KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot

In this review of the KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot the bottom line is straightforward: this is a dependable, comfortable hiking boot built for long days on wet and rocky trails. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a breathable KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps feet dry while letting moisture escape, paired with a grippy KEEN ALL-TERRAIN outsole that handles mud and mixed terrain. The review reflects hands-on impressions of fit, protection, and materials rather than marketing claims.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: The KEEN.DRY breathable membrane keeps feet dry by allowing vapor out while blocking water from entering, making the boots suitable for stream crossings and wet trails.
• Protective construction: A bruise plate and high-abrasion rubber toe guard add underfoot and toe protection on uneven, rocky surfaces so you can step confidently.
• Durable materials: Premium leather and performance mesh combine durability with breathability, and the leather is treated with an environmentally friendly DWR to prevent drying out.
• Traction outsole: The KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4mm multi-direction lugs delivers secure grip on muddy paths and rocky slopes while being non-marking indoors.
• Support and comfort: The external support shank, contoured heel, and removable footbed with arch support provide stability and long-wear comfort without rapid compression.

Who It's For

The Targhee II Mid is aimed at hikers and outdoor workers who want a waterproof mid-cut boot with a roomy toe box and reliable traction for day hikes, light backpacking, and wet-weather use. It suits people who prefer a traditional, wider fit and who value breathable waterproofing and sensible protective features.

Those who should look elsewhere include ultralight fastpackers seeking the lowest possible weight and technical mountaineers needing crampon-compatible boots; also, buyers wanting an exceptionally narrow fit may find the KEEN Original Fit too generous in the forefoot.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consistent waterproof performance from the KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet dry on puddles and stream edges.
• Comfortable, roomy toe box and arch-cradling removable footbed make them suitable for long days on trail.
• Durable leather, quick-dry lining, and protective toe guard handle rough use and wet conditions.
• Reliable traction from the KEEN ALL-TERRAIN outsole with 4mm lugs for mixed terrain.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed durability of soles over long-term use, so occasional wear variation is possible.
• The wider KEEN Original Fit may feel bulky to those who prefer a narrow, snug hiking shoe.

Specifications

Weight (per boot)	17.4 oz / 493.3 g
Height	Mid-cut
Upper material	Durable premium leather and breathable performance mesh
Waterproofing	KEEN.DRY breathable membrane
Outsole	KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber with 4mm multi-direction lugs
Footbed	Removable with arch support
Finish	Environmentally friendly DWR on leather

Our Verdict

The KEEN Men's Targhee II Mid is a sensible choice for hikers who want a waterproof, comfortable, and protective mid-cut boot that performs across muddy and rocky terrain. It offers good long-day comfort, dependable traction, and materials from conscientious sources, making it solid value for most recreational hikers and outdoor workers who appreciate a roomier fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
Yes. The KEEN.DRY breathable membrane stops water entry while allowing moisture to escape, so feet stay dry in puddles and light stream crossings.

Do they run true to size?
Fit opinions are mixed; the KEEN Original Fit provides a generous toe box so some users may prefer to size by foot length and sock thickness rather than their usual narrow shoe size.

Can the footbed be replaced?
Yes. The removable footbed allows swapping for aftermarket orthotics or different insoles for custom comfort and support.