The Keen Targhee Iii Waterproof Mid Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid is a versatile hiking boot designed for both beginners and seasoned hikers. Its features, including a notable traction outsole and warm interior, make it suitable for a variety of trail conditions.

With an impressive **stability rating**, this boot is ideal for day hikes due to its **firm midsole** and **3.5 mm lug depth**, which provide excellent grip on uneven terrain. However, the **outsole durability** may be a concern for those planning extended backpacking trips.

In summary, the KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid offers immediate comfort and reliable performance, making it a practical choice for outdoor adventures.


Pros

  • Extremely stable
  • Great ankle support
  • Generously padded and comfortable
  • Secure heel hold
  • Flexible
  • Budget-friendly price
  • Laudable warmth
  • Performs very well in the cold
  • Excellent grip on various terrain
  • Short to zero break-in period
  • Commendable toe cap
  • Roomy toebox

Cons

  • Stuffy in the summer
  • Lackluster outsole durability
  • Firm midsole
  • Not ideal for narrow feet

Key Features

  • WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane keeps your feet dry and comfortable all day long by allowing vapor out without letting water in.
  • TRACTION: KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides high traction grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces; non-marking rubber outsoles leave no trace when walking indoors.
  • SUPPORT: External support shank and mid cut height add ankle support and balance on uneven surfaces; contoured heel provides next level stability.
  • FIT: Mid profile upper ensures a secure fit with a padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
  • COMFORT: Removable metatomical footbed design offers excellent arch support and cradles to the natural contours of your foot.

Specifications

  • Fabric type: 100% Fabric
  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Shaft height: Ankle

Keen Targhee Iii Waterproof Mid Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX Hoka Trail Code GTX La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
Price $170 $170 $185 $200
Trail terrain Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Weight lab Weight brand 18.2 oz / 515g 17.5 oz / 495g 15.5 oz / 440g 14.6 oz / 415g
Lightweight
Breathability Warm Warm Warm Warm
Use Backpacking Day Hiking Day Hiking Backpacking
Orthotic friendly
Drop lab 12.9 mm 13.5 mm 11.2 mm 14.1 mm
Size True to size Half size small True to size Half size small
Midsole softness Firm Firm Soft Balanced
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Normal Normal
Heel counter stiffness Flexible Moderate Stiff Moderate
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Flexible Moderate
Outsole hardness Soft Average Average Very hard
Waterproofing Waterproof Waterproof Waterproof Waterproof
Material Leather Mesh Textile Textile
Season Winter Winter Winter Winter
Toebox durability Good Bad - Good
Heel padding durability Decent Good - Decent
Outsole durability Bad Bad - Good
Width / fit Wide Medium Narrow Medium
Toebox width Wide Medium Narrow Medium
Lug depth 4.2 mm 5.0 mm 4.7 mm 4.3 mm
Heel stack lab 31.1 mm 36.1 mm 36.9 mm 34.4 mm
Forefoot 18.2 mm 22.6 mm 25.7 mm 20.3 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Technology Ortholite Gore-Tex Gore-Tex Gore-Tex
Cut Mid cut Mid cut Mid cut Mid cut
Removable insole
Ranking Bottom 41% Bottom 29% Bottom 19% Top 37%
Popularity Bottom 48% Top 30% Top 49% Top 3%