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Head-to-head · Best Hiking Boots

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid vs Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.0). Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof is best for: Day hikers seeking stability and value without breaking in new boots. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid
Ranked #5 in Best Hiking Boots
Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid
3 sources$99.69as of Oct 7

The Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid features a glue-free fused construction that Better Trail found eliminates delamination risks while offering robust protection through its thick nubuck leather and rubber toe cap. The roomy toe box accommodates wide feet, though Trail & Kale noted it may compromise lateral security for narrow-footed hikers on technical terrain. While the KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet dry in rain, Better Trail found that limited breathability causes overheating during warm-weather use, and the heavy weight makes them feel sluggish compared to lighter alternatives. This boot fits hikers prioritizing durability and waterproofing over agility or summer comfort.

Strengths
  • — Glue-free fused construction guaranteed not to delaminate, addressing issues from previous models.
  • — Roomy toe box provides ample space for wide feet and natural toe splay.
  • — Robust rubber toe cap and thick nubuck leather upper offer significant foot protection.
Watch-outs
  • — Heavy weight (approx. 2 lbs, 8 oz per pair) makes them feel sluggish for fast-paced hiking.
  • — KEEN.RUGGED outsole lacks the sticky grip of Vibram Megagrip on wet rock or slick surfaces.
  • — Limited breathability causes feet to overheat during warm-weather use.
$99.69 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Hiking Boots
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
3 sources$139.99as of Oct 7

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof delivers immediate out-of-the-box comfort without a break-in period, thanks to thick padding on the tongue and collar that secures the foot without pressure points. Outdoorgearlab found the proprietary waterproof membrane effective at keeping feet dry in wet grass and shallow streams, while bettertrail noted the Vibram TC5+ outsole provides reliable traction on loose gravel and dirt trails. However, the boot is moderately heavy compared to modern lightweight alternatives, and its firm rubber compound struggles significantly on slick or wet rock surfaces. This classic mid-height design suits day hikers seeking stability and value, but those prioritizing nimble movement or tackling technical terrain with heavy packs should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Provides immediate out-of-the-box comfort without a break-in period, featuring thick padding on the tongue and collar.
  • — Features a proprietary waterproof membrane that effectively keeps feet dry in wet grass and shallow streams.
  • — Offers excellent value with a price point significantly lower than many competing mid-height hiking boots.
Watch-outs
  • — Traction performance degrades noticeably on slick or wet rock surfaces due to the firm rubber compound.
  • — The leather and mesh upper construction is relatively heavy compared to modern lightweight hiking alternatives.
$139.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid

The Keen Targhee IV Waterproof Mid features a roomy toe box that accommodates wide feet, directly addressing the narrow fit complaints associated with the Arc'teryx Kopec Mid. However, its heavy weight of 2 lbs 8 oz makes it feel sluggish compared to the lighter Salomon Quest 5 Gore-Tex (2 lbs 10 oz), and its KEEN.RUGGED outsole lacks the sticky grip of the Vibram Megagrip found on other models.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

Its proprietary waterproof membrane is effective in wet grass, though its firm rubber compound struggles on slick rock where the Vibram Rene Trac of the Lowa Renegade Evo GTX Mid provides more reliable grip.

Specs side-by-side

SpecKeen Targhee IV Waterproof MidMerrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Weight2 lbs, 8 oz (men's pair)2.81 lbs
Upper MaterialNubuck leatherPigskin leather and mesh
MidsoleLuftCell air-injected polyurethaneSuper Rebound Compound
OutsoleKEEN.RUGGED rubberVibram TC5+
WaterproofingKEEN.DRY membraneMerrell proprietary membrane
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