Keen Targhee 3 Review - Kyle's Best Hiking Boots

NO LONGER RECOMMENDED. • RETRACTION! 📢 Keen Tar... Like many others in the comments, my lugs have started to unglue. Shame; everything else is fabulous. I just can't recommend a shoe that disassembles itself.
Old description: After testing 10 different hiking boots, I'm glad I chose the Keen Targhee 3. When the rubber met the trail, Keen handled it all.
COUPON CODE = REGRESS for big discounts on my favorite Bluetooth earbud hearing protectors: bit.ly/3AimpBg
Product Links:
1. Keen Targhee III Mid Height Waterproof Boots: amzn.to/3hw6kxO
2. Darn Tough Boot Cushion Socks: shrsl.com/4lp27
3. Darn Tough Boot Full Cushion Socks: shrsl.com/4lp1i
4. Darn Tough Light Hiker Micro Crew Socks: shrsl.com/4lp2b
5. Tru-Spec Eco Tec TAC T-Shirt: amzn.to/3hE4pHJ
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Kyle Broderick, The Social Regressive

[@jdahik97]

I just bought a pair of those to replace my Moabs which began messing up on me after only having them for 6 months and some change. Second pair that did that to me. I took the keens on their first hike in Shenandoah for a 10 mile loop on rocky terrain, and they held up very well. And I can attest you don’t need to lace them up super tight at all. They tighten up very easily

[@motonut007]

I have these. Love them. I hike the Smokies regularly and the fit is great. Keen tend to be more of a shoe and boot for people that need a wide shoe. These boots and a compression performance hiking sock that vents is the best setup I have ever used. Hiking sock fills the boot but allows freedom of movement and yet doesn't allow your foot to slide around and blister.

[@jdahik97]

I use the Darn Tough brand socks for hiking. They’re amazing

[@eddiejennejr4342]

I have a fix for the water intrusion walking through the morning wet grass or the wet grass after it’s rained. I have been using Scotchgard waterproofing spray since I was in Boy Scouts. My dad introduced me to this as a extra layer of waterproofing. And it works. Now you do have to maintain your coding of Scotchgard because it will wear off because you’re using the boots as they were intended to be used. But depending on how many hikes you go on during the month spraying the boots down with A couple of coats once a month Was more than enough when I was in Boy Scouts and extremely active that was to camp outs a month in Florida during the summer months. That included also hikes during the camp outs wet areas because Florida has swampland lol. This might help

[@pinhigh1]

I started wearing Keen 10+ years ago and Ive never stopped. My only complaint is that they discontinue styles too often.

[@SocialRegressive]

I get sick of that. I should buy 3 pairs of these.

[@labellaescrima1996]

Fantastic news, I was really worried about you. Nice pair of hiking boots, I have three pairs and love them to death. They are very comfy and fit well.

[@AP0LL0edc]

This is a great video. I'm in need of a new hiking boot for this summer. Had my eyes on Salomons, and Keens. I have wide, flat feet (size 9). My winter boots are also Keens and they're great. Gonna give these a try.

[@osbornoutdoors8778]

I’m also in Oklahoma and I have loved my Keen Durand’s. I’m on my second hunting season with them, hunting most weekends Oct-Jan, turkey season in April, and plenty of scouting trips. I haven’t no idea the amount of miles they have, but they are still going strong.

[@planeiron241]

I wear the Lansing for work they feel like your ready for launch,, had them 2 yrs they still feel like the day I bought them....great boots

[@jasontassey9013]

Great review. My Vasque Saint Elias boots are completely waterproof even in wet grass.

[@SocialRegressive]

I like the look of the Vasque boots. Couldn't find one wide enough for me.

[@ianbrowne9304]

Thank you for your thoughts from real experiences . In so many outdoor shoes/boots reviews it seems the wear of the sole is not important (??)

[@stevenroche9874]

I suggest the Keen Voyageur boots for hot weather. They are not waterproof (membrane s do insulate a little) yet are designed to keep feet cool.

[@arvinhelerachannel8684]

nice review! Thank you so much for the real review!

