Our verdict

We bestowed our admiration for KEEN Heel counter stiffness for delivering us immediate comfort and for having a tacky outsole and warm interior. Overall, we can confirm that it is an affordable boot that will please beginners and seasoned hikers alike in their on-trail adventures. Despite its excellent stability, the questionable outsole durability makes it a less-than-ideal option for extended backpacking trips.

Pros

  • Extremely stable
  • Great ankle support
  • Generously padded and comfortable
  • Secure heel hold
  • Flexible
  • Budget-friendly price
  • Laudable warmth
  • Performs very well in the cold
  • For comparison, look at how easily the smoke filters out of the much airier Merrel Moab 3
  • Short to zero break-in period
  • Commendable toe cap
  • Roomy toebox

Cons

  • Stuffy in the summer
  • oz / 615g
  • Firm midsole
  • Not ideal for narrow feet

Audience verdict

85
Great!

Who should buy

We recommend the Keen Heel counter stiffness to: 

  • Casual hikers looking for a flexible and versatile boot that won't break the bank
  • Hikers in the market for a warm boot that performs consistently well all year round
  • Those who prioritize stability and excellent traction over a variety of surfaces, including mud, from their hiking  boots
  • Hikers who like to spoil themselves with a bit of internal comfort to contrast the rugged trails

KEEN Heel counter stiffness hjv

Who should NOT buy

Hikers accustomed to softer midsoles will find the Heel counter stiffness a little too harsh underfoot, especially during longer treks. For a more plush underfoot experience, check out the Keen Pyrenees instead. 

While the Heel counter stiffness is relatively breathable for a waterproof shoe, it will certainly still feel quite stuffy during warmer summer hikes. We recommend the Adidas Free Hiker 2 as a much more well-ventilated alternative. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness jrjnr

Those with narrow feet might find themselves bumping up against the toebox walls during descents. The Hoka Trail Code GTX is a boot with a much more snug toebox that will secure their feet within the shoe better. 

Breathability

Waterproof boots (and shoes) tend to score low on breathability as their solid uppers don't just restrict water but airflow too. This is clearly the case with the Heel counter stiffness which only allows a steady stream of smoke to flow out of a small section of the tongue. This is a little better than expected, leading us to give the boot a breathability score of 2 out of 5. This will certainly feel stuffy during warm summertime hikes, but should still promote enough airflow to keep the boot from becoming stinky over time. Conversely, this is ideal for frosty or snowy hikes as it keeps our feet cozy and protected from the elements. 

For comparison, look at how easily the smoke filters out of the much airier Merrel Moab 3. 

To further illuminate the breathability of the Heel counter stiffness, we inspected a cross-section of its upper over a bright light and found that it entirely eclipses our light source. This further proves the watertight nature of the boot and means that we can go sloshing through puddles and streams without worrying about water penetrating the boot (except through the top). 

On the other hand, being this insular means that any water that does get into the boot doesn't have any points to drain through, thus turning the Heel counter stiffness into a foot bath if dunked too deep. 

Looking at the Heel counter stiffness's tongue under our microscope, we can see that it is made of layers of tightly packed fibers interlocked to form a dense and cohesive mesh with very small gaps between the braids. This explains the boot's nominal ability to allow smoke to vent through the tongue while still effectively blocking out water from the boot. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness jkejklew

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Breathability
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 2
Average 1.6
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

First up to face the Dremel in our battery of durability tests is the Heel counter stiffness's toebox. Firing up the tool to 5K RPM, we set it on the boot's toe bumper with 3.2N of force for twelve seconds. 

With only a barely visible scuff left on the bumper once the test was over, the Heel counter stiffness's toebox earns a perfect 5 out of 5 for durability, thus proving that it is as tank-like as it looks. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Toebox durability
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 5
Average 4.4
Compared to 20 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

Next, we turned our attention to the heel counter and set the Dremel against it with the same amount of force, this time for only four seconds. 

While it's difficult to assess the damage visually, our tool was able to pierce clean through the lining material and start eating at the soft padding within. Nevertheless, the overall integrity of the heel collar wasn't compromised which leads us to give it a very respectable durability score of 4 out of 5. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 4
Average 3.9
Compared to 20 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

Pressing our durometer against the Heel counter stiffness's outsole yields a softer-than-average reading of 83.8 HC. This doesn't bode too well regarding its durability which will be put to the test in the next section. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Outsole hardness
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 83.8 HC
Average 87.6 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
81.0 HC
Outsole hardness
92.1 HC

Outsole durability

Setting it at an even more destructive speed of 10K RPM, we applied our Dremel's grinding element to the Heel counter stiffness's outsole with 3.2N of force. It seemingly holds up well at first, but it soon becomes clear that the rubber is no match for our uncompromising tool.

