Males’s KEEN Targhee IV WP Assessment

Backside Line

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

Nevertheless, they’re heavier than some options, have stiff soles, and require an extended break-in interval. Our workforce at CleverHiker has hiked within the Targhee IVs from the Colorado backcountry in February to the Arizona desert in November, and so they’ve proved to be sturdy and supportive, although their bulk and leather-based building may cause them to run sizzling in heat circumstances. These sneakers are greatest fitted to hikers in search of sturdy, snug, and secure footwear for difficult trails.

Consolation

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

Their generously cushioned insoles and midsoles provide loads of help and soak up shock on powerful trails. And, an outsized, protecting toe cap and burly heel cup maintain your toes safe and protected from potential hazards on path to maintain you feeling snug throughout the lengthy haul.

Sadly, the leather-based building requires an extended break-in interval, so that you’ll have to funds round 20-25 miles to melt the sneakers 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 under 75°F.

Traction

If you happen to’re on the lookout for significantly 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, dust, and rocks. The lugs, though shallow and extensive, really feel secure and sturdy, and a large outsole will make you are feeling assured and scale back the chance of slips and falls in combined path circumstances.

On the draw back, the Targhee IV’s traction excels in dry, rocky, and assorted terrains however falls brief in constantly 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 sneakers are impressively mild. They strike an excellent stability in comparison with the mountain climbing sneakers 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 excellent choice for shorter hikes for individuals who prioritize sturdiness and help over ultralight building.

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

Nevertheless, in comparison with lighter sneakers, the Targhee IVs can really feel heavy throughout prolonged hikes, and the extra weight will contribute to quicker fatigue over lengthy distances in addition to steep ascents and descents. If you happen to’re on the lookout for featherlight footwear for velocity or decreased pressure on joints and muscle groups, you could wish to take into account lighter sneakers or path runners as an alternative.

Sturdiness

These sneakers are one of the best of one of the best in relation to sturdiness. Gear analyst Ian Krammer has put over 250 miles on his Targhees in distant backcountry routes excessive within the Colorado Rockies, and so they look as sharp and carry out as sturdy 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 subject 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 way of the forest, and navigating talus.

The draw back of burly leather-based uppers is that they require a bit extra care, together with waterproof therapy and cleansing, versus artificial textiles or all-mesh choices. And, the leather-based higher mixed with a barely stiffer sole means these sneakers have an extended lifespan than most mountain climbing sneakers 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 delicate 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 toes will keep bone dry and comfy on the path. The leather-based uppers, mixed with beneficiant padding, additionally imply they’ll maintain your toes feeling heat when the temperatures are cooler. The sneakers’ 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 sneakers will not be very breathable, in order that they aren’t our favorites in sizzling summer season climate. The waterproof membrane restricts airflow, which might result in sweaty toes and the potential for blisters and sizzling 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 need 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 sneakers provide unparalleled consolation and stability for lengthy hikes in rain, snow, and dust. They excel on gnarly trails, cooler climate, and shorter adventures, making them an excellent selection for hikers who prioritize sturdiness and help over light-weight flexibility. 

Nevertheless, their heavier weight and longer break-in interval could not swimsuit people in search of ultra-lightweight or extremely breathable footwear. The waterproofing could be very efficient, however can simply result in overheating in hotter circumstances. If you happen to want a long-lasting, supportive shoe for rugged terrain and cooler climates, the KEEN Targhee IV is a high decide.

What Different Mountaineering Sneakers Ought to You Take into account?

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

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

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