[@peterdisbury6346]

I started wearing Keens back in 2004 until 2019 then switched to another brand. The other brand has been the savior of my feet. Keen used to be awesome but this particular model that is being reviewed in the video had lots of setbacks. 1st issue was the sole of the shoe came off while hiking in the snow in Montana. 2nd issue was the lugs started to degrade very quickly. 3rd issue was that the laces would wear out very quickly after getting water on them and start to flay. 4th issue was one or two lace fasteners would tear. 5th issue footbed would wear out if the boots were used longer than 350 miles of use so at this point they were now disposable shoes. My current replacements had lasted just over 1k of hiking in National Parks across the USA on trails like Highline Trail in Glacier National Park, South Kaibab Trail in the Grand Canyon and out in Zion NP. Used to love Keen but they are now hit and miss like many shoe companies in 2022.

[@SocialRegressive]

I've now run into the separation problem. Disappointing.

[@theeleven42]

What’s the replacement boot? Why leave out that information?

[@MisfitsFiendClub138]

Thanks for letting us know the other brand 👍

[@scarter176]

Thanks for your time to review these. At the prices today not everyone can afford trial and error.

[@SocialRegressive]

Agreed. I'm glad Amazon allows us to test and return. If I had been stuck with one or two of the others I don't think I would be as happy today.

[@scarter176]

No kidding ! With some of the negative reviews about them coming apart I was reluctant. I’ve got about 350-400 miles walking on the first pair. Staying together well so far. Wore merrel’s for years but their sizing went crazy. One pair too small next pair too wide etc. I’m sticking with these till they screw them up or price me out.

[@matt4p]

Great review. Dodge the Keen Circadia. They fell apart on me (both feet) within months. Approx 100 miles of hiking.

[@whdbnrm3023]

love Keen hiking sandals been using them the last 25 years . Also have shoes and boots . Going to hike Swiss Alps in mid April to mid May good chance of encountering snow on the ground ,rocky terrain ,grass and hiking trails . How much of the terrain do you actually feel ?

[@scarter176]

The Keen Targhee is the best for my foot also. I wear the shoe daily. Best fit ever !

[@solominded]

Been using the Targhee 2's for idk maybe 6-7 years now. Just finally gave out on my 2nd pair which lasted about 3 years (with super glue and 100% flat, no grip soles.) They don't last as long as other boots, but boy does the fit, fit. I have 100% flat feet and over pronate extremely, and these boots basically keep me from doing that the fit is so good, and im only on factory insules and EE sizing the entire 7 years, im cheap. They are good boots. Hopefully the 3's are just as good, as i worry quality has lowered since my 2nd pair of targhee 2's i got years ago already showed signs of lower quality.

[@holdleftedgeandsendit9351]

was awesome visiting with you today Kyle. look forward to the video. I should have gave you my number 😂

[@SocialRegressive]

Dang it! I meant to give you mine, too. I'll find you on Facebook.

[@holdleftedgeandsendit9351]

@@SocialRegressive just commented on your fb post for this video with mine

[@EricDodgeMusicAndDance]

My question is the keens don’t seem to have much arch support. I replace the flimsy rubber insole with a currex or power step hiking insert and it works. Anyone else do this or is it better to try and get used to the no arch stock insert

[@derekjeter2387]

Also one more thing is to clean and take care of those boots often and they will last longer. I was in the Army and my combat boots would last a long time because we had to keep them clean and treat them so the leather would not dry out

[@cincinnatiking8008]

I tried the Moab 3, but the arch support was too much for my foot. I have these coming today. Hopefully the arch support isn't as high as the Moab. If it is, I guess I'll have to go with the Columbia Newton Ridge.

[@davida7284]

My whole reason for starting research was to look for a good “summer” hiking boot. I’m in Arizona and based on what you’ve said, I’m not convinced these would aid enough in that climate. But I WILL look at the Vents. That sounds better for my area. Good video👍🏻

[@SocialRegressive]

I think you'll like the Vents a lot. One thing to watch out for: some of the recent models have an inferior glue. If you notice the soles starting to peel off, get in contact with Keen right away for a warranty replacement.

[@davida7284]

@@SocialRegressive ahhh, ok. thx

[@scottdiehl2726]

I'm on my 3rd pair. Best shoe ever

[@letsdanceoo]

Keens are great. Didn't mention Lowa's or Oboz's. They're pretty good also.

