Keen hiking boots have become popular to the crowd that wants an inexpensive, and durable shoe. However, not all Keen hiking boots are created equal. It takes a little bit of research and listening to what customers are saying in order to identify the best models.
The Keen Voyager and the Keen Targhee look very similar, but have a few features that set them apart. In trying to find the differences between these hiking boots, one can get lost in all of the information that is out there about each one. It is important to base your understanding of these hiking boots on customer reviews so that you can be sure that you are purchasing the right one.
In this Keen Voyageur vs Targhee comparison, we have created a list of all of the important points that we feel are good to know when it comes to deciding which of these boots is the better fit.
Still not sure whether to buy Targhee? Learn more about these hiking boots in our Keen Gypsum vs Targhee review.
Keen Voyageur or the Targhee
Keen Voyageur vs Targhee: Which one to Choose?
Both of these models have some of the same trademark features included in modern Keen hiking boots. For instance, they both have a covered toe that gives it durability and protection against abrasion on rocky terrain. They also have the signature lightweight build with plenty of breathability and a leather upper.
Since these hiking boots are made for various types of terrain, they have multi-directional lugs that helped to create traction between the foot and the ground. Many customers have been purchasing Keen boots for years, and replacing them with other Keen boots when the older ones get used up.
Some people tend to stick with the same models, while others tend to try various ones. It is always interesting to note what customers have to say when they have purchased more than one type of Keen model. These are the reviews that we paid attention to in creating our list.
Below is a list of the important considerations to take into account when deciding to purchase one of the use Keen boots over the other. They both differ based on the traits listed below.
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Waterproofing:
The Targhee uses Keen’s own waterproofing materials in order to make it decently waterproof. Keep in mind that the Targhee does not have a Gore-Tex lining, so it is not 100% waterproof. But it is more breathable than a Gore-Tex boot. On the other hand, the Voyageur is not waterproof at all.
The reason why waterproofing was not applied to it was in order to enhance its breathability. Breathability is one of the major benefits of purchasing the Voyageur. If you are going to be doing some trekking or commuting in plenty of hot weather, the Voyageur is a great choice. Instead of waterproofing, there is a mesh lining that creates a continual airflow and lets the heat from within the boot escape into the air.
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Outsole traction:
Both of these boots have multidirectional lugs on the outsole to provide plenty of traction on rough terrain. But it has been said that the Voyageur in particular has especially good traction. Some people have found that the Targhee has a tendency to slip a little when walking on medium sized pebbles due to its large lugs.
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Durable leather uppers:
Both of these boots have leather uppers that are plenty durable and maintain their quality even after extensive use.
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Fits wide feet:
Many of Keen’s hiking boots have a tendency to fit wide feet very well where others do not. Both the Voyageur and the Targhee have a very good fit for normal to wide feet. If your feet are narrow, you might find them a tad too wide.
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Arch support:
The arch supports on the Targhee has been said to be better than on the Voyageur. If you have high arches, we would recommend the Targhee.
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Comfort:
Overall, the Targhee is said to be more comfortable than the Voyageur. This is due to its plush EVA midsole, which provides plenty of cushioning on hard strikes to the ground.
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Size and fit:
Like some of Keen’s other hiking boots, the Voyageur’s fit is a tad on the smaller side. We would recommend that you order a size larger than you would normally order for a hiking boot. But keep in mind that the Targhee is actually fit to size, so no need to order a different size than usual.
Keen Voyageur vs Targhee: Price Comparison
Would you like to compare prices between the Targhee and the Voyageur? We feel that you will find some of the best prices for these boots on Amazon:
The Verdict
Overall, the Targhee hiking boot seems to be the most luxurious of the two. It has more cushioning in the midsole and better arch support. It also has waterproofing, while the Voyageur does not.
The main advantage to the Voyageur is its breathability. But to make this possible, waterproofing has been sacrificed to offer a lot of breathability. Thus, if long hikes in the summer heat appeal to you, perhaps the Voyageur is be the best choice.