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Hiking is a fantastic way to get outside and be one with nature, but like anything, you need the proper gear if you want to both enjoy the activity and participate safely. And the most important pieces of gear are your socks and hiking boots. Since we know that shopping for shoes can be a challenge, we gathered up our top 15 picks for the best hiking boots for women in 2023.
While women’s hiking boots may have just been smaller versions of men’s hiking boots in the past, that’s no longer the case. Women’s hiking boots are now made with more stylish designs, trendy colorways, and more importantly, styles and fits that are actually catered towards women.
And hiking boots aren’t just important for the aesthetic. They also serve a very important purpose: These boots are designed to help keep you safe, comfortable, and allow you to perform at your highest potential. The best hiking shoes for women will have structured uppers, toe protectors, and super grippy outsoles that allow you to safely navigate wild terrain or just keep you moving on a leisurely walk through the woods. While many opt to hike in running shoes, these do not offer the same level of support and stability, and can often become dangerous in unsavory conditions.
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Our expert-approved guide features a wide range of women’s hiking boots, including comfortable shoes with leather uppers and waterproofing, as well as lightweight silhouettes and high levels of cushioning. We also chose shoes that can be used in all climates — whether you’re climbing the red rocks of Arizona or the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
We conducted our own research when choosing these boots, and also spoke with podiatrists Dr. Bruce Pinker and Dr. Brad Schaeffer, as well as outdoor gear expert Katie Kommer, for expertise on choosing hiking boots for various foot types and conditions.
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber sole
Comfort: Firm and stable
Durability: High durability
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “I love the classic look of these hiking boots. They are very lightweight yet durable. They work well with a bone spur on my heel which is the main reason I purchased them.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $75
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Vibram outsole
Comfort: Firm and stable
Durability: High durability
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Very comfortable shoe, especially on rocky, uneven trails. This is the second pair I have owned, the first pair lasted 5 years of day hikes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber outsole
Comfort: Bouncy and cushioned
Durability: Medium durability
Adidas Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
What testers say: “Recommend this shoe highly. The ankle is very well supported and my foot doesn’t slip forward inside the shoe when walking downhill — a common problem for me. Toe box is nice and wide but mid foot and rear foot and well supported. And of course, nothing beats the Boost sole.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $230
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Flexible, multi-direction lugs
Comfort: Light and springy
Durability: Medium durability
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Dicks Sporting Goods Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “So comfy and durable. Light and perfect for hiking and walking.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $219
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber lugs
Comfort: Light, soft, flexible
Durability: Medium durability
Nike Top Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What testers say: “Love these. Great for hiking and running. They feel super light on my feet and really are waterproof so far. From sprinklers, to random downpours of rain, my feet have stayed dry through it all. Also love how comfortable they are.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $104.97
Water resistance: waterproof
Traction: Vibram megagrip outsole
Comfort: Soft and cushiony
Durability: Medium durability
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Hoka Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
What testers say: “Was blown away when I tried these on, they were so comfy. I didn’t have time to break them in before a 21 mile backpacking trip and these were incredible. I have plantar fasciitis and had virtually no foot pain the days following the hike which is rare for me after being on my feet that long.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $185
Related:
Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Vibram outsole
Comfort: High cushion, lightweight
Durability: Medium durability
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Great boot! I hike rough Maine terrain up mountains every week. My shoes take a beating and so far these are holding up well. They’re comfortable right out of the box and have good traction.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $170
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber sole
Comfort: Firm and supportive
Durability: High durability
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I have short and wide feet and struggle to get walking shoes and boots to fit. First time not having squashed toes in a hiking boot.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $75
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber lug sole
Comfort: Light and firm
Durability: Medium durability
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Love these boots. They were comfortable the moment I put them on. They are very light weight and durable. I’ve had the brown boots for years. And decided I needed them in grey for a trip I have coming up.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $60
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Vibram megagrip
Comfort: Plush and soft
Durability: High durability
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What testers say: “Wore these for the first time on a 22 mile backpacking hike though the Enchantments core that had all sorts of terrain and over 8,000 of total elevation gain and equal descent. Paired with wool socks, these were SUPER COMFY! No blisters, no jammed toes from the descent, and held up well bouldering and through small streams.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $220
Water resistance: Water resistance
Traction: Maxtrac outsoles
Comfort: Cushiony and soft
Durability: Medium durability
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What testers say: “These boots are great! Just finished 100 mile back packing trip in the mountains with no blisters! They were comfortable, supportive and kept my feet dry as well.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $138
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber sole
Comfort: Firm and supportive
Durability: Highly durable
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “I’ve had these boots for a little over 4 years now and they are still in great shape. Sometimes the laces get untied pretty easily so I’ve had to double knot them. Other than that, they have great support and traction when hiking. And they’re comfy!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $84
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber lugs
Comfort: Light and springy
Durability: Highly durable
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What testers say: “Amazing! Did 60+ miles of glacier national park in 5 days in these boots and can easily say they were the MVP of the trip! Felt stable and secure in these across all different terrains in the park. Was very surprised to have no issues or pain in my toes and feet even on the steepest elevation gains and losses of the moderate and strenuous trails in the park.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $190
Traction: Waterproof
Comfort: Soft and plush
Durability: Medium durability
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Back Country Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What testers say: “Nice look and feel. Warm for activity in snow. My only complaint is the toe box is a bit short in that my toe touches the shoe too much, so next time I would buy a half size up.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $136
Water resistance: Waterproof
Traction: Rubber sole
Comfort: Low cushion, natural feel
Durability: Medium durability
REI Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What testers say: “Great feel. Comfortable for my wide tall feet with just enough support for hiking. These were fantastic- on their first hike they took me 3 miles and my out of shape feet had never felt so good afterward! I usually have a hard time with structured shoes and boots pinching in the toe box, rubbing or putting too much pressure on the top of my tarsals, or irritating my Achilles with the back collar/heel notch. These had none of these issues!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Hiking Boots vs. Hiking Shoes
Gone are the days when “hiking footwear” exclusively referred to bulky, full-leather boots straight out of a 1950s Forest Service poster. Today, hiking footwear expands far beyond boots. Depending on experience level, time of year, route length, weather conditions and the difficulty of your intended trail, you might want to wear high-top hiking boots or lower-cut, more minimalist hiking shoes (or even hiking sandals).
