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10 Best Keen Hiking Boots 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Low Height Durable Comfortable Waterproof Hiking Shoes, Dark Olive/Gold Flame, 14 Wide

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,293
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort
Traction

Most important from
313 reviews

Waterproofing
Fits nicely and is comfortable to wear all day, worth the money for its durability and water resistance.
Fit and Comfort
Fits nicely and is comfortable to wear all day, worth the money for its durability and water resistance.
Traction
The rubber sole provides great traction and slip resistance, though it makes the shoe heavier and tracks mud due to the aggressive tread design.
Weight
The rubber sole provides great traction and slip resistance, though it makes the shoe heavier and tracks mud due to the aggressive tread design.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Low Height Durable Comfortable Waterproof Hiking Shoes are designed to meet the needs of avid hikers. These boots are crafted from leather, providing durability and a rugged look. The KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane ensures your feet stay dry even in wet conditions, which is essential for hiking in unpredictable weather. The direct-attach construction offers long-lasting cushioning, contributing to the comfort of these shoes.

The removable Luftcell footbed supports your arches and fits comfortably to the natural contours of your feet, enhancing comfort during long hikes. Additionally, the padded tongue and collar further add to the comfort level, making these boots a great choice for extended wear. The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides excellent traction on muddy and rocky surfaces, ensuring stability during hikes. The boots are designed with KEEN Original Fit, offering ample space for your toes to spread out, which is beneficial for preventing discomfort on uneven terrain.

A bruise plate and high abrasion rubber toe guard add extra protection and durability. However, the boots might feel a bit heavy for some users, which could be a drawback if you're looking for a lighter option. Additionally, while they provide ample protection and comfort, users with very narrow feet might find the wide fit less than ideal. In summary, these hiking shoes are well-suited for those looking for durable, waterproof, and comfortable footwear with excellent traction and protection.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,293
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort
Traction

Most important from
313 reviews

Waterproofing
Fits nicely and is comfortable to wear all day, worth the money for its durability and water resistance.
Fit and Comfort
Fits nicely and is comfortable to wear all day, worth the money for its durability and water resistance.
Traction
The rubber sole provides great traction and slip resistance, though it makes the shoe heavier and tracks mud due to the aggressive tread design.
Weight
The rubber sole provides great traction and slip resistance, though it makes the shoe heavier and tracks mud due to the aggressive tread design.
#2

Keen Men's Targhee II Waterproof Cascade Brown/Golden Yellow Hiking Boot - 8.5 2E US

Rating
9.8
Material
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
9874 reviews

Material
The upper leather and mesh materials are rugged and well-made, offering solid protection and breathability.
Waterproofing
These boots kept feet warm, dry, and comfortable through snow, sleet, mud, and rocky terrain on long, challenging hikes.
Fit and Comfort
The wide toe box provides ample room, making them especially suitable for wider feet without feeling cramped.
Traction
The grip remains excellent even after extensive use on steep and rocky trails, delivering reliable traction.
Weight
Despite being lighter than traditional hiking boots, they offer sturdy protection and durability that rivals heavier models.

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.

Rating
9.8
Material
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
9874 reviews

Material
The upper leather and mesh materials are rugged and well-made, offering solid protection and breathability.
Waterproofing
These boots kept feet warm, dry, and comfortable through snow, sleet, mud, and rocky terrain on long, challenging hikes.
Fit and Comfort
The wide toe box provides ample room, making them especially suitable for wider feet without feeling cramped.
Traction
The grip remains excellent even after extensive use on steep and rocky trails, delivering reliable traction.
Weight
Despite being lighter than traditional hiking boots, they offer sturdy protection and durability that rivals heavier models.
#3

KEEN Men's Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Black Olive/Yellow, 10

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Waterproofing
Material

Most important from
12486 reviews

Fit and Comfort
These boots deliver comfort right out of the box, with a wide fit that accommodates thick socks without sacrificing snugness.
Waterproofing
Waterproof yet breathable, the boots keep feet dry from external moisture while minimizing sweat buildup inside.
Material
A fully covered rubber toe cap enhances durability and protects against wear without adding bulk or stiffness.
Weight
Despite their sturdy construction, the boots remain lightweight and flexible enough to avoid feeling heavy on the trail.
Traction
Excellent traction on rocks and uneven terrain helps maintain stability and confidence during hikes.
Boot Type
The mid-height cut offers solid ankle support and protection suitable for moderate trails, though it may not suffice for highly technical terrain.

