Australian Hiker

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Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men's Shoes - Review

The last time I tested the Keen Targhee model was in 2017 when I wore the Keen Targhee II and at that stage I was a size 14US. Now I’m a size 15US and I recently had the opportunity to test the current model Keen Targhee IV. Over the years Keen has been gradually increased its footwear range but without a doubt the Targhee model is the backbone of that range.

It’s worthwhile noting that the Targhee is a hiking shoe rather than a trail runner and as such it has built-in ruggedness that would fool you into thinking you are wearing a boot. There is also a mid cut boot version for those who want that extra stability. The main thing about the Targhee IV is the supreme durability and foot protection, either in the boot or my personal favourite, the hiking shoe. I just find the hiking shoe version works for me. Having said that this ruggedness comes with increased weight although this shoe is still much lighter than a traditional boot.

Size wise Keen Targhee is generous and as the owner of a wide foot I opted for the wide version. In addition, Keen always seems to have a good range of sizes up to and including my size 15. If you have an average width foot then Keen produces a standard width. Either way the thing I like about the Targhee IV range and for that matter its predecessor, is that the toe box is a rounded shape so doesn’t jam my toes into a point like many brands. In addition, the protection on the toe is excellent and while I wouldn’t recommended it, if you do happen to kick a rock by accident you’ll be glad you are wearing these shoes.

The soles of the shoe are robust. The tread pattern grips well to both wet and dry surfaces and provides good protection from sharp rocks. The durability is very good and has improved since I last used the Targhee II model. I have now worn these shoes for just over 200 km and they are showing minimal signs of wear and as such, I expect they will be a long term shoe.

Comfort wise hiking shoes aren’t as comfortable as a trail runners but the Targhee IV is one of the better hiking shoes I’ve used but I did find that where I usually wear very thin socks I needed a bit more cushioning underfoot provided by a thicker sock.

The lacing system is pretty standard and to a certain degree it will allow you to reduce some, but not all of the excess width for those with slightly narrower feet. I wear very thin socks for most of the year and for those who wear thick socks, this may not be an issue. The shoe laces in this version are 100% recycled plastic but until I read the specifications that wasn’t obvious.

The colour choice on the wide version of this shoe is limited, and by limited I mean there is one choice which is normal in the industry. In this case the colour is called ‘Sea Turtle Roasted Pecan’ which is a fun way of saying a green and brown combination. The colour is neutral enough and won’t stand out but from what I see on the trail its not going to upset too many people.

The other thing that’s worth noting about the Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men’s Shoes is that as the name suggests they are waterproof. In conditions where its cold and damp this is a great feature. In addition to keeping out the moisture it will also limit dirt getting through which does happen with ‘breathable’ footwear.

One strange thing that’s worth noting is that in 2024 the Keen Targhee IV was Time Invention of the Year (Outdoor Category) but you may look at these shoes wonder why. This award was for the way in which Keen manufacture the shoes with glue that bonds the sole to the upper which makes it three times stronger than when gluing and greatly increases the durability. Something to keep this in mind when purchasing shoes for the long haul.

So, if you’re looking for a hard wearing and comfortable hiking shoe that will protect your feet in a range of conditions, then you can’t go past the Keen Targhee IV WP hiking shoe.

We Like

• This wide version is great for those of us with wide feet but also available in a standard width
• Padded tongue and collar for enhanced comfort
• 100% recycled plastic laces
• Abrasion-resistant outsole for durable, longer-lasting traction
• Multi-directional sole lug pattern provides superior traction on both. wet and dry conditions
• Heel-capture system for added stability
• KEEN.FUSION construction fuses the upper to the sole without glue for a longer-lasting bond that’s better for the planet.
• Air-injected midsole for long-lasting cushioning
• Stability shank delivers lightweight stability

We Don't Like

• On the heavy side when compared to trail runners but for those times where supreme protection is required you can’t go past them
• Limited colour range in the ‘wide version’

Would I buy one?

Yes, definitely!

Best Uses

• All types of walking, hiking and backpacking
• Particularly good for rough terrain where you need extreme foot protection
• Great in colder and wetter conditions

Buy One

You can purchase the Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men’s Shoes online from Keen Australia and Wildfire Sports

Disclosure:  We may earn a small commission, at no additional expense to you, if you click through on the above links and make a purchase. Please note that our affiliations do not influence, in any way, the independence of our reviews. If we don’t like a product, you’ll hear about it from us!

Other Versions

Men’s and women’s versions in both this low cut version as well as a mid cut boot

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men’s Shoes Sea Turtle Roasted Pecan colour

The sole of the Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men’s Shoes top view

The sole of the Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men’s Shoes provides plenty of traction in both wet and dry conditions

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men’s Shoes heel and toe view

Tim in his Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Wide Men’s Shoes

Disclaimer

This review was done with product provided by Keen Footwear Australia for review

Last updated

8 May 2025

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