KEEN Men's Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots - Rugged Support

Our review of the KEEN Men's Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots finds a dependable choice for hikers who need roomy comfort and solid support on varied trails. These boots stand out for their breathable KEEN.DRY membrane that aims to keep feet dry while allowing moisture out, and a wider KEEN Original Fit that gives toes room to splay. For anyone who values ankle support, a protective toe guard and a durable leather upper, this boot is a practical, purpose-built option for day hikes and weekend backpacking trips.

Key Features

• Waterproof & Protection: The KEEN.DRY breathable membrane sheds water while allowing vapor to escape, and a bruise plate plus high abrasion rubber toe guard protect feet on rocky terrain.
• Durable Materials: Premium leather paired with breathable performance mesh and an environmentally friendly DWR keeps the upper resilient and helps leather from drying out.
• Traction: KEEN All-Terrain rubber with 4mm multi-direction lugs grips mud and rocks for confident footing across varied surfaces.
• Support & Comfort: An external support shank, heel cradle and a removable footbed with arch support provide stability and sustained cushioning on long miles.
• Fit & Care: The KEEN Original Fit gives generous toe space for wide feet, and simple leather care-gentle brushing or a leather cleaner for tough stains-keeps them maintained.

Who It's For

The Targhee Mid is best for hikers, trail walkers and everyday outdoor users who need a cushioned mid-cut boot with enhanced ankle support and a wider fit for comfort. It suits people who prioritize breathable waterproofing and a protective toe when moving across mixed terrain.

Shoppers seeking a narrow, race-oriented trail shoe or those who demand absolute long-term sole durability without occasional maintenance may want to compare models with different outsole constructions or consider lighter trail runners for faster-paced use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, roomy KEEN Original Fit with noticeable arch support and resilient cushioning.
• Effective protective features: bruise plate and high abrasion rubber toe guard for rough trails.
• Reliable traction from KEEN All-Terrain rubber and 4mm lugs on muddy and rocky surfaces.
• Consciously created materials, including hides from Leather Working Group certified tanneries.

Cons

• Some users report mixed waterproof performance and occasional durability issues with the sole over long-term heavy use.

Specifications

Weight	15.87 oz / 499.9 g per shoe
Upper	Durable premium leather and breathable performance mesh
Waterproofing	KEEN.DRY breathable membrane with DWR
Outsole	KEEN All-Terrain rubber with 4mm multi-direction lugs, non-marking
Support	External support shank, heel cradle, removable footbed with arch support
Fit	KEEN Original Fit (roomy toe box)

Our Verdict

The KEEN Targhee Mid is a solid, value-oriented mid-height hiking boot for people who need roomy comfort, ankle support and protective features for mixed-terrain hiking. While a few users note isolated durability or waterproof edge cases, the combination of breathable waterproofing, supportive fit and strong traction makes it a sensible choice for day hikes and regular outdoor use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
The boots use a KEEN.DRY membrane and DWR-treated leather to block most water, but some users report occasional seepage in heavy, prolonged wet conditions.

Do they fit wide feet?
Yes, KEEN Original Fit is designed to give extra room in the toe box and works well for wider feet.

How should I clean the leather?
Brush off loose dirt with a soft bristle brush or towel; use a leather cleaner for tough stains and avoid machine washing to preserve materials.