Hiking is a hobby that requires good equipment – not only for your comfort during long walks but also for your safety. That’s why hiking boots are essential for your next adventure, but they no longer have to be those bulky shoes that were weighing you down. Women are now searching for light shoes that they can wear for hours and hours without feeling bothered.
Also, protection against water is critical, especially for those who love hiking on rainy days. However, some of the most exciting routes need a more massive shoe for you to remain entirely safe. We thought about your well-being and protection, and we have chosen different boots for various trails in this list that includes 20 of the best hiking boots for women.
What to Look for in Hiking Shoes?
Before getting into the list, we have decided to offer you a buyer’s guide on what you should look for in hiking boots.
The Right Fit
Think about the fact that you will have to walk long hours on bumpy roads and rugged terrain. We suggest trying a few models in a specialty shop before choosing to buy online to learn what your feet need. Some people need narrower shoes, while others prefer wider ones. If your legs are sensitive, you might want to search for a pair with an orthopaedic sole or better ankle support.
Water Resistance
The next thing after comfort that is crucial in a hiking boot is its water resistance. Hiking often comes with rain or muddy areas, and there is nothing worse than staying with wet feet because it will lead to a cold. Waterproof boots will save you from this unwanted mess, and they also collect less debris than the traditional options.
However, manufacturers tend to create heavy and unbreathable waterproof shoes, which can be uncomfortable when it is hot outside. Nowadays, brands try their best to change this aspect of their water-resistant boots.
Pricing
Price is an aspect that interest everyone when buying hiking shoes. Usually, it is worth it spending more on a qualitative pair of boots because they will keep our feet protected, which will make our hike happy. If your budget is not too big, do not worry, our list will include affordable options too.
Materials
If you decide to spend a good amount of money on a pair of shoes, then you might as well pay attention to the materials. You want durable shoes that can get through hard times and still hang on to your feet. You can never go wrong with a classic leather pair.
Weight
The weight you carry on your feet is so relevant for a safe hike! You do not even realize how many bone and muscle issues you can have by wearing bulky shoes. Choosing a lighter pair will save you so much energy.
Support
Last but not least, you should also watch out for ankle support. You will be safer with a higher up boot, and always tie your laces tight to avoid stumbling. Better safe than sorry, right?
Now that we have established the most important things about a pair of hiking boot s- take a look at the 20 best hiking boots for women that you could buy right now.
20. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
It is either the price or the durability that makes these hiking boots very desirable? The truth is that these boots will be by your side for the longest time. But are they worth the investment? Definitely! They have the fundamental features: waterproof material, exceptional support for the ankle, and different terrain adaptation.
They come in three sizes, which will make wide or narrow feet people happy. The downside of these boots is that, for their price, you could find a lighter pair with a better lacing system.
19. Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid GORE-TEX
We all love animals, but if you are one of those people who are actively trying to save them by avoiding animal products, this pair is for you. Besides being extremely light due to the GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, InvisibleFit construction and breathable design, the boots are offering pretty good support for trail runners.
They are a little stiff, but after a while, you will probably get comfortable in them.
18. Salewa Mountain Trainer MID GTX
Salewa is one of the brands that mountain lovers appreciate due to its quality and loyalty to climbing fans. The boots will get you through the harshest conditions without many disappointments. They will completely isolate you from rocks or snow with their protective layer wrapped around the entire lower section.
The design comes with an effective lacing system that goes all the way down to the toes, making it easier for those with narrow or wide feet to match the shoe to their foot.
Keep in mind that if you are buying these boots, you are taking them for hard rides, not for simple walks through the park. Wearing them in an uncomplicated environment will make them feel heavy and uncomfortable.
17. Arc’teryx Acrux TR GTX
This pair follows a traditional pattern, having a one-piece upper, Vibram traction and EVA midsole. The boots are durable, even though they have a thin build and do not weigh too much. They support a huge load on the back on a bumpy road. But the design has a few downsides as well. The cushioning is not the best, making the boot uncomfortable at some point.
