Males’s KEEN Targhee IV WP Assessment

Backside Line

The KEEN Targhee IV WPs are a crowd-pleaser in terms of traction, a roomy toe field, a safe lacing system, and general stability. These traditional leather-based kicks are good for rugged, technical backcountry circumstances and supply among the greatest waterproofing of any mountain climbing footwear we examined, making them ultimate for moist trails and cooler climate. When snow is lingering, the climate forecast seems to be iffy, or we’re mountain climbing within the shoulder seasons, the Targhee IVs are one of many first mountain climbing footwear we attain for.

Nonetheless, they’re heavier than some options, have stiff soles, and require an extended break-in interval. Our group at CleverHiker has hiked within the Targhee IVs from the Colorado backcountry in February to the Arizona desert in November, they usually’ve proved to be sturdy and supportive, although their bulk and leather-based building could cause them to run scorching in heat circumstances. These footwear are greatest fitted to hikers searching for sturdy, snug, and steady footwear for difficult trails.

Consolation

The KEEN Targhee IV WP mountain climbing footwear are snug it doesn’t matter what your foot form or measurement. We love their sturdy, pliable leather-based uppers, which mould to your ft over time to offer a match like a glove, and the safe lacing system helps obtain a comfortable match to forestall any pointless sliding or motion contained in the shoe. The Targhees additionally characteristic a large toe field so your toes can transfer naturally and unrestricted, and also you’ll have the ability to bend your forefoot simply on steep ascents and technical terrain to cut back fatigue on lengthy hikes.

Their generously cushioned insoles and midsoles provide loads of help and take in shock on robust trails. And, an outsized, protecting toe cap and burly heel cup maintain your ft safe and protected from potential hazards on path to maintain you feeling snug through the lengthy haul.

Sadly, the leather-based building requires an extended break-in interval, so that you’ll must finances round 20-25 miles to melt the footwear and attain most consolation. The Targhees are additionally on the bulkier and heavier aspect, which makes them exceptionally sturdy, however the added weight can really feel cumbersome on longer treks. Though they’re waterproof, which means the leather-based uppers are much less breathable, resulting in potential overheating in heat climate and humid circumstances, so that you’ll wish to save these for cooler hikes beneath 75°F.

Traction

When you’re in search of severely sticky traction, the KEEN Targhee IVs are an superior selection. Their multi-directional lug sample reliably grips on nearly any dry floor you’ll encounter on path, together with gravel, filth, and rocks. The lugs, though shallow and vast, really feel steady and sturdy, and a large outsole will make you’re feeling assured and cut back the danger of slips and falls in blended path circumstances.

On the draw back, the Targhee IV’s traction excels in dry, rocky, and diversified terrains however falls quick in persistently moist environments. We discover the chunky lug sample is much less efficient on moist or slippery surfaces, making them really feel much less dependable in wet circumstances or on slick roots and rocks.

Weight

Regardless of their barely cumbersome aesthetic, the KEEN Targhee IV WP mountain climbing footwear are impressively mild. They strike an amazing steadiness in comparison with the mountain climbing footwear we’ve examined, coming in at one pound, eight ounces for a pair. This weight makes them a mid-range shoe in our lineup, in order that they’re an amazing choice for shorter hikes for individuals who prioritize sturdiness and help over ultralight building.

The explanation they’re a bit heavier is their construct: the Targhees characteristic bombproof leather-based uppers and strong outsoles constituted of a sturdy rubber composite, which affords wonderful safety and stability on rugged trails. When you prioritize longevity and luxury in your footwear, this weight is a strong compromise.

Nonetheless, in comparison with lighter footwear, the Targhee IVs can really feel heavy throughout prolonged hikes, and the extra weight will contribute to sooner fatigue over lengthy distances in addition to steep ascents and descents. When you’re in search of featherlight footwear for velocity or diminished pressure on joints and muscular tissues, it’s possible you’ll wish to think about lighter footwear or path runners as an alternative.

