Disclosure: These boots were provided by KEEN with no obligation to review.
How reviews are approached
Gear and equipment featured on Ciss Outdoors is assessed through repeated use over time, rather than controlled testing or first impressions. Reviews focus on how items perform in practice, including context, limitations, and suitability, so readers can judge what may or may not work for them.
A comfortable, wide-fitting hiking boot that works best for everyday, mixed terrain outings.
I’ve been using the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots across winter and into early spring, wearing them almost exclusively for day-to-day use and lower-level outdoor routes. That’s included coastal paths, glen walking, and general travel, so they’ve been tested across a consistent mix of terrain and conditions. Over that time, they’ve proven to be a dependable, hard-wearing boot with little to fault in performance once broken in, with the main consideration coming down to the width and how that shapes fit.
What You Need To Know
Model: KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof
Size: Women’s UK 8
Time using them: 3.5 months
Fit notes: True to size in length, notably wide toebox and midfoot
Best for: Mixed-use walking, including travel and non-technical hiking
Key features: Reliable waterproofing and durability, ankle support, comfort once broken in
First Impressions
Out of the box, the Targhee feels like a substantial boot. The upper is initially stiff, particularly around the tongue and lace system, which makes the first few wears feel more structured than comfortable. The shape is broader than many alternatives, with a rounded toe and a noticeably wide profile.
The stiffness shows up most when tightening the laces. It takes some adjustment to get an even, comfortable fit while the materials are still holding their shape. Once the materials soften slightly, the boots feel secure and consistent, and the early pressure points disappear.
Fit
Fit is true to size in length. There’s enough room that even with thicker socks, it doesn’t feel necessary to size up.
Width is the defining characteristic of the Targhees. KEEN’s “Original Fit” not only gives space across the toe box, allowing for toe splay, but also extends further through the midfoot in this model. I have worn numerous pairs of KEEN footwear, and the Targhees have the widest feel. For those who need or prefer a wide fit, this will suit them particularly well. For those with narrower feet, it may feel like more volume than is ideal.
Comfort
After the initial break-in, comfort holds up well over long days. With the lacing set correctly, there are no recurring pressure points or hotspots; the Targhees never rub.
Weight sits on the heavier side for a mid-height boot. A UK 8 comes in at around 560g per boot. The weight, however, aligns with the overall build quality and doesn’t detract from comfort. The build also contributes to the boots running warm. Even with lighter socks, they retain heat more than expected, which works well in colder conditions but becomes noticeable as temperatures rise.
Grip And Traction
Traction is consistently reliable across the varied terrain I use these boots on. That includes muddy ground, coastal rocky paths, and steep gravel tracks, without any points where I’ve questioned the grip. The KEEN.RUGGED outsole features a multi-directional lug pattern that delivers a stable, predictable feel underfoot.
Waterproofing And Durability
In sustained wet conditions, there’s been no leakage, and the Targhees hold up to repeated exposure to mud and water without issue. KEEN use their KEEN.DRY membrane here, alongside a PFAS-free water-repellent treatment, and that combination has proven reliable.
Durability is where these boots stand out. After months of frequent wear, no obvious weak points are developing. The nubuck leather upper has softened slightly over time, but only in a way that improves comfort rather than affecting structure. KEEN sources leather from LWG-certified tanneries, and it holds up well both in feel and finish.
The leather mud shield of the Targhee is particularly effective. Even after heavy use in muddy conditions, the boots clean up easily. Once dried, mud knocks off without leaving staining, and the lighter leather retains its appearance far better than expected.
KEEN’s Fusion construction, which avoids traditional gluing methods, seems to contribute to that overall durability. Despite regular use and minimal maintenance, the boots still look good.
There are also smaller details, like the use of recycled materials for the webbings and laces. These complement the broader focus on durability, creating a sustainable boot.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Who These Suit Best
- Those needing or preferring a wide fit through both forefoot and midfoot
- Lower-level terrain hikers in cool to temperate climates
- Anyone prioritising durability and sustainability in boots
How They Perform
Stable underfoot, with reliable grip and waterproofing that holds up in sustained wet conditions. They perform well over long days, though they run warm, and the wider fit shapes how they feel and look.
Are They Worth It?
Yes, if the broader fit works for you. Performance is difficult to fault once broken in, and the durability supports long-term value.
Related reading:
Oboz Bridger Ridge Mid GTX Review: A Dependable Boot for Wet and Colder Conditions
Keela Women’s Merino Hoody Review: An Essential Mid-layer
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