After twenty seconds of relentless grinding, we used a tire tread gauge and found that 1.2 mm of rubber was shredded away from the outsole which is slightly more than the average hiking boot loses under the same circumstances. While this shouldn't be an issue when it comes to regular hiking, carrying heavy packs on extended backpacking trips will certainly take its toll on the Heel counter stiffness's outsole. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness hbvlhewf

For a boot with a hardier outsole that's better suited to cross-country trekking, we recommend the also waterproof Salomon Quest 4 GTX.

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 1.2 mm
Average 0.7 mm
Compared to 17 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

Beyond the lugs, the Heel counter stiffness boasts a 3.4 mm outsole based on our caliper measurements. This is slightly thicker than average and leaves us with quite a fair amount of rubber to go through before completely wearing out this boot.

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Outsole thickness
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 3.4 mm
Average 3.1 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
1.8 mm
Outsole thickness
5.6 mm

Weight

Despite being a mid-length boot, the Heel counter stiffness is slightly heavier than the average hiking boot at 18.2 oz (515g). This is no doubt a result of the heavy waterproof leather that makes up the boot's upper in conjunction with the many protective overlays and rubberized toe-bumper. Nevertheless, we never felt overly burdened by the Heel counter stiffness, even during our longer test hikes.

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Weight
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 18.17 oz (515g)
Average 18.45 oz (523g)
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
11.71 oz (332g)
Weight
28.29 oz (802g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

Using our caliper, we measured the Heel counter stiffness's stack to be 31.1 mm thick at the heel.

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Heel stack

This isn't quite as high as the average hiking boot but still provides adequate impact-dampening from the harsh terrain below. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 31.1 mm
Average 36.1 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
26.2 mm
Heel stack
46.9 mm

Forefoot stack

The Heel counter stiffness's stack is also shorter than average at the forefoot, measuring only 18.2 mm thick according to our caliper. This gives us enough foam underfoot to feel well-cushioned from impact while still allowing for an intuitive sense of the ground as we move. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Forefoot stack
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 18.2 mm
Average 22.4 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
17.0 mm
Forefoot stack
30.7 mm

Drop

The difference in our stack measurements leaves the Heel counter stiffness with an average drop height of 12.9 mm. This offset will work for hikers of all experience levels, especially beginners, as it provides a good amount of foam at the heel to promote well-cushioned and comfy landings while also promoting smooth heel-to-toe transitions. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Drop

However, there is no hard-and-fast rule when it comes to choosing heel-drops for hiking boots, only a matter of preference. For more experienced hikers who prefer a more parallel-to-the-ground experience, we recommend the Altra Lone Peak Hiker 2

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 12.9 mm
Average 13.6 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
2.6 mm
Drop
20.9 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

We pressed our durometer against the Heel counter stiffness's midsole foam and got a much firmer-than-average reading of 31.1 HA. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness

Nevertheless, we enjoyed adequate impact dampening while testing the Heel counter stiffness, with the firmness of the foam further adding to our confidence as we traversed the more rugged trails with its tough and sturdy feeling underfoot.

The midsole also features two shanks that serve to improve stability; one embedded into it and another lightweight ESS shank that provides additional medial support. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness hhjb

For hikers who prefer a more plush underfoot sensation to pamper their feet during longer adventures, we recommend the Keen Pyrenees instead. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 31.1 HA
Average 27.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
15.4 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
53.3 HA

Midsole softness in cold

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.
KEEN Heel counter stiffness Midsole softness cold

Difference in midsole softness in cold

As a winter-oriented boot, we were very interested to see how the Heel counter stiffness performed after letting it chill in the freezer for twenty minutes. Once appropriately chilled, we pressed our durometer against the midsole once more and found that it barely firmed up at all. With only a 10.4% difference between warm and cold conditions, the Heel counter stiffness is remarkably consistent compared to the average hiking boot.

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 10.4%
Average 19.7%
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Insole thickness

The Heel counter stiffness's insole is about as thick as we expect to find in a hiking boot. It provides a good level of internal comfort that complements the midsole cushioning well while also providing an adequate level of arch support. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Insole thickness
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 6.1 mm
Average 6.1 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
3.7 mm
Insole thickness
10.7 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

The Heel counter stiffness feels extremely well-planted as we shift our weight from side to side in the boot. There was no hint of rolling or imbalance, even when carrying a heavy backpack. This is no doubt a result of the Heel counter stiffness's firm midsole and its two rigid shanks. 

Torsional rigidity

Despite the presence of these shanks, the Heel counter stiffness only put up a moderate amount of resistance as we bent and twisted the shoe in our manual assessment, leading us to give it a torsional rigidity score of 3 out of 5. 

This presents a healthy balance of stability and natural movement as the boot allows for some lateral movement of the foot while mitigating excessive rolling. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 3
Average 4.3
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter is also moderately stiff, earning another middle-of-the-road score of 3 out of 5 on our subjective scale. 

