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For adventurous women exploring the great outdoors, selecting the best hiking boots is a crucial decision. According to avid hiker and guidebook author Erin Gifford of GoHikeVirginia.com, the ultimate factor is finding the right fit. “Protecting your ankles, providing proper support, and preventing pesky blisters is paramount, as one wrong step on a tangled tree root can be perilous,” she says.
Weight, durability, and traction are also vital when shopping for hiking boots, as well as breathability, which Gifford believes is a game changer. “Like hiking clothes that help you stay cool and dry, breathability is just as important in hiking boots to keep your feet comfortable,” says Gifford.
Our best overall choice for women’s hiking boots, KEEN Women’s Targhee 2 Mid-Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, ticks all those boxes. These boots are comfortable, lightweight, waterproof, durable, and reasonably priced. We’ve rounded up our top picks for women’s best hiking boots in six categories.
Our picks for the best women’s hiking boots
Good hiking boots for women
Best overall: KEEN Women’s Targhee 2 Mid-Height Waterproof Hiking Boots
Photograph courtesy Amazon
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Why we like it: KEEN Women’s Targhee 2 Mid Height Waterproof hiking boots receive high marks from consumers. Their moisture-wicking lining and sturdy yet lightweight design, including a roomy toe box, make them both durable and comfortable.
The boots feature a breathable mesh panel to keep feet cool and dry, and a contoured heel lock for a secure fit. They’re also equipped with a robust rubber toe cap for added protection and a rubber outsole with multi-directional lugs for superior traction, which is ideal for tackling muddy and rocky terrain.
Keep in mind: The boots’ modest ankle height may leave them vulnerable to moisture infiltration in deep waters or heavy downpours.
Product details: Weight: 1.78 lbs | Waterproof: Yes | Materials: Mesh, rubber outsole, ethylene vinyl acetate midsole | Heel height: 2.44 in | Outsole: Rubber | Wide-width sizes available: No
Best waterproof hiking boots for women: Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot
Photograph courtesy Zappos
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Why we like it: The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus is a very versatile boot that can be worn for everyday hikes or everyday errands. Its lightweight construction and robust waterproofing also make it reliable in a variety of weather conditions.
Crafted from a single piece of leather, this boot is designed with minimal seams and reinforced toe and heel barriers for added durability. The lacing hooks extend up the ankle, ensuring a snug and secure fit for those carrying heavy packs or prone to ankle twists.
Keep in mind: The traditional all-leather design of this boot can be relatively stiff, requiring a “breaking in” period.
Product details: Weight: 1.75 lbs | Waterproof: Yes | Materials: Leather, suede, mesh, rubber outsole, Techlite midsole | Heel height: 1.5 in | Wide-width sizes: Yes
Best lightweight hiking boots for women: The North Face Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof Boots
Photograph courtesy Zappos
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Why we like it: The North Face’s Hedgehog 3 Mid Waterproof Boots have a sleek design reminiscent of a trail running shoe. The padding in the heel makes them comfortable for hiking and occasional running. They’re best for fast hikes without putting a lot of extra weight on your back.
The boots have impressive traction, and their flexible inner rubber ensures a firm grip on slick surfaces. The boots’ high ankle opening has ample coverage for crossing streams or trudging through soggy brush.
Keep in mind: The Hedgehog runs a bit narrow, so consider that if you have wider feet. Unfortunately, this shoe does not come in wide sizes.
Product details:Weight: 1.19 lbs | Waterproof: Yes | Materials: Leather, faux leather, mesh, rubber outsole, ethylene vinyl acetate midsole | Heel height: 8 mm heel/toe offset | Wide-width sizes: No
Best hiking boots for women with wide feet: Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Photograph courtesy Zappos
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Why we like it: The design of the Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot fits a wide range of foot shapes. With its combination of leather and mesh, the boot provides sufficient breathability, as well as improved Vibram traction and well-padded ankle support.
The extra room in the toe box makes these boots a great choice for those with wider feet, and Merrell sells a wide version for those seeking even more room. The boot contains the Merrell Air Cushion, a feature that absorbs shock when encountering debris on the trail.
Keep in mind: While the boot is well-padded at the ankles, some customers note that the boot could use additional cushioning in the Achilles area, which is vulnerable during lengthier hikes.
Product details: Weight: 2.06 lbs | Waterproof: Yes | Materials: Leather, mesh, rubber outsole | Heel height: 2 in | Wide-width sizes: Yes
Best backpacking boots for women: La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots – Women’s
Photograph courtesy Amazon
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Why we like it: La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boot is a fantastic all-season hiking boot, ideal for extended backpacking trips. Its Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole and impact brake system provide excellent traction and grip.
The Gore-tex Surround membrane protects feet from wetness while allowing them to breathe and release excess moisture. In addition, the combination of compression EVA-molded midsoles and the Ortholite 4mm insoles provides exceptional support and padding in the heel and forefoot.
