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| KEEN Men's Targhee III Low Height Waterproof on Amazon |
When it comes to outdoor footwear that combines comfort, durability, and performance, the KEEN Men’s Targhee III Low Height Waterproof shoe stands out. Renowned for its rugged construction, waterproof capability, and adaptive design, this shoe is made for hikers, trekkers, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand quality without compromise. In this article, we’ll explore what makes the Targhee III a top pick for all-terrain adventurers, detailing its design, key features, and frequently asked questions to give you a full understanding of why this shoe is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
About this item
- WATERPROOF & PROTECTION: KEEN.DRY breathable membrane keeps feet dry and comfortable by allowing vapor out without letting water in; Bruise plate for protection on uneven surfaces; High abrasion rubber toe guard for added durability
- MATERIAL & CONSCIOUSLY CREATED: Durable premium leather and breathable performance mesh; Quick dry lining for active use; KEEN sources hides from Leather Working Group certified tanneries; Environmentally friendly DWR helps keep leather from drying out
- TRACTION: KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber provides high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; 4mm multi direction lugs provide optimal traction for sure footing; Non marking rubber outsoles leaves no imprints when walking indoors
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: External Support Shank and mid cut height adds balance and ankle support; Heel cradle for stability; Removable footbed with arch support cradles to the foot’s shape; Resilient cushioning doesn’t compress quickly after extended use
- FIT & CARE: KEEN Original Fit gives generous space for toes to spread out; Gently brush leather with a soft bristle brush or hand towel to remove loose dirt and debris; Tough stains may require a leather cleaner
Why Choose KEEN Men’s Targhee III Low Height Waterproof Shoes?
The KEEN Targhee III Low Waterproof has redefined versatility in outdoor footwear. Built with KEEN’s signature craftsmanship, it’s not just a shoe but a piece of essential equipment. Hikers can enjoy comfort for hours, no matter the terrain, without sacrificing style or durability. Let’s look at some of the standout features that make these shoes a popular choice among outdoor lovers.
Built to Last – Durability That Withstands the Test of Time
KEEN has a reputation for producing footwear that is nearly indestructible, and the Targhee III Low Height Waterproof is no exception. Designed for rocky trails, wet paths, and everything in between, this shoe can withstand rough usage while maintaining its shape and support. The durability comes from the premium materials used in its construction.
Premium Leather Upper and Advanced Waterproofing
The upper of the Targhee III is crafted from environmentally preferred leather, sourced from certified tanneries that focus on sustainable practices. This leather upper not only adds a layer of rugged elegance but also ensures the shoe’s long lifespan, even with continuous exposure to harsh elements. Paired with KEEN.DRY™, an exclusive waterproof, breathable membrane, the Targhee III prevents water from seeping in while allowing vapor to escape, keeping feet dry and comfortable.
Reinforced Toe Protection
Anyone familiar with KEEN knows about their patented toe protection. The Targhee III features a reinforced toe cap that protects your feet from accidental impacts—perfect for rocky or uneven trails where hazards are common. This added layer of protection also contributes to the shoe’s durability, ensuring that it holds up against abrasions and scrapes that can quickly wear down other hiking shoes.
Comfort That Doesn’t Quit – Support for Every Step
The comfort of the KEEN Men’s Targhee III Low Height Waterproof isn’t just a perk—it’s a guarantee. Hikers often struggle with fatigue from hours on their feet, but the Targhee III combats that by providing a high level of support, from the insole to the outsole.
Dual-Density EVA Midsole for Lasting Cushioning
One of the key features that makes the KEEN Targhee III comfortable is the dual-density EVA midsole. This midsole offers long-lasting cushioning, allowing wearers to hike or walk for extended periods without experiencing foot pain or fatigue. The EVA foam adapts to the foot’s shape, creating a customized fit that supports natural movement and reduces strain.
Breathable Mesh Lining
Underneath the leather exterior, KEEN incorporates a mesh lining that promotes airflow, so feet stay cool even on the warmest trails. This is particularly valuable for those embarking on long hikes, as the breathable mesh helps prevent overheating and perspiration, which can lead to blisters. With its superior ventilation, the Targhee III gives hikers the confidence to tackle any adventure comfortably.
Traction and Stability – Confident Movement on Any Terrain
Navigating unpredictable surfaces requires more than a good fit; it requires stability and grip. The Targhee III Low Height Waterproof shoes provide just that, with features specifically designed to deliver a secure step, no matter where your adventures take you.
All-Terrain Rubber Outsole
KEEN's Targhee III is equipped with a heavy-duty, non-marking rubber outsole designed for high performance on a variety of terrains. With 4mm multi-directional lugs, the shoe provides unbeatable traction that allows hikers to stay grounded on wet rocks, muddy trails, and loose gravel alike. This aggressive lug pattern enhances grip, allowing for confident steps even on steep inclines or slippery surfaces.
Stability Shank for Enhanced Control
Built into the Targhee III’s structure is an injected TPU stability shank, which provides midfoot support and stability. This shank minimizes twisting, ensuring that you can maintain control on tricky descents and rough terrain. The stability shank works in tandem with the shoe’s heel-capture system, offering a secure fit that keeps feet from slipping or shifting.
Fit and Flexibility – Perfectly Designed for Every Foot
Fit is crucial when it comes to hiking shoes, and KEEN has mastered it with the Targhee III Low Height Waterproof. These shoes come in various sizes and accommodate different foot shapes to provide a glove-like fit without feeling restrictive.