Apart from the stiffness of the heel counter, the boot’s closure system enabled us to customize the fit. It works with an injected TPU heel-capture system which includes ankle-hugging lace loops. When we tighten the fit, it securely holds our heel in place, preventing slippage. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 3
Average 3.4
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Toebox width at the big toe

The Targhee III Waterproof's midsole is 111.2 mm wide at the forefoot according to our caliper measurements, putting it within spitting range of our current lab average. This gives us plenty of surface area to ensure surefooted landings while testing this boot. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 111.2 mm
Average 111.7 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
96.3 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
124.6 mm

Track and XC

The midsole is also about as wide as average at the heel, measuring 91.1 mm wide. This is also more than enough of a platform for us to keep on trekking with confidence in our stride. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 91.1 mm
Average 87.9 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
71.7 mm
Track and XC
106.1 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Despite the presence of the shanks, the Heel counter stiffness is more flexible than the average hiking boot, requiring only 27.4N of force to bend it 90 degrees in our stiffness test. 

As such, the Heel counter stiffness conforms to the natural flexion of our foot with relative ease which contributes to the shoe's comfy and forging nature. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 27.4N
Average 43.8N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
16.6N
Stiffness
84.7N

Difference in stiffness in cold

We also repeated the stiffness test after leaving the Heel counter stiffness to chill in the freezer for twenty minutes and found that, like the midsole, it had very little effect on the flexibility of the boot. With only 29.9N of force now needed to bend the shoe to the desired point, it's only 9.1% stiffer than at room temperature and much more flexible than the average boot.

KEEN Heel counter stiffness hh h

As such, the Heel counter stiffness should feel just as comfy and forgiving on the foot whether out on warm summer hikes or frigid winter treks. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 9.1%
Average 26%
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
100%

Grip / Traction

Lug depth

The Heel counter stiffness's lugs are right on par with our current lab average at 4.2 mm thick according to our caliper measurements.

KEEN Heel counter stiffness uhv

The multi-directional tread pattern they form on the outsole provides us with excellent traction over a variety of surfaces and allows us to shed mud with relative ease. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness ycg

the Heel counter stiffness is truly the all-terrain vehicle of hiking boots that never let us down whether we were out on technical trails, sloshing through mud, crossing rivers, or meandering grassy knolls.

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 4.2 mm
Average 4.2 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
3.0 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Size and fit

Our top pick in

We measured the Heel counter stiffness's toebox to be 106.4 mm wide at its widest point. This is quite a bit roomier than average which makes the Heel counter stiffness a great choice for hikers with wide feet.

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Our top pick in

On the other hand, those with narrow feet might find themselves bouncing around within the shoe, especially when descending hills. For a boot with a more snug toebox, we recommend checking out the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX instead. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness 106.4 mm
Average 101.7 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
95.5 mm
Our top pick in
110.2 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

The toebox is also significantly wider than average at the big toe, measuring 85.5 mm wide according to our caliper. This gives our toes plenty of room to splay out naturally even toward the end of longer treks when the feet tend to swell, especially when carrying heavy loads. As such, blisters or hotspots shouldn't be a concern with the Heel counter stiffness. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 85.5 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
67.6 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
91.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

The Heel counter stiffness's tongue is fully gusseted on both sides to prevent water penetration and block debris from entering the boot. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Heel counter stiffness Both sides (full)

Comfort

Internal comfort

Like a coconut, the Heel counter stiffness is hard on the outside but soft on the inside. Beyond protective leather overlays and the waterproof lining is a luxuriously cushy interior that boasts generous padding, especially at the heel counter. As such, the boot feels very comfortable from the moment we put it on till the end of even the most grueling treks. 

Tongue padding

Using our caliper, we found the Heel counter stiffness's tongue to be slightly less padded than our current lab average at 10.5 mm thick. This is more than enough padding to keep us comfy throughout our test hikes and effectively kept the laces from biting into our instep. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Tongue padding
Test results
Heel counter stiffness 10.5 mm
Average 11.1 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Lateral stability test
5.9 mm
Tongue padding
22.3 mm

Heel tab

The finger-loop overlay at the heel of the Heel counter stiffness makes slipping the boot on relatively quick and smooth. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Heel tab
Test results
Heel counter stiffness Finger loop

Removable insole

The Heel counter stiffness's insole isn't glued in, so replacing it in favor of custom orthotics for added arch support is possible if necessary. 

KEEN Heel counter stiffness Removable insole
Test results
Heel counter stiffness Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

The Heel counter stiffness's reflective elements form a prominent pattern at the rear of the shoe that not only promotes good visibility at night for safer roadside hikes, but looks pretty snazzy to boot. 

Test results
Heel counter stiffness Yes