KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots - Durable All-Terrain

Our review of the KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots finds them best suited for men who want a dependable, supportive boot for day hikes and mixed-condition trails. The single biggest reason to consider these boots is the combination of a waterproof breathable membrane and a supportive mid-cut design that keeps feet drier and more stable than typical low-cut trail shoes. Built on KEEN's wider last with a removable metatomical footbed, they deliver notable arch support and all-day comfort for hikers who prioritize fit and stability over ultralight weight.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: The KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane lets moisture vapor escape while blocking external water, keeping feet drier on wet trails.
• All-terrain traction: The KEEN rubber outsole provides high-traction grip on muddy and rocky surfaces and uses non-marking rubber for clean indoor transitions.
• Ankle support: The mid cut height and external support shank add lateral stability and support on uneven terrain for more confident footing.
• Contoured stability: A shaped heel and padded collar improve balance and reduce slippage on technical sections of trail.
• Comfortable fit: The mid profile upper with padded tongue and removable metatomical footbed cradles arches and supports natural foot contours during long days.

Who It's For

The Targhee III is aimed at recreational hikers, weekend backpackers on shorter carries, and outdoor workers who need a waterproof, supportive mid-height boot with a roomy fit. Because KEEN builds these on a wider last, they are a good match for men with broader forefeet or anyone who prefers extra toe-box space.

Those who should look elsewhere include ultralight thru-hikers who need minimal weight and highly packable footwear, and buyers demanding long-term heavy-duty mountaineering boots designed for extreme alpine use. Some customers also report mixed long-term durability, so serious users who need multi-year abuse resistance may want a more robust leather mountaineering model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable waterproofing with a breathable membrane that balances dryness and comfort.
• Strong traction from the KEEN all-terrain rubber outsole for muddier and rockier routes.
• Supportive mid-cut design and external shank improve ankle stability and balance.
• Comfortable, roomy fit and contoured metatomical footbed provide excellent arch support.

Cons

• Some users report variable long-term durability, with a minority finding they do not hold up beyond a season of heavy use.
• At about 15.87 oz per shoe, they are heavier than lightweight trail runners.

Specifications

Model	KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid
Waterproofing	KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane
Outsole	KEEN all-terrain non-marking rubber
Support	External support shank; contoured heel
Footbed	Removable metatomical footbed for arch support
Weight	15.87 oz / 499.9 g per shoe (approx)
Upper	Durable waterproof leather with moisture-wicking lining

Our Verdict

The KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid is a solid choice for hikers and outdoor workers who need dependable waterproofing, a roomy comfortable fit, and tangible ankle support. It represents good value for those prioritizing comfort and traction on varied trails, while buyers focused on ultralight weight or extreme durability should compare heavier-duty or lighter alternatives before deciding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
They use KEEN.DRY, a waterproof breathable membrane that keeps most water out while letting vapor escape, though a few users report occasional seepage in very wet conditions.

Do they provide good arch support?
Yes, the removable metatomical footbed is designed to cradle the arch and many customers note improved comfort and support.

How do they fit?
They are built on KEEN's wider last with a mid profile upper and padded collar, making them roomy in the toe box and comfortable for broader feet.