The forefoot is wide and felt quite roomy. Volume is average. This suited my feet, but they may be less suitable if you have a narrow forefoot. As with all footwear, it’s best to try for fit before you buy. Whether you’re planning the trip of a lifetime to Norway’s Loføten Islands or just hoping to get the whole family out into nature this weekend, our Targhee boot collection gives you the support, durability, and comfortable fit you’ll need.

Keen Ridge Flex boots | LFTO - live for the outdoors First look: Keen Ridge Flex boots | LFTO - live for the outdoors

In terms of niggles, the only issue we’ve had so far was some slight fiddliness when lacing the boots up, as the top two pairs of eyelets are located very closely together. We suspect that the eyelets have been positioned as they are to allow a really secure fit of the boot’s ankle cuffs around the ankles, so despite it taking a second or two longer to tie the laces that we’d have liked (so impatient to get out on the trail as we are!), it’s definitely worth it for the extra secure fit you get as a result. We’d certainly recommend trying these out before you buy (as with any boot), since although the Keen fit does suit a lot of people it won’t suit everyone – however, aside from this we have no reservations recommending the Ridge Flex as an excellent choice of hiking boot, whether hillwalking in the UK or trekking overseas. The Bellows.Flex technology that features on the Ridge Flex and its sibling, the Tempo Flex, came as a result of Keen’s desire to make a boot that enables the user to use less energy when walking. Keen figured that quite a lot of energy is used when your heel lifts and the front of the boot flexes, and that over a period of a few hours this energy adds up considerably. Making the boot flex more easily at the forefoot would save a lot of this energy, but how to do it? Bauer Consumer Media Ltd, Company number 01176085; Bauer Radio Limited, Company number: 1394141; Registered office: Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6EA and H Bauer Publishing, Company number: LP003328; Registered office: The Lantern, 75 Hampstead Road, London NW1 2PL

Our Verdict

Best uses: UK trail walking, hill trail walking, countryside walks, multi-day walks, trekking, non-technical mountain routes. After rigorous testing over winter 2022 and 2023, Peter Macfarlane recommends the unique approach of Keen. Find out why. This heavy but nimble boot comes with a recommendation from Peter Macfarlane in his winter 2022/3 tests. Find out why. We even took the time to watch and document the lacing and tying support system of the Keen Ridge Flex. I am happy to report that none of the eyelets, hooks, straps or stitching have frayed or failed. Each time I lace these up for a hike or a day on my feet, I have complete confidence that my foot will stay securely where I intend it to be. I had some experience with Keen boots in the past and knew of the quality of their other waterproof boots. In particular the Anchorage pattern and the non waterproof Targhee series. Knowing that the soles held up well and if anything, they tended to make the feet almost too warm for office or stationary work. This wasn’t going to be an issue with me knowing the new boots intended use and field conditions. Since I knew a fair amount about the brand it made part of the selection process easier.

Keen Ridge Flex WP Women - idealo Keen Ridge Flex WP Women - idealo

My first pair lasted around 10 months before they started to let in water. Partly via the uppers and a small delamination on the sole. These were replaced under warranty. Hard-wearing hiking boots that offer all-day comfort, plus the added benefits of Bellows Flex technology Pros and Cons Keen says the boots have ‘million flex goodness’, which I calculate equates to about 1,500km or 932 miles, which will get you from John O’Groats to Land’s End, with a bit to spare. The Ridge Flex is a lightweight walking boot that uses a combination of leather and synthetic mesh in its uppers.

Overview

The boots really do flex very easily with virtually no resistance. I’ve worn trail shoes that are stiffer. I find them easy to walk in and certainly more comparable in comfort to a flexible trail shoe than to most boots. I guess they do save some energy, like all flexible lightweight footwear, though how much I can’t say.

Keen Ridge Flex Boot: 1 year on the feet review Keen Ridge Flex Boot: 1 year on the feet review

They are some of the most comfortable and lightweight boots I’ve owned including Lowa. I love them. If the issues with durability and fitness for use can be resolved I will be a convert. Trail-ready no matter the conditions. The Targhee EXP boot for men brings a more modern look to the Targhee franchise with all the same Targhee grit. No matter how big or small the adventure, these boots are primed for it. The KEEN.DRY waterproof construction and the synthetic upper (paired with a durable leather mud shield for splat-proof protection) makes them the obvious choice for weather extremes and follow-wherever-the-compass-leads adventure.

Altberg Mallerstang Mountain Boot review

Fresh fact: Worried that those warm temps could result in stinky feet? Don’t sweat it! Targhee Vent boots are made with a breathable mesh lining and infused with pesticide-free Eco Anti-Odor that uses probiotic technology to naturally control odor. This comfortable boot is a great choice for hikers who desire an easy to use boot with no breaking in period, or for those who have wider feet and desire a wider fit. The innovative Keen.Bellows Flex makes it easier to flex this boot, making them something to consider for longer trail-based adventures. What Other Hiking Boots Should You Consider?