How to Choose Hiking Boots and Shoes

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KEEN Targhee EXP Waterproof hiking shoes have out-of-the-box comfort and the great fit of the original Targhee in a streamlined design. All-terrain outsoles keep you hiking confidently on trails.
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View the KEEN Targhee Product LineView all KEEN Men's Hiking Shoes| Best Use | Hiking |
|---|---|
| Footwear Height | Ankle |
| Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Type of Waterproofing | KEEN.Dry waterproof breathable membrane |
| Upper | Waterproof performance mesh |
| Lining | Mesh |
| Midsole | Dual-density compression-molded EVA |
| Support | ESS shank |
| Outsole | Nonmarking rubber |
| Weight (Pair) | 2 lb. 0.1 oz. |
| Gender | Men's |
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After two years, the sole is de-laminating and the interior heel has torn the stitching. Not heavy use, just urban exploring. Expect more from keen products. at least 5 years on sole and stitching
I was looking for a shoe that I could wear on a construction site as well as on the trail. I went to my local Littleton, Co REI where I found the Low back Leather version and the Highback Canvas version of this shoe. I said to myself, “I wish I could get a lowback version with canvas” and poof, my REI shoe professional went and did some research and said it was available. I immediately ordered the shoe and I got the perfect combination of a rugged, waterproof, hiking shoe that I can kneel in and it not tear up the leather or toe. I also use bungee laces so I can slip them on and off like slippers. I love Keen and the dedicated customer support from REI.
Sorry guys, this is my eighth pair of Keen Taghee's 12 EE. I am a PE teacher, stand on wood floors and grass all day. I need a firm walking shoe that is waterproof and durable. No other shoe compares, tried Merrells, nothing is wide enough or firm enough. They last one year, and I wear them 24/7/365. Workout in them, hike in them, ride in them, coach in them, teach PE in them. They handle tough rocky trails with no problem. Rough surfaces can't dent these babies. Best shoe ever, will buy my ninth in October. I tell everyone about these shoes!
I've had no problems with Keen shoes until now. I bought a pair of Targhees online, and when I put them on and tightened the shoe laces for the first time, the shoe lace hole broke! Cheap! Is it just this model? Maybe I'll try a different one...
This is my third pair of targhees. It’s a great shoe while it lasts. On every pair I have owned the adhesive fails after wearing them in very wet conditions. It causes the black portion of the sole to separate from the grey part and makes the side cleats become tripping hazards. The adhesive fails long before the shoe needs replacing. It’s disappointing especially considering the cost of the shoe.
I did minimal hiking with those pair, and they already ripped at the seams. Not what I expected from KEEN, will be returning these shoes! Also NOT waterproof at all.
Bought these as a rugged waterproof low top work boot. Insole fits the shape of the foot great and gives good support. The shoe seems to have durable construction but I haven't had long term use yet. Sizing seemed to be half a size off. I normally wear 9 1/2 and had to buy a 9. Bad problem is they don't breath at all. Even in 70-80 degree weather my feet were hot and sweaty even wearing performance socks that dry fast. I wore them in my house which is set to 72 degrees and my feet would still sweat! I know a vortex waterproof shoe isn't going to breath quit as well as a non vortex but I have Solomon vortex also in black and these don't kee my feet near as cool. If on my feet all day they hurt my feet a little. Not made in the USA and Made In China. Unless your wanting them for colder weather I wouldn't even consider it.
Purchased shoes at the end of September ‘18. It’s now December and inferior quality is beginning to show. Top edge of rubber sole is showing signs of separation due to glueing instead of stitching. Right heel “swims” in shoe, feels like I’m wearing two different shoes at times. Laces are unusually long. Given the price paid ($143 incl tax), I had high expectations based on previously purchased Keens that lasted years. I’ll consider Keens again when they return to Vibram soles and higher quality manufacturing. I’ll be returning this pair to REI.
Great shoes! Very comfortable! But I'm taking off a star because they are loud and squeaky on indoor floors just like the last pair (marshalls) I had, even when dry. This makes it difficult to wear my favorite shoes to work. I also don't care for the new reinforced heel loop. I just like the look of the old style heel loop musc better and never had a problem with any of the 20+ pairs I've had breaking so I think this is an unnecessary change. I will be keeping these shoes but due the the loud squeaky sound while walking indoors (again) I will be trying a different brand for my next work shoes. I'm sure these will still be great for outdoor use though.
My sixth pair of Keens. My first pair of EXP's. Very comfortable as I expected. Fit is perfect. Have only taken a couple of short walks to try them out. Plan to use them to replace a pair of Keens I have been using in the field that still have a lot of useful life left. Got such a good deal on the EXP's I couldn't pass them up. Once the weather turns cold, I will use these around town until they are needed out in the field. It has been seven years since my first pair of Keens and they all have been excellent. I have tried all of the other major brands all good in their own right but Keens are best for me in terms of quality, endurance, fit and comfort.