Before our family went on vacation last year to Utah, Jeremy and I invested in hiking boots. We did a lot of research and both decided on the men’s and women’s Keen Targhee II Mid WP Hiking boots. The boots had multiple good reviews online, so we felt confident about our choice.
I have had these boots for over a year now, and they are still in great shape. I wear them once it gets cooler in autumn through spring and am quite happy with these boots.
Prior to our trip, we spent a significant amount of time breaking in the boots. We took weekly hikes at our local parks, and wore them walking around the neighborhood during our nightly walks. We also wore them when we went hiking around Asheville, North Carolina. That was the first major hike we wore them on and they were quite comfortable. They were quite comfortable from day one, but I still recommend breaking in hiking boots before they are worn on a long hike. Jeremy did not break his in as much as he would have liked to, and his boots tired out his feet after some time on our hike. My feet were warm, but not sore, and remained blister free.
I should mention that I have low to non-existent arches and ankle pronation, so I made sure whatever boot I purchased had very good arch support and ankle support. The last thing I wanted was to be four miles in with aching feet and rolled ankles.
As I mentioned, these boots are my go-to boot during the cooler months. I discovered that they make my feet unusually warm. So much so, that I purchased Icebreaker socks to wear with these boots hoping that they would help. While the Icebreaker socks helped quite a bit, it was not enough to keep my feet from feeling like they were one inch from a fire pit. (I purchased a pair of Oboz hiking shoes that I love for the warmer months. You can read my review of them here.)
These boots are great during cooler autumn and winter hikes. Your feet will be comfortable with only one pair of Smartwool socks. I even shoveled snow in these boots. My feet stayed dry and toasty, and I did not slip and slide at all.
These boots come with multidirectional tread that gives you secure traction no matter the terrain. I’ve worn these boots on mountains, in desert terrain, creek beds, snowy parks, and leaf covered trails and I have not slipped or lost my footing. I am able to safely traverse steep trails with no problem at all.
These boots were a smart investment and I know I will be wearing these boots for many years and many more adventures.
Pros – Comfortable; good arch support; little breaking in time; dry, water-proof breathable membrane; ankle support; true-to-size; roomy toe bed; multidirectional treads offer stability on any terrain.
Cons – The boot retains heat and can be uncomfortable in warmer weather. This boot cost $134.99 at Cabela’s. Consider it a wise investment in your hiking adventures.
We clean our boots by wiping off the dirt after our hikes, and condition the leather uppers with mink oil to keep the leather supple and pliable. This extra step is recommended to extend the life of your hiking boots. Thoroughly dry your boots before storing them. Keep them in good shape and they will last for years.
You can learn more about the Keen company, including its values and sustainability program on their website.
What are your favorite pair of hiking boots? Share in the comments below.
As always, remember #HikingisFun #AdventureAwaits #gearitupmonday
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