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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 Mid Height Durable Comfortable Waterproof Hiking Boots, Bison/Black, 12 Wide

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,252
Boot Type
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
449 reviews

Boot Type
The boots offer a great build with firm balance on rocky terrain, delivering robust support and a stylish look.
Fit and Comfort
They provide an excellent fit right out of the box, requiring no break-in period before hitting the trails.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,252
Boot Type
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
449 reviews

Boot Type
The boots offer a great build with firm balance on rocky terrain, delivering robust support and a stylish look.
Fit and Comfort
They provide an excellent fit right out of the box, requiring no break-in period before hitting the trails.
#2

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

Rating
8.5
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort
Traction

Most important from
392 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
8.5
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort
Traction

Most important from
392 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.
#3

KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots

Rating
8.2
Material
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
7944 reviews

Material
Durability holds up well for many months with minimal maintenance, but waterproofing may degrade after extended heavy use.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is effective, keeping feet dry even after rain, though it can make the boots feel a bit warm.
Fit and Comfort
These boots provide excellent warmth and comfort, quickly adapting with only a short break-in period.
Traction
Outstanding ankle support and tread grip make these boots reliable across versatile and challenging terrains.
Weight
The boots have a lightweight, nimble feel that performs well both on trails and in everyday wear.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Mid Hiking Boots are designed with serious hikers in mind who need reliable protection and comfort on varied terrain. These boots feature a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that effectively keeps your feet dry while letting moisture escape, which is great for wet or muddy conditions. Made from durable leather and breathable mesh, the boots also include a rubber toe guard and bruise plate to protect your feet from rocks and rough surfaces.

They offer solid ankle support thanks to their mid-height design and an external support shank, which helps with balance during long hikes. The removable footbed with arch support and cushioning adds comfort, although heavier hikers might notice some compression over time. Traction is strong with KEEN’s all-terrain rubber outsole and multidirectional lugs, providing good grip on slippery or uneven ground. The boots have a relatively lightweight feel for their category, making them less tiring for extended walking.

One thing to consider is the fit: KEEN’s Original Fit gives plenty of toe room, which many find comfortable, but those with narrow feet might want to try them first. Care is straightforward but requires some attention to keep the leather in good shape. These boots are well suited for hikers seeking dependable waterproofing, good support, and durable traction while maintaining comfort on longer treks.

Rating
8.2
Material
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
7944 reviews

Material
Durability holds up well for many months with minimal maintenance, but waterproofing may degrade after extended heavy use.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is effective, keeping feet dry even after rain, though it can make the boots feel a bit warm.
Fit and Comfort
These boots provide excellent warmth and comfort, quickly adapting with only a short break-in period.
Traction
Outstanding ankle support and tread grip make these boots reliable across versatile and challenging terrains.
Weight
The boots have a lightweight, nimble feel that performs well both on trails and in everyday wear.

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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