Best Hiking Boots For Women 2022
We’ve bought and tested close to 50 unique pairs of women’s hiking boots over the last 10 years, most recently testing 15 of the best models available today. From lightweight hikers to burly beasts, our experts test the top boots year-round and compare them based on their trail comfort, weight, traction, support, and ability to keep your feet dry. Our team of ladies crushed out hundreds of miles for multiple months to parse out each boot’s strengths and weaknesses. We then took that data and real-world experience and crafted this detailed assessment of today’s best options to help you find the right pair for your needs.
Itching to get out on the trails? If it’s footwear you need, we’ve also tested hiking shoes and trail running shoes. From hydration bladders to headlamps, we’ve done the leg work of testing and comparing the best hiking products, so you don’t have to question whether you’re making the right decision with your hard-earned money.
Editor’s Note: This review was updated on May 18, 2022, to add four new boots into our mix from Salomon, La Sportiva, and Altra.
What To Look For In A Boots Brand
I asked fashion stylist Sarah Nearis to weigh in. “For a boot brand to be great, I believe they should have versatile and trendy styles with practical designers,” she says. “I love a brand that has a range of styles for different occasions and personalities, but doesnt skimp on comfort or quality. When you find a brand that you love and that fits your foot well and is comfortable, it makes you want to buy multiples or invest in different styles. Just like any product, when a brand nails quality and comfort, you will have loyal customers and repeat customers make the best customers.”
So if you’re looking for your new go-to boots brand, check out our stylist- and editor-approved recommendations below.
The Best Hiking Boots
One of my favorite weekend activities is getting away from the bustling city and embarking on a hike. The fresh air and exercise always leave me feeling energized and refreshed, but it’s easy to forget the importance of wearing the right gear for these expeditions. Wearing the right hiking boots is essential for preventing injury and protecting your feet from the elements, so it’s best to not only invest in a pair, but also to choose a high-quality option. Below, some of the best hiking boots money can buy, which will keep you safe and leave you free to hike to heart’s content.
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Mens Bugaboot Celsius Plus Omni
For ultra-cold weather, you need the Columbia Bugaboot Infinity Boot, which has a special Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining and 400 grams of insulationguaranteed to keep you comfortable even in frigid temperatures. Theyre still comfortable to walk in, with an Adapt Trax outsole to provide advanced traction even in wet weather and a midfoot strap to keep the boot snug and secure.
What Should I Look For In A Winter Boot
The more insulation, the better. Some footwear brands will list exactly how much insulation is the boot while others may provide an estimated temperature rangefor instance, -10 degrees. As mentioned earlier, sizing up slightly can give you the option to add warmth through extra socks or toe warmers. Its also key to make sure the boot is made from some types of waterproof material so your feet don’t get soaked from melting snow and then freeze. Gore-Tex is a popular water-repellant technology founded in many winter boots.
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What To Consider To Buy Leather Boots For Men
There is nothing quite like the feeling of a new pair of leather boots. They are sturdy, and masculine, and will last for years if taken care of properly. However, buying leather boots can be a daunting task.
With so many different brands, styles, and prices to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we will discuss the essential things you need to consider when purchasing leather boots for men. We’ll also provide some tips on how to find the perfect pair for your needs!
1. The type
When it comes to choosing leather boots for men, the most important thing to consider is the type of leather. There are many different types of leather, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. For example, full-grain leather is the highest quality and will last the longest, but it is also the most expensive.
Conversely, split-grain leather is less expensive but will not last as long. Ultimately, the type of leather you choose should be based on your budget and how often you plan to wear the boots.
2. The style
Another important consideration when choosing leather boots for men is the style. There are many different styles of leather boots, from classic lace-ups to modern Chelsea boots. The style you choose should be based on your personal preferences and the overall look you want to achieve.
3. The price
Best For Wide Feet: Asgard Chelsea Ankle Women’s Waterproof Rain Boots
Asgard
Why We Love It: The low heel offers comfort and arch support.
What to Consider: They’re best for wider calves.
Budget-friendly, lightweight, and spacious, the Asgard Ankle Chelsea Rain Boots have a wide toe box inside a leather upper that ensures stability and structure. The boots also have a removable insole and a comfortable fabric lining. Even with an added insole and thick socks, there is still plenty of room for movement without being too big.
