Bottom Line
The KEEN Targhee IV WP is a durable, waterproof hiking shoe with a roomy, high-volume fit that works especially well for hikers with wider feet. Its secure lacing system, substantial toe protection, KEEN.DRY waterproofing, and rugged outsole make it a dependable option for wet, cool-weather day hikes.
It is also the heaviest shoe in our current lineup and one of the least breathable. Our tester found it ran very large lengthwise; even after sizing down a full size, there was still significant volume through the shoe. That spaciousness is a benefit for high-volume feet but a poor match for narrow ones.
We recommend the Targhee primarily for shorter hikes, everyday outdoor use, and hikers who prioritize longevity and weather protection over speed or ground feel. It remains a useful value-oriented option in our best women’s hiking shoes lineup.
How We Tested
CleverHiker tested the Targhee IV WP on northern California trails, off-trail terrain, creek crossings, wet rock, boulders, oak woodland, mud, and brush. We evaluated break-in, fit, traction, durability, waterproofing, breathability, and measured weight.
Quick Specs
- Best for: Wide feet, wet-weather day hiking, durability, everyday outdoor use
- Waterproof: Yes, KEEN.DRY
- Fit: High-volume and roomy; runs large, especially in length
- Outsole / lug depth: KEEN.RUGGED multidirectional outsole; aggressive lugs, depth not published by KEEN
- Rock plate: No dedicated rock plate; integrated stability structure/shank
- Available widths: Regular
KEEN Targhee IV WP
Best Value Hiking Shoes for Day Hikers
CleverHiker Rating: 4.0/5.0
Price: $180
Weight: 2 lb. 1.3 oz. per pair, CleverHiker measured; 1 lb. 15.5 oz. manufacturer listed
Heel-to-Toe Drop: 12 mm
Pros
- Roomy toe box
- Excellent durability
- Reliable waterproofing
- Secure lacing system
- Good traction on rock and mixed trail
Cons
- Heaviest shoe in the lineup
- Bulky and stiff
- Limited breathability
- Longer break-in
- Poor fit for low-volume or narrow feet
Comfort
The Targhee IV’s comfort is all about volume. Hikers with broad feet and high insteps may love the generous space, while narrow-footed users can struggle to get a secure fit.
Our tester sized down a full size and still had substantial room. The lacing system helps pull the heel in securely, but the shoe remains stiff and has limited ground feel compared with lighter trail-runner-style models.
Comfort Score: 4.1 / 5.0
Traction
The multidirectional outsole performed well on rock, creek crossings, steep ups and downs, and normal mixed terrain. We were pleasantly surprised by the confidence it provided on wet rock.
Mud is the weak point. Sticky mud packed into the lugs and added weight, reducing the outsole’s effectiveness until it cleared.
Traction Score: 4.2 / 5.0
Weight
At just over two pounds per pair, the Targhee IV is the heaviest shoe in our hiking category. That weight becomes noticeable on longer hikes.
The extra mass comes from durable leather, a substantial outsole, stability components, cushioning, and waterproof construction. For short hikes and work-like use, the tradeoff is easier to accept.
Weight Score: 3.6 / 5.0
Durability
Durability is one of the Targhee IV’s strongest qualities. The thick upper, protective toe cap, glue-free KEEN.FUSION construction, and abrasion-resistant outsole are designed for long service.
We saw no meaningful holes, snags, or material failure during testing. This is a shoe we would trust for repeated everyday abuse.
Durability Score: 4.8 / 5.0
Weather Resistance
The KEEN.DRY membrane kept our tester’s feet dry through puddles, wet trail, and creek submersion up to the laces. External water protection is excellent.
Breathability is much weaker. Sweat accumulates on warm days, so this shoe makes more sense in cool or wet climates than hot, dry ones.
Weather Resistance Score: 4.8 / 5.0
Should You Buy the KEEN Targhee IV WP?
Yes, if you have wide or high-volume feet and want a durable, waterproof hiking shoe for shorter hikes and everyday outdoor use. It is protective, stable, and built to last.
Skip it if you have narrow feet, prioritize low weight, or regularly hike long technical routes where agility and breathability matter more.
What Other Women’s Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?
Merrell Moab 3: Choose the Moab 3 if you want a similarly traditional hiking shoe with less weight and better breathability. It is not as weatherproof in the standard version but is easier to wear in warm conditions.
Topo Ultraventure 4: Pick the Ultraventure 4 if you still want a roomy forefoot but prefer a much lighter, more breathable shoe. It gives up waterproofing and burly durability for comfort and efficiency.
La Sportiva Spire GTX: Consider the Spire GTX if waterproofing and technical performance matter more than a wide fit. It is narrower and stiffer but far more precise on rugged terrain.
