Males’s KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP Assessment

Backside Line

The Targhees have been a crowd pleaser for years due to their stable efficiency in most classes. Don’t let the traditional look idiot you – these boots supply a comfortable, supportive match, stable traction, and dependable climate resistance for 3-season mountaineering. Of all of the footwear on our Finest Climbing Boots For Males information, these are certainly one of our prime picks for consolation with their spacious toe field, versatile uppers, and comfortable however versatile match. Senior Gear Analyst Ian Krammer used the Targhee IV for 7 days and 80+ miles in snowy, heat, and gentle spring situations within the Colorado Rockies. He discovered their smooth leather-based uppers, soft ankle cuffs, and versatile midsoles made simple work of the tough trails and reasonable slopes. These boots have a novel nylon strap that acts as an eyelet gap for the shoelaces but in addition wraps across the heel, locking it into place for final stability with out the added bulk. These boots are a wonderful selection for day hikes and lighter backpacking journeys with all of the consolation and help informal hikers and weekend warriors may need – and for an excellent worth, too.

Nevertheless, the Targhee IV isn’t as sturdy as different comparable mountaineering boots, with a sole that tends to put on down quicker on rugged terrain. The leather-based uppers supply respectable ankle help and safety, however they’re much less inflexible than different boots. Which means they will not be the only option for demanding hikes or prolonged journeys the place you want extra help for a heavy load. Their weight is common in comparison with different mountaineering boots however might not work nicely for folk preferring lighter boots. Though we admire their efficient lacing design, of us with slender ft or excessive arches may not admire the looser match of those boots. Nonetheless, for the standard hiker who desires accommodating and cozy boots for the backcountry, the Targhee IV is as simple in your pockets as it’s in your ft and can  maintain up for years of use.

Consolation

The KEEN Targhee IV WP presents a contemporary tackle traditional mountaineering boots – and so they’re critically comfortable, due to their roomy design, broad toe field, and efficient lacing system. The Targhee IVs require a bit of labor to break-in – Gear Analyst Ian Krammer discovered that the leather-based uppers and heel lock system started to really feel comfy on the 15 mile mark. Hikers who’ve broad ft or  who need wiggle room for his or her toes will discover the Targhee IVs pliable and forgiving because of their wider design by way of the midfoot and heel. The arch help and soft insole additionally make for a smooth, simple experience. However don’t let this roominess flip you away – the lacing system is very efficient for tightening the boots from toe to heel, cinching the uppers down tightly for a extremely customizable match that works for many foot sizes and styles. The Targhee IVs use a novel band that hyperlinks the laces to the heel, supplying you with a robust, locked-in match that’s simple to regulate and helps scale back foot fatigue on rocky trails and uneven floor. 

KEEN pairs a smooth nubuck leather-based for the uppers, creating a comfortable but light match, with a soft, padded tongue and broad, versatile sole for an additional secure experience. Protecting options like a burly rubber toe bumper blocks rocks and roots on path, and a padded tongue relieves strain from the laces. Breathability is common, so we discover they’re most comfy in gentle to chill situations. Targhees additionally are available broad sizes to maintain your ft blissful on reasonable trails and day hikes.

However no boot is ideal, and the Targhee IVs have some downsides. They provide glorious consolation on most trails, however they’re not ideally suited for extremely technical terrain. In comparison with different mountaineering boots, they don’t have inflexible ankle help, so they might really feel inadequate for these needing additional stability on path. The versatile uppers and soles are nice for pure, unrestricted motion and foot flexion, however for hikes the place exact foot placement is essential, these boots aren’t our prime choose. Additionally, whereas the lacing system tightens down properly, the match could also be too broad for slender ft. The beneficiant toe field might result in undesirable foot slippage on powerful descents, which may result in sizzling spots or blisters – though, we’ve by no means had this subject. That mentioned, these complaints are usually not dealbreakers – we nonetheless extremely suggest making an attempt on a pair to see simply how comfortable they’re for your self.

Ankle Help

The KEEN Targhee IVs prioritize consolation over a inflexible higher. They provide pretty minimal ankle help, however that makes them a snug selection for lengthy hikes on established trails. KEEN makes use of a smooth nubuck leather-based that’s naturally waterproof and versatile, so this boot will transfer along with your foot and ankle as you step. The boot peak is tall sufficient to supply dependable safety from roots, sharp rocks, and moist underbrush, however it doesn’t really feel restrictive even after hours of mountaineering. With the added nylon strap wrapping from all sides to the again, the boot achieves a comfortable heel maintain for stability on ascents and descents, feeling safe with out sacrificing flexibility. The lacing system is straightforward and quick to tie and untie and to regulate the match as wanted. Should you like a bit extra agility on trails with blended terrain, these boots are an excellent choice.

