Women’s Keen Targhee IV WP Hiking Shoe Review

Bottom Line

The Keen Targhee IV WPs are a burly waterproof shoe. They are also a great value for those hiking in cold, wet weather (where breathability is not as much of a concern) and for shorter day hikes rather than extensive peak scrambles or long backcountry treks.

They are one of the bulkier and heavier pairs in our lineup of the best women’s hiking shoes with limited breathability. They also run very large lengthwise – even after sizing down one full size, they were still roomy throughout the body of the shoe. 

However, those with high-volume feet will surely appreciate the spaciousness of this model.

How We Tested

We tested the Keen Targhee IVs on miles of off-trail terrain along creeks, over boulders, and through oak woodlands in northern California. We tested them for their break-in period, and breathability as well as the lacing system. When reviewing traction and durability, we put these hiking shoes through the wringer – rock hopping across creeks on boulders and hiking through bushes and undergrowth. We weighed these shoes on our kitchen scale and stomped through puddles and creeks while on our hikes.

Comfort

As a higher volume shoe, the Keen Targhee IVs are best suited to someone with wider feet. Even after sizing down a full shoe size, the volume in the shoe still required that she wear them with two pairs of socks. 

However, we really appreciate the lacing system which stayed tied and did not come loose during testing, like some other models in our lineup. They also provided decent ankle support without any heel slippage.

Our gear analyst, who typically goes for the more naturally-shaped footwear with a low heel-to-drop found the Keens to be clunky and stiff with little ground feel. However, those who seek more support from their footwear and are looking for hiking-specific shoes (not crossover shoes), will appreciate the Keens for use on non-technical trails.  

While the Keens are waterproof and keep water from coming into your shoes, they don’t excel at breathability. This poses no problem if you are hiking in colder weather. However, as we found out when hiking in sunny California, they leave much to be desired in warmer weather.

Traction

The Keen Targhees surprised us with their traction with their multidirectional lugs. Their tread performed very well on varied terrain. We tested them on slick rocks, in creeks, and through stretches of bushwacking. The lugs retained their grip when rock hopping across creeks and stayed solid even on wet terrain. They also held well on both steep ups and downs.

The only environment where the Keen’s traction was lacking, was when our gear analyst took them through mud, which really stuck in lugs and weighed down the bottom of the shoes.

Weight

Of all the hiking shoes in our lineup, the Keen Targhees are one of the heavier options coming in at almost two pounds. However, with that weight comes additional durability and support features such as an integrated stability shank, leather upper, thicker soles and cushioning, and overall more volume in the shoe for those with all-around larger feet.

While the weight of these shoes is not a dealbreaker, it is noticeable over longer distance hikes as your feet start to feel heavier than with a lighter pair. However, the most noticeable weight factor is when mud sticks to the bottom of the shoes, adding ounces to each step.

Durability

While the Keen Targhees may be bulkier shoes made with thicker materials, they are undoubtedly extremely durable. We didn’t notice any immediate wear and tear – no holes, snagging, or bulging of the material even after our extended testing period. These Keens are sure to last many seasons of use. 

While they are advertised as a hiking shoe, they would also be worthy as an outdoor work shoe due to their extra durability. They also include some additional features that boost their robustness, including a robust toe cap and Eco Anti-Odor protection which keeps them a little less funky over time.

Weather Resistance

The Keen Targhees use Keen Dry Waterproofing to provide water resistance and protect your feet from getting wet. Our gear analyst found this pair excelled at shedding water when walking through wet conditions; they also held up when fully submerged in a creek up to their laces – there were no signs of leakage or seepage through the fabric and her feet stayed dry.

However, you should expect some moisture accumulation from the inside over the course of a long hike since sweat does get trapped.

We do love that these shoes are manufactured without PFAS, which are toxic synthetic long-lasting chemicals found in many waterproofing materials, that negatively impact the environment when water runs off the fabric and onto the ground.

Should You Buy the KEEN Targhee IV WP?

The Keen Targhee IV WP is an ideal shoe for those with wider or high-volume feet. They are also a great choice for those looking for a durable, protective shoe that can be used for a combination of non-technical casual hiking and outdoor work. If you are in need of a supportive shoe for wet and cold weather, then these Keens will surely keep your feet dry.

On the other hand, if you have narrow or slim feet, then this pair will not be as comfortable for you. While some may prefer the more supportive features of the Keens, those who like more ground feel and a footbed that fits the natural contour of their foot will want to consider other options. If you plan to do significant off-trail, technical, or lengthy treks, we recommend a lighter, less bulky, and more breathable option to add to your gear collection.

What Other Women’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?

While the Keen Targhee IV WP shoes may work for some people, there are a variety of other suitable choices to compare them to in our guide to the best women’s hiking shoes. If you are still looking for a roomier toe box and wider shoe but would prefer more breathability, a less bulky fit, or more ground feel, then take a peek at these other suggestions below.

Altra Lone Peak 8 Review: The Altra Lone Peak is a classic model that is a favorite of many thru-hikers and long-distance adventures. Similar to the Keens, they offer a wide toe box for your toes to splay. However, unlike the Keens, they offer better ground feel, a natural-shaped footbed, and a zero heel-to-toe drop.

Hoka Speedgoat 6 Review: The Hoka Speedgoat is one of our overall favorites for a combined trail running and hiking shoe. Like the Keens, they fit wider feet comfortably and offers excellent durability and traction. A pair of these Hokas weigh about half as much as the Keens (though they aren’t waterproof).

Topo Ultraventure 3 Review: The Topo is one of our top picks for weight, breathability, and support and also offers some roominess for wide feet, similar to the Keens. However, the Topos are a bit more comfortable and easy to break in.