Keen Vs North Face (The Definitive Guide)

When it comes to gearing up for a winter hike, we all want one thing: quality footwear that can handle the terrain and keep our toes toasty. However, with so many brands and models to choose from, the process can quickly become overwhelming. That's why we're taking a closer look at two popular options for hiking and winter boots: Keen and North Face. Both brands bring their own unique strengths to the table, but which one is the better choice for your next snowy adventure? Let's dive in and find out.

Comparison

Brand Overview

Design and Quality

Performance and Comfort

Value and Price

Men's Hiking Shoes

Men's Hiking Boots

Men's Winter Boots

Women's Hiking Shoes

Women's Hiking Boots

Women's Winter Boots

Final Verdict

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Keen Vs North Face

Brand Overview: Keen vs North Face

When it comes to outdoor apparel and footwear brands, Keen and North Face sit at the forefront, each with their own unique style and emphasis on innovation. Dating back to the 1950s, North Face has been a staple in the outdoor market with its roots in skiing and mountaineering. On the other hand, Keen, founded in 2003, is a newer player, but has quickly gained popularity due to its focus on sustainability and inventive design.

Both brands pride themselves on quality and functionality, but their values couldn't be more different. While North Face strives to deliver high-end performance gear to elite athletes and adventurers, Keen's mission centers around creating products for all, with a focus on comfort and practicality. Keen is also committed to sustainability and takes great care to use environmentally-friendly materials and processes.

Both Keen and North Face offer a wide range of hiking and winter boots and shoes, but the designs and construction methods differ. North Face offers more technical footwear with specialized features like Gore-Tex, Vibram soles and advanced insulation. Keen, on the other hand, focuses more on casual and practical shoes that can be used for various outdoor activities, as well as everyday wear.

In terms of approach to product design and production, Keen emphasizes a "design-first" mentality, putting features and functionality first. The brand's commitment to providing comfortable and supportive footwear has led to innovations like the company's "Metatomical Footbed Design" which is engineered to provide excellent arch support, cradle the natural contours of the foot, and reduce stress on the foot while walking. Compared to Keen's thoughtful approach, North Face's focus is more on creating high-performance gear with advanced technical features, often with more of a focus on form rather than just function.

Ultimately, when choosing between Keen and North Face, it all comes down to personal preference and your intended use. If you're looking for advanced technical footwear for extreme outdoor sports, North Face may be the way to go. However, if you want practical and comfortable shoes for everyday wear and outdoor activities, Keen might be your brand of choice. Whatever your preference, both brands are world-renowned and have a reputation for quality that you can rely on.

Design and Quality: Keen vs North Face

When it comes to outdoor gear, the right mix of design and quality can make all the difference. In this section, we'll be taking a closer look at two popular brands in the outdoors space: Keen and North Face. Both offer a range of boots and shoes, and we'll explore how their different design approaches and quality standards stack up against each other.

To start, let's look at materials. Keen is known for using environmentally-friendly materials, such as recycled polyester and leather tanned with less harmful chemicals. Meanwhile, North Face has a strong focus on technical fabrics and performance features in their footwear. Both approaches have their benefits, depending on what you're looking for in a shoe.

As for construction methods, Keen often uses a "direct attach" method where the upper is glued directly onto the sole, providing a durable and waterproof seal. On the other hand, North Face utilizes more complex construction methods like "Welded TPU overlays" that offer a more precise fit and added durability.

When it comes to features, Keen places a strong emphasis on comfort and functionality. They incorporate features like their signature "toe protection" and cushioned footbeds to make their shoes ideal for long hikes or outdoor work. North Face, however, prioritizes technical features such as Gore-tex membranes that can keep your feet dry and breathable.

Of course, design is a key consideration too. Keen shoes often have a more rugged, outdoorsy look and feature vibrant colors, while North Face tends to prioritize sleek, modern designs that look stylish both on and off the trail.

In terms of quality, both brands are known for being reliable and high-quality, but in different ways. Keen products are often built to last and have a strong reputation for durability, while North Face prioritizes performance and cutting-edge technology.

