KEEN Unisex-Child Targhee 4 Mid Height Durable Waterproof Hiking Boots

Our review of the KEEN Unisex-Child Targhee 4 finds these boots best suited for active kids who need tough, comfortable footwear for trails, schoolyard play and family hikes. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of immediate comfort and lasting build quality: the boots are comfortable straight out of the box and use a fused upper and resilient cushioning that does not compress quickly, so they perform well across a season or more of use. In this review we focus on fit, waterproofing, durability and whether the quick lace system makes them practical for kids.

Key Features

• Waterproof membrane: The KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps feet drier by letting vapor escape while blocking external moisture for everyday wet weather protection.
• Secure closure: The lace lock bungee capture system delivers a quick, secure fit that is easy for children to manage and speeds on/off transitions.
• Durable materials: Premium leather combined with breathable performance mesh gives abrasion resistance without sacrificing ventilation for active use.
• Toe protection: A high abrasion rubber toe cap helps protect against rocks, roots and playtime scuffs for longer life.
• Machine washable: The boots are machine washable, which simplifies cleaning after muddy hikes or a full school week of wear.

Who It's For

The Targhee 4 is aimed at kids who need a hard-wearing hiking boot that is comfortable right away and suitable for multi-season use; parents who want a pair that can be handed down will appreciate the sturdy construction and resilient cushioning. Outdoor families who take regular walks, day hikes or need a dependable school shoe for wet conditions will find value here due to the traction and waterproof lining.

Those who should look elsewhere include children who require very narrow lasts or highly technical mountaineering footwear; similarly, if absolute guaranteed dryness in prolonged deep puddles is critical, some customers reported mixed waterproof results so a specialized rubber boot might be a better choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable out of the box with supportive cushioning that resists compression over time.
• KEEN.DRY membrane offers breathable waterproofing for routine wet conditions.
• Durable leather and mesh upper with a protective rubber toe for long life on trails.
• Easy on/off with a lace lock bungee system, and machine washable for simple care.

Cons

• Some customers report inconsistent waterproof performance in very wet situations, so results can vary by use and fit.
• Fit reports differ; some buyers find sizing runs differently, so trying on or checking size guidance is recommended.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The KEEN Unisex-Child Targhee 4 is a solid pick for parents who want a comfortable, durable kids' hiking boot that works for trails and everyday play; its resilient cushioning, protective toe cap and easy lace system make it good value for families seeking long-lasting footwear. For very narrow feet or prolonged immersion, consider trying them on or choosing a specialized waterproof option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these boots fully waterproof?
The boots use the KEEN.DRY membrane which keeps feet dry in typical wet weather, though some users report mixed results in prolonged submersion or heavy saturation.

Can kids put these on themselves?
Yes, the lace lock bungee capture system is designed for quick, secure on and off, making them easy for children to manage.

Are they easy to clean?
Yes, the Targhee 4 is machine washable, which simplifies removal of dirt and mud after use.