KEEN Targhee Sport Breathable Easy On Lightweight Hiking Shoes Review
The KEEN Targhee Sport Breathable Easy On Lightweight Hiking Shoes are designed specifically for young adventurers seeking comfort and support on all terrains. With a combination of cushioned support, all-terrain traction, and a vented upper, these shoes provide an excellent option for both hiking trails and playground activities. Influenced by the award-winning adult version, this shoe promises durability and breathability, making it perfect for warmer days.
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Features
- BREATHABLE: Vented membrane that keeps your child’s feet cool and comfortable, featuring a durable vented mesh and textile upper with reflective webbing.
- TRACTION & PROTECTION: Non-marking rubber outsoles prevent leaving imprints indoors; equipped with a multi-directional traction grip system.
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: Mesh lining maintains coolness, while the padded collar and tongue reduce irritation.
- STYLE & FIT: Direct attach cushioning midsole provides lightweight durability; hook and loop strap closure ensures a secure fit and easy access.
- CARE TIPS: Clean with mild soap and cold water, using a stiff brush or soft cloth for spot cleaning. Air dry away from heat sources.
Pros
- Excellent breathability for warm weather use.
- Secure fit with easy on-and-off closure.
- Durable construction suitable for various terrains.
- Non-marking soles ideal for indoor settings.
- Stylish design that appeals to kids.
Cons
- May not provide enough insulation for colder climates.
- Some users report sizing runs larger than expected.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Product | Breathability | Traction | Comfort | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KEEN Targhee Sport | High | Excellent | Very Good | High |
| Merrell Moab 2 | Moderate | Good | Very Good | High |
| Nike ACG Ruckel Ridge | High | Very Good | Good | Moderate |
Detailed Review
The KEEN Targhee Sport hiking shoes stand out for their exceptional breathability, making them a great choice for kids who love to explore outdoors during warmer months. The vented upper allows airflow, thus reducing perspiration, which is crucial during active play. Not only do they excel in keeping feet cool, but the cushioned midsole also ensures comfort over long hours of wear.
In terms of traction, the non-marking rubber outsoles are designed with a multi-directional grip, providing stability on various terrains, whether on rocky paths or grassy fields. This feature enables safe outdoor adventures without compromising on performance.
The shoes are crafted with a secure hook-and-loop strap closure system, making them easy for children to put on and take off independently. However, some parents have noted that the sizing may run larger than expected, so it is advisable to check size charts before purchasing.
Finally, the durable build quality means these shoes can withstand rough play, and they require simple cleaning, making them low-maintenance for busy families. All in all, the KEEN Targhee Sport hiking shoes are a reliable choice for kids looking for versatile, comfortable footwear to support their outdoor activities.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5 | Highly comfortable for extended wear. |
| Breathability | 5 | Excellent ventilation for warm conditions. |
| Traction | 4.5 | Great grip on varied surfaces. |
| Durability | 4.0 | Sturdy build that withstands active use. |
| Fit | 4.0 | Secure fit with adjustable closure. |
User Reviews
I purchased Keen Targhee hiking shoes for my kiddo last year and I'm back again as little feet become bigger feet. Being a return customer probably says it all, but I prefer Keens and the Targhee's quality is the main reason.The Good:Great colour runs really appeal to the eye and the deep sapphire blue of these Targhees looks great. They don't fade much despite heavy wear, and retain that vibrant tone.The shoe looks good and feels substantial, though not too heavy for kids' feet. Mesh sides help to alleviate the weight and provide breathability at the cost of diminished water resistance. It's a fair compromise. These shoes fit narrower rather than wider, though the fit can easily be adjusted by elastic laces.Keens can take a beating and keep on functioning well. The last pair kiddo wore showed substantial wear on the toes of the soles, but that's to be expected after enduring a northern winter, frequent hiking and running around.These are really suited for light to moderate trail use, and not hardcore hiking.The Bad:The toggle on the adjustable laces broke within two days of purchase. Keen offers no warranty or replacement on broken laces. When reaching out to their help/warranty area, they directed me back to Amazon to buy third party laces. This is pretty annoying, considering they sell outdoor shoes for active lifestyles, the laces are colour-matched, and kids under 12 are not exactly known for being gentle on their shoes. Things happen.
My kid destroys shoes and hates taking the time to tie properly. These hold up to hard playing and are adjustable to be loose like a slip on or tight for adventure mode. Keens rule.
My son loves them. They fit great and are made very well.
Love the look of the shoes. Had to find some hiking shoes for my super girlie daughter that she would approve of. These were perfect! I showed her so many options and these were the ones that she wanted. When we got them she loved them even more in person.The first hike we went with them was a hike we did the week prior in some cheap sneakers, so we really got to compare how they helped her. These ones really gripped the rock and gravel on the trail we went on. The prior weekend she fell multiple times on her bottom because she had no grip. With these shoes, she didn’t slip once. She loves them, and was super excited for each hike afterward. No blisters. They were super comfortable.
The drawstring will break before you the shoe is worn out, but they are indestructible and comfortable. My son will only wear these and they keep him warm in Wisconsin weather. They are not his shoes to play in the snow, but walking on ice, packed snow, etc. he is warm and toasty and they never look like he needs a new pair of shoes even after months of boy use.
Well made looks great
My granddaughter has pretty big feet but these keens fit her perfectly-
There are no insoles inside these shoes! Seriously! There are little, paper thin inserts inside that cover the manufacturing of the insides of shoes, but those are not insoles! The things are literally thinner than the cheap shoe cushions that you could buy at the dollar store for a dollar! See my pics; you can actually see the stitches on the inside- that's just fabric covering the hard outsole of the shoe.- And, these shoes do not have Keen's signature wide toe box. It's a banana toe box! It is shaped like the end of a banana, narrow and pointy. I'm returning these asap! I'd only consider keeping these if you want to go buy real insoles to put inside, or if you have orthotics to put in there- and if your feet and toes are shaped like a banana. Shoddy.