Ultimately, deciding between Keen and North Face will depend largely on what you value in a shoe. If you want something durable and functional for rugged outdoor activities, Keen may be the better option. But if you're looking for top-of-the-line technical features and a sleek design, North Face could be the way to go.

Performance and Comfort: Keen vs North Face

When it comes to choosing the right hiking or winter boots, performance and comfort are two of the most important factors to consider. That's why in this section, we'll be comparing the performance and comfort of Keen and North Face hiking and winter boots and shoes, so you can make an informed decision about which one will be best for your needs.

One of the key aspects of performance is traction, especially when you're hiking on rough or slippery terrain. Both Keen and North Face offer boots with solid traction, so you can feel confident on any surface. However, North Face's Vibram soles offer slightly better grip in wet conditions, making them ideal for rainy hikes.

Another important factor is support, particularly if you're carrying a heavy backpack. Keen boots have a reputation for being supportive, with features such as stabilizing shanks and midsoles that cushion your feet. North Face boots also offer a lot of support, thanks to their rigid construction and reinforced toe boxes.

When it comes to winter boots, insulation is a crucial consideration. Both Keen and North Face offer boots with insulation designed to keep your feet warm in frigid conditions. However, North Face's boot insulation is slightly thicker and provides better warmth retention, making them ideal for colder climates.

Breathability is another factor to keep in mind, especially if you're hiking in warmer weather conditions. Keen boots are known for their breathability, with mesh panels and breathable linings that allow air to circulate and keep your feet dry. North Face boots also feature breathable materials, but they don't have as much ventilation as Keen boots.

Fit and comfort are also important, especially when you're planning to hike long distances or over varied terrain. Both Keen and North Face offer boots with comfortable footbeds, insoles, and uppers. However, Keen boots are slightly wider and more comfortable for people with wider feet.

In conclusion, both Keen and North Face offer high-quality boots and shoes that perform well in different weather conditions and hiking styles. Keen offers better breathability and comfort for wider feet, while North Face offers better traction and insulation for colder weather. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Value and Price: Keen vs North Face

When it comes to outdoor gear, nothing beats a good quality hiking or winter boot. But with so many options on the market, how can you be sure you're getting the best value for your money? That's where our comparison of Keen vs North Face boots and shoes comes in.

First, let's talk about quality and durability. Both Keen and North Face products are well-known for being made with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship. You can expect these boots and shoes to last you for years, even with regular use in harsh outdoor conditions. While the price point for both brands may be higher than some others on the market, the quality and durability you get is well worth the investment.

Next, let's consider performance. Both Keen and North Face boots and shoes are designed to help you tackle any terrain or weather condition. Keen shoes offer excellent support and traction for hiking and trail running, while North Face boots have been specifically designed to keep your feet warm and dry in snowy and icy conditions. Depending on your outdoor activity preferences, you can find the perfect shoe or boot in either brand's lineup.

Now, let's talk about availability. Keen and North Face products are widely available both online and in physical stores, making it easy to find the perfect pair of boots or shoes. When it comes to discounts and promotions, both brands often offer sales and special deals throughout the year. Just make sure to keep an eye out for these offers and take advantage of them when they come up.

Lastly, let's consider warranty and customer service. With both Keen and North Face, you can rest assured that you're getting a product backed by a reputable brand. Both brands offer generous warranty periods and excellent customer service, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you'll be taken care of if any issues arise.

When it comes to value and price, Keen and North Face offer great options for people who value quality, durability, and performance in their outdoor gear. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, but by considering the factors we've outlined here, you'll be able to make an informed decision and find the perfect boots or shoes to fit your outdoor needs.

Keen Vs North Face Men's Hiking Shoes

Keen and The North Face are two of the biggest names in the world of outdoor gear, and both offer a wide range of hiking shoes that are designed to meet the needs of hikers and backpackers alike. In this article, we're going to compare the products offered by each brand, using the Keen Targhee III Waterproof and The North Face's VECTIV Exploris 2 FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Shoes as examples.