However, in most cases, you’ll be choosing between hiking boots and shoes. “The weight you’re carrying, whether on your body or in your backpack, is going to affect the durability of [your hiking footwear] and how much support it gives you,” says Kommer. “The weight you’re planning on carrying should inform the style of shoe you choose.”
Multi-day backpackers will want a heavier, more supportive hiking boot since they’ll be carrying more weight. Day-hikers carrying a light (or no) pack can get by with hiking shoes or low-cut hiking boots, but keep in mind that these shoes aren’t just lighter, they also offer less ankle support and protection. The best day hiking boots will be both lightweight and supportive.
“Hiking boots are probably the best option for someone just getting into hiking,” says Kommer. “They’re sturdier, they’re going to last longer and they’re going to be comfortable for long days. On the other hand, for someone who is coming from a more athletic background, hiking shoes or trail runners will fatigue you a lot less, because you aren’t carrying as much weight with every step. Also, on more technical terrain, you want a lighter, smaller, more nimble shoe.”
What to Consider When Shopping for Women’s Hiking Boots
- Climate: Temperature and humidity is a huge determinant for what type of boot you should get. If you live in a warm climate, you can opt for something lighter and more breathable, but if you will be traipsing through slush and snow, you will want something waterproof and insulated.
- Length of hike: The length of your hike is also a determinant. If you’re going for a short day hike of a couple miles, you may not need the highest end boot — though you still want to make sure that it is comfortable and fits properly. The longer your hike, be that double digit mileage or consecutive days of trekking, you want to invest in a super comfortable and durable boot.
- Weight of boot: The weight of boots is not quite as important as you might think, but it does play a role in comfort. There is a decent amount of weight difference between a classic leather boot and something on the more minimalist side like a shoe/boot hybrid. While you may not notice it right away, as you get fatigued, the shoes will feel heavier than when you started, and some find that opting for the lightest option available is most comfortable.
- Foot type: When choosing a boot, you definitely want to consider your foot type. This means your arch type, if you are overpronating, and the width of your foot. While most boots won’t have a ton of arch support (if you need more, you’ll want a supportive hiking insole), they do come in various widths, so this is something that’s easy to determine even when shopping online.
- Experience level: If you are newer to hiking, it’s best to go with a traditional boot. While these are stiffer, clunkier, and generally heavier, they also offer more support and more protection than a lighter softer boot or trail shoe. This will help prevent injury and strengthen your muscles before jumping into something more minimalistic.
- Boot materials: Hiking boots are going to either have a leather upper or textile. Neither is really better than the other, but they do each have their benefits. Leather will be more durable, more protective, and have a sturdier, more supportive feel, but it also tends to be hotter and heavier. Textile uppers are lightweight, breathable, and often still have waterproof capabilities, but they are not nearly as durable as leather and tend to wear out a bit faster. Both of these also have waterproof capabilities, so long as a layer of Gore-Tex is added to the upper.
- Fit: When searching for a new hiking boot, fit is a top concern, says Dr. Schaeffer. “A good hiking boot will provide stability and support for the foot, limit injury and provide adequate shock absorption and comfort.” There are two main areas to consider: the last shape and the collar height. The last is the form on which a shoe is made, and each brand will have a bit of a different shape. If you have a narrower foot, you may want to opt for a traditional fit like Columbia, but if you have a wider forefoot, you may do best with something like Altra that allows more toe splay.
The Best Women’s Hiking Boots for Different Foot Types and Foot Conditions
- Best women’s hiking boots for wide feet: When looking for shoes for wide feet, consider opting for a wide width first. If you have a narrower heel though, you may want to try a shoe that has a flared toe box, like options from Altra, as this allows the forefoot extra room without widening the whole feel of the shoe.