Sturdiness

These footwear are the most effective of the most effective in terms of sturdiness. Gear analyst Ian Krammer has put over 250 miles on his Targhees in distant backcountry routes excessive within the Colorado Rockies, they usually look as sharp and carry out as robust as they did at mile 20. With sturdy all-leather uppers that supply strong safety in opposition to abrasions, rocks, and different path hazards, complemented by double-stitched panels alongside the outsoles, the Targhees are among the many most sturdy and longest-lasting footwear we’ve examined.

We’ve additionally discovered the stiff outsole and lugs are gradual to put on down and the rubber composite performs admirably even after dozens of rocky trails and boulder area crossings. And, for the reason that toe cap is fused to the shoe – not glued – the rubber doesn’t delaminate over time, and can simply endure tons of of miles in brutal backcountry environments kicking rocks, bashing by the forest, and navigating talus.

The draw back of burly leather-based uppers is that they require a bit extra care, together with waterproof remedy and cleansing, versus artificial textiles or all-mesh choices. And, the leather-based higher mixed with a barely stiffer sole means these footwear have an extended lifespan than most mountain climbing footwear we’ve examined – as much as 500-600 miles – however they could be a bit gradual to interrupt in, and aren’t as breathable or quick-drying as artificial choices.

Climate Resistance

For folk mountain climbing in cool, moist, and surprising climate circumstances within the fall, spring, and even gentle winter circumstances, the KEEN Targhee IVs are a no brainer. Their waterproof building and leather-based uppers successfully maintain water out whether or not it’s rain, puddles, or stream crossings, so your ft will keep bone dry and cozy on the path. The leather-based uppers, mixed with beneficiant padding, additionally imply they’ll maintain your ft feeling heat when the temperatures are cooler. The footwear’ capability to repel moisture and retain a bit of heat makes them über versatile throughout totally different seasons and terrain.

The trade-off is these footwear are usually not very breathable, in order that they aren’t our favorites in scorching summer season climate. The waterproof membrane restricts airflow, which may result in sweaty ft and the potential for blisters and scorching spots when temperatures are above 75°F, you’re mountain climbing in humid climates, or heating up throughout an intense hike.

Ought to You Purchase the Eager Targhee IV WP?

The KEEN Targhee IV is ideal for hikers who desire a reliable, roomy, and sturdy shoe for difficult and soggy backcountry circumstances. With wonderful traction, a safe lacing system, and a roomy toe field, these footwear provide unparalleled consolation and stability for lengthy hikes in rain, snow, and dirt. They excel on gnarly trails, cooler climate, and shorter adventures, making them an amazing selection for hikers who prioritize sturdiness and help over light-weight flexibility. 

Nonetheless, their heavier weight and longer break-in interval might not go well with people searching for ultra-lightweight or extremely breathable footwear. The waterproofing may be very efficient, however can simply result in overheating in hotter circumstances. When you want a long-lasting, supportive shoe for rugged terrain and cooler climates, the KEEN Targhee IV is a prime choose.

What Different Climbing Footwear Ought to You Think about?

Merrell Moab 3: The Merrell Moab is a superb various with its equally traditional aesthetic, reliable traction, and roomy match. Nonetheless, the Moabs provide higher breathability in each the waterproof and non-waterproof variations, making them appropriate for hotter climates, they usually provide a extra versatile midsole.

HOKA Anacapa 2 Low GTX: The HOKA Anacapa shares the Targhee IV’s wonderful help and waterproofing. Nonetheless, that is the proper shoe to think about if you would like a lighter pair with thicker foam within the midsole, with a a lot cushier and responsive trip for long-distance hikes and rocky trails.

La Sportiva Spire GTX: The La Sportiva Spire GTX additionally affords very good traction and sturdiness akin to the Targhee IV. Nonetheless, it stands out with a Gore-Tex liner, decrease stack top, and extra fashionable aesthetic that performs like a mountain climbing boot however seems to be like a mountain climbing shoe.