We can’t fault these winter hiking boots from Keen, the only reason why we didn’t rate them 10 out of 10 is because they are too warm for summer use. Is that a negative? Not really but obviously it restricts them to winter only but if you’re looking for a study, good looking, comfortable boot that works perfectly in snowy ski resorts, then look no further than the Targhee High Lace from Keen.

It’s relatively easy to make a waterproof, warm boot for walking around in the snow but what is much harder is making one that looks great, feels comfortable to wear and doesn’t weigh you down.
The key to the comfort side is breathability and for me, this makes all the difference when comparing a lower cost boot and one such as the Targhee High Lace from Keen.

Personally I believe the extra investment is more than worth it. The KEEN.DRY waterproof and breathable membrane seems to do the trick though, keeping the feet warm but also dry from the outside and also from the inside. When wearing the boots for long durations – for example, travelling through a warm airport, transportation and then arrival into the cold climate of a ski resort, this is exactly what you need.

They are a tad warm indoors, but because of the breathability qualities the material has, they hold up pretty well. In an ideal world you’d have a lighter pair of shoes for travelling and boots like this when in resort but we know that is often not convenient – so the Targhee works for a one shoe only packing situation.

The other thing that’s really important is the sole grip and Keen, in my personal experience, has always delivered in this area. The 4mm multi-directional lugs help to aid traction and the grip builds confidence as you walk on snow or even ice (of course it’s still possible to slip on ice but they grip pretty well). Walking around a ski resort can be a difficult business – I know, I once slipped on ice and ended up with a fractured skull and days on end in hospital. So for me, a good grip is crucial. The Keen grip is about as good as it gets in a relatively lightweight boot such as this one.

One of the other things to consider is the styling of a boot like the Targhee (and many of the other models in the Keen range that are similar). Personally I would rather be wearing something more designed as a walking boot that looks smart and works well with jeans, than a huge snow boot than only does one thing well – standing around in the snow. Let’s be honest, even in a ski resort we spend 95% of the time indoors, only walking to the pub or restaurant and back. We need something that works inside and this boot does. Unless you’re standing around in the snow all day, you don’t need anything more than this.

I really like the Keen boots and this one certainly hasn’t disappointed.

Technical Information

  • KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
  • KEEN.WARM insulation rated to -32°C/-25°F
  • Speed hooks for easy lace adjustment
  • ESS shank for lightweight support
  • 4mm multi-directional lugs for traction
  • Environmentally-preferred premium leather from LGW-certified tanneries
  • Waterproof, salt-resistant leather upper
  • KEEN.FREEZE rubber outsole designed for cold-weather conditions
  • Dual-density, compression-moulded EVA midsole
  • Removable, metatomical, dual-density EVA insoles

Review Summary

Targhee High Lace Waterproof Hiking Boots reviewed by Snow.Guide
Gender: Mens
Good for: Winter walking and travelling to ski resorts
Price: £124.99
Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Alternative Model

You might want to also check this one out – different styling but also suitable for Winter
Men’s Revel III Hiking Boot.

This durable, comfortable hiking boot will take you anywhere, whatever the weather. Two types of insulation cut the chill, and the outsole is designed to holds its ground in icy, slick conditions.