Both Keen and The North Face prioritize comfort and fit when designing their hiking shoes. The Keen Targhee III Waterproof features an Original Fit – Iconic KEEN fit with generous space across the forefoot for toes to spread out, which ensures a comfortable and stable fit. The North Face's VECTIV Exploris 2 FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Shoes have been made on an updated D-width last that accommodates a broad set of consumer foot shapes. However, it's worth noting that the width may vary from person to person. Ultimately, both brands offer good options for hikers seeking a comfortable fit.

When it comes to waterproofing, both brands have their own proprietary technologies. Keen's KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane is highly effective at keeping your feet dry, even in wet conditions. The North Face's FUTURELIGHT™ technology uses a waterproof, breathable membrane that is also designed for superior performance in harsh weather conditions. Both technologies work well, providing similar levels of protection.

The North Face's VECTIV Exploris 2 FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Shoes come with a revolutionary VECTIV 2.0 rockered midsole that's designed to create long-lasting forward propulsion. This makes hiking uphill much easier, and provides greater stability on uneven terrain. Keen's Targhee III Waterproof has an all-terrain rubber sole, which is designed to provide better traction on all kinds of surfaces. Both shoes have multi-directional lugs, which are useful for gaining traction on rocky or muddy terrain.

Both Keen and The North Face use high-quality materials in their hiking shoes, but Keen has a slightly more environmentally-friendly approach with their use of PFAS-free water repellency and environmentally preferred premium leather from an LWG-certified tannery. The North Face's VECTIV Exploris 2 FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Shoes are more expensive than the Keen Targhee III Waterproof, but come with premium features and new technology.

Ultimately, both Keen and The North Face offer great options for men's hiking shoes. While The North Face's VECTIV Exploris 2 FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Shoes come with advanced new technology for forward propulsion, Keen's Targhee III Waterproof hiking shoes feature an Original Fit – Iconic KEEN fit with generous space across the forefoot for toes to spread out, as well as environmentally friendly materials. They're also more affordable. It's up to you to decide which features are most important for your needs, but you won't go wrong with either brand.

Targhee III Waterproof by Keen

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Durable and environmentally-friendly hiking shoes.

What makes it special? This shoe is perfect for those looking for a balance between performance and style. It's a durable shoe that is designed to withstand even the toughest of hikes, ensuring that you stay comfortable and stable throughout your journey. One of the key features of the Keen Targhee III Waterproof is that it's made out of environmentally preferred leather from an LWG-certified tannery. This means that you'll be doing your part in preserving the environment while you're out exploring it. Additionally, the shoe is treated with PFAS-free water repellency, so you can rest assured that it's environmentally friendly. Another great feature of the Keen Targhee III Waterproof is the KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane. This ensures that your feet stay dry even in wet conditions. The shoe is also equipped with KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole, which provides excellent traction on all types of terrain.

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VECTIV Exploris 2 FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Shoes by The North Face

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Perfect combination of durability and cushioning for your next hike.

What makes it special? These shoes are built for performance and comfort, making them a top choice for men who love to explore the great outdoors. The VECTIV Exploris 2 shoes feature a breathable and waterproof FUTURELIGHT™ membrane, which will keep your feet dry and comfortable in any weather condition. The upper is made of leather that has been sourced from a tannery with a minimum rating of silver by the Leather Working Group for its water, energy, and waste-management practices. This means that they're environmentally conscious without sacrificing durability. One of the standout features of these shoes is the VECTIV 2.0 rockered midsole, which is specifically designed to create long-lasting forward propulsion. This makes hiking uphill a breeze, as you won't have to exert as much effort to move forward. The midsole is made with premium EVA foam and has a 2 mm greater stack height than the S21/F21 version, which provides extra cushioning for your feet. The shoes also feature a TPU plate for increased lateral displacement and stability, along with a broader platform below the foot for added stability. The Surface CTRL™ rubber outsole has been redesigned with 4 mm lugs that are highly durable in high-wear areas, making these shoes perfect for technical day hikes or multi-day backpacking.

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Keen Vs North Face Men's Hiking Boots

Choosing between The North Face and Keen for your next pair of men's hiking boots can be a tough choice - both brands offer durable, high-quality options like the Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof Boots and Targhee III Waterproof Mid, respectively. But there are a few key differences to keep in mind.

