Salomon X Ultra 3 vs. KEEN Targhee II: Which Hiking Boot is Best?

If you’re in the market for a new pair of hiking boots, you’ve probably noticed that there are a ton of different options to choose from. With so many different brands, materials, and styles, it can be tough to decide which pair is right for you. In this article, we’re going to pit two of the most popular hiking boots against each other in a head-to-head battle. We’ll take a close look at the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots and the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots, and see which one comes out on top.

When it comes to hiking boots, there are a few key features that you’ll want to look for. First and foremost, you’ll want a boot that’s comfortable and will support your feet for long hikes. You’ll also want a boot that’s durable and can stand up to the elements. And finally, you’ll want a boot that has good traction, so you don’t have to worry about slipping on wet or icy trails.

Let’s start with a close look at the Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots. These boots are made with a waterproof Gore-Tex upper, so you can rest assured that your feet will stay dry even if you have to cross a stream or hike through a puddle. The X Ultra 3 boots are also equipped with Salomon’s Quicklace system, which lets you quickly and easily adjust the fit of the boot with just a few pulls on the laces.

The KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots are also made with a waterproof upper, but they use KEEN’s own Dry technology instead of Gore-Tex. The Targhee II boots also have a quicklace system, so you can easily adjust the fit on the trail.

One area where the Salomon X Ultra 3 boots have a clear advantage is in the sole. The X Ultra 3 boots are equipped with Salomon’s Contagrip outsole, which is designed for maximum traction on wet and dry surfaces. The Targhee II boots, on the other hand, have a more standard outsole that doesn’t offer quite as much grip.

When it comes to price, the Salomon X Ultra 3 boots are the more expensive option, but they’re also the higher-quality boot. If you’re looking for a durable, comfortable, and grippy hiking boot, the Salomon X Ultra 3 is the clear choice.

Now let’s take a look at the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots. These boots are a great option if you’re looking for a lightweight hiking boot. The Targhee II boots are made with a breathable mesh upper that will help keep your feet cool on hot days. The boots also have a removable insole, so you can add your own custom orthotics if you need them.

One area where the Targhee II boots fall short is in the lacing system. The laces on the Targhee II boots are shorter than the laces on the Salomon X Ultra 3, so they can be a bit difficult to adjust on the trail.

When it comes to price, the KEEN Men’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boots are the more affordable option. If you’re looking for a lightweight and breathable boot that won’t break the bank, the Targhee II is a great choice.

So, which boot is the better choice? If you’re looking for a durable, comfortable, and grippy boot, go with the Salomon X Ultra 3. If you’re looking for a lightweight and breathable boot that won’t break the bank, go with the KEEN Targhee II.