That mentioned, the Targhee IV doesn’t present sufficient ankle help for extra technical, rugged terrain. As a result of the higher materials is on the softer facet, it lacks the inflexible help wanted to completely shield ankles on unpredictable surfaces. Moreover, the versatile sole, whereas comfy, implies that these boots don’t brace the ankle in addition to stiffer fashions, which could have an effect on their reliability on tough trails. The broader match, whereas comfy, additionally permits for slight shifts inside the boot, which might add pressure to the ankles on demanding hikes. These are supportive boots, however they’re finest suited to of us preferring a extra nimble-feeling boot.

Weight

At 2 kilos, 9 ounces for the pair, the KEEN Targhee IV WP are in the course of the pack for weight out of the ten males’s mountaineering boots we examined – and we expect that is the candy spot for regular ascents, descents, and blended trails. Gear Analyst Ian Krammer hiked within the Rockies by way of streams, packed snowy trails, and patches of mud. On lengthy hikes in these testing situations this comparatively mild mid-cut felt comfy, lowering fatigue with out sacrificing stability. The nubuck leather-based higher is burly however not overly thick, strolling a wonderful line between light-weight however sturdy. Their mid-height design contributes to weight financial savings since they aren’t as tall or cumbersome as extra supportive, high-cut boots. 

However the Targhee IVs aren’t the lightest choice on the market. The nubuck leather-based is lighter than full-grain leather-based, however it’s nonetheless heavier than artificial alternate options utilized in different mountaineering boots. The thicker outsoles present dependable grip however add weight, which turns into noticeable on steep, prolonged climbs the place each ounce issues. Should you’re making an attempt to attenuate each ounce for extra demanding trails, this boot’s weight is a draw back. However for most individuals and most trails, they’re the Goldilocks choose – not too heavy,  not too mild.

Traction

The KEEN Targhee IVs supply stellar traction on most trails. Their lug sample is busy and aggressive by way of the midfoot, which makes them really feel particularly secure on tough surfaces. The proprietary KEEN RUGGED rubber mix presents flexibility that improves floor contact, making certain a reliable grip on jagged and rocky paths – it’s particularly cheesy  on rock and grime. The tread sample on the Targhee IV is narrowly spaced and triangular by way of the midfoot, creating glorious footing on packed trails whereas skinny, horizontal tread on the heel and toe presents a bit of additional grip on gentle ascents and descents.

The key flaw of the Targhee IVs, although, is within the toe and heel design. As a result of there aren’t particular person lugs on the heel to assist brake when going downhill – nor a grippy tread sample to chunk the bottom throughout an ascent – the boots really feel much less safe on steep terrain. The ribbed edges merely aren’t as efficient as boots with lugs when heading up intense uphills and downhills, and so they fall quick on gravelly, moist, and slick surfaces. Additionally, the shallow,  narrowly-spaced lugs don’t shed particles as nicely. We discovered throughout testing that these boots are vulnerable to catching stones between the lugs. They’re gradual to shed mud and water, which reduces their traction. Lastly, this rubber mix isn’t as sturdy as some higher-end supplies, which means traction will decline after a number of use. That mentioned, the tread is stable for many situations, so except you’re mountaineering in very rugged environments, the Targhee IV’s traction ought to preserve you upright and sure-footed.

Climate Resistance

The KEEN Targhee IV WP is a dependable boot in moist climate due to leather-based uppers and a waterproof-breathable membrane that retains moisture out. KEEN makes use of its personal model of water resistant liner, and it really works nicely – this booty shouldn’t be solely extremely waterproof, however provides heat in cool climate to 30°F and releases warmth in heat climate as much as 70°F. Paired with an all-nubuck leather-based higher, you’ll cruise by way of moist underbrush, heavy rain, and hours of mist with dry ft, making them an incredible selection for shoulder season adventures. The burly rubber toe cap helps shield towards moisture, making the Targhee IVs an excellent choose for damp and muddy trails. Their sealed seams and double-stitched uppers forestall water seepage, and the mid-height ankles are tall sufficient to remain above the splashback from puddles and dust.

The Targhee IVs’ waterproofing has its limits, although. Senior Gear Analyst Ian Krammer discovered that in extended moist and snowy situations, the leather-based and liner will ultimately soak by way of. Though the nubuck leather-based is water resistant and the liner is very efficient, these supplies will ultimately leech water after dozens of water crossings, hours of rain, or strolling by way of steady snow and dust. The versatile leather-based higher additionally sacrifices some climate safety and  takes longer to dry in comparison with lighter, artificial supplies. Plus, these are usually not cold-weather boots – Senior Gear Analyst Ian Krammer discovered them most comfy between 30°F and 70°F.Under these temperatures, the dearth of insulation left his ft feeling chilled in frigid and snowy locations. Above this vary, they felt too sizzling, which might result in sweaty ft and blisters. You would possibly need to save these waterproof mountaineering boots for spring and fall.

