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In my opinion, the Targhee II seems to be a robust boot with an impressive focus on durability, comfort, and foot protection, making it a potentially good choice for hikers who regularly tackle challenging terrains. Features like the waterproof nubuck leather, the KEEN.DRY™ waterproof breathable membrane, the mid-height cuff for ankle support, and the aggressive 4mm multidirectional lugs on the outsoles all suggest a boot built for rigorous outdoor adventures.
However, this boot may not be for everyone. It might be an overkill for casual hikers or city pedestrians who may find it too sturdy or heavy. Its fit, leaning towards the snug side, might not suit those preferring a roomier feel or thicker socks. Also, its practical, utilitarian look might not appeal to those wanting a fashionable boot. And it’s certainly not for the vegan-friendly crowd since it’s made with nubuck leather.
But that’s just my humble take on the Targhee II based on the features provided. In the end, you need to try them on and decide whether its specifications align with your hiking needs and comfort level. After all, every hiker’s needs and preferences are unique.
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KEEN Targhee II Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots Men’s Review: Who is it for?
From my humble perspective, the KEEN Targhee II (let’s keep the name simple) seems to be designed for those who seek adventure on less forgiving terrains. It’s a boot that seems to cater to hikers who value not only durability but also comfort and breathability.
On first glance, the Targhee II has a lot to offer. Its waterproof nubuck leather and the flexible nylon mesh uppers suggest a robust boot that can handle the rough and tumble of outdoor activity, while also providing flexibility. Breathability appears to be a focus in the design, which is always a plus point for those long treks where foot comfort plays a significant role.
The fact that the Targhee II features a KEEN.DRY™ waterproof breathable membrane speaks volumes to me. It’s a boot that aims to keep your feet dry, a feature that any hiker worth their salt can appreciate. Sweaty feet can be a troublesome distraction on a long hike, but this boot seems to have been designed to dissipate perspiration before it becomes an issue, ensuring your feet stay comfortable throughout your adventure.
The mid-height cuff is another feature that caught my eye. It’s something that those who often find themselves on uneven terrain will probably appreciate, as it offers added ankle support to help minimize the risk of injury. Combine that with the secure-fit lace capture system, complete with nylon webbing eyelets and a heel wrap, and you’ve got a boot that seems primed to provide foot stability.
As a hiker, I know that foot protection is paramount. The patented rubber Toe Guards on the Targhee II seem to recognize this need, shielding both your feet and the boot uppers from impacts and abrasion. It’s a thoughtful addition that could potentially extend the life of the boot and save your toes some unnecessary pain.
Of note is also the boot’s EVA footbed, which from what I gather, is designed to provide cushioning and arch support and can also accommodate orthotics. This is a pretty cool feature, especially for those who require custom foot support.
From a comfort standpoint, the Targhee II seems to be designed with all-day wear in mind. The compression-molded EVA midsoles are a nice addition, promising shock absorption and padding, features that can go a long way in reducing foot fatigue during a long hike.
The non-marking carbon rubber outsoles with aggressive 4mm multidirectional lugs suggest a boot that can handle a variety of terrains with ease. This kind of traction and durability is something that hikers who venture off the beaten path would likely find valuable.
That’s my take on the Targhee II. To sum up, it seems to be a boot designed for the avid hiker who values durability, comfort, and foot protection. It’s a boot that appears to be well-suited to handling the rigors of outdoor adventures. However, this is just my humble opinion based on the features and specifications provided. It’s always best to try on a boot for yourself to see if it’s the right fit for your hiking needs.
KEEN Targhee II Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots Men’s Review: Who isn’t it for?
As much as the Targhee II seems to be a great boot for avid hikers or trekkers, there might be some potential user profiles for whom this boot might not be the best choice.
To start with, I’d say if your outdoor activities are more on the casual side, like light trail walking or city strolling, this boot might be overkill for your needs. The boot’s focus on rugged durability, ankle support, and abrasion resistance, like the patented rubber Toe Guards and the mid-height cuff, are features that you might not necessarily need for lighter, less demanding activities. The boot may feel too sturdy or heavy, given its weight of 2 lbs. 2 oz. per pair, for those who walk or hike on well-maintained trails or city parks.
Another point to consider is that the Targhee II seems built for challenging terrains with its aggressive 4mm multidirectional lugs. If you are someone who mostly hikes on easy to moderate terrains, these might be more grip than you need.
Also, if you’re used to a roomier fit in your boots, you might want to think twice before choosing this one. The product specs hint that the Targhee II runs about a half size small. This might pose a comfort challenge for people with wider feet or those who like to wear thicker socks for additional warmth or cushioning.
The Targhee II also might not be the best choice for people who are looking for a hiking boot that also doubles as a fashion statement. While it seems to be a robust and practical boot, it comes off more as utilitarian rather than stylish.
For those who prefer a vegan-friendly boot, you should know that the Targhee II incorporates nubuck leather in its construction. If you’re against using animal products, this boot won’t be the one for you.
Lastly, these boots seem to be designed for men, which might limit their appeal to women or people with smaller feet.
So, in my humble opinion, the Targhee II might not be the best choice for casual hikers, fashion-conscious individuals, vegan-friendly users, people with wider feet, and individuals who prefer lighter or unisex footwear. But remember, what works or doesn’t work for someone can be subjective and can vary greatly depending on personal preference and specific needs. So, it’s always a good idea to consider the boot’s features alongside your own requirements and expectations before making a decision.
But mind you, these are just my thoughts based on the features mentioned about the Targhee II. The real test lies in trying them on and walking in them, to see if they fit your specific needs and comfort levels. After all, one person’s overkill could be another’s perfect fit.
KEEN Targhee II Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots Men’s Review: Conclusion
In my opinion, the Targhee II seems to be a robust boot with an impressive focus on durability, comfort, and foot protection, making it a potentially good choice for hikers who regularly tackle challenging terrains. Features like the waterproof nubuck leather, the KEEN.DRY™ waterproof breathable membrane, the mid-height cuff for ankle support, and the aggressive 4mm multidirectional lugs on the outsoles all suggest a boot built for rigorous outdoor adventures.
However, this boot may not be for everyone. It might be an overkill for casual hikers or city pedestrians who may find it too sturdy or heavy. Its fit, leaning towards the snug side, might not suit those preferring a roomier feel or thicker socks. Also, its practical, utilitarian look might not appeal to those wanting a fashionable boot. And it’s certainly not for the vegan-friendly crowd since it’s made with nubuck leather.
But that’s just my humble take on the Targhee II based on the features provided. In the end, you need to try them on and decide whether its specifications align with your hiking needs and comfort level. After all, every hiker’s needs and preferences are unique.