For starters, The North Face places a big emphasis on sustainability and responsible sourcing. The brand purchases 100% of their leather from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries and uses natural rubber in their outsoles when possible. So if eco-friendliness is an important factor for you, The North Face might be the way to go.

On the other hand, Keen is known for their "out-of-the-box comfort" - the Targhee III Waterproof Mid is designed to provide a comfortable fit from the moment you put them on, with a generous amount of space for your toes to spread out. That being said, The North Face has improved their latest Hedgehog design to offer added underfoot cushioning.

When it comes to protecting your feet on the trail, both brands have you covered. The Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof Boots are equipped with multilayered overlays for rugged toe and forefoot protection, while the Targhee III Waterproof Mid features a KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs for traction on any terrain.

Ultimately, which brand you choose will come down to personal preference. Are you looking for a more sustainable option with natural rubber outsoles and eco-friendly leather? Then The North Face might be your best bet. Or are you in search of a comfortable and well-designed boot, right out of the box? Look no further than Keen!

Targhee III Waterproof Mid by Keen

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Eco-friendly, waterproof, and comfortable hiking boots.

What makes it special? One of the standout features of the Targhee III is its "out-of-the-box comfort." This means that you don't have to spend weeks breaking in your new boots before you can hit the trails in comfort. The KEEN fit ensures that your heel is secure while still giving your toes plenty of room to spread out, even during a long day of hiking. Of course, hiking can be tough on your feet, especially if you're dealing with wet or rough terrain. That's why the Targhee III comes equipped with a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane and PFAS-free water repellency. These features work together to keep your feet dry and comfortable, even on rainy-day hikes and overnights. For traction, the Targhee III relies on a KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs that can dig into dirt, mud, and rock. This means you can feel confident and stable on any type of terrain, whether you're on an off-grid day hike or WWOOFing on a farm. But perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of the Targhee III is its eco-friendliness. It features environmentally preferred premium leather from an LWG-certified tannery, PFAS-free water repellency, and an Eco Anti-Odor treatment for natural odor control. So if you're not only looking for a comfortable and durable hiking boot, but one that's also kinder to the planet, the Targhee III is definitely worth considering.

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Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof Boots by The North Face

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Durable and eco-friendly hiking boots for the adventurous.

What makes it special? These boots feature a mixed-material upper made with leather, synthetic leather, durable ripstop, and spacer mesh, ensuring that your feet are protected and supported on the toughest trails. What sets The North Face apart from Keen is their commitment to sustainability. The brand purchases 100% of their leather from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries, so you can feel good about your purchase knowing that the environment wasn't harmed in the making of these boots. But the Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof Boots aren't just eco-friendly, they're also functional. The waterproof DryVent™ membrane will keep your feet dry and comfortable in any weather, while the multilayered overlays provide rugged toe and forefoot protection. The updated last offers consistent sizing and added comfort, and the EVA midsole has 5 mm more cushioning under forefoot than previous versions. The 8 mm heel/toe offset and Surface CTRL™ rubber outsole are built for durability, with 10% natural rubber used in the outsole's construction.

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Keen Vs North Face Men's Winter Boots

Choosing between Keen and The North Face for your next pair of men's winter boots can be a tough decision, but understanding the key differences between the two brands' offerings can make the choice easier.

Let's start with Keen. The Keen Revel IV High Polar Boot is a standout option, with a higher profile for deeper powder, their warmest insulation, and better grip on ice. The boot features KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane and KEEN.Polar Traction outsole, which make it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or snowshoeing. The boot also has an environmentally preferred premium leather upper and Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control. The original fit adds to the comfort of the boots and accommodates toes to spread out.

On the other hand, The North Face offers the Men's Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots, which features full-grain, waterproof leather and suede, as well as elevated rustproof metal hardware. The boots are seam-sealed for waterproofing and construction and feature 400 g Heatseeker Eco insulation for exceptional warmth. The boots also sport a webbing loop at the heel and a D-ring at the bottom of the tongue for gaiter attachment.

