KEEN Men's Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots - Durable

Our review of the KEEN Men's Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots finds them best suited for hikers and outdoor workers who need dependable protection and long wear on varied terrain. The single biggest reason to buy is their combination of a waterproof, breathable membrane with a rugged, high-traction outsole that keeps feet dry and sure-footed in mud, rocks and wet trails. The boot balances protection, support and a roomy fit so it performs well on day hikes and multi-hour outdoor tasks.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: The KEEN.DRY breathable membrane keeps moisture out while letting vapor escape, so feet stay dry without overheating on long efforts.
• Durable leather upper: Premium 100% leather resists abrasion and accepts environmentally conscious DWR to protect the leather from drying out in wet conditions.
• High-traction outsole: KEEN All-Terrain rubber with 4mm multidirectional lugs provides grip on muddy trails and rocky surfaces for confident footing.
• Protective toe and bruise plate: A rubber toe guard and internal bruise plate shield the foot from impacts and rough terrain.
• Supportive mid-cut design: The 4' shaft height with an external support shank and contoured heel adds ankle stability without the bulk of a full boot.
• Comfortable, removable footbed: Removable footbed with arch support cradles the foot and cushioning retains resilience after extended use.

Who It's For

The Targhee 2 suits hikers who prioritize a waterproof, breathable boot with a roomier toe box and reliable traction for day hikes, short backpacking trips and rugged outdoor work. The mid-cut height and support features make it a good choice for trails with uneven rock and root sections where ankle support matters.

Those who need a very lightweight trail runner for fastpacking, or those requiring a narrow performance racing fit, should look elsewhere; the KEEN Original Fit intentionally gives extra toe room and is best for users who value comfort and protection over a snug, race-oriented fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Waterproof, breathable membrane keeps feet dry while allowing moisture out.
• Durable leather and rubber toe guard stand up to abrasion on rocky routes.
• High-traction, non-marking outsole performs well in mud and on rock.
• Supportive mid-height cut and removable arch-support footbed improve stability on uneven ground.

Cons

• At 17.4 oz per boot the weight is higher than lightweight trail shoes, which may matter on long, fast hikes.
• The generous KEEN Original Fit may feel too roomy for hikers who prefer a very snug performance fit.

Specifications

Upper	100% Leather with breathable mesh
Waterproofing	KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
Outsole	KEEN All-Terrain rubber, non-marking, 4mm lugs
Weight	17.4 oz / 493.3 g per boot
Shaft height	Approximately 4 in from arch
Heel / Platform	Heel approx 1.5 in, platform approx 0.75 in
Footbed	Removable footbed with arch support

Our Verdict

The KEEN Targhee 2 Mid Waterproof is a well-rounded hiking boot for those who need durable waterproof protection, high-traction outsoles and a comfortable, roomy fit. It delivers good value for day hikers and outdoor workers who prioritize comfort and ruggedness over minimal weight or a race-fit profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
The KEEN.DRY membrane provides waterproofing while allowing vapor to escape, so the boots keep feet dry in wet conditions.

Do they provide ankle support?
The mid-height shaft plus an external support shank and contoured heel add meaningful ankle stability without the bulk of a full leather mountaineering boot.

How should I care for the leather?
Gently brush with a soft bristle brush or towel to remove dirt; tough stains can be treated with a leather cleaner and reapply a DWR as needed.