Males’s KEEN Targhee IV WP Evaluation

Backside Line

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

Nonetheless, they’re heavier than some alternate options, have stiff soles, and require an extended break-in interval. Our crew 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 development could cause them to run scorching in heat circumstances. These sneakers are greatest fitted to hikers looking for sturdy, snug, and steady footwear for difficult trails.

Consolation

The KEEN Targhee IV WP 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 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 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 cut back fatigue on lengthy hikes.

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

Sadly, the leather-based development requires an extended break-in interval, so that you’ll must price range round 20-25 miles to melt the sneakers and attain most consolation. The Targhees are additionally on the bulkier and heavier facet, which makes them exceptionally sturdy, however the added weight can really feel cumbersome on longer treks. Though they’re waterproof, meaning 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

For those who’re on the lookout for critically sticky traction, the KEEN Targhee IVs are an superior alternative. 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 broad, really feel steady and sturdy, and a large outsole will make you’re feeling assured and cut back the chance of slips and falls in blended path circumstances.

On the draw back, the Targhee IV’s traction excels in dry, rocky, and diverse terrains however falls quick 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 climbing sneakers are impressively mild. They strike an amazing steadiness in comparison with the 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 amazing possibility for shorter hikes for individuals who prioritize sturdiness and help over ultralight development.

The explanation they’re a bit heavier is their construct: the Targhees function bombproof leather-based uppers and sturdy outsoles created from a sturdy rubber composite, which affords glorious safety and stability on rugged trails. For those who prioritize longevity and luxury in your footwear, this weight is a stable compromise.

Nonetheless, in comparison with lighter sneakers, 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. For those who’re on the lookout for featherlight footwear for pace or diminished pressure on joints and muscle mass, you might wish to take into account lighter sneakers or path runners as a substitute.

Sturdiness

These sneakers are the perfect of the perfect on the subject 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 sturdy safety towards 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 discipline crossings. And, because the toe cap is fused to the shoe – not glued – the rubber doesn’t delaminate over time, and can simply endure lots 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 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 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 development and leather-based uppers successfully hold 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 hold your ft feeling heat when the temperatures are cooler. The sneakers’ capability to repel moisture and retain a bit of heat makes them über versatile throughout completely different seasons and terrain.

The trade-off is these sneakers are usually not very breathable, in order that they aren’t our favorites in scorching summer time climate. The waterproof membrane restricts airflow, which might result in sweaty ft and the potential for blisters and scorching spots when temperatures are above 75°F, you’re 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 glorious traction, a safe lacing system, and a roomy toe field, these sneakers 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 alternative for hikers who prioritize sturdiness and help over light-weight flexibility. 

Nonetheless, their heavier weight and longer break-in interval could not go well with of us looking for ultra-lightweight or extremely breathable footwear. The waterproofing may be very efficient, however can simply result in overheating in hotter circumstances. For those who want a long-lasting, supportive shoe for rugged terrain and cooler climates, the KEEN Targhee IV is a prime decide.

What Different Mountaineering Footwear Ought to You Think about?

Merrell Moab 3: The Merrell Moab is a good different with its equally basic 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 glorious 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 journey for long-distance hikes and rocky trails.

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