Product links inspected October 4, 2026. Availability varies by size, seller and location.

KEEN Men’s Targhee IV Mid Waterproof Review Canada

Quick verdict: The KEEN Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot reviewed here is the mid-height Bison/Black style 1028988. It is a strong everyday hiking and wet-weather boot for buyers who value a roomy forefoot, waterproof construction and a more substantial platform than a lightweight trail shoe. It is relatively heavy, its traction is better suited to general trails than technical terrain, and narrow-footed buyers may struggle to obtain a secure fit. It is not an insulated winter boot and should not be purchased as a substitute for one in prolonged sub-zero conditions.

Verified specifications

• Exact model: KEEN Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot, mid-height, Bison/Black style 1028988.
• Published weight: 577 g / 20.35 oz per shoe.
• Dimensions: 100 mm / 3.94 in shaft; 22 mm / 0.88 in heel; 14 mm / 0.55 in heel-to-toe drop.
• Upper and lining: premium nubuck upper; breathable mesh lining; KEEN.DRY waterproof-breathable membrane.
• Underfoot: KEEN.FUSION direct-attach construction; Luftcell midsole and removable Luftcell insole; stability shank; heel-capture system.
• Outsole: abrasion-resistant KEEN.RUGGED outsole with multidirectional, non-marking lugs.

Best use

It is best matched to shoulder-season hiking, rainy dog walks, muddy trails, cottage work and travel where ankle coverage and water protection matter. The mid-height cuff helps with shallow puddles and debris, but the practical waterproof limit remains below the top of the tongue and collar.

Waterproofing in context

The KEEN.DRY waterproof-breathable membrane is intended to block exterior water while allowing some moisture vapour to escape. No waterproof boot remains dry if water enters over the collar, and breathability cannot prevent sweat during warm, high-output use. Drying the boot between outings and keeping the lining clean are part of maintaining comfort.

Construction and delamination risk

KEEN.FUSION uses a glue-free, direct-attach bond intended to reduce the upper-to-sole separation seen in conventionally cemented footwear. KEEN says this bond will not delaminate and guarantees it, but that manufacturer guarantee is not proof that every component or pair will last indefinitely. Stitching, waterproof lining, eyelets, cushioning and outsole wear remain separate durability considerations.

Outsole and traction

The abrasion-resistant KEEN.RUGGED outsole uses multidirectional, non-marking lugs for general dirt, gravel and wet-trail use. OutdoorGearLab’s exact-model test found traction only average, so this is not the strongest choice for technical terrain. It should not be interpreted as certified ice traction; smooth frozen sidewalks and hard lake ice require a winter-specific outsole or removable traction aid.

Fit and sizing

KEEN is commonly selected by hikers who need more toe room than a tapered boot provides. A roomy toe box is not the same as a secure overall fit: the heel and midfoot still need enough hold to prevent sliding on descents, and narrow-footed buyers may struggle even in the regular width. Try the boot with the socks and orthotics normally used, and leave enough space for downhill toe movement without allowing excessive heel lift.

Support, cushioning and weight

The published weight is 577 g / 20.35 oz per shoe, while OutdoorGearLab measured 2.98 lb per pair in men’s size 11 and classified the boot as heavy. Its exact-model test also reported initial pressure that largely eased after roughly 15 miles of break-in. The supportive platform suits day hiking and general outdoor work, but buyers prioritizing speed, low weight or a soft out-of-box feel should look elsewhere.

Canadian seasonal fit

For spring and fall, the waterproof mid format is practical. In winter, the uninsulated design may work for active short-duration use with appropriate socks, but cold-weather comfort varies and compressed socks reduce warmth. Salt and road slush should be rinsed off promptly to protect leather, hardware and stitching.

Choose it when / skip it when

Choose it when roomier-forefoot comfort, day-hike versatility, support and wet-trail protection matter more than minimum weight. Skip it when the main need is a close narrow-foot fit, severe-cold insulation, verified ice grip, technical-terrain traction, mountaineering support or the lightest possible summer hiker.

Care

Use mild soap and cold water. Remove excess dirt and spot-clean with a stiff brush or soft cloth, then air-dry the boots away from heat. Rinse road salt promptly and follow KEEN’s material-specific treatment guidance.

Evidence and limits

Accounts of the men’s Targhee IV Mid cover initial fit, wet-weather use and a first ninety days. Roomy fit and early comfort attract praise; other wearers report painful seams, inadequate support or disappointing waterproofing. The accounts identify real ownership trade-offs but do not establish the current generation’s long-term failure rate. Independent evidence: exact-model tests separately describe a supportive but relatively heavy boot, with fit and traction limitations. A fused-bond guarantee is not evidence that every component lasts indefinitely.

Bottom line

The KEEN Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot, mid-height style 1028988, is worth considering as a broad-use Canadian hiker for buyers who value a roomy forefoot, support and wet-weather protection. Its clearest trade-offs are weight, average technical-terrain traction, possible break-in pressure and a fit that can be too roomy for narrow feet. It is not a winter boot or an ice-grip specialist.

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