Gear Review: Keen Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boot

The Targhee III Waterproof hiking boot is one of the only shoes I’ve owned that actually holds up to its waterproofing promise. While I wouldn’t recommend this shoe for summer hiking or backpacking trips (it’s heavy, fairly stiff, and not very breathable) it is perfect for muddy day hikes or for snow travel. I’ve used the Targhee III on a number of winter hiking trips including a trip around Trillium Lake and a climb up Dog Mountain, and have returned to the car with warm, dry, and comfortable feet at the end of every trip. The shape of the shoe fits tightly into snowshoes and microspikes, yet even without traction devices the Keen All-Terrain Rubber soles have kept me from slipping on icy trails. Though minimal, the included insole has been comfortable for moderate use and I haven’t needed to use an aftermarket insole. Fit-wise, I have always enjoyed Keen’s roomy toe boxes, yet even with room to wiggle my toes the Heel Capture System still holds my foot steady on uneven terrain. I would recommend trying these shoes on before buying them, but despite initially feeling roomy, the true-to-size fit has worked well.