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.

Rating
9.7
Fit and Comfort
Waterproofing
Material

Most important from
12486 reviews

Fit and Comfort
These boots deliver comfort right out of the box, with a wide fit that accommodates thick socks without sacrificing snugness.
Waterproofing
Waterproof yet breathable, the boots keep feet dry from external moisture while minimizing sweat buildup inside.
Material
A fully covered rubber toe cap enhances durability and protects against wear without adding bulk or stiffness.
Weight
Despite their sturdy construction, the boots remain lightweight and flexible enough to avoid feeling heavy on the trail.
Traction
Excellent traction on rocks and uneven terrain helps maintain stability and confidence during hikes.
Boot Type
The mid-height cut offers solid ankle support and protection suitable for moderate trails, though it may not suffice for highly technical terrain.

Buying Guide for the Best Keen Hiking Boots

Choosing the right hiking boots is crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. The right pair of boots can make a significant difference in your performance and enjoyment on the trail. When selecting hiking boots, consider factors such as the type of terrain you'll be hiking on, the duration of your hikes, and your personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking hiking boots.
Boot TypeBoot type refers to the design and intended use of the hiking boots. There are three main types: lightweight hiking shoes, midweight hiking boots, and heavyweight backpacking boots. Lightweight hiking shoes are ideal for day hikes and smooth trails, offering flexibility and comfort. Midweight hiking boots provide more support and durability for longer hikes and rougher terrain. Heavyweight backpacking boots are designed for multi-day hikes and carrying heavy loads, offering maximum support and protection. Choose the boot type based on the intensity and duration of your hikes.
MaterialThe material of the hiking boots affects their durability, weight, and breathability. Common materials include leather, synthetic fabrics, and a combination of both. Leather boots are durable and offer excellent support but can be heavier and less breathable. Synthetic boots are lighter and more breathable but may not be as durable. Combination boots offer a balance of both. Consider the climate and terrain you'll be hiking in to determine the best material for your needs.
WaterproofingWaterproofing is essential for keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. Boots with waterproof membranes, such as Gore-Tex, provide protection against water while allowing your feet to breathe. Non-waterproof boots are lighter and more breathable but may not keep your feet dry in wet conditions. If you frequently hike in rainy or muddy environments, waterproof boots are a good choice. For dry climates, non-waterproof boots may be more comfortable.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for preventing blisters and ensuring a pleasant hiking experience. Hiking boots should fit snugly but not too tight, with enough room for your toes to wiggle. Consider the width of your feet and try on boots with different lacing systems to find the best fit. It's also important to wear the socks you plan to hike in when trying on boots. Take the time to walk around and test the boots to ensure they provide adequate support and comfort.
TractionTraction refers to the grip and stability the boots provide on various surfaces. The outsole material and tread pattern play a significant role in traction. Boots with deep lugs and aggressive tread patterns offer better grip on slippery or uneven terrain. For smooth trails, a less aggressive tread may be sufficient. Consider the types of terrain you'll be hiking on and choose boots with appropriate traction to ensure stability and prevent slips.
WeightThe weight of the hiking boots can affect your endurance and comfort on long hikes. Lightweight boots are easier to walk in and reduce fatigue, making them ideal for day hikes and less challenging trails. Heavier boots provide more support and durability, which is beneficial for rough terrain and carrying heavy loads. Balance the need for support and durability with the desire for lighter footwear based on your hiking plans.

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