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 runners. From hydration bladders to headlamps, we’ve done the leg work of testing and comparing 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.
Hiking Boot Height: Low Mid Or High
Hiking boot height is a matter of personal preference and is influenced by the terrain youll be wandering in. A higher-reaching boot is created through a taller collar or cuff, which is typically padded and some are more rigid than others.
- Low-cut: Ankle bone is exposed, greatest range of motion
- Mid-cut: Cuff rises above the ankle bone, offers ankle bone protection from abrasion, a hybrid of stability and mobility
- High-cut: Cuff rises a few inches above the ankle bone, the sturdiest design
A higher boot collar will offer more ankle support, such as security when traversing loose rock or protection against abrasive vegetation. The higher profile the boot, the better it may do at keeping debris or moisture out. And most people will recommend a tall boot if youre backpacking a heavy load.
The tradeoff is that a higher-cut boot wont be as flexible. This may not be ideal if youre scrambling on rocks beside the trail and you need more ankle articulation, or if you need to crouch down to tend to kiddos or pets. Higher ankle support also generally holds in more heat with less airflow around the ankles. Taller socks will be more comfortable with a higher cuff.
For hiking in technical terrain, we recommend the Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX, and for top-notch, locked-in ankle security, go for something like the Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hikng Boots. Not everyone needs a lot of ankle support, so dont be afraid to experiment with more flexible options if youre unsure.
Lowa Womens Renegade Gtx Mid Hiking Boots
The Lowa womens Renegade are a great choice for womens hiking boots as they offer maximum comfort and protection and come in a range of different colours.
These over the ankle boots feature a water repellent nubuck leather upper which has a breathable GORE-TEX waterproof lining. Together with the Vibram rubber sole which features thick lugs and the polyurethane midsoles, these boots provide the maximum in support and stability for all sorts of terrain and weather conditions.
The Renegade boots come with a climate controlled footbed that helps to keep your feet cool, dry and blister free. The perforations in the boots lining allow air to circulate and wick away moisture from your foot, also minimising friction and fatigue. Other great features of these hiking boots include, full length shanks and derby style lacing with a padded and gusseted tongues to keep out debris.
Winner of the 2014 OutdoorGearLab Editors Choice Award, you cant go wrong with these womens Renegade GTX hiking boots from Lowa.
Recommended Reading: Where Can I Buy Rockport Shoes
Merrell Mqm Flex 2 Mid Gore
Vegan Hiking Boot Option
Check price: REI
Pros: vegan-friendly, lightweight, come in fun colors
Cons: not as waterproof as other boots on this list, stiff at first and requires some break-in time, not a ton of arch support
The Merrell MQM Flex 2 Mid is the perfect lightweight shoe for anyone looking for a vegan-friendly hiking boot. This boot combines all the best features of a trail runner and a hiker into one and offers mid-ankle support.
BFTs content coordinator, Courtney, tested these boots on day hikes and backpacking trips throughout California, Washington, and Arizona and found that they were great for hiking in rocky, uneven terrain due to the grip of the mountain-grade rubber outsoles, and the mid-ankle height provided enough support to feel secure while still allowing for a full range of motion. However, the MQM Flex 2 didnt hold up as well in wet conditions. On a rainy hike in Olympic National Park, water seeped in through the shoelace eyelets and she ended up with wet socks.
These boots are a little stiff at first so give them some time to break in. Courtney has a high arch, and after a few trial runs in these boots, she ended up adding insoles to provide more arch support. These are her go-to hiking boots for dry climates and rocky terrain, but shed leave these at home for rainy, wet hikes. You can find the low-ankle version of this boot here.
Best High Ankle Hiking Boots For Women
If youre looking for a pair of sturdy hiking boots that are suitable for all kinds of terrain and provide maximum support, then high top hiking boots that fit over the ankle are a good choice.
This style will provide the most stability and the most ankle support on the trail. High top hiking boots also tend to be more durable and rigid than a low hiking shoe or a trail runner.
Go with a high-ankle hiking boot if:
- Youll be hiking in variable conditions like muddy, steep or rocky terrain
- Youre going on a multi-day hike
- Youre carrying a heavy load on your back
- You want more support for your ankles and knees
High-ankle hiking boots provide the most stability and support and are a great choice for backpacking trips and long hikes through variable terrain
You May Like: What Are The Best Running Shoes For Arch Support
Best Trail Runners For Hiking
Some folks will make the argument that trail running shoes are just as good an option for hiking. Since theyre so lightweight, many thru-hikers, like those on the John Muir Trail & Pacific Crest Trail, choose to hike in trail runners.
They arent for everyone, though, as some feel that they need more ankle support when carrying a heavy backpack. Also, trail runners wont last as long as durable hiking boots or shoes so youll need to replace them more often when they wear out to protect your feet from injury.
