KEEN Targhee Vent review

Who should buy the KEEN Targhee Vent

The Targhee Vent from the well-known KEEN Targhee line-up is made for day explorers who wish to stay comfortable in arid environments without compromising performance. It's a solid option if you need:

• a breathable hiking shoe ensuring comfort on your summer day hikes 
• a light low-cut shoe providing reliable grip and stability on various types of terrain

Who should NOT buy the shoe

Given the reoccurring issue of the sole delaminating from the rest of the shoe within months, you may want to invest in a more reliable pair of KEENs. Shoes like Steens Vent and Explore Vent haven't received such complaints.

KEEN's high-traction outsole

The Targhee Vent’s response to slippery and tricky backcountry surfaces is the KEEN. All-Terrain rubber outsole. With its multi-directional lugs having a depth (or height) of 4 millimeters, it is capable of producing and maintaining traction in nearly every direction.

Those who take on trails with moderate elevation will have ample control, thanks to its treaded heel and forefoot zones.

But there is one problem with the outsole

Despite the fact that the shoe overall is described as well-made and sturdy, a lot of reviewers have complained about the rubber outsole detaching within just a few months. For some, it took 3 months and for others, it was 6. What's more, it happened with multiple pairs of the Targhee Vent that they purchased.

Stable and comfortable ride

With the shoe’s dual-density, compression-molded EVA midsole having double the shank, wearers are satisfied with a stable, cushioned, and arch-supported ride on the trail. "Extremely comfortable even on rugged terrain," shares a reviewer.

The underfoot comfort and support it offers are further enhanced by the anatomically designed Metatomical footbed.

KEEN Targhee Vent is made for breathability

KEEN’s Targhee Vent uses mesh panels all over the upper to allow airflow inside the shoe. The majority of wearers are happy with the level of ventilation it provides:

• "ventilation with these shoes is better than most running shoes"
• "vented shoes for hiking in hot weather and are perfect for it"
• "much cooler than other hiking boots or shoes"

What's more, those who stepped in water during the hike reported that the shoe drained fairly quickly and didn't require removing the shoes. And it only took one night with insoles removed to have it completely dry.

Easy adjustment and secure fit

The wearer’s desired fit may be set using the shoe’s lacing system. It consists of sturdy lace loops in place of standard eyelets. The top pair of lace loops gives extra support around the ankle region.

+ The upper structure keeps my foot in place without having to tighten the laces to the maximum

+ roomy toebox

+ comfortable without break-in

Toe bumping is no problem

Up front, the shoe employs KEEN.Protect — a brand-owned technology that shields the toes from bumps and abrasions.

Color mismatch with the photo

More than a few buyers were disappointed that the shoe color was way off from the online picture. "They look dirty and old," says one of them. Another one adds: "All tones are much darker and warmer." Those who got the bronze brown shoe discovered that the shoe is almost completely black in reality.