When it comes to hiking boots, the choice can make or break your outdoor adventures. In this comparison, we will explore two great boots: the Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Oboz Men’s Sawtooth II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot.
Both boots are designed to tackle the toughest trails, but they cater to different hiking needs and preferences.
The Targhee IV boasts innovative KEEN.FUSION construction for enhanced durability and eco-friendliness, while the Sawtooth II focuses on providing superior support and stability with its unique O FIT Insole.
We’ll explore the features of these boots and help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your next 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
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Check it out on the official website.
Description:
The Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot is the ultimate durable and eco-friendly hiking boot, featuring innovative KEEN.FUSION construction that fuses the upper and sole without glue, ensuring a longer-lasting bond.
It offers superior comfort with its air-injected Luftcell midsole and KEEN.RUGGED outsole for exceptional durability and traction. This boot is made with environmentally preferred materials, including recycled plastic and premium leather from LWG-certified tanneries.
Main Features:
- KEEN.FUSION construction for a glue-free, longer-lasting bond
- Eco Anti-Odor for natural, pesticide-free odor control
- KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
- Luftcell air-injected midsole for long-lasting cushioning
- KEEN.PROTECT Toe Bumper for toe protection
- KEEN.RUGGED outsole for durable, abrasion-resistant traction
- Original Fit with generous forefoot space
- Padded tongue and collar for enhanced comfort
- Heel-capture system for added stability
- Multi-directional lug pattern for superior traction
- Stability shank for lightweight stability
Materials:
- Premium nubuck leather upper
- Breathable mesh lining
- 100% recycled plastic laces
- Non-marking, multi-directional lugs for increased traction
2. Oboz Men’s Sawtooth II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Check it out on the official website.
Description:
The Oboz Men’s Sawtooth II Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot offers a versatile style with waterproof protection and a streamlined construction. It features a nubuck leather upper with breathable mesh panels and a mid-profile design for added ankle protection.
The B-Dry waterproof breathable membrane ensures your feet stay dry by allowing vapor to escape while preventing water from entering. The traditional lace-up style provides a secure fit, and the O FIT Insole is designed to keep your foot in a neutral position, offering superior support and stability.
Main Features and Materials:
- Nubuck leather upper with breathable mesh panels
- Mid-profile trail boot for added ankle protection
- B-Dry waterproof breathable membrane to keep feet dry
- Traditional lace-up style for a secure fit
- O FIT Insole:
- High-density EVA sculpted arch for superior support
- High-density EVA deep heel cup for maximum stability and support
- EVA pods for shock absorption and rebound
- Medium-density EVA for unmatched underfoot support
- Moisture-wicking comfort top layer
- Sawtooth Midsole:
- Nylon shank for added support between heel and forefoot
- Dual-density EVA midsole for balanced cushioning
- Sawtooth Outsole:
- Versatile, flexible, and supportive design
- A map molded in the bottom featuring the Sawtooth mountain range near Sun Valley, Idaho
- B-DRY Waterproof System:
- Allows sweat to escape while keeping moisture out
3. Comparison
Here are the main differences between these two great products:
- Construction:
- Keen Targhee IV: Glue-free, fused construction (KEEN.FUSION) that won’t delaminate
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Traditional construction with a streamlined design
- Waterproofing:
- Keen Targhee IV: KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
- Oboz Sawtooth II: B-Dry waterproof breathable membrane
- Upper Material:
- Keen Targhee IV: Premium nubuck leather with breathable mesh lining
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Nubuck leather with breathable mesh panels
- Odor Control:
- Keen Targhee IV: Eco Anti-Odor for natural, pesticide-free odor control
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Moisture-wicking comfort top layer in the insole
- Insole:
- Keen Targhee IV: Removable Luftcell air-injected insole for added cushioning
- Oboz Sawtooth II: O FIT Insole with high-density EVA sculpted arch, deep heel cup, EVA pods, and medium-density EVA
- Midsole:
- Keen Targhee IV: Direct-attach, air-injected Luftcell midsole for long-lasting cushioning
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Dual-density EVA midsole with firm but lightweight design, nylon shank for added support
- Outsole:
- Keen Targhee IV: KEEN.RUGGED abrasion-resistant outsole with multi-directional lug pattern
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Sawtooth outsole, versatile and flexible with a map of the Sawtooth mountain range molded in
- Toe Protection:
- Keen Targhee IV: KEEN.PROTECT durable rubber toe bumper
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Not specified
- Fit and Comfort:
- Keen Targhee IV: Original Fit with generous space across the forefoot
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Designed to put the foot in a neutral position, mid-profile for added ankle protection
- Environmental Considerations:
- Keen Targhee IV: PFAS-free materials, recycled P.E.T. plastic, environmentally preferred leather from LWG-certified tannery
- Oboz Sawtooth II: Not specified
4. Which is Better?
When choosing between the Keen Targhee IV Boot and the Oboz Sawtooth II Boot, it largely depends on your specific needs and preferences as a hiker.
The Keen Targhee IV is particularly notable for its environmentally friendly construction and durability. The KEEN.FUSION technology ensures that the upper and sole are fused without glue, preventing delamination and providing a longer-lasting bond.
This boot is also designed with comfort in mind, offering a spacious fit and air-injected Luftcell midsole that resists compression over time. Additionally, the KEEN.DRY membrane provides effective waterproofing while allowing vapor to escape, making it suitable for wet conditions and ensuring your feet stay dry.
The KEEN.RUGGED outsole is twice as abrasion-resistant as regular rubber, providing superior traction and durability. This boot is ideal for hikers who prioritize environmental sustainability, comfort, and long-term durability.
On the other hand, the Oboz Sawtooth II emphasizes support and stability. Its O FIT insole is designed to position the foot in a neutral stance, offering high-density EVA for superior arch support and a deep heel cup for stability.
The dual-density EVA midsole and nylon shank enhance torsional stability and support, making it a great choice for those who need extra support on uneven terrain. The B-DRY waterproof membrane is effective in keeping moisture out while allowing sweat to escape, ensuring dry feet even in muddy conditions.
The Sawtooth outsole is known for its versatility and flexibility, making it a favorite among thru-hikers. This boot is better suited for hikers who need enhanced support and stability, especially on rugged trails.
In the end: if you are looking for a boot that combines environmental responsibility, comfort, and durability, the Keen Targhee IV would be a better choice. If your priority is support and stability on challenging terrain, the Oboz Sawtooth II would be more suitable.