Keep in mind: Customers have noted that the laces could be more durable and easier to replace. The boot is also on the heavier side, expensive, and can take a long time to dry compared to other models.
Product details: Weight: 2.14 lbs | Waterproof: Yes | Materials: Leather, rubber outsole, ethylene vinyl acetate | Heel height: 1.6 in | Wide-width sizes: Yes
Best affordable hiking boots for women: BEARPAW Women’s Corsica
Photograph courtesy Amazon
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Why we like it: BEARPAW Women’s Corsica hiking boots offer great value. They’re also waterproof and treated with BearCoat Rain & Stain Repellent for added protection. Customers note that the boots feel very supportive, lightweight, and comfortable right out of the box.
Keep in mind: Shoe sizes run small, so it’s best to order a half-size to a size up. Traction could also be better.
Product details: Weight: 3.375 lbs | Waterproof: Yes | Materials: Suede, nylon, faux leather, rubber outsole, ethylene vinyl acetate midsole | Heel height: 1.5 in | Wide-width sizes: Yes
How we chose the best hiking boots for women
The following factors informed the selection process for the best hiking boots for women.
Third-party reviews: I turned to third-party reviews, seeking authentic and unbiased opinions from women and product testers who hiked in various settings. Their insights provided a wealth of information beyond the manufacturer’s description.
Brand reputation: Established brands often have a track record for quality, which can be a proxy for a product’s expected performance. A reputable brand typically sells higher-quality products and has better customer service.
Weight: The ideal boot balances being lightweight, minimizing fatigue, and providing enough substance to safeguard and support the foot.
Material: The materials used in boot construction affect waterproofing, breathability, and durability.
Tips for buying women’s hiking boots
Comfort
Comfort is paramount as it can determine the overall hiking experience. Ill-fitting boots may cause blisters or discomfort, leading to a less enjoyable hike or injury. Women should look for a boot with ample room in the toe box, a snug fit around the heel, and adequate arch support to prevent discomfort over long distances.
Support
When selecting a hiking boot, supporting the ankles and the sole are key considerations. The boot should include sturdy ankle protection to reduce the risk of sprains, which is particularly important when carrying a heavy backpack or traversing uneven terrain.
Traction
Consider a boot’s outsole’s pattern and material. Deep, multi-directional lugs made of a sticky rubber compound provide the best traction on different surfaces and also aid in stability.
Water resistance
Water-resistant hiking boots keep feet dry and prevent conditions such as trench foot, which can occur when feet are wet for extended periods. While Gifford doesn’t believe any boots can be entirely waterproof, she contends that breathability is critical, stating, “If I do end up crossing any streams when I hike, I want my hiking boots to be able to dry quickly with airflow through my boots.”
Weight
While heavier boots may provide more support and durability and are suitable for more challenging terrains, lightweight boots can offer ease of movement, less fatigue, and more hiking enjoyment.
Durability
Durability is essential because it ensures that the boots can withstand the rigors of the trail. Consider boots made with leather for maximum durability and weather resistance, though they may require longer break-in time and can be heavier. Synthetic materials, however, are lighter and often more breathable but may offer a different level of protection or longevity than leather.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between hiking shoes and hiking boots?
Hiking shoes, often resembling reinforced running shoes, are generally lighter and more pliable than hiking boots. They typically have a low-cut design that does not cover the ankle. In contrast, hiking boots have a higher cut that typically extends above the ankle. The construction of hiking boots is generally more robust than hiking shoes, often incorporating more durable materials for waterproofing and resistance to abrasion.
Do you size up or down for hiking boots?
While everyday shoes are often selected for a perfect fit, hiking boots must provide additional support and moisture-wicking properties. One key reason is that feet swell during prolonged walking, especially in warm conditions or on long hikes.
Usually, it’s advisable to consider boots that are half a size to a full size larger than one’s average shoe size. However, this isn’t a universal rule, as the shape of the boot, the volume of one’s foot, personal preference for tightness, and the specific brand’s sizing can all influence the best fit.
Is it better to have loose or tight hiking boots?
The best fit for hiking boots is neither tight nor loose but snug enough to provide support while leaving room for natural foot expansion and movement. A boot that is too tight can cause blisters, restrict circulation, or lead to numbness, while boots that are too loose can result in inadequate support, leading to rolled ankles and insufficient grip.
A well-fitting boot should have enough room to wiggle the toes while holding the heel firmly in place. The laces should provide adjustable tension to accommodate foot swelling, typically during longer hikes. Before purchasing, Gifford recommends trying boots on with hiking socks to make sure they hug your feet and allow you to wiggle your toes.
Taryn White is a freelance writer covering a variety of topics for publications including Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Smithsonian Magazine, and more. Follow her on Instagram.
*Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication.
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