Keen manufacturers and assembles its awesome hiking boots in the USA. While this is a great selling point for many people, the real advantage of Keen boots is the fact that you get plenty of value for a low cost.
These boots are simply not as costly as most other hiking boots. But you still get that quality feel and durability that makes them last a few years.
But in looking at product descriptions for the Durand and the Targhee, it is not easy to tell which of the two boots is the best. Or perhaps it is not a matter of which is the best, but which is the best for you.
We have created this Keen Durand vs Targhee review in order to outline the specific features that make these boots different.
Looking for the best Keen Boots for your adventures? Then you might like our Keen Koven vs Targhee review.
Keen Durand vs Targhee
Keen Durand vs Targhee: Which Should You Get?
At times, the specific designs of Keen boots appeal to people who have many different tastes. The differences between the Durand and the Targhee are not really one that has to do with a particular purpose. We feel that it is something that is based on weighing out the pros and cons and testing against your own personal preferences. We have made a list of all of the features that can make or break a decision to purchase any one of these boots. They are listed in no particular order.
Waterproofing:
Although this is not really a difference between them, we felt that it would be important to point out that they are both waterproof. But keep in mind that they are not Gore-Tex boots, so they will not be fully waterproof. Most customers find them sufficiently waterproof for their purposes.
Durability:
The Durand is markedly more durable than the Targhee. It has waterproof Nubuck leather for its upper, thus making it harder to fray. Although the Targhee also has a leather upper, it is not quite the same thickness and quality.
Weight:
Due to the durability of the Durand, it also weighs considerably more than the Targhee. Some estimate that it weighs up to 30% more, which can be felt on the foot.
Lugs harder and less traction:
There is usually a trade-off between the durability of the outsole and the amount of traction that it produces. The more durable the outsole is, the harder it is. And the harder the outsole, the less traction it provides.
The lugs on the Durand are harder than the lugs on the Targhee. While the Durand’s outsole will last longer, it also provides lost traction than the Targhee.
Attractiveness:
Some customers find that there is a difference in the attractiveness of the Durand and the Targhee. The Durand has brighter colors, and generally has a more attractive design. The look and feel of the Durand give the impression of better quality.
Tongue quality:
The tongue on the Targhee is thinner than the one on the Durand. However, the Targhee tongue does have a pull attachment, while the Durand does not. This pull attachment is important to some customers because it helps them to easily put on their boots.
The benefit of the Durand tongue is the fact that it sticks out more beyond the shoe and provides more padding than the one on the Targhee. This means there is less chance of it getting lost within the shoe.
Good for wide feet:
It should be noted that many of Keen’s hiking boots fit wide feet very well compared to other boot brands. The Durand and the Targhee will fit normal to wide feet very well. Please be warned that if you have narrow feet, you might find them a little bit loose.
Wears 1/2 size smaller:
The Durand wears 1/2 smaller than usual. When ordering a Durand, please make sure to order one size larger than you normally would order for a hiking boot. The Targhee is fit to size, so no need to increase the size ordered.
Dual-density EVA footbed:
The Durand has a dual-density EVA footbed, making it stiffer than the Targhee. Since the midsoles of these boots are different in terms of stiffness, you will feel a difference in comfort with every step. Some people prefer stiffness, as stiffness is normal in a hiking boot compared to your regular sneaker.
But some have found that they cannot walk as long in the Durand. If you are looking for a hiking boot that has good cushioning, the Targhee is a better bet.
Keen Durand vs Targhee: Price Comparison
Generally speaking, the Durand is pricier than the Targhee. This could be due to the inclusion of the Nubuck leather, and the fact that it is stiffer and more durable. The Durand is also more attractive than the Targhee. Whatever the reason, you can view current prices by clicking on the links below:
Keen Durand vs Targhee: The Verdict
As with most hiking boots, there is a trade-off between comfort and durability. The Durand boots are made to be ultra durable with the Nubuck leather and the stiff outsole. The outsole will wear down slower than the Targhee, but it also has less traction. On the other hand, the Targhee is more comfortable because it has more cushioning on the midsole. The outsole also has more traction due to its softer and stickier lugs.
Also, if you would prefer a tongue that is plush and sticks out more, the Durand is a good choice. But with the Targhee, you get a pull that is attached to the tongue and can help you get your shoe on quickly.
We do not have a preference for one boot over the other. The Targhee and the Durand are great choices if you want value hiking boots.
