When it comes to selecting your next hiking boot, two options from Keen are the Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot and the Men’s Zionic Waterproof Hiking Boot.
Both are engineered for exceptional comfort and durability, but they cater to different hiking styles and needs.
The Targhee IV is designed for those who tackle rugged terrains and prefer a robust, long-lasting boot, featuring innovative KEEN.FUSION construction and eco-friendly materials.
In contrast, the Zionic offers a snug, athletic fit that enhances speed and agility, making it ideal for fast-paced hikes.
Whether you’re planning a challenging trek or a quick trail run, understanding the unique features of each boot will help you make the best choice for your adventure.
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1. Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot
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Description
The Keen Men’s Targhee IV Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed for durability and comfort, featuring innovative KEEN.FUSION construction that fuses the upper and sole without glue, ensuring a long-lasting bond.
The boot is eco-friendly with PFAS-free waterproofing, recycled materials, and environmentally preferred leather. It also offers excellent cushioning and stability, making it ideal for rugged terrains.
Main Features and Materials
- KEEN.FUSION Construction: Fuses the upper and sole without glue for a longer-lasting bond.
- Eco Anti-Odor: Natural, pesticide-free odor control.
- Environmentally Preferred Leather: Premium leather from LWG-certified tannery.
- KEEN.DRY: PFAS-free waterproof, breathable membrane.
- Recycled P.E.T. Plastic: Reduces the use of virgin materials.
- LuftCell Midsole: Air-injected for long-lasting cushioning.
- KEEN.PROTECT Toe Bumper: Protects toes from rocks and debris.
- Original Fit: Generous space across the forefoot.
- KEEN.RUGGED Outsole: Twice as durable as rubber for longer-lasting traction.
- Multi-directional Lug Pattern: Provides superior traction.
- Heel-Capture System: Adds stability.
- Stability Shank: Delivers lightweight stability.
Materials
- Premium Nubuck Leather Upper
- Breathable Mesh Lining
- Non-marking Multi-directional Lugs for increased traction
- 100% Recycled Plastic Laces
Additional Information
- Weight: 20.11oz / 570g
- Shaft Height: 5.12in / 130mm
- Heel Height: 1.1in / 28mm
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0.47in / 12mm
2. Keen Men’s Zionic Waterproof Hiking Boot
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Description
The Keen Men’s Zionic Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed to enhance your hiking experience by offering a unique blend of speed, stability, and comfort. This boot features a contoured fit that follows the shape of your foot for a snug and comfortable feel, making it ideal for long trail adventures.
The waterproof and breathable KEEN.DRY membrane ensures your feet stay dry, while the rugged foam outsole provides excellent traction and durability.
Main Features and Materials
- KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane
- KEEN.PROTECT Toe Bumper
- Eco Anti-Odor
- Recycled P.E.T. Plastic
- Contoured Fit for a comfortably snug fit
- Two-finger webbing loop on the heel for easy pull-on
- Achilles pad in the heel for added comfort
- Speed hooks for easy lace adjustment
- High-rebound foam cushioning
- Removable, resilient foam insole with arch support
- Higher-traction, rugged foam outsole
- 4mm multi-directional lugs for traction
- Stability shank for lightweight stability
- Performance ripstop mesh upper with overlays for durability
- Quick-dry lining for active use
- Non-marking multi-directional lugs for increased traction
- Weight: 14.46oz / 410g
- Shaft Height: 4.33in / 110mm
- Heel Height: 1.42in / 36mm
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0.47in / 12mm
3. Comparison
Here are the main differences between the Keen Men’s Targhee IV and the Keen Men’s Zionic Boots:
- Weight:
- Targhee IV: 20.11oz / 570g
- Zionic: 14.46oz / 410g
- Shaft Height:
- Targhee IV: 5.12in / 130mm
- Zionic: 4.33in / 110mm
- Heel Height:
- Targhee IV: 1.1in / 28mm
- Zionic: 1.42in / 36mm
- Fit:
- Targhee IV: Original Fit with generous space across the forefoot
- Zionic: Contoured Fit for a snug and athletic fit
- Construction:
- Targhee IV: KEEN.FUSION construction that fuses the upper to the sole without glue
- Zionic: Performance ripstop mesh upper with overlays for durability
- Midsole:
- Targhee IV: Luftcell air-injected midsole for long-lasting cushioning
- Zionic: High-rebound foam cushioning for enhanced comfort and movement
- Outsole:
- Targhee IV: KEEN.RUGGED outsole, twice as abrasion-resistant as rubber
- Zionic: Higher-traction, rugged foam outsole for lightweight durability
- Additional Features:
- Targhee IV: Eco Anti-Odor, recycled plastic laces, padded tongue and collar, and multi-directional lug pattern
- Zionic: Two-finger webbing loop, Achilles pad, speed hooks, and quick-dry lining
Both models share features like KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane, KEEN.PROTECT toe bumper, Eco Anti-Odor, recycled P.E.T. plastic, and a stability shank for lightweight stability.
4. Which is Better?
The Targhee IV and the Zionic Waterproof Boots each excel in different hiking scenarios due to their distinct features and design focuses.
The Targhee IV is designed for durability and long-lasting comfort, making it an excellent choice for rugged, long-distance hikes. Its KEEN.FUSION construction ensures a glue-free, fused bond between the upper and sole, which prevents delamination and enhances longevity.
The KEEN.RUGGED outsole is twice as abrasion-resistant as rubber, providing superior traction on challenging terrains. Additionally, the Luftcell air-injected midsole offers cushioning that resists compression over time, ensuring comfort throughout extended hikes.
The eco-friendly materials used, such as recycled P.E.T. plastic and environmentally preferred leather, also make the Targhee IV a more sustainable option. This boot is ideal for hikers who prioritize durability, environmental responsibility, and comfort on tough trails.
The Zionic Waterproof Hiking Boot is tailored for speed and agility, making it suitable for fast-paced, shorter hikes or trail runs. Its contoured fit provides a snug, athletic feel that enhances support and stability during rapid movements.
The high-rebound foam cushioning and lightweight design (14.46oz / 410g) contribute to a more responsive and energetic hiking experience. The quick-dry lining and performance ripstop mesh upper are perfect for active use, ensuring your feet stay dry and comfortable.
The Zionic’s higher-traction, rugged foam outsole offers lightweight durability, making it ideal for those who prefer speed, agility, and a more athletic fit on less demanding trails.
In conclusion: choose the Targhee IV for durability and comfort on rugged, long-distance hikes, and opt for the Zionic when you need speed and agility for shorter, faster-paced hikes or trail runs.