding, drawing, watercolor painting, making jewelry, and listening to Van Halen.
Koeppel has been testing a range of thru-hiking apparel and gear for Treeline Review. Read some of his stories on his author page and find him on Instagram at @elliotkppl.
