10 Best Keen Hiking Boots 2025 in the United States

The KEEN Men's Targhee 4 Mid hiking boots are a solid choice for keen hikers who need reliable, comfortable footwear for various terrains. They feature KEEN.DRY waterproofing, which does a good job keeping feet dry while allowing breathability, essential for comfort during long hikes. The boots have a sturdy rubber outsole with KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN traction, offering confident grip on muddy or rocky paths.

Comfort is well addressed with a removable footbed that supports arches, a padded tongue and collar, and KEEN’s Original Fit design that gives toes room to move without feeling cramped. The durable construction includes a bruise plate and reinforced toe guard, protecting your feet from rough ground. At ankle height, they provide decent support without being too heavy or restrictive. However, for users who prioritize a very lightweight boot, these might feel a bit bulky compared to trail runners or lighter hiking shoes.

The mid-height might not be enough for very rugged or highly uneven trails that demand full ankle protection. These boots are best suited for hikers seeking durable, waterproof footwear with good comfort and traction for moderate to challenging hikes, especially in wet conditions.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are solid all-around boots designed for hikers who want reliable protection and comfort on various trails. They feature a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps your feet dry while allowing sweat to escape, which is great for wet or muddy conditions. The boots use durable leather combined with breathable mesh, offering a good balance between sturdiness and ventilation. An environmentally friendly coating helps maintain the leather's quality over time. The mid-height design provides decent ankle support and balance, helped by an external support shank and heel cradle. Comfort is enhanced by a removable footbed with arch support and cushioning that stays resilient even after long wear.

Traction is a standout with KEEN's all-terrain rubber outsole and 4mm multi-directional lugs that grip well on slippery or rocky surfaces. The boots are on the heavier side at about 3.65 pounds, which might feel bulky for some hikers, especially on longer treks. Also, the KEEN Original Fit offers extra room in the toe box, which is great if you prefer space but might feel loose if you want a snug fit. Maintenance is straightforward but requires some care to keep the leather in good shape. These boots suit hikers looking for durability and waterproof performance without sacrificing comfort, especially in varied or wet environments. They may not be the best choice if you need ultra-lightweight boots or prefer a very close fit.

The KEEN Men's Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes are a solid choice for anyone needing reliable, comfortable boots for hiking. Made from premium leather combined with breathable mesh, these shoes are built to last and keep your feet dry thanks to KEEN.DRY waterproofing, which blocks water but lets moisture escape. This helps prevent soggy feet during wet hikes. They also feature a durable rubber toe guard and a bruise plate underneath to protect against rocks and rough terrain. The ankle-height design offers good support and stability, which is great if you’re tackling uneven trails.

Inside, the removable footbed has arch support and cushioning that stays comfortable even after long walks. KEEN's Original Fit gives your toes extra room to move naturally, reducing discomfort on longer adventures. The outsole uses multi-directional lugs made of tough rubber to provide strong grip on slippery or muddy surfaces, so you’re less likely to slip.

These boots might feel a bit heavier than some lightweight hiking shoes, which could matter if you prefer ultra-light gear. Also, because they use leather, they require some care like gentle cleaning and occasional waterproofing maintenance to keep them in good shape. These boots suit casual to moderately serious hikers who want a sturdy, waterproof shoe that balances comfort, protection, and reliable traction.