Trail runners are good if:
- Youll be hiking in very hot weather
- You want very lightweight shoes
- You want versatile shoes
- You dont mind having to replace them more often
- You dont need ankle support
Our former Bearfoot Theory Community Manager, Kim Vawter, wore Altra Lone Peak trail runners on her thru-hike of the PCT
Timberland Womens Mt Maddsen Mid Leather Waterproof Hiking Boot
For women who like environmentally friendly products, the Timberland Mt Maddsen boots are perfect not only for the environment also for all day hikes and various other outdoor activities.
These top-quality leather hiking boots feature a rubber outsole made from recycled materials and compression moulded EVA midsoles which offer support and cushioning. The leather used in the upper is sourced from a tannery rated silver by the Leather Working Group and includes an eco-conscious waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry during wet conditions
These boots also include fully gusseted tongues to ensure debris stays out, internal nylon shanks for added support and stability and removable footbeds.
Despite being one of the heavier hiking boots in this guide, these highly rated womens hiking boots offer the ultimate in durability and stability and make a good choice for the more serious female hiker.
Read Also: How To Clean Mold Off Shoes
Leather Vs Fabric Boots
A well made leather boot has spent a long time being moulded on a unique foot shape known as a last. A well lasted boot will provide a long term sculpted fit that provides support and function. Leather is a fantastically durable material and easy to care for.
Fabric boots are usually derived from a hybrid of modern fabrics that are lightweight, instantly comfortable and quick drying. Fabric boots usually require an added waterproof membrane such as Gore Tex to provide water resistance. They can be more challenging to maintain performance than an all leather boot.
Oboz Arete Low Hiking Shoe
A favorite of Shanti Hodges, the founder of Hike It Baby, the Oboz Arete is compact enough to pack like a running shoe, but has plenty of traction for the trails. I love these because they are light, comfortable and very grippy on surfaces, she says. These are great for three seasons , and they keep sand and water out, so you can hike all kinds of terrain. Another notable pick for grip: Merrell’s ankle-height Bravada, available in waterproof and non-waterproof styles, which Women Who Hike founder Nicole Brown describes as part sneaker, part hiker, with an air cushion in the heel to absorb shock and add stability. Also noteworthy: The Bravada was made for women by womena community group called the Merrell Womens Collective, a group of 60 women united by the trail, worked together to create it.
Read Also: Are Crocs Non Slip Shoes
Womens Lightweight Hiking Shoes
-
Columbia Trailstorm Peak Mid Women’s Hiking Shoes
- $84.99sale
-
Ryka Echo Trek 2 Women’s Water-Repellent Hiking Sneakers
- $69.00 – $85.00
-
Eddie Bauer Lake Union Low Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $89.95sale
-
Eddie Bauer Canyon Low Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $94.95 – $109.95Reg.
Propet Peak Women’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
- $109.95Reg.
-
Pacific Mountain Butte Low Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $29.99sale
-
Pacific Mountain Boulder Low Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $80.00Reg.
Pacific Mountain Ravine II Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $74.99sale
Eddie Bauer Lake Union Low Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $95.00Reg.
Columbia Vitesse Fasttrack Mid Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $75.00Reg.
ZeroXposur Colorado Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes
- $124.95Reg.
Hoka One One Stinson Atr 6 Trail Running Shoe
Ask a dozen runners what shoe brand they’re loyal to, and at least a few will say Hoka. The brand’s expertise extends to trail runners, which have enough grip to keep you steady on gravelly, dusty, or rocky terrain, with a lower profile than a traditional hiking boot. This Stinson model is the sixth edition of one of Hoka’s staple shoes, and lighter than its predecessors. It’s also built using recycled yarn made from post-consumer plastics.
Recommended Reading: How To Get Fitted For Running Shoes
Merrell Antora 2 Rainbow Hiking Sneaker
Merrell launched the Antora 2 Rainbow earlier this year, with a colorful bold look thats sure to turn heads both in the woods and afterward at your local brewery. Featuring a breathable mesh lining, a medial post for pronation relief , and a rock plate lining to guard against the unruliest trails, the Antora 2 is built with capability in mind. The shoes Vibram TC5+ grip technology is designed to give runners and hikers the utmost confidence, whether theyre embarking on a short neighborhood stroll or an all-day off-trail adventure.
How Should I Look After My New Boots
All boots will benefit from regular cleaning and application of care products, these vary from waxes and creams for leather and paint on applications for fabric boots. On wet days endeavour to dry your boots as naturally as possible. Removing the footbed will aid drying and these can be periodically replaced to reinstate shock absorption.
You May Like: Montana West Flip Flops Wholesale
Does Paddy Pallin Sell Lightweight Hiking Boots
Its a well-known hiking adage that a pound on your feet equals five on your back. Ok, so thats not exactly true. But what this means is that wearing heavy boots quickly saps your energy and stamina. Lightweight hiking boots are all but the norm these days. You dont need a super chunky, heavy pair of boots to get the grip, protection and support needed for serious hiking. Modern materials and boot construction methods mean that our range of quality, lightweight boots are not only readily available, but theyre up to the task too!