Both Keen and The North Face offer great options for men's winter boots. Keen's boots are known for their ruggedness and earth-friendly materials, while The North Face's boots are known for their warmth, functionality, and streamlined design. Overall, it comes down to what features are most important to you, but either way, you can't go wrong with these great brands.

Revel IV High Polar Boot by Keen

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay warm and dry in the toughest winter conditions.

What makes it special? With a high profile and their warmest insulation rated to -40°F, this boot is designed to keep your feet warm and dry even on the coldest days. It also features Keen.Polar Traction outsole for more grip on snow and ice. Additionally, the Keen Revel IV High Polar Boot features a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane, which makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, or even shoveling snow in your driveway. It also has a high-abrasion rubber tip for added durability and protection. The boot is made of waterproof leather and performance mesh upper, making it both sturdy and breathable. The Thermal Heat Shield insole captures warmth, while the 400g of KEEN.WARM Recycled PET insulation provides an extra layer of warmth to protect your feet, even in the harshest weather conditions. The breathable textile lining keeps your feet ventilated, allowing you to stay comfortable all day long. It is durable, comfortable, and designed to keep your feet warm and dry in any winter weather.

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Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots by The North Face

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay Warm and Comfortable during Winter Adventures.

What makes it special? These boots are the perfect combination of style, function, and comfort, making them a must-have for any winter adventurer. The combination of full-grain waterproof leather and suede keeps your feet dry and warm, while the elevated rustproof metal hardware adds a touch of ruggedness to the overall aesthetic. The waterproof, seam-sealed construction ensures that your feet are protected from the elements, even in the harshest conditions. The 400 g Heatseeker™ Eco insulation is the real star of the show, providing exceptional warmth and comfort no matter where your winter adventures take you. Whether you're snowshoeing, hiking, or just braving the winter weather for a day out with friends, these boots have got you covered. The compression-molded EVA midsole provides long-lasting cushioning, perfect for those long winter treks, while the streamlined, waterproof, molded-TPU shell adds flexibility, making these boots more comfortable than ever. The Surface Control™ rubber outsole is optimized for winter conditions, providing the traction you need on snow and ice. And with a secure heel fit, you can trust that these boots will stay in place no matter what.

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Keen Vs North Face Women's Hiking Shoes

Are you in the market for a new pair of women's hiking shoes but unsure where to start? Let's take a deep dive into the offerings from two top brands in outdoor apparel – Keen and The North Face – to help you make an informed decision.

Keen offers a wide variety of hiking shoes for women, with the Targhee III Waterproof being one of their most beloved styles. This shoe features KEEN.DRY waterproofing, eco anti-odor properties, and a roomy fit that lets toes spread out comfortably. The environmentally preferred leather is a nice touch, too. However, if you're looking for a sleeker design, The North Face's Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Shoes may be more up your alley. The mixed-material upper is made with durable materials and includes a waterproof DryVent™ membrane. The resilient EVA midsole and rubber outsole with 10% natural rubber make these shoes durable and ready for any trail.

Both Keen and The North Face use quality materials that are responsibly and sustainably sourced. While the Targhee III Waterproof is roomier than the Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Shoes, both provide ample comfort and support for hiking. However, if you prioritize waterproofing and rugged protection, The North Face may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a shoe with eco-friendly properties and roomy space for toes, Keen is definitely worth considering.

In summary, there are pros and cons to both brands, and the choice between them will depend on your personal preferences. We recommend trying on both the Keen Targhee III Waterproof and The North Face Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Shoes to see which feels best on your feet and meets your needs for your next hiking trip.

Targhee III Waterproof by Keen

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Eco-friendly, Comfortable, and Waterproof Hiking Shoes with Excellent Traction.

What makes it special? This shoe is the perfect combination of functionality and style, making it a great choice for women who demand both from their footwear. One of the standout features of the Targhee III is its use of environmentally preferred materials, such as leather from a certified tannery and a PFAS-free water repellent. This means that you can feel good about your purchase while also enjoying the benefits of a waterproof and odor-resistant shoe. Additionally, the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, making it a great choice for rocky or uneven terrain. And with its iconic KEEN fit, you can be sure that your toes will have plenty of room to spread out and stay comfortable on long hikes.