Sturdiness

Because of their sturdy construct, the KEEN Targhee IVs supply sturdiness on tough, diverse terrain, in order that they’re a good selection on rocks and roots. These boots use high quality nubuck leather-based paneling throughout the uppers, in addition to a robust, versatile rubber composite on the outsoles that offers them respectable longevity. KEEN boasts a brand new fusion know-how to bind the soles and uppers with out glue or solvents and prevents delamination – they assure it – and at 250 miles, our boots present no subject on this space.

The toe cap is amongst our favourite on any boot, that includes a beefy rubber composite midsole that wraps excessive of the toes that take the brunt on path. The nylon strap connecting the laces to the heel enhances sturdiness by preserving the match safe and lowering undesirable friction that may result in quicker materials breakdown. And KEEN’s eye towards sturdiness doesn’t skimp on particulars: double-stitched paneling, high quality polyester laces, and a burly heel tab spherical out a robust design that may final for a whole lot of miles and a number of seasons of use in moist, muddy situations.

The Targhee IVs don’t final ceaselessly, although. Sturdiness points stem from the rubber outsoles and the leather-based uppers. We love the cheesy rubber composite for its dependable traction and  flexibility, however the tread doesn’t final so long as higher- finish supplies, so traction declines after a number of use. Our testing reveals that after the 250 mile mark, the lugs – that are solely reasonably deep to start out – lose their edge. The ridges on the heel and toe additionally put on almost flat, sacrificing traction in a serious method. For these in want of a boot with most longevity on rugged trails, a extra inflexible design with burlier rubber could also be a better option. 

In comparison with artificial mountaineering boots and fashions made with lighter supplies, the Targhee IVs uppers’ are sturdy and lengthy lasting – however they aren’t as sturdy as heavier mountaineering boots that make the most of thicker textiles with extra inflexible designs. The Targhee IVs’ leather-based uppers ultimately soak by way of, start to interrupt down, and look extra worn sooner than we’d like. The tread will put on down earlier than the uppers, however the smooth leather-based doesn’t final after lengthy days tackling boulder fields and technical routes.

And take note, high quality leather-based like this takes upkeep to increase its life, so that you’ll need to choose up a high quality leather-based care equipment. That mentioned – these are usually not dealbreakers. All boots break down ultimately, and for many hikers, sturdiness received’t be a priority till after years of heavy use.

Ought to You Purchase the KEEN Targhee IV Mid WP?

The KEEN Targhee IV WP is a superb selection for hikers who need comfortable, roomy boots with reliable traction for day hikes and quick backpacking journeys. The toe field presents tons of area to your ft to stretch out naturally, and the broad sizes are a hole-in-one for folk of all foot configurations and dimensions. These boots require a really quick break-in interval of only some miles, so you possibly can roll into your subsequent hike proper after buy, and the lacing system is very adjustable to dial within the match. Parts like a large, beefy toe cap and nubuck leather-based paneling maintain up nicely on most terrain, and their waterproof liner and versatile soles with dependable traction makes these  versatile boots. We extremely suggest the Targhee IVs for day hikes and shorter backcountry routes the place climate resistance and traction matter.

However, for those who’re a hardcore hiker taking up technical routes and wish most ankle help, excessive sturdiness, or insulation for colder environments, the Targhee IVs received’t meet your wants. Their softer leather-based uppers are inclined to wreck after 300 miles, and the ankle design is a bit too versatile so as to add a lot help. Their easy lug sample works nicely on most terrain however feels slippery on steep angles and doesn’t carry out as nicely on rocky and icy situations. That mentioned, these boots are extremely well-liked yr after yr, and we perceive why – with their roomy match, accessible worth level, and timeless design, these are a fan favourite for a cause.

What Different mountaineering boots Ought to You Think about?

For extra choices, please see our full information to males’s mountaineering boots.

Merrell Moab 3 WP Assessment: The Merrell Moab 3 WP presents related traction and sturdiness to the Targhee IVs, making them an incredible different for reasonable trails. We just like the Moabs a bit higher on the whole due to their superior consolation and cushioning. Though they weigh a bit extra and supply much less ankle help, these boots are additionally inexpensive for the same conventional mountaineering boot profile because the Targhee IV.

Salomon X Extremely 4 GTX Assessment: With a comparable mid-height design, the Salomon X Extremely 4 GTX is lighter than the Targhee IV however presents extra inflexible ankle help and total sturdiness for mountaineering in tough terrain. This mannequin has much less cushioning than the Targhee, however its inflexible uppers and enhanced waterproofing make it a wonderful selection for tackling moist, technical hikes  or rugged backcountry journeys.

HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX Assessment: Should you’re seeking to go lighter and comfier, these are basically path runners masquerading as mountaineering boots: they’re very versatile, breathable, and cushioned, and a better option for additional safety on long-distance hikes in gentle situations. The HOKA Anacapa 2 Mids share the Targhee IV’s dependable traction, however they’re much less sturdy and climate resistant, and also you’ll pay extra for these.