You can remove the insole with one of your choices, but we consider that having a valid one from the start would have saved us the trouble of spending more money. This disappointing characteristic of the pair pushes it far down the ranking, but it is still an option to consider if you care more about durability.
16. Altra Lone Peak 4 RSM
People love this hiking shoes because they are so light and comfy. The materials are made for pleasure, not for durability. Therefore, it depends on what you want more: a long-lasting or a comfortable pair. The designers went for nylon and eVent membrane, which are breathable materials but not as tough as leather.
They have a wide toe box that offers enough space for your feet to move. Unfortunately, the traction is not too solid, and they do not give the best support on the market.
15. Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
If you fill your backpack with lots of things, these shoes are good enough to support all the weight you put on your back. They are great for rugged trails and offer full ankle support and stability. They have excellent traction, better than you will find in most boots on the list.
However, they have the major problem we usually avoid- they are heavy. For casual hikes, the weight is not worth it. But for long and rocky trails, these shoes are an excellent choice.
14. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II WP
This pair of hiking boots for women is one of the cheapest models on the list. They are almost always on sale, and their regular price is around $100. For this price, these shoes offer surprising quality, having a leather upper. They are waterproof, too.
The tongue and collar offer comfort, but there is not much support for the ankle, and the material is not breathable. These boots are reliable enough for short trips, but we would not take them on longer trails.
13. Zamberlan Vioz GTX
We love the classics too. That is why we have included so many traditional models in this list. Like other classics, this pair is super heavy compared to most designs we have talked about. We know that the weight is a downside some of you will not overlook, but multiple advantages count.
The manufacturers used Italian-made leather that lasts over the years. The interior is soft and will protect you from the bumpy roads. Therefore, if you seek safety and excellent support, these boots will be your best friend for many years.
12. Asolo Fugitive GTX
These shoes look like the traditional hiking boots we used to see everywhere. They are not as light and flexible as modern designs. However, they have something many new-age boots do not have: durability. They will protect you from rocks and any weather you might encounter.
Their weight can be an inconvenience and we can admit that. But for professionals who want to go on more dangerous adventures, this boot is a safe choice.
11. Danner Mountain 600 Mid WP
This over-the-ankle model is pretty light, has flexible underfoot and reliable lacing hardware. These boots will protect you from wet streets and mud and keep your feet warm in colder times. This last advantage is, however, followed by a disadvantage: they are not breathable.
Danner Mountain 600 Mid WP has pretty a casual build. Therefore, it is not the best choice for high-mileage hikes. If you prefer comfort and versatility, then you will be happy with this pair. On the other hand, if you are looking for durable shoes, then you might want to consider another pair from the list.
10. Oboz Bridger Mid BDry
We love Oboz for their tough and durable footwear, and we appreciate the quality of their materials. They never fail to amaze us with how much protection they offer to our feet. The underfoot is cushioned with TPU reinforcements and a nylon shank. The leather upper part is highly resistant, and the boot, overall, grants exceptional support and stability to the whole leg, but especially to the ankle.
The downside of this model is its heavy weight and lack of flexibility. You will notice that most of the boots on the list are remarkably light, which offers better mobility and less muscle pain. On top of that, the waterproof membrane warms up the leg even if there is a reasonable temperature outside.
9. Topo Athletic Trailventure WP
If you have a wider foot, then this model might be your favorite. They are incredibly suitable for those with more voluminous feet, as they offer enough room to move and are lightweight. You can walk with them all day, and you will not have sore feet at the end. They offer stability and support to the ankle.
If you seek durability, notice that the holes on the lower portion of the lacing system are made from thread, which can blow out at some point. Also, the tongue feels a little bit bulky, but once you get comfortable with the design, it will probably stop bothering you.
8. Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP
We understand that some of these boots may be too expensive for your budget. Therefore, we have added to the list this excellent pair of hiking boots that will amaze you with their quality and price. At only $130, this model does not compromise on excellence at all. They are durable, waterproof and comfortable.
They are also breathable for a water-resistant boot. However, you should consider other models if your feet are narrow or you prefer a lighter shoe. They also have a high heel-to-toe drop that does not feel comfortable for people who are not used to it.
7. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
These hiking boots were designed to last. They are the best reinterpretation of the classic boots you would find some years back for hiking. Those old shoes used to have premium materials, such as leather and were solid and waterproof. However, the brand added modern features, such as Gore-Tex lining and a comfortable design that offers enough freedom to not feel trap inside them.
The main disadvantage of these boots is their weight. Compared to other models on the list, these seem like monsters because of how heavy they are. They weigh 2.2 pounds. They also have a bulky lacing system, but you can change this if you feel like the boots are the ones for you.
6. HOKA ONE ONE Kaha Gore-Tex
Hoka is one of the brands that we are crazy about, as it creates the most comfortable shoes on the market. But they do not limit themselves to comfort. Hoka also offers stability for the ankle and joints due to its sole made from thick foam. Despite the apparent bulky sole, this model is still relatively light.
Durability is not questionable when we look at the materials: leather and a Gore-Tex membrane. The reviewers noticed that these particular design needs a more extended break-in period, as they are stiffer than other models from the same brand. Once you get used to the sole and get comfortable in the boots, nothing should stop you from having an enjoyable hike.
5. La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX Hiking Boots
We all know that stability is essential when hiking, but so is your comfort and well-being. Having light shoes will save you energy and will motivate you to go further and further until you reach the peak or your destination. The good news is that this model combines both of these characteristics.
They have a high ankle, and they weigh just 1 lb and 9 oz. You can also forget about the mud. These boots will keep you dry and warm through the rainiest days.
4. Vasque Breeze LT GTX
You don’t even have to wear these boots to convince yourself about how light they are. Compared to other hiking boots, these honestly feel like flip-flops. They offer proper ankle support too, have thick midsoles and a firm sole. You can wear these boots multiple days in a row without problems, and they will provide exceptional support for your feet. The fact that they are so light helps you walk faster and on longer distances.
However, their weight comes with a price. Due to the materials used for creating them, they might not be as durable as other options on the list. Keep in mind that they are not as resistant to water as waterproof boots, but as long as you are not constantly walking through puddles, you should feel good.
3. Oboz Bridger BDry Hiking Boots
There is no condition or terrain in which these boots cannot help you. They are the best for wet places and unusual weather, so you can count on them for any hiking adventure. The brand is also famous for supporting Yellowstone Forever, a nonprofit organization fighting for the Yellowstone National Park, another reason for which why you might appreciate Oboz.
But these shoes are also excellent, offering you warmth and keeping your feet dry for the longest time. The firm sole and insole and are stiff enough for rough trails. They are also granting high ankle support.
2. Keen Targhee III Mid – Women’s Hiking Boots
First off, you should take a closer look at the price of these shoes. Not only they are durable and offer excellent comfort, but they also come at a very favorable price for the buyers. The manufacturers chose a combination of mesh and leather for durability but at the same time made sure to create a boot that is light and breathable.
They include a firm rubber toe cap, which makes this pair one of the best for rocky areas, as they offer admirable support and traction. You do not have to be afraid of rainy days and changeable spring weather, as these boots are water-resistant.
One of the downsides of these boots is the lack of ankle stability, which can be a turn off for people who want to explore rocky roads. They also run a bit wide, and, for people with narrow feet, they might not be comfortable.
1. Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex – Women’s Hiking Boots
This model is an update of an already appreciated design from this renowned brand, and we are obsessed with its quality and look. They offer comfort and water resistance and are some of the most durable boots on the market. The shoes are light and have incredible stability in the midfoot granted by the latest chassis.
You can even run with these, as they are so volatile, and they perfectly balance the hiking needs with the running ones. There are a few disadvantages: the lack of extra ankle support, the absence of a still sole, or the long and heavy laces. The price is, however, extraordinary for such a good pair.
Conclusion
Hiking can be a pricey hobby, as it requires buying many materials and reliable equipment that will keep you safe and comfortable through the severest conditions. One of the essentials is an excellent pair of boots, and you should never compromise your health with a cheap, weak pair of shoes just for the price.
On our list, you find both expensive and inexpensive options, but all of them will surely get you through your adventures while keeping your feet in healthy conditions.