Price at time of publish: $33
Sizes: 5-12 | Material: Vinyl, rubber, elastic
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Stellar Traction For Icy Trails
Altra United States
Excellent traction is a must for winter hiking boots so that you can safely navigate icy trails. These Altras are equipped with a dense rubber outsole that grips well on technical terrain and canted lugs that deliver additional traction, making them an essential for even the slickest route. Reviewers say theyre the perfect companion for long-distance treks, praising their ability to keep feet warm in cold temps and stay dry even when submerged in water.
The Benefits Of Leather
Leather is a fantastic option for boots as they are soft and waterproof, while allowing for breathability and durability. Opt for black or dark brown leather as these colors are less obtrusive and easy to match with any outfit. In addition they are also forgiving with any dirt that you may encounter during your travels.
For nearly every trip in metropolitan cities, youll need a pair of womens leather boots. These sturdy shoes make the best travel footwear because theyre perfect for walking and every day use. If your anticipated activities involve a lot of exercise and a lot of walking or the use public transportation, then boots are what you need!
In fact, even if you plan to travel low-key it would still be beneficial to bring boots. They are undoubtedly my top pick when it comes to stylish travel shoes as they are exceptionally comfortable and create a classic casual chic look.
When shopping for leather boots, check to see how easily they come on and off. You do not want boots that you have to battle to put on or take off on vacation.
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Classic Option For Indoors By The Fire
Uggs have been around for more than 40 years now, and theres a reason their popularity endures: Theyre insanely comfortable. Made with plush sheepskin and fur sustainably sourced from sheep, these boots are the ultimate choice for snuggling up at home. The button detail on this particular style adds versatility: Unhook it and fold down the material for a fluffy, fashionable style, or button up for added warmth.
Best Overall Chelsea Boots
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Taos Crave Blocked Heel Tan Lace Up Leather Boots
Stand tall on your feet, even on those dark, wintry days, with a pair of waterproof boots. These womens leather boots from Taos star scalloped stitching with a cute buckle detail. This footwear will definitely become your best companion during that winter season of jet-setting.
The cognac color offers a refreshing tone, with the earthy brown accentuating the buckle hardware. Theres a side zip closure for maximum comfort and a low-heeled design that lets you walk on slippery ground without skidding. Buy it here!
Analysis And Test Results
After extensive field testing and online research, we are confident in our evaluation of these hiking boot models. We’ve summarized all of our findings below to help you gauge which one is the right hiking boot for you. Our scoring method involves comparing each product relative to the others in this review.
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A Lighter Boot For Easy Walking In Snow: Columbia Heavenly Omni
Get this if: You want a boot thats light and particularly good for walking over snow drifts. This is a great option for driving and running errands around townnot so much for extended time outside or in icy conditions
Why its great: The snug, form-fitting foot of the Columbia Heavenly Omni-Heat makes this boot wear almost like a slipper, and the tall, tightly laced shaft and faux fur snow collar keep fluffy stuff out. Plus, these boots are much easier to drive in than boots with a stiff leather exterior.
The Heavenly is a perfect example of how a good fit can create more traction. A nearly identical boot, the North Face Shellista II, didnt grip as well because the foot was looser. This boot has a tread pattern thats more pronounced than others , and the Heavenly had better stability on every surface we walked on, other than ice.
We tried the Kamik Sienna 2, but it doesnt have a tread pattern that provides any help on slick surfaces. And we also tried the GlobalWin Waterproof Winter Boot, but the flaws were many, including a sole so slippery that no tester would set foot on ice without holding onto something. Overall, the majority of winter boots, even most of our picks here, have only average traction on ice. Rubber is just not the solution if you need to stay completely sure-footed on frozen water. But with that in mind, the GlobalWin felt particularly treacherous.
Lucky Brand Basel Tan Leather Bootie
Comfort and style are possible and deliverable in the Lucky Brand Basel boots. The comfortable leather, stacked, block heel, and side zipper make this an ideal choice for matching with anything. It is also available in a multitude of colors to fit your personal style.
The rubber sole and higher shaft helps you maintain traction when walking on wet streets. These would look great with jeans or leggings and a long sweater for a cute fall or winter look. Buy it here!
Looking for some extra support? Check out our readers tried and tested recommendations for the best insoles for a day spent on your feet!