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Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Shoes by The North Face

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Reliable and waterproof hiking shoes for women.

What makes it special? These shoes are designed with a mixed-material upper made with leather, synthetic leather, durable ripstop, and spacer mesh. Plus, The North Face sources 100% of their leather from Leather Working Group–certified tanneries, making them a responsible and sustainable choice. What sets these shoes apart is the waterproof DryVent™ membrane, multilayered overlays for rugged toe and forefoot protection, and outdoor-inspired webbing and laces. These features make the Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Shoes a durable and reliable option for hiking in any weather. Underfoot cushioning is also a priority with these shoes, as they come equipped with a resilient and comfortable EVA midsole with 5 mm more cushioning under the forefoot than previous versions. This is perfect for those who want a little extra support during long hikes. The Surface CTRL™ rubber outsole is built for durability and is made with 10% natural rubber, ensuring that you will have traction and grip with every step. The North Face has updated the last of the Hedgehog 3 Waterproof Shoes, offering consistent sizing and ultimate comfort during your hikes.

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Keen Vs North Face Women's Hiking Boots

So, you're in the market for a new pair of hiking boots and you've narrowed it down to Keen and The North Face. Both have a strong reputation in the hiking industry, but how do their offerings compare?

Let's start with Keen. The Targhee III Waterproof Mid hiking boots are a fantastic option for women seeking both performance and sustainability. The environmentally preferred leather and PFAS-free water repellency make these boots safe for both you and the planet, while the KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane and KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole provide the necessary protection and traction for any hike.

Now, on to The North Face. The Women's VECTIV™ Exploris 2 Mid FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Boots are optimized for hiking and influenced by trail running. These boots are cushioned and stable, with waterproof and breathable materials that make them perfect for technical day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips. The leather upper is sourced from a tannery with strong sustainability practices, and the VECTIV 2.0 rockered midsole and broader platform below the foot provide additional stability.

Overall, both Keen and The North Face offer fantastic options for women's hiking boots. While Keen emphasizes sustainability and performance, The North Face focuses on a cushioned, stable design that's perfect for more technical hikes. It ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences - do you prioritize sustainability or cushioned stability? Take a look at both brands' offerings and decide which is the best fit for you.

Targhee III Waterproof Mid by Keen

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

The sustainable and comfortable choice for adventurous women.

What makes it special? Not only does the Targhee III use environmentally preferred leather from an LWG-certified tannery, but it also features PFAS-free water repellency and eco anti-odor control. These features may seem small, but they add up to a product that's sustainable and safe for both you and the planet. And when it comes to performance? These boots deliver. The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs provides the traction you need to tackle any trail, while the KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane keeps your feet dry in any weather conditions. And perhaps most impressive of all, the "iconic KEEN fit" creates generous space across your forefoot for toes to spread out, ensuring the out-of-the-box comfort that is so important on long hikes.

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VECTIV Exploris 2 Mid FUTURELIGHT™ Leather Boots by The North Face

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Optimized cushioning & stability for technical hikes.

What makes it special? What immediately stood out is how they are optimized for hiking, influenced by trail running. They are the most cushioned and stable hiking style, with waterproof and breathable materials that help take on technical day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips with ease. This is especially important for going on hikes in a variety of terrains and weather conditions. The VECTIV 2.0 rockered midsole offers a forked heel and forefoot, as well as a TPU plate for increased stability and lateral displacement. What's more, the midsole is made with premium EVA foam, providing additional comfort and a higher stack height compared to previous versions. These boots also provide inherent stability with their broader platform below the foot, giving peace of mind while traversing rocky terrain. And while the redesigned 4mm lugs on the Surface CTRL™ rubber outsole are built for durability, they also grip the ground well to prevent slips and falls.

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Keen Vs North Face Women's Winter Boots

Keen and The North Face both offer women's winter boots with unique features and specialized technology to keep feet warm and dry in harsh winter conditions.

