One of the most common issues in the footwear industry is delamination. This is when the glue used to adhere the rubber sole degrades, causing the sole to peel off the rest of the shoe. Traditionally and to this day, most shoes are made using cement construction. Although some steps have been taken to address this problem, the industry hasn’t yet found a successful solution. To solve this problem, KEEN’s Targhee IV is a radical step forward with the introduction of KEEN.FUSION.

KEEN developed KEEN.FUSION to create a mechanical bond stronger than glue by using heat and pressure to fuse the sole and upper of the boot together into one piece. In line with KEEN’s mission to reduce the impact its shoes have on people and the planet, KEEN put the Targhee IV to the test. In KEEN’s “Test Lab,” the Targhee IV did not break down after 1000 miles of use or after KEEN’s “pull machine” attempted to force the shoe apart. This enhanced longevity is a result of KEEN.FUSION construction, a Luftcell midsole, and an abrasion-resistant outsole that’s twice as durable as rubber.

Targhee IV’s KEEN.FUSION direct-injection process eliminates the need for glues and solvents, which are among the six classes of the most toxic chemicals in consumer products. As a result, customers can keep wearing their boots, rather than replace them down the line. With all KEEN shoes, Targhee IV is consciously created, because durability is sustainability. 

In addition to the KEEN.FUSION construction, key features of the Targhee IV include:

• Shock-Absorbing Cushioning: Luftcell midsole to support every step. After repeatedly dropping a heavy weight on the heel, the Luftcell midsole was 2x better at resisting compression as EVA foam.

• Environmentally preferred leather: Ethically sourced leather tanned by Leather Working Group gold-certified tanneries reduces the use of chemicals to help preserve and protect our water.
• Abrasion-resistant outsole: Features a rugged outsole that is twice as durable as rubber. In material abrasion testing, a puck of KEEN.RUGGED outsole material was bounced around inside an abrasive wheel to measure material loss. KEEN.RUGGED had half the material loss of rubber, meaning it’s twice as abrasion-resistant.
• Reinforced lacing: Redesigned webbing ghillie creates a secure fit with less risk of tearing.
• Room-for-your-toes fit: Original Fit secures your heel with plenty of room in the forefoot for toes to splay. Loved by millions of Targhee fans.
• Waterproof protection: With a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane inside and PFAS-free water repellency outside, feet stay dry in any weather.
• PFAS-free water repellency: KEEN has been tackling the elimination of PFAS chemicals since 2014. Today, all of KEEN’s shoes, including Targhee IV, feature safe alternatives that repels water just as well as forever chemicals without harming the planet.
• Pesticide-free odor control: Eco Anti-Odor uses natural probiotics that are safe for the environment.

The Targhee IV is available in mid (£150) and low (£140) cuts in men and women’s specific editions.  Targhee IV will be available for purchase at select sporting goods and outdoor retailers across the UK from spring 2024. More info at www.keenfootwear.com