Metatomical Footbed Design for Arch Support
The Targhee III features KEEN’s proprietary metatomical footbed, which is an anatomically engineered design providing extra support under the arch. This design cradles the foot’s natural contours, offering additional comfort, particularly for individuals who need that extra arch support for extended hikes. It’s also removable, so if you prefer custom orthotics, you can easily swap them in.
Roomy Toe Box for Natural Movement
One of the most notable aspects of the Targhee III is its roomy toe box, which gives toes the space to move naturally. Unlike other hiking shoes that tend to feel narrow, the Targhee III ensures that your feet aren’t cramped, reducing the risk of discomfort or blisters. The toe box also contributes to overall balance, giving your feet a stable foundation on uneven ground.
Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable Craftsmanship
KEEN not only focuses on quality but also ensures that their products contribute to environmental sustainability. With the Targhee III, they have made strides in reducing environmental impact through responsible sourcing and manufacturing.
Leather Working Group (LWG) Certified Leather
KEEN uses Leather Working Group-certified leather, which adheres to strict environmental standards. This not only makes the Targhee III an eco-conscious choice but also highlights KEEN's dedication to sustainable practices. By opting for LWG-certified leather, KEEN reduces harmful environmental impacts commonly associated with leather production.
PFC-Free Water Repellency
Traditional waterproof coatings often use perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) that can be harmful to the environment. However, KEEN has adopted a PFC-free approach to water repellency for the Targhee III, making it an environmentally friendly choice. With this eco-friendly coating, you get excellent waterproofing without contributing to pollution.
FAQs About KEEN Men’s Targhee III Low Height Waterproof
Are KEEN Targhee III shoes suitable for both casual and rugged hiking?
- Absolutely. The Targhee III offers the comfort and durability to handle both casual strolls and rugged hikes.
Can the KEEN Targhee III handle snow and ice?
- While it’s primarily a hiking shoe, the Targhee III’s waterproofing and traction make it suitable for light snow. For ice, consider additional traction devices.
How do I clean and maintain KEEN Targhee III shoes?
- Use a damp cloth to wipe away dirt, and for deeper cleaning, use mild soap and warm water. Avoid machine washing and direct sunlight during drying.
Do KEEN Targhee III shoes run true to size?
- Most users find that the Targhee III fits true to size, though KEEN's roomy toe box can provide additional comfort for those with wider feet.
Are KEEN Targhee III shoes vegan-friendly?
- No, the Targhee III uses leather, which is not vegan. However, KEEN offers other vegan-friendly hiking shoes.
Is the Targhee III waterproof or water-resistant?
- The KEEN Targhee III is waterproof, thanks to its KEEN.DRY membrane, which seals out moisture while allowing breathability.
Top Reviews
What I like about the shoe: it feels sturdy, well made, and it is comfortable. It fit me well once the ankle cushion was broken in. I also like that the shoe is 100% leather.
What I don't like: fake discounts. The shoe is advertised at 35% off, or $100. I think the pricing point is within the range of similar walking shoes, so it has hard for me to know whether this is a genuine discount or not. There is another Keen shoe 'Targhee 3 Oxford Casual Hiking Shoe' which is made of textile & synthetic material which sells for $64, so $100 for an all leather model is not unreasonable. $155 seems high ($100 after 35% off), so it makes me question whether the discount is real.
If I remember, I will update this review in a year or two with comments about durability.
I bought these when I was looking for a pair of shoes for an challenging upcoming hike, and they were perfect in every way! Even better - they were comfy right out of the box. I wore them for about 2 weeks prior to my hike, and the fit was perfect. I wear size 13 wide.
I can see myself wearing these as both my everyday shoes, and for many more upcoming hikes. They did well on both uphill and downhill rock scrambles, wet surfaces, and hiking through wet areas. Huge thumbs up for me.
Perfect fit, excellent support, extremely lightweight. Very well built for flexibility, comfortable support, and long lasting sole. I've worn these shoes in the past and specifically look for these shoes for the arch support they offer. I will be buying these shoes again👍👍
I do a LOT of walking, much of it in urban areas but also on trails. I have heard about the KEEN shoes for years, and I finally got a pair late in 2023. (The pair I purchased more recently from Amazon was to replace that earlier pair.)
The news is mostly good. They are very comfortable shoes, and I especially appreciate the roomy toe area. The uppers are solid and stand up to mud and water — I've used them for long walks in rain. The thickness and stiffness of the sole is just right for me — not too stiff for the urban walking, but providing enough cushion and stiffness for hiking on trails, including somewhat rough trails. The little loop at the heel is actually useful when putting the shoes on. The lacing system is straightforward and effective. The shoes were comfortable right out of the box and remained so.
I would like to mention two issue that buyers should be aware of. First, like many similar shoes, the removable cushioned insoles are not very durable. After six months of use or a bit less the fabric on top of the insoles began to wear and I had to replace them. More concerning to me is that the soles wore down significantly after six months, to the point that all of the heel tread was gone and a hole revealed the underlying (and less protective) inner foam layer. Unfortunately, the soles are not replaceable.
In fairness, I walk a lot and I do wear shoes out this way. But do be aware of this if you purchase this shoe.
Concluding Thoughts: Why KEEN Men’s Targhee III Low Height Waterproof is the Go-To Hiking Shoe
The KEEN Men’s Targhee III Low Height Waterproof shoe is more than just another hiking shoe; it’s a testament to KEEN’s dedication to quality, comfort, and environmental responsibility. Designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts, it combines style, performance, and eco-friendly innovation to deliver a hiking shoe that performs under pressure. The Targhee III offers unbeatable value for any adventurer with unparalleled durability, waterproof protection, and a comfort-centric design.