[@ikeyeet8312]

Keen is running a real good sale right now, i just got a pair for $63!

[@scarter176]

Good wool socks help too !

[@n7sithis336]

I live in Oklahoma and I have the Keen Vent low tops. Same issue you mentioned, they claim to be waterproof but every morning walking through the wet grass gets my feet wet. Honestly seems like any water can get in the vent, tho, not just dew. They should say "waterproof everywhere except the vent" lol. I was watching this video to find a pair that doesn't do that, looks like they ALL do lol. Guess I'll have to go with a rubber boot or a Keen Chelsea style maybe. Idk.

[@BobEllis79]

The Vent model isn't waterproof, it's vented. Keen doesn't claim waterproofing on them, they advertise extra airflow.

[@FWild-eb1rd]

Great review. I bought dem and like the fitting for my wide forefoot but im a bit sceptical because the quality because many have issues with the soles and stuff. Did you noticed that the Keens tend to bend inside when you walk? Read that many times so the outside is more supported? Hope you understand what I mean with my Bad English 😅

[@SocialRegressive]

I haven't noticed an unpleasant bend. To me it felt the same on both inside and outside.

[@FWild-eb1rd]

@@SocialRegressive I mean the pronation to leaning inward. Read that much that many have the same feeling that the targhee leaning much inward 🤔. But I will try it

[@helsindemisquisfolson1461]

By any chance would you have any recommendations for a everyday wear hiking boot? For standing and walking alot also I live in the Midwest sometimes it rains I already got my hiking winter boots witch are Merrell artic ones. But I just want a everyday wear cause I love the hiking boot style. And the comfortness and been thinking of the Moab 3 or 2 any suggestions would be appreciated

[@SocialRegressive]

The Moab boots may be your best bet. The gore-tex and vented models are very comfortable and natural- feeling in all situations.

[@tronclay]

I went to REI to try out the Salomon Quest 4s but decided it was too much boot for my needs (daily use, working on concrete, Maine weather etc..) and tried these. They felt perfect except for how the toe curls upward... for some reason it just felt weird on my toes.

[@SocialRegressive]

I agree with you. The upward slope is a little odd at first. It works like magic once I get walking, though.

[@MrWake1084]

so there is no hope for me is ylwhat your saying lol i walk gas lines for a living and i try to get alot done in the morning while its cool but the grass always soaks my feet 🙄

[@dwed1234]

Nice video, thanks 👍

[@johnray9088]

Great looking boots but I wear somewhere between 4E-5E width. I struggle to find anything that fits my mutant feet.

[@SocialRegressive]

That's gotta be tough to find! Does your superpower come with advantages?

[@seechangenyc280]

Doesn't exist. I am facing the same problem. Tried ten brands (and complained to all). The last is 2E on most - if you're lucky. If you find something, lemme know.

[@byelochka]

I’ve had 3 pairs of them. The uppers hold up pretty well, but I walk the soles into racing s,Ickes too quickly. Otherwise they’re great. I switched to Obōz and may never look back, but still keep a pair of These boots around.

[@SocialRegressive]

Good notes. I'll watch how these wear. I was tempted by the oboz. Can't remember why I didn't try a pair.

[@billylongdick3192]

You can either have a pair of boots that are comfortable or a pair that lasts in my experience

[@gkny4045]

All the rubber falls apart. It’s love hate for me. The most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn, but they disintegrate in under a year,

[@pawoodsman1737]

I usually buy oboz. Never had wet feet in the oboz. Never got wet feet in wet grass. I cant find the oboz i usually buy. Was looking at these but i keep hearing about wet feet while walking threw grass. No go

[@SocialRegressive]

They seem to be good for us wide- footed folks, too.

[@DenverLoveless]

Never had wet feet from dewy grass in good leather that's been maintained properly.

[@SocialRegressive]

Now that's a solid point. Leather is a different story.

[@jdahik97]

8:57 yes Darn Tough socks are that good

[@SocialRegressive]

Amen.

