Keen Targhee IV vs Lowa Zephyr GTX Boots: Which is Better?

The Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid Men’s Outdoor Boot are two great options for a good hiking boot.

Each boot has unique features and materials catering to different needs and preferences.

The Keen Targhee IV is designed for the environmentally conscious hiker. It boasts sustainable materials and innovative construction that ensures durability and comfort.

In contrast, the Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid is a rugged option favored by military personnel. It offers exceptional support and waterproofing for demanding conditions.

In this article, we will see the key differences between these two robust boots to help you make a good decision for your next outdoor adventure.

Please also check these products’ features on their official websites because sometimes our articles may contain errors.

1. Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot

Check it out on the official website.

The Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed for durability and comfort. It features innovative construction and eco-friendly materials. This boot is built to withstand the toughest conditions, and its glue-free, fused construction guarantees no delamination.

It also offers cushioning that resists compression, ensuring a comfortable and durable hiking experience. The boot is made from environmentally preferred leather and includes a waterproof, breathable membrane that keeps feet dry. Also, it features a rugged outsole for superior traction and stability.

Main Features and Materials

• PFAS-Free: No forever chemicals.
• Eco Anti-Odor: Natural, pesticide-free odor control.
• Environmentally Preferred Leather: Premium leather from LWG-certified tannery.
• KEEN.DRY: PFAS-free waterproof, breathable membrane.
• KEEN.FUSION: Fused upper and sole construction for a longer-lasting bond without glue.
• Recycled P.E.T. Plastic: Reduces the use of virgin materials.
• LuftCell: Solvent-free, air-injected midsole for durable cushioning.
• KEEN.PROTECT Toe Bumper: Protects toes from rocks and debris.
• Original Fit: Generous space across the forefoot for comfort.
• KEEN.RUGGED Outsole: Abrasion-resistant for longer-lasting traction.
• Weight: 20.11oz / 570g
• Shaft Height: 5.12in / 130mm
• Heel Height: 1.1in / 28mm
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0.47in / 12mm

Additional Features

• Padded tongue and collar for enhanced comfort.
• 100% recycled plastic laces.
• Direct-attach, air-injected Luftcell midsole for long-lasting cushioning.
• Removable Luftcell air-injected insole for added cushioning.
• Multi-directional lug pattern for superior traction.
• Heel-capture system for added stability.
• Stability shank for lightweight stability.

Materials

• Premium Nubuck Leather Upper
• Breathable Mesh Lining
• Non-Marking Multi-Directional Lugs for Increased Traction

Care Instructions

• Clean with mild soap and cold water.
• Remove excess dirt/spot clean with a stiff brush or soft cloth.
• Air dry away from heat.

2. Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid Men’s Outdoor Boots

Check it out on the official website.

Description

The Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid Men’s Outdoor Boots are multifunctional desert boots highly recommended for military use.

They are adopted by Italian soldiers in Afghanistan and are appreciated by armed forces, surveillance, and security personnel. These boots are also suitable for airsoft and military tactics simulation activities in sandy environments.

Main Features and Materials

• Upper: Made of suede leather with a thickness of 1.4-1.6 mm and Cordura. The shoe height is 145mm externally and 110mm internally.
• Sole: Features a “Cross” rubber sole and PU midsole for shock absorption and safety. The sole wraps around the ankle, providing support without limiting movement.
• Lining: Available in Gore-Tex lining or fabric for cooler conditions. The Gore-Tex membrane ensures perfect waterproofing with seamless construction to reduce pressure points.
• Lacing: Equipped with eyelets and 3 closed hooks for secure lacing.
• Sizes: Available from size 6 (39.5) to 13 (48.5).
• Weight: Each shoe weighs approximately 600 grams.
• Certifications: LOWA was the only trekking footwear company in 2009 with an ISO 9001 certificate for excellence in management processes and high production quality.

These boots are ideal for use in rocky desert environments and are suitable for summer or multi-seasonal wear.

3. Comparison

Here are the main differences between these two products:

• Material:
  • Keen Targhee IV: Premium nubuck leather upper, KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane, recycled P.E.T. plastic.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: Suede leather with Cordura, Gore-tex lining.
• Construction:
  • Keen Targhee IV: KEEN.FUSION construction fuses the upper and sole without glue.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: Traditional construction with Gore-tex laminate and seamless lining.
• Waterproofing:
  • Keen Targhee IV: PFAS-free waterproof, breathable membrane.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: Patented Gore-tex construction for waterproofing.
• Weight:
  • Keen Targhee IV: 570g per boot.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: 1200g per pair.
• Outsole:
  • Keen Targhee IV: KEEN.RUGGED abrasion-resistant outsole.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: Rubber tread sole designed for rocky desert environments.
• Intended Use:
  • Keen Targhee IV: General hiking with superior traction and comfort.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: Multifunctional, recommended for military use, airsoft, and tactical simulations.
• Environmental and Comfort Features:
  • Keen Targhee IV: Eco Anti-Odor, environmentally preferred leather, air-injected Luftcell midsole.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: Smooth and seamless Gore-tex lining to reduce pressure points.
• Fit and Design:
  • Keen Targhee IV: Original Fit with generous toe space, padded tongue and collar.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: Lacing with eyelets and 3 closed hooks, ankle support without limiting movement.
• Certifications and Quality:
  • Keen Targhee IV: Time Magazine’s best invention of 2024.
  • Lowa Zephyr GTX: ISO 9001 certificate for excellence in management processes and quality.

These differences highlight the unique features and intended uses of each boot, catering to different types of outdoor activities and preferences.

4. Which is Better?

The Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid Men’s Outdoor Boots both offer unique advantages depending on the intended use and environment.

The Keen Targhee IV is particularly well-suited for hikers who prioritize environmentally friendly materials and durable construction. With features like PFAS-free waterproofing, recycled P.E.T. plastic, and the innovative KEEN.FUSION construction that ensures a longer-lasting bond without the use of glues, this boot is designed to be both sustainable and robust.

The Eco Anti-Odor and KEEN.DRY technologies provide natural odor control and breathability, making it ideal for long hikes in wet conditions. Additionally, the air-injected Luftcell midsole offers superior cushioning that resists compression over time, ensuring comfort on extended treks.

Its KEEN.RUGGED outsole provides excellent traction, making it a reliable choice for varied terrains.

On the other side, the Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid is a multifunctional boot that excels in more demanding and tactical environments.

Originally designed for military use and appreciated by armed forces, this boot features suede leather and Cordura construction with a Gore-Tex lining, offering exceptional durability and waterproofing. The PU midsole and Cross rubber sole provide excellent shock absorption and support, making it suitable for rugged terrains and rocky deserts.

The Lowa rubber sole wraps around the ankle for added stability without restricting movement, which is crucial for activities like airsoft or military simulations.

Which is better: the Keen Targhee IV is better for eco-conscious hikers looking for a durable, comfortable boot with excellent traction and water resistance for general hiking conditions. The Lowa Zephyr GTX Mid is ideal for those needing a robust, supportive boot for tactical or military use in rough, rocky environments.