- Best women’s hiking boots for ankle support: When it comes to ankle support, Dr. Pinker suggests looking for a high-top design with adequate lacing to provide support. This means that high collar boots will be your best bet. Opting for a boot that is made of leather or has a highly padded collar will also help to ensure that you have ample support.
- Best women’s hiking boots for plantar fasciitis: “If one has a low arch, finding a hiking boot with proper arch support is important to help prevent foot pain and conditions, such as plantar fasciitis,” says Dr. Pinker. “In some cases, usage of a custom made orthotic may be necessary, so there needs to be enough room inside the hiking boot to accommodate a device such as this.” If you already have plantar, you will want to opt for a shoe that has foam on the softer side and has a bit of a rocker to prevent — Hokas are a popular choice here.
- Best women’s hiking boots for narrow feet: Finding hiking boots for narrow feet can be just as difficult as finding them wide ones. Look for options that have a higher collar as it will prevent the heel from slipping out. Also consider a model with a textile upper as they are more easily cinched than leather.
Can You Hike In Running Shoes?
This question brings me back to high school — how many times have we all heard, “you can, but may you?” I digress, but the answer to this question is sure, you can technically hike in running shoes, but especially as you get onto more technical terrain you may find yourself wishing that you opted for something more tailored to the trails.
While running shoes are comfortable and lightweight — both positive things when walking long distances — they do not have the proper amount of support, structure, and grip that is necessary while hiking. Dr. Pinker pointed out that a hiking boot will have a collar for ankle support, a more supportive upper, and a grippier, more ruggedized outsole. He noted that they also often have more protection in the toes, which is ideal for locking your foot in crevices during a scramble or just preventing stubbed toes, and often will be waterproofed which keeps the feet dry and warm.
Though some trails may be running-shoe friendly — think dirt and gravel paths — the more technical trails with roots, rocks, mud, and swampy bits are best handled with a proper pair of hiking boots.
In certain conditions, running shoes are not just unideal, but unsafe. Hiking boots are designed to handle slick conditions, uneven ground, loose terrain and steep inclines and declines, but running shoes don’t have the grip or the structure to withstand these conditions. Forgoing a proper boot can not only be unpleasant, but lead to possible injury.
How to Break in Your Hiking Boots
No matter if you just bought the best pair of hiking boots in existence, they aren’t going to perform perfectly on your first hike. Even with modern innovations in footwear technology, most hiking shoes take a bit of time to break in and conform to your foot.
Kommer recommends giving your boots at least 15 to 20 miles of trail time (over multiple hikes) before heading out on a serious hike or deciding to return them. “Give a pair of boots a couple of tries before deciding it’s not for you,” she says. “I recommend a solid three or four hikes, at least. Remember, even though many boots today are super comfortable out of the box, if you’re switching from one style of shoe to another — like going from hiking in a shoe with five millimeter drop to one with zero-millimeter drop — it will take your calves, Achilles and all your joints a little bit of time to adjust.”
Kommer adds that hiking socks shouldn’t be left out when you’re purchasing your first pair of hiking boots. “Think about it,” she says. “If you’re spending $150 to $200 on hiking boots, it’s worth it to buy the $20 pair of Darn Tough socks.”
How We Chose the Best Hiking Boots for Women
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
To choose the best hiking boots for women, we researched some of the most popular models on the market and chose a range of boots that would serve different needs within the hiking community. We also looked at customer reviews to get a look into how these boots performed in the real world, used our own previous experience with product testing, and reached out to experts in the field to help determine our product choices. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Bruce Pinker is an American Board of Podiatric Medicine certified foot and ankle surgeon that currently practices at Progressive Foot Care in White Plains, NY. He is passionate about the relationship between fashion and function when it comes to shoes, and believes that an ideal pair will serve both aesthetic desires and provide you with the support that you need.
Dr. Brad Schaeffer is a Board Certified Foot Surgeon with the ABFAS. He trained at a Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Reconstructive Surgical Residency Program at Hoboken University Medical Center. After residency, Dr. Schaeffer has continued training and crafting his skillset in cutting edge surgical techniques and regenerative medicine.
Katie Kommer is an outdoor gear and apparel writer, trail runner, climber, skier and backpacker based in Salt Lake City. In addition to writing for a variety of digital publications, such as Garage Grown Gear and Popular Mechanics, Kommer works as a gear guru on the sales floor at REI. She is also the co-founder of the blog Small Towns to Summits, which combines “storytelling and sociology in order to share how nature inspires and connects us all.”
Meet the Author
Gabrielle Hondorp has worked as a fitness and wellness gear reviewer since 2019. She has written for publications like Runner’s World, Health, SELF, Women’s Running, Sports Illustrated and more. Hondrop was a collegiate track and cross country athlete and remains an avid outdoorswoman. Her expertise informed the product selections included in this guide on the best hiking boots for women.