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Red Wing Womens Boot Sizing
- Size up half a size
As with the Thursday boot, Julie wears an 8.5 in Red Wing and an 8 in most of her other shoes.
This boot is available in Black Boundary, Pecan, and Indigo all leathers you wont find on the mens boots . In fact, Red Wings female customers have a range of colors and styles that arent available to men, including Rose , Cream, Granite , and many more. Nick managed to cajole Red Wing into making him a pair of pink Red Wings for himself, but theyll never be available for purchase.
But for you, dear female reader, cool leathers on a ton of Goodyear welted womens boots are one click away:
The Different Types Of Boots For Women This Season
- Ankle Boots: can range in design, but are described as a boot that covers the whole foot up to the ankle.
- Chelsea Boots: an iconic type of ankle boot with a close-fitting elastic side panel.
- Hiking Boots: specifically designed for protecting the feet during outdoor activities.
- Over-the-Knee Boots: boots with a tall shaft that comes up past your knee.
- Knee-High Boots: a boot that stops right before the knee.
- Combat Boots: a classic lace-up style that usually hits right at the calf.
- Platform Boots: characterized by a chunky, usually flat, sole that typically adds a few inches of height.
- Cowboy or Western Boots: traditionally detailed with western elements like stitching, a snip toe design, high shaft and no lacing.
- Winter Boots: cold-weather boots intended to keep feet warm and protected, usually insulated and fully lined with a cozy material.
- Rain Boots: a waterproof, typically, rubber or plastic boot.
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Kenneth Cole Reaction Salt Black Leather Boots
When it comes to a classic pair of womens leather boots, Kenneth Cole Reaction got it right with the Salt what a beauty!
This is a true chelsea ankle boot style that commands elegance in any part of the globe. While theyre not specifically made for walking, theyre shoes you can wear just about anything.
Bonus, they cost around $100 and are available in over ten colors plus in sizes 5-12. Buy it here!
Use anti-slip shoe pads for boots without rubber soles!
How Can You Tell If Boots Are Good In Snow
Snow, and the ice that results when snow melts, can be a slipping hazard. If you plan to trek through snow, look for boots with quality traction. You can evaluate traction by looking at the bottom of the boot and assessing whether the outsole would catch you if you slipped, says Martin. Higher-end boots will likely have more aggressive traction toward the toe and maybe even the heel, says Martin. Also important: Finding a boot with waterproof materials so snow doesnt seep into your socks and liners.
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The 15 Best Boots Brands For Women In 2022
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I’m always interested in trying new brands and styles, but when it comes to finding the best boots for women, I like to know a thing or two about the label before I make my final purchase. After all, harsh weather and copious amounts of walking can cause quite a bit of wear-and-tear on a shoe, and I want to be confident that my favorite boots are going to last me long-terma consideration that’s good for both the planet and my wallet. Which all begs the question: Of all the types of boots and boots brands for women out there, which are the best and most reliable?
What Materials Are Best For Winter Boots
Water-repellent materials like Gore-Tex are ideal for the exterior upper parts of your boots while rubber-like materials on the bottom outsoles help provide traction and grip. On the inside of your boots, look for warm, moisture-wicking, lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as wool or wool synthetics, to increase the overall comfort and wearability level of your winter boots.
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Best With Arch Support: Vionic Women’s Whistler Wilma Waterproof Ankle Boot
Why We Love It: They’re perfect for teachers, retail workers, and anyone who spends the majority of the day on their feet.
What to Consider: They’re not ideal for super cold temperatures.
Thanks to its cushioned insole, Vionic’s Wilma Bootie offers exceptional arch support that can help remediate discomfort and strain. It boasts a chic Chelsea boot design with a walkable 2-inch block heel. They’re sturdy and cushioned and feature elastic paneling on one side, a zipper closure on the other, and a durable pull tab on each ankle they’re particularly easy to put on and take off.
Price at time of publish: $190
Sizes: 5-11 | Material: Leather, textile, synthetic materials
Teva Anaya Waterproof Leather Boot With Heel
Looking for a waterproof style thats still versatile enough to pair with any outfit? Then youll love the Teva Anaya boot. Crafted from a rich, waterproof leather with a just-right heel height, these boots were built to flirt with adventure.
The style is elegant enough to dress up with a skirt or dress. Best of all, you know youre getting a comfortable and quality shoe when its Teva. Buy it here!
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