Keen's Revel IV High Polar Boot features KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane technology and KEEN.Polar Traction outsoles for superior grip on snow and ice. In addition, the boot includes Heat Trapolator technology and 400g of KEEN.WARM Recycled PET insulation rated to -40°F/-40°C, making it a warm and environmentally friendly option.

On the other hand, The North Face's Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots have a combination of full-grain waterproof leather and suede that make them incredibly durable, waterproof, and rustproof. The boots' 400 g Heatseeker™ Eco insulation and faux-Sherpa fleece lining provide warmth, while the compatible heel clip for snowshoe and D-ring tongue attachment make it practical for outdoor activities in winter.

In terms of functionality and practicality, both brands offer great options. Keen's Revel IV High Polar Boot provides excellent grip on snow and ice, making it a great choice for those who live in areas that experience a lot of inclement weather. The North Face's Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boot is incredibly durable and practical, making it a good choice for those who enjoy winter sports or outdoor activities.

Overall, both brands offer high-quality women's winter boots with unique features that cater to different needs. It is important to consider individual preferences, such as grip versus durability, when choosing between the two. Regardless of which brand you choose, you can be confident that your feet will stay warm and dry in even the most extreme winter weather.

Revel IV High Polar Boot by Keen

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Stay warm and dry in the coldest winter weather.

What makes it special? The Revel IV boasts KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane technology and KEEN.Polar Traction outsoles, which provide superior grip on snow and ice. The boot's 5mm multi-directional lugs ensure maximum traction on any surface, while the Heat Trapolator technology and 400g of KEEN.WARM Recycled PET insulation rated to -40°F/-40°C keep feet warm, no matter how cold it gets outside. In addition to being incredibly warm and functional, the Revel IV is also environmentally friendly. The boot features environmentally preferred premium leather from LWG-certified tanneries and Eco Anti-Odor technology for natural odor control. The shoe's materials, including its waterproof leather and performance mesh upper, are designed to last and provide maximum durability. The Revel IV also features an Original Fit–Iconic KEEN fit with generous space across forefoot for toes to spread out, and a stability shank that delivers lightweight support. Thanks to its non-marking multi-directional lugs, breathable textile lining, and high-abrasion rubber tip for added durability and protection, this boot is a top performer in any winter weather.

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Chilkat V 400 Waterproof Boots by The North Face

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Conquer any winter adventure with confidence.

What makes it special? Made with a combination of full-grain waterproof leather and suede, these boots are incredibly durable while also being waterproof. This ensures that your feet stay dry no matter what weather conditions you may encounter. Additionally, the elevated rustproof metal hardware and D-ring at the bottom of the tongue for gaiter attachment are small details, but ones that make a huge difference in terms of practicality and convenience. One of the standout features of these boots is their 400 g Heatseeker™ Eco insulation, which provides exceptional warmth in even the coldest of temperatures. The collar is also lined with cozy faux-Sherpa fleece, ensuring that your feet stay warm and comfortable all day long. Another aspect about these boots is that they are compatible with snowshoes, thanks to the heel clip for snowshoe compatibility. Additionally, the Compression-molded EVA midsole provides long-lasting cushioning for all-day comfort.

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Final Verdict

In conclusion, whether you choose Keen or North Face hiking/winter boots and shoes, both brands offer excellent choices for outdoor adventurers. As we've discussed, Keen shoes are known for their versatility, while North Face boots are renowned for their performance in extreme weather conditions.

No matter which one you choose, you can be confident that your feet will be protected, comfortable, and look great too! Ultimately, it boils down to your personal needs and preferences.

If you're looking for something waterproof, insulated, or durable, both brands have plenty of options for you to choose from. It's always best to take the time to figure out what features you need and try on different styles to find the perfect fit.

Remember, the most important aspect of any hiking/winter boots and shoes is to ensure that they provide ample support, protection, and comfort, all while tackling the terrain you're planning to hike or trek on. So, grab your favorite pair, lace them up, and let's hit the trails, knowing that either Keen or North Face boots are sure to keep your journey comfortable and supported!