The Keen Targhee II hiking shoe is a comfortable, yet technical hiking shoe that meets the demands of novice or exprienced hikers
Leave it to Keen to design a shoe that’s both comfortable and provides the technical features experienced hikers look for. Support, protection, agility and traction are all built into the Targhee II an are wrapped int a good-looking package that can also be worn on casual occasions.
Keen’s patented toe protector works well when hiking among rocky trails and any short scramble that you may encounter, while the sole incorporates the company’s S3 heel support system that provides firm support along the edges with a soft cushion on the contact points of the foot.
When combined with a comfortable insole, which is designed to cradle the foot and provie a natural arch, the shoe becomes as comfortable as a casual walking shoe.
Although the Targhee II proved to be very comfortable on all types of terrain; ranging from hard pavement, sand, scree and packed dirt, the shoe provided rigidy and support when we needed it. The soles feature four milimeter directional lugs that provide excellent traction over sandy rocks and slippery terrain that would cause any sneaker to act like a pair of roller skates. A dual density mid-sole and an integrated shank, provide the torsional rigidity needed for the wearer to remain stable, even while wearng a heavy daypack. These features give you the sure-footed feeling of an ankle high boot, but with the freedom of movement and lightneness of a low-cut design. The Targhee II’s capabilities on the trail are futher enhanced with its waterproof membrane. Keen’s Keen-Dry system is breatheable and allows vapors to escape, while keeping moisture from getting in.
The Keen Targhee II tends to run about a half-size small, so as with any hiking shoe, it’s best to try several sizes on using the socks you are planning on hiking in, to make sure they fit properly. We also liked the shoe’s appearance. The combination of leather and mesh uppers give it less of a heavy hiking shoe look, and more of a casual walking shoe; that’s nice enough to be worn with slacks or a pair of jeans if your hike ends up in a restaraunt or local sports bar. The webbing style lace eyelets that feature a reflective stitching. This is a nice feature for hikers in urban areas where they often have to share the road with mountain bikers and four-wheel vehicles.
The Keen Targhee II is also avaialble in a mid ankle design. Our test pair was the slate black/sienna rock color, but other colors are available. The Targhee II low -top retails around $155 and provides all the support you’ll need from a high-quality hiking shoe. But be prepared, as you might find yourself wearing them on casual occasions too. For more information, visit www.keenfootwear.com
By Dan Sanchez
SPECS: Price: $155 Weight: 12.5oz/354 grams Upper: Leather/Mesh Lining: Keen-Dry waterproof membrane Sole: Keen S3 shock suspension/Non-marking rubber