KEEN Men's Targhee II Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoe - Reliable

Our review of the KEEN Men's Targhee II Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoe finds it best for hikers and outdoor workers who need dependable wet-weather protection and long-wear comfort. The single biggest reason to buy is the KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane paired with a breathable, quick-dry lining, which keeps feet dry while allowing vapor to escape; that combination makes these shoes especially useful for wet trails or muddy jobs where staying dry without overheating matters.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: The KEEN.DRY breathable membrane blocks incoming water while letting moisture vapor escape for comfortable, dry feet on damp trails.
• Durable upper: Premium leather with performance mesh and an environmentally friendly DWR helps resist water and extends the life of the leather.
• Protective toe and bruise plate: A high abrasion rubber toe guard and internal bruise plate shield feet from rocks and uneven terrain.
• All-terrain traction: KEEN all-terrain rubber with 4mm multi-direction lugs provides confident grip on muddy and rocky surfaces while remaining non-marking indoors.
• Supportive comfort: An external support shank, contoured heel and removable footbed with arch support deliver stable, long-wearing comfort for all-day use.
• Practical fit and care: KEEN Original Fit offers a generous toe box and the leather can be brushed clean or treated with leather cleaner for tough stains.

Who It's For

The Targhee II Low is aimed at men who spend long days outdoors-hikers who favor a low-cut shoe for better ankle mobility, gardeners, landscape workers, and weekend trail users who need a waterproof, breathable shoe with reliable traction. The shoe's wider KEEN Original Fit and supportive footbed suit people who prefer room for toe splay and built-in arch support.

Those who need a minimalist weight-saving trail runner or a high-cut backpacking boot for heavy loads should look elsewhere. Also, buyers seeking a completely maintenance-free synthetic upper should consider non-leather options, since these use premium leather that benefits from occasional cleaning and DWR care.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Dependable waterproofing with the KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet dry without trapping heat.
• Solid traction from KEEN all-terrain rubber and 4mm lugs on mixed surfaces.
• Comfortable all-day support via the external support shank and removable arch-support footbed.
• Durable leather upper and protective toe guard stand up to rough use.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed long-term durability of soles on heavy use, so expect variable lifespan depending on conditions.
• The wider fit may not suit users who prefer a snug, narrow performance fit.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The KEEN Targhee II Low is a practical, value-oriented waterproof hiking shoe for men who need breathable wet-weather protection, solid traction, and roomy comfort for long days outside. Its combination of a protective toe, supportive shank and removable arch-support footbed makes it a smart choice for hikers and outdoor workers who prioritize durability and comfort over a race-oriented, narrow fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these fully waterproof?
Yes, the KEEN.DRY membrane provides waterproof protection while remaining breathable to let moisture vapor escape.

Do they run wide or narrow?
They use KEEN Original Fit, which is intentionally roomier in the toe box for natural toe splay and comfort.

Can I replace the footbed?
Yes, the removable footbed can be swapped for custom orthotics or aftermarket insoles if needed.