10 Best Keen Hiking Boots 2025 in the United States

The Keen Men's Targhee II Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed for hikers who need reliable protection and comfort on varied terrains. It features a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps your feet dry by blocking water while allowing sweat vapor to escape, which is great for wet or muddy conditions. The boot is made from durable premium leather combined with breathable mesh, offering a good balance between toughness and airflow. A leather guard and bruise plate add extra protection around the toes and on rough surfaces.

For comfort, the boot has the KEEN Original Fit, which gives your toes plenty of room to move naturally, reducing fatigue during long hikes. The removable footbed provides arch support, and the cushioning remains resilient even after extended wear. Traction is a strong point here; the KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs grips well on slippery or rocky trails. It also uses non-marking rubber, so it won't leave marks indoors if you take them off inside.

These boots offer great support and durability but are made of leather, which means they require some care like brushing off dirt and occasional cleaning to maintain their condition. Also, the boots are on the heavier side compared to lightweight hiking shoes, so they might feel bulky for those prioritizing speed or ultra-light hiking. If you’re looking for sturdy, waterproof boots that handle tough trails comfortably and can be cared for to last a long time, these are a solid choice.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Mid hiking boots are designed with serious hikers in mind, offering a solid combination of durability, comfort, and protection. Their KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane effectively keeps feet dry while allowing sweat to escape, preventing discomfort on long hikes. The boot's direct-attach sole construction adds cushioning and durability, making them reliable for frequent use without falling apart. One of the standout features is the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole, which provides excellent grip on muddy and rocky trails, reducing the risk of slipping.

Comfort is well addressed with a removable footbed that supports your arches and a padded tongue and collar to prevent pressure points. The fit is roomy enough to let toes spread out, which many hikers appreciate for stability and comfort. Extra protection like the bruise plate and reinforced toe guard help guard your feet against rough terrain. These boots feature a mid-height design that offers moderate ankle support, suitable for many trails but potentially less ideal for extremely rugged or unstable terrain where higher boots could be preferable.

While the boots are not overly heavy, hikers who prioritize ultra-light gear might find them a bit bulky. The wide fit option accommodates those needing extra room, though individuals with narrow feet might find the fit less secure. The KEEN Targhee 4 Mid boots are well suited for hikers seeking dependable waterproof footwear with solid traction and comfort for moderate to tough trails, although they may not be the best choice for those requiring ultra-lightweight gear or extensive ankle support.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are a solid choice for hikers needing reliable foot protection and support on various trails. These boots use premium leather combined with breathable mesh, which helps maintain comfort and durability. The waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane keeps your feet dry by blocking water while letting sweat escape, making them ideal for wet or muddy conditions. Their traction is excellent thanks to KEEN’s all-terrain rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs, providing good grip even on slippery or rocky surfaces.

For comfort, the boots feature a mid-height cut with an external support shank and contoured heel, offering stability and ankle support during longer hikes. The removable footbed with arch support adapts to your foot shape, while the cushioning holds up well over time without quickly flattening. Weighing about 1.12 pounds per boot, they strike a good balance between sturdiness and lightness, so they won’t bog you down on the trail.

On the downside, while the leather and mesh materials are durable, the boots might require some break-in time to soften up fully. Also, the mid-height design offers moderate ankle protection but may not be enough for very rugged or technical terrain where higher boots are preferred. Lastly, although they perform well in muddy spots, the non-marking sole means they might wear faster if used extensively on abrasive surfaces. These boots are well suited for casual to moderately challenging hikes, especially for those who value waterproofing, comfort, and dependable traction without the extra bulk of heavy mountaineering boots.