One of the Most Iconic Hiking Boots Ever Looks Even Better as a Lightweight Shoe

Keen has transformed its beloved Targhee from traditional trekker to a speedy trail sneaker designed for fast-and-light missions.

Close-up of black and beige KEEN waterproof shoe with textured sole and "KEEN ReGENX" and "KEEN TERRAIN SHIELD" text.

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By Hayley Helms

Published January 20, 2026

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Updated January 20, 2026

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Since its introduction in 2005, the Keen Targhee has been a hugely popular boot with hikers of all experience and ability levels, thanks to its comfort out of the box, approachable price and durable design.

But if you thought the Targhee was content to rest on its capable laurels, think again.

Two hikers wearing backpacks and outdoor clothing standing on a rocky surface with trees and a sunset sky in the background. — The new Keen Targhee Apex hiking shoe maintains the traction of its hiking boot counterpart while adding nimbler performance and more responsive cushioning.

The prized style is stepping into 2026 rebuilt from the ground up as a lightweight hiking shoe, eschewing traditional boot design in favor of fast-and-light chops.

Fast and free

The Keen Targhee Apex Wide Waterproof Hiking Shoe transforms the beloved heritage hiking boot into something much more nimble, with a sporty enough look that the shoe could easily be worn off-trail as well as on your favorite paths.

Pair of black and beige KEEN trail running shoes with white laces and speckled midsole. — If you didn’t know better, you might think this was a fitness or lifestyle shoe, but it is in fact a capable hiker, with notable influence from its hiking boot predecessor.

The roomy toe box prioritizes toe health just like the Targhee hiking boot, but that is essentially where the similarities end.

The new hiking shoe features the brand’s lighter, high-rebound Keen.ReGenx foam, which was formulated to absorb impact while maintaining a cushioned-yet-stable feel underfoot.

Pair of black athletic shoes with white laces and yellow accents viewed from above. — The wide toe box is designed to allow toes to splay, increasing foot health and overall comfort.

Multi-directional lugs on the outsole provide traction as intentionally-removed rubber maintains grip while contributing to the shoe’s minimal 11.99-ounce weight.

(In contrast, the traditional Targhee hiking boot tips the scales at 20.11 ounces per shoe.)

Trail-specific features include the all-terrain rubber with Keen.Terrain Shield that wraps around the midsole for protection and stability, the contoured arch for midfoot support and the lightweight stability shank for extra steadiness underfoot.

The grippy outsole is lighter than previous iterations, yet maintains its excellent traction.

Keen

Foot dryness and comfort are prioritized in the proprietary waterproof membrane, which lets vapor out without letting water in, as well as the PFAS-free, durable water repellent that keeps moisture from penetrating the shoe.

Finally, the upper is constructed with a flexible, technical textile material featuring durable overlays in high-abrasion zones, maximizing breathability and durability.

Availability and pricing

The new, ultralight Targhee Apex Wide Waterproof Hiking Shoe is available on Keen’s official website, retailing for $180.

Black and beige low-top athletic shoe with white laces and textured sole.

Keen Targhee Apex Wide Waterproof Hiking Shoe

$180 at Keen

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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