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Keen shoe lovers: Voyageur or Targhee Vent?

Prentiss Riddle

Aprendiz de todo, maestro de nada
Time of past OR future Camino
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My orthopedic insert maker has persuaded me to move to a shoe with more boot-like support so for a few months now I've been wearing the Keen Voyageur and I like it. Among other things I love its big toe box, which I think may help with some of the blister problems I've had in the past.

Well, REI has now stopped carrying the Voyageur (although I can get it elsewhere) so I'm looking at trying the Targhee Vent.

I'm wondering what experienced Keen lovers think are the big differences between the Voyageur and the Targhee Vent. In particular, how do they compare for breathability and support?

Keen Voyageur
https://www.keenfootwear.com/p/M-VOYAGEUR.html

Keen Targhee Vent
https://www.keenfootwear.com/p/M-TARGHEE-VENT.html


Note that in both cases I want a non-waterproof shoe. (That's a different and well-trod subject.)
 
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Hi, Prentiss.

First, if you are ok with a quick mail order, Amazon carries the Voyageur. I use Amazon nowadays when trying out shoes. They are easy and smooth to make returns to if you try out a shoe and it isn't working for you.

Each manufacturer has its own foot models or 'lasts' which are unique to them. That is one of the reasons why the exact same sized shoe from one shoe maker can feel different, sometimes significantly so, from a different shoe maker.

My guess is that, given the same length and width, the main feeling that your feet felt with Voyageur, will feel very similar to that of the Vent. Other issues, like cushioning and how supportive the insole feels, may feel a bit different to your feet. A lot of that difference can be ameliorated by choosing a different insole.

In reviewing the information from Keen, I'd bet the Vent will fit the bill for you nicely... if the fit and feel is agreeable to you.
 
Even when I was on Active Duty, I’ve been a fan of Keen for exactly the reasons you describe, though I personally prefer a waterproof boot. For me, it’s all a question of the insole compatibility and trial/error, and only you can make that call. I’ve bought my last two pairs at REI and have always had great conversations with their boot specialists who made great recommendations - I usually get there on Saturday, when their A-team is working. I brought my preferred Lynco insoles with me and took my time to make sure I was satisfied. IMHO, either boot should work for you, enjoy the process. Buen Camino!
 
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I love my Keens, but I can only wear one model of sandals. Not any of their other footwear. I need a wide toe box and the Targhees did not work for me at all. But your mileage may vary.

To get an idea of the fit, you may want to look at reviews on Amazon, Zappos, REI, or other outdoor stores to see what people say. Often they will report if they felt the boots/shoes are too narrow or whatever. And sometimes you can find comparisons between 2 styles.
 
I also am a Keen fan. Recently I tried Altra Lone Peak 3.0 and found them even better in the toe box than Keen's. I normally wear a Keen 8 women's. In the Altra shoe, I wear a men's 8. The toe box is almost square like a baby's shoe. The heel is relatively narrow considering the width of the toe box. My orthotics fit in the Altras. Also, they have zero-drop from heel to toe. REI: https://www.rei.com/rei-garage/product/123313/altra-lone-peak-30-trail-running-shoes-mens
 
The Voyageur is the older model of the Targhee Vent.
Both are non waterproof versions of the much loved Targhee II.
The Targhee Vent likely has a narrower toe box, as Keen is moving towards cutting weight and appearance of bulkiness.
They have applied the same changes to toe boxes when they replaced the beloved Targhee II with the Targhee III.
Sadly, Keen will tell you that they are the same fit but as a seasoned user I can tell you that they just aren't the same!
 
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Keen has changed the last for several models, so Keen will have a hard time for making the case that they have remained the same.
 
davebugg said:
Keen has changed the last for several models, so Keen will have a hard time for making the case that they have remained the same.
Click to expand...
I know! I have talked with them in Customer Service about it but think that is is often the case, those people haven't actually tested the product personally!
 
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