[@marionfranciscarocharodrig7823]

Chicago winters are very ruff n tuff timberlands never let me down very warm boot dark brown ones happy boots me Clemente n my timberland boots always on nov since 11yrs old all boots are good but something about those Timberlands AMEN

[@chrisklenk5344]

I’ve had 2 pairs of these and both pairs the soles have come Off ,very poor adhesion between the sole and the body .this appears to be a on going problem with Keen boots

[@SocialRegressive]

Thanks for the heads-up. I'll see how mine wear over time. What's your climate like?

[@chrisklenk5344]

@@SocialRegressive I live in the UK ,but I’ve seen lots of reports on Keen where the soles become unbounded (fail )

[@MrBill-mq7ti]

I like the Keens, but have never gotten good life out of them. The treads always come apart.

[@SocialRegressive]

I'll let everybody know if these suffer a similar fate.

[@arturkonicz8135]

Unfortunately, these shoes have lost their quality, I have already bought 3 pairs and the same disadvantages, the sole peels off at the bend.

[@darylfields]

Are these good for casual wear and walking

[@SocialRegressive]

I wear mine at trade shows and other less difficult terrain, and my feet are grateful every time. The only downsides are swampy feet from the waterproofing and the fact that the sole isn't properly glued to the midsole. For that last reason, I can't recommend these anymore.

[@jamessalerno2756]

First off, the most comfortable boots I've ever worn. But I have to use the warranty every 6 months because the sole fails. Separates every time. Keen, if your listening, fix that problem, and I'll buy your boots again. Targhees

[@davida7284]

ooh yikes, that’s good to know👍🏻

[@rman6636]

The soles fall apart right after warranty ends.

[@FirstmaninRome]

Yeah' keens are the ticket for steel toe indistal too' and tbe oxfords are what i wear on security patrol right now' security guard yeah im sold on them

[@SocialRegressive]

Do the steel-toe boots still flex well?

[@FirstmaninRome]

@@SocialRegressive there is a break in period with them but yeah' i was wearing for 3 years straight' even after i switched to a job where i did need steel tow' but the oxfords' no break in period and they have those flex ones now havent tried those

[@folksurvival]

Which wristwatch is that?

[@SocialRegressive]

It's a seiko titanium analog watch. My absolute favorite setup. It weighs nothing, sits flush on my wrist, and tells me the time without adding extra features and junk.

[@folksurvival]

@@SocialRegressive Thanks. Seiko and Citizen titanium watches are great.

[@sunshinepadawan]

Ive had three pair The nylon separated front the soles on the last two . I won’t buy them again

[@SocialRegressive]

Mine are disassembling themselves. I went to the Durand II instead. These seem to be properly built.

[@arturkonicz8135]

Unfortunately, these shoes have lost their quality, I have already bought 3 pairs and the same disadvantages, the sole peels off at the bend.

[@SocialRegressive]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. What kind of temperatures do you deal with in your area?

[@arturkonicz8135]

@@SocialRegressive Temperatures don't matter here, I'm talking about new shoes that have a defect. Over there where the sole flexes. Maybe I'm just unlucky :)

[@jamesedwards6269]

If you have good water proof boots you will not get wet feet in grass. I have some crispi Colorado boots and I don’t get wet feet in grass.

[@SocialRegressive]

Thanks for the recommendation. How's the fit?

[@Trebor-gw8lt]

TG3 has poor build quality. The "mud guard" on the upper cracks where it flexes. The outsole lugs peel from the midsole. I'm a long time Keen Pyrenees wearer......love them, have had 4 pairs over the years and I have another 2 in my current rotation. But the TG3? Trash

[@davidpowell499]

Horrible boots for aggressive daily hikers. Walked a hole in the boots at 4.5 months

[@robbobcat7286]

I have used these boost 1 year they are junk i can prove just ask

[@randyemenhiser2573]

First mudda fockas! Who's your daddy? (Is that language too explicit?)

[@SocialRegressive]

There you are! It ain't the same without Randy. Good to see you!

[@kylerust3889]

NDH KYLE

[@SocialRegressive]

Right back atcha, steely-eyed missile man!

[@emmanuelfernandez1238]

Do the waterproof boots make your foot very sweaty because it doesn’t breathe well?

[@SocialRegressive]

My feet are always sweaty in these, but they remain comfortable. My big problem with them is their shoddy construction. I have a couple of videos out now showing how the soles are peeling off.