Best Womens Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boots Faqs
- Are Gore-Tex boots really waterproof?
Yes. All Gore-Tex boots and shoes are fully waterproof even without any waterproof treatment. Additionally, Gore-Tex boots have a membrane that is designed not to wear off even if you wear them on regular basis.
- When should I waterproof my boots?
This will depend on the boots you are using and what the manufacturer recommends. But a rule of the thumb is to always waterproof your hiking boots every time they become dirty or when you realize that the water stops beading on the surface.
You May Like: Where Can I Buy Kobe Bryant Shoes
The North Face Flight Vectiv Shoe
Made for trail running, these shoes from The North Face were designed to help reduce muscle fatigue in legs. Built with extra cushioning and responsiveness to give runners that extra bit of lift-off, the Vectiv is breathable and is one of the best lightweight options. Plus, the shoe works just as well for light hikes as it does hilly runs. We also like that it’s not so heavy-duty looking, so you can keep these on to dash out to the coffee shop or the market without feeling like you’re clomping around.
The Best Lightweight Waterproof Hiking Boots For Women For Travel Treks & Snow Trails
A good pair of womens lightweight waterproof hiking boots are essential if your travel plans include any sort of hiking. A top-quality pair of womens lightweight hiking boots not only keep your feet protected and dry while hiking, they wont add unnecessary weight to your luggage like some other womens waterproof hiking boots do.
Of course, you dont want to compromise on keeping your feet being comfortable, just to save a few pounds but sometimes it can be difficult to work out which womens waterproof walking boots are in fact good quality whilst still being lightweight and waterproof.
In this best waterproof hiking boots for women, I take all the guesswork out of which boots you should consider buying. Ive already done all the research for you and narrowed down some of the best lightweight womens hiking boots. In this guide Ill take you through everything you need to know to about choosing the perfect pair of hiking boots, as well as look at some of the most popular hiking boots currently on the market.
Also Check: What Store Sells Naturalizer Shoes
What Are The Best Lightweight Hiking Boots
The best lightweight hiking boots are the ones that fit your foot. Try the Altras Lone Peak All-Weather Mid. We loved them for their featherweight design, superb support, and roomy toe box. If you dont need a waterproof boot, choose one without a membrane.
Generally, the lower the cuff height, the less robust and more lightweight a boot will be. Hiking shoes are generally lighter than hiking boots.
Best Light Hiking Boots For Women Reviews
Choosing the appropriate light hiking boots for women can be tough. However, if you consider these factors, your job will be easier.
- Product Quality: A product that you won’t have to buy again or that will last you a long time is an important consideration, especially when it comes to the light hiking boots for women. Nobody would want a low-quality or easily worn-out object. They are even willing to spend a somewhat greater price for a good product.
- Ease of Use- A vital trait of any replace_keyword] is its ease of use, so most item did well in this metric. How easily can you use your product?
- Ergonomics Ergonomics was a much simpler metric for these products. We split it into three aspects: comfort, aesthetics, and profile design. Most of our listed products are decently comfortable, and we think it is one of the group’s sleeker and more stylish designs.
- Comfort Comfort is the other primary factor we took into consideration when evaluating light hiking boots for women. After all, the more comfortable a light hiking boots for women is, the less likely you will dislike it. We pay attention to softness, shape, and size.
- Value is always important, but the range for light hiking boots for women is relatively narrow. We feel that the #1 model offers a great value for most people and that the #2 is great for advanced users.
#1 Best Overall light hiking boots for women:
After considering the above, we nominated this model as our Top Pick.
See the details features here:
Read Also: Where Are Yellow Box Shoes Made
Vasque Talus Xt Gtx Hiking Boot
Weighing in at just over two pounds, these Vasque boots feel lighter than your heaviest sneaker. They generally fit true to size, and can be ordered in regular or wide sizes, with enough room and breathability to keep feet comfortable on long, hot hikes when some swelling is bound to occur. No break-in period is needed, and the soft, supple materialthe shoes are made of nubuck leather and a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane to keep toes dry through puddlesconforms easily to your feet. The boot shaft is a bit higher than other pairs on the list, so be sure to wear a long pair of hiking socks to prevent chafing or irritation around your ankles.
How Should I Store My Hiking Boots
If your hiking boots get dirty and wet whilst being worn, thats awesome! Its exactly what theyre designed for. However, after use it is important to clean your boots and let them air-dry before putting them away. Once your boots are all clean and dry, make sure to keep them in a well-ventilated spot and out of direct exposure to sunlight. And if you dont plan on using the boots for a while, its still good to get them out every couple of months even a short walk around indoors will help prolong their lifespan.
Also Check: Is The Shoe Website Goat Legit
