KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Hiking Boots Review – Size 10.5 Guide

As a seasoned expert in testing men’s hiking boots, I have spent years trying and reviewing many top brands to find the best for outdoor adventures. I understand what features matter most for comfort, durability, and protection on the trail. This review of the KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots is based on thorough research and hands-on testing. I have carefully examined their waterproof technology, material quality, and grip performance to provide you with a clear and honest analysis. My goal is to help you make a smart choice and find reliable boots that will keep your feet safe and comfortable during every hike.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ Waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane
• ✅ Durable premium leather and mesh
• ✅ High traction KEEN ALL-TERRAIN outsole
• ✅ Excellent ankle support with mid-height design

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Slightly heavier than some hiking boots
• ❌ Break-in period may be needed
• ❌ Limited color options

Who Should Buy This

The KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are perfect for men who love outdoor adventures. If you enjoy hiking on rough trails or walking in wet conditions, these boots will keep your feet dry and comfortable. They offer good support and protection, making them great for both beginners and experienced hikers. The size 10.5 fits well if you wear this size, and the mid-height design helps protect your ankles from twists and scrapes.

However, if you need boots for running or very light walking, these might feel too heavy. Also, if you have wide feet and size 10.5 is too tight, these boots may not be comfortable. People who hike only on easy, dry paths might not need such rugged boots. In that case, lighter shoes could be better.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: KEEN
• Model: 1008418
• Size: 10.5
• Dimensions: 5.5″ x 12.75″ x 15.0″
• Weight: 2.0 pounds
• Material: Waterproof leather and textile
• Color Options: Shitake/Brindle
• Special Features: Waterproof membrane, mid-height design, durable outsole, breathable lining
• Warranty: Manufacturer’s limited warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first got the KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots in Shitake/Brindle, size 10.5, I was excited to try them out. The boots felt sturdy but not too heavy. I noticed the leather looked premium and the mesh parts seemed breathable. Putting them on, they were comfortable right away with good ankle support. I took a short walk around my neighborhood to break them in and was happy that they didn’t pinch or rub anywhere.

Daily Use

Over the next few days, I wore the boots on different hikes and even during some muddy trail walks. The waterproof feature really stood out – even when crossing small streams or walking through wet grass, my feet stayed dry. The quick-dry lining helped too, as my feet didn’t feel sweaty or uncomfortable. The boots also gave me good grip on rocky and slippery surfaces, which made me feel safe and steady with every step.

Key Features in Action

The KEEN.DRY membrane truly works, keeping water out but letting moisture escape. The bruise plate under the sole protected my feet from sharp rocks and uneven ground, which was a big relief on tough trails. I also appreciated the high abrasion rubber toe guard; it stopped the toes from getting scuffed when I accidentally kicked stones. The multi-directional lugs on the sole provided excellent traction, especially in muddy parts, so I never felt like I would slip. Plus, the non-marking outsole meant I could wear them indoors without worrying about scuffing floors.

Long-Term Performance

After several weeks of regular use, these boots still look and feel great. The leather has softened nicely without losing durability, and the waterproofing remains effective even after many wet hikes. The soles show minimal wear, and the boots continue to provide strong support and comfort. Overall, I’m impressed with how well they have held up and how reliable they are for different outdoor activities.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height	KEEN Men’s Targhee 3 Mid Height	KEEN Men’s Targhee 4 Mid Height
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	Durable premium leather combined with breathable performance mesh, featuring a bruise plate and high abrasion rubber toe guard for protection on rugged terrain. Environmentally conscious leather sourcing and quick dry lining enhance durability and comfort.	Similar premium leather and mesh materials with bruise plate and abrasion-resistant toe guard, maintaining durable construction and eco-friendly leather sourcing as in Targhee 2.	Durable build with direct-attach construction for long-lasting cushioning and reduced footwear separation. Uses 100% recycled PET laces and breathable mesh lining, emphasizing sustainability and lightweight comfort.
Features	KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane; bruise plate; high abrasion rubber toe guard; quick dry lining; environmentally friendly DWR; KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with 4mm multi-direction lugs; non-marking sole.	KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane; bruise plate; high abrasion rubber toe guard; quick dry lining; environmentally friendly DWR; KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with 4mm multi-direction lugs; non-marking sole.	KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane; direct-attach construction; KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole; 100% recycled PET laces; breathable mesh lining for lightness and eco-friendliness.
Best For	Hikers seeking a reliable, waterproof boot with strong protection and eco-conscious materials for varied terrain including muddy and rocky surfaces.	Users wanting an upgraded version of Targhee 2 with similar protection and eco-friendly features, suitable for demanding trail use.	Hikers prioritizing lightweight comfort, durability with direct-attach construction, and sustainable materials for extended outdoor use.

In my opinion, this KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots stands out because it perfectly balances durability, protection, and eco-conscious materials while offering excellent traction and waterproofing. If you’re like me and prefer a trusted classic with proven features and a strong focus on sustainability, this is the better choice compared to the newer models that lean more towards incremental updates or lightweight design.

Customer Feedback on KEEN Men’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Shitake/Brindle, 10.5

Overall Satisfaction

Customers generally express high satisfaction, reflected in the strong seller rating of 4.87/5 and positive feedback highlighting durability and comfort.

Most Praised Features

• Excellent waterproofing that keeps feet dry in wet conditions
• Comfortable fit with good arch support for long hikes
• Durable construction suitable for rugged terrain

Common Concerns

• Occasional reports of the boots running slightly narrow or tight for wider feet
• Some users note a break-in period before maximum comfort is achieved

Who Loves It Most

Outdoor enthusiasts and frequent hikers who need reliable waterproof boots with solid support appreciate this product the most, especially those who prioritize durability and comfort on various trails.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

At $111.79 with a 32% discount from the original $165, these KEEN Targhee 2 boots offer a competitive price compared to similar mid-range waterproof hiking boots, which typically range from $120 to $180.

Value Features

• Waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane ensures dry and comfortable feet, justifying the investment for wet conditions.
• Durable premium leather combined with environmentally conscious materials adds long-term value and sustainability.
• High-traction KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides reliable grip on various surfaces, enhancing safety and performance.
• Supportive mid-cut design with removable arch-support footbed offers comfort that reduces the need for additional insoles, saving costs.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other brands offering similar features, KEEN’s Targhee 2 boots are priced reasonably while delivering trusted durability and comfort, often outperforming competitors in waterproofing and traction.

Final Verdict

Given the quality, protective features, and the current discount, these boots represent excellent value for money and are a smart purchase for serious hikers.