KEEN Launches Last Hiking Boot You’ll Buy

Key highlights: KEEN has introduced their new Targhee IV hiking boots, claiming it to be the last boot a hiker will ever need to buy. The boot features a revolutionary construction method called KEEN.FUSION, which uses heat and pressure to bond the sole and upper of the boot together, making it highly resistant to the common issue of sole separation. The company is so confident in their product that they offer a Delamination-Free Lifetime Guarantee, promising a replacement or store credit if the sole ever separates from the boot.

Most of us have been there, or maybe you’ve been lucky. You invest in a great pair of hiking boots, traverse countless trails, then bam – the sole starts to separate. It’s a frustrating moment, and often the beginning of a long search for a replacement. But what if there was a boot built to last a lifetime?

KEEN is making a bold claim with their new Targhee IV, touting it as the “last hiking boot you’ll ever buy.” Let’s dive into the features that make this boot so innovative and see if it lives up to the hype.

KEEN.FUSION: A sole-ution to delamination

The Targhee IV boasts a revolutionary construction method called KEEN.FUSION. This technology ditches traditional glues and instead uses heat and pressure to permanently bond the sole and upper of the boot together. This creates a seamless, one-piece construction that’s highly resistant to delamination, the pesky separation that plagues many boots over time.

In line with KEEN’s mission to reduce the impact its shoes have on people and the planet, KEEN put the Targhee IV to the test. In KEEN’s “Test Lab,” the Targhee IV did not break down after 1000 miles of use or after KEEN’s “pull machine” attempted to force the shoe apart. This enhanced longevity is a result of KEEN.FUSION construction, a Luftcell midsole, and an abrasion-resistant outsole that’s twice as durable as rubber.

KEEN is so confident in KEEN.FUSION that they’re backing it up with a first-of-its-kind Delamination-Free Lifetime Guarantee. Essentially, if the sole ever separates from the boot, you’ll get a replacement or store credit. That’s serious peace of mind for long-distance hikers who demand reliable footwear.

Keen targhee iv hiking boots
Built with KEEN.FUSION technology for zero sole separation.

Built for the trail, kind to the planet

Sustainability is a major selling point for the Targhee IV. KEEN hasn’t just focused on durability; they’ve incorporated several eco-friendly features:

  • Luftcell Midsole: This shock-absorbing midsole is not only comfortable but also twice as durable as traditional EVA foam.
  • Leather with a Conscience: The leather used in the Targhee IV comes from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group, ensuring responsible environmental and social practices.
  • Tough Without Toxins: The outsole is built to last and uses materials that are claimed to be twice as durable as rubber, all while being free of harmful PFAS chemicals.
  • Room-for-your-toes fit: Original Fit secures your heel with plenty of room in the forefoot for toes to splay.
  • Waterproof protection: With a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane inside and PFASfree water repellency outside, feet stay dry in any weather.
  • Odor Control with a Clean Conscience: KEEN utilises a pesticide-free odor control treatment to keep your boots fresh without harsh chemicals.

Comfort and performance

While the innovative construction and sustainability features are impressive, a boot ultimately needs to perform on the trail. KEEN hasn’t skimped here. The Targhee IV comes in men’s and women’s specific fits and offers features like a waterproof membrane and a protective toe rand to keep your feet comfortable and protected on any adventure.

The verdict: Is the Targhee IV your forever boot?

Only time will tell if the Targhee IV lives up to its lifetime guarantee. However, the innovative KEEN.FUSION construction and focus on sustainability are a major step forward in hiking boot design. If you’re looking for a comfortable, durable, and eco-conscious boot for your next adventure, the Targhee IV is worth checking out. With seven colors to choose from, across men’s and women’s specific fits, you can find a pair that fits your style and gets you out on the trail for seasons to come.

Availability

The Targhee IV will be available for purchase starting March 2024 at keenfootwear.com.au and select outdoor retailers. So, check them out and hit the trail with confidence, knowing you might have just found your forever hiking companion.

Download the press release for more information. 

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About the Author

Author Image
Darren Edwards is the founder of Trail Hiking Australia, an avid bushwalker, and a dedicated search and rescue volunteer. With decades of experience exploring Australia's wilderness, Darren shares his passion for the outdoors, providing practical advice and guidance on hiking safely and responsibly. He was interviewed on ABC Radio and ABC News Breakfast to discuss bushwalking safety, highlighting his commitment to promoting responsible outdoor exploration.

16 thoughts on “KEEN Launches Last Hiking Boot You’ll Buy”

  1. Well they can’t get much worse for sole separation. Partner went through 3 pairs Keen to my one pair Oboz (which incidentally are still going) before eventually admitting defeat and switching to Oboz too.

  2. I had a pair of Keen in the Otways and found they wore really well but got shredded on the blackberry and rough stuff. Have gone to a leather boot more for trekking than rocky stuff for the time being, but generally loved wearing Keens

  3. Except that the sole will wear out. I’ve never had a boot delaminate; have had plenty that have had soles wear out (and in older types, could replace the sole; something I’m guessing this boot doesn’t let you do?). Marketing rubbish.

    • Victor Ra it certainly is a bold claim. I have a pair so will be sure to update comments if/when something goes wrong with them. I do find they are pretty wide and my feet move around a lot, which is a common thing I’ve read on other forums. So if anyone’s thinking of getting a pair, make sure you try them on first as the size you are used to, may not be the size you need.

    • Victor Ra every merrell shoe/ boot I’ve owned has delaminated. I’ve learnt how to fix them so they don’t. You would think I’d change but I need a wide toe box and merrell are the only ones I’ve found comfortable.

      • Ben Marshall it always amazes me to hear people have problems with shoes. I hike ‘a little bit’ 🙂 as you know, and I have never once had footwear fall apart. Touch wood.

      • My last pair, Asolos, were a well-made boot with a sole that basically dissolved in three short years, with very little actual wear on them. Couldn’t find any way of getting them resoled, and was assured no one resoles boots any more. Throughout my life I’ve been able to wear and resole boots until the leather falls apart or I lose them on a bus in the Philippines or wherever. The boots would go before the sole would; now it’s a business model to make soles that rot and can’t be replaced, ditto workboots. grr…

  4. Used to swear by Keens however my last two pairs of ‘waterproof’ boots (only 6 months old) wetted out in medium height wet grass and they wouldn’t honour their warranty. Told me to apply waterproofing. 👎 Looking for another brand now.

  5. I’ve had several pairs of Keen hiking boots. They never fully delaminated but the many parts of the sole would come off within 3 months. Seems like the soles were too soft for the rocks.

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