Keen is a hiking boot company that produces inexpensive, quality products. Some of the trademarks of the Keen brand are the toe reinforcements and ultra-lightweight quality of these durable boots.
It is not easy to tell the difference between the Gypsum and the Targhee. Both look very similar, but they have different qualities that can make customers prefer one over the other.
We have created this Keen Gypsum vs Targhee comparison in order to let you in on what the performance differences are between these hiking boots.
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Keen Gypsum vs Targhee
Choosing Between the Gypsum and the Targhee
The choice between these hiking boots is not easy. One must look at the subtle variabilities closely in order to determine which of these boots is best for them.
Below is a list of features that involve differences between the Gypsum and the Targhee. From there, you can decide which one is actually for you.
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Sizing:
The Keen Targhee is true to size, meaning that ordering the size that you normally take in a boot will likely get you the right size. However, the Gypsum wears 1/2 smaller, so you will need to order a size bigger.
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Lug outsole thickness:
The lugs on the Targhee’s outsole are 5 mm, while the lugs on the gypsum are 4 mm. As such, the Targhee will provide more traction than the Gypsum.
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Outsole durability and traction:
The outsole of the Gypsum is harder and more durable than the outsole of the Targhee. But as mentioned above, the lugs on the Targhee are thicker and provide more traction. This is simply the trade-off between durability of the outsole and its traction.
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Weight:
Due to its durability, the Gypsum is heavier than the Targhee.
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Stability:
The Gypsum is made of heavier and thicker materials. This provides for more stability of the ankle while the foot is moving.
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Midsole cushioning:
The Gypsum has a more rigid midsole than the Targhee. If you want a cushiony and highly comfortable boot, the Targhee may be your best bet. The trade-off here is that the Gypsum is more durable.
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Heel cup construction:
The Gypsum has better construction in the heel cup than the Targhee.
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Outsole durability:
The Gypsum’s outsole stitched up to the boot in a better way than the Targhee. It will not fall apart as easily with heavy usage. Some customers have noted that the Targhee’s outsole became unglued after a while, but this was not an issue with a Gypsum.
Keen Gypsum vs Targhee: Price Comparison
Comparing the prices between two popular hiking boots is difficult considering that they can be purchased at various locations. However, we have found that Amazon offers some of the least expensive options. If you would like to view current prices for the Gypsum and the Targhee on Amazon, please see below:
The Verdict
The verdict on these hiking boots is based on a simple underlying fact; while the Gypsum is more durable and longer-lasting, the Targhee is the most comfortable and lightweight. These are usually the typical trade-offs of hiking boots.
One of the advantages of the Targhee and the Gypsum is that they are both decently waterproof, yet breathable. Finding a hiking boot that is both breathable and waterproof at an affordable price is a win situation.
One of the lesser known advantages of the Keen hiking boots is the fact that they have a tendency to be great for wide feet. While some hiking boots are just made too narrow, these hiking boots fit normal to wide feet well.
Which of these hiking boots do you feel would be best suited for your tastes? Please leave your comment below and let us know what you think.
Thanks, it helped a lot
This was super helpful. I’ve had my gypsums for a few years and was looking for a comparable replacement.
I still found the Targhee in a larger size too narrow for my orthotics. Pity, because they are a very comfortable shoe.
Thanks for this. I have loved my Targhees (2 pairs) and disliked my Gypsums (1 pair)!!! One reason only. I find the Gypsums too stiff. They are comfortable in the store but stiff when walking long distances. I am about to go buy another Keen, but definitely a the Targhee III. I might add that I have the Keen Revel (I think?), winter boots and I find them wy too stiff as well.