Having a stable and durable boot with sufficient cushion and arch support is crucial for a lengthy day of hiking. Many of us have encountered foot fatigue during hikes, which can diminish the enjoyment of a wonderful day spent outdoors. Whether you prefer casual weekend hikes or have an ambitious long-distance trek planned, investing in a high-quality pair of hiking boots will allow you to fully appreciate the surrounding scenery without distraction.
In our search for the best hiking boots for women, we explored a variety of terrains across the U.S. and beyond. We braved rain and snow, traversed mountains and riverbanks, all to identify the top choices. With renowned brands such as Merrell, Salomon, and more, we subjected numerous pairs of boots to rigorous testing. Our aim was to determine which ones maintain waterproof properties, offer adequate support, and above all, provide unrivaled comfort that will make you reluctant to remove them.
Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
I used to have many foot problems with hiking boots in the past, however, I deeply appreciate Oboz women’s hiking boots as they offer comfort and don’t result in any pain while hiking.
When it comes to any adventure that demands durability and support, the Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are my top choice.
I have used these during a 10-day backpacking trip in Alaska and a 4-day backpacking trip in Olympic National Park. Throughout both journeys, we experienced continuous rainfall, but my feet remained completely warm, dry, and free from blisters.
I had the opportunity to wear them during a 5-day backpacking trip in Sequoia National Park, where the terrain was challenging, with steep and rocky areas, and I had a heavy pack to carry. During this experience, I discovered that the shoes had a durable sole, a supportive insole, and excellent ankle support, which proved to be beneficial for carrying a heavy load. Furthermore, they had a moderate stiffness level that assisted me on uneven trails, while still ensuring a comfortable fit.
These boots fit me perfectly with the top hitting about an inch above my ankle bone, which is great because I have relatively flat, narrow feet. I particularly enjoy the way the back of the boot cups my heel, ensuring it stays in place during both uphill and downhill sections.
If you have wider feet, the shoes are available in a wide option as well. My suggestion is to choose a size that is 1/2 larger to provide your toes with some additional space in the toe box.
Topo Athletic Trailventure 2
The Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 is an ideal choice for vegan hikers or women who opt for a mesh-style shoe. Crafted entirely from synthetic materials, this vegan hiking boot incorporates a waterproof inner bootie to effectively repel moisture while remaining breathable.
The waterproofing of these shoes has been criticized by some women, making them unsuitable for very wet climates or conditions. However, they are extremely comfortable from the start and ideal for day hikes or overnight trips.
If bright colors are not your style, you are out of luck because these boots only come in bright colors.
Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR Hiking Boots
Although they hold the highest price tag on this list, the Zamberlan Vioz Lux GTX RR Hiking Boots are durably crafted and able to withstand the test of time with proper maintenance.
Featuring a waterproof leather upper, these shoes are designed to offer excellent ankle support during long backpacking trips carrying heavy loads. The grippy Vibram soles provide confidence on various types of terrain.
If you want a boot that is comfortable, durable, stylish, and will last for many seasons, these are a great choice for 4-season hiking and backpacking.
Merrell Women’s Moab 3 Mid
We had the opportunity to wear these durable boots for the first time on a four-hour hike and can confidently say that they break in effortlessly, ensuring your feet remain comfortable and well-supported. Despite being made of heavy-duty materials like we would expect from Merrell, they still manage to feel lightweight. When you put them on, you will immediately notice the secure and supportive feeling around your ankles and footpad, along with ample arch-support for all-day hikes. We were also instantly drawn to the vibrant appearance of Merrell’s limited edition collaboration with Unlikely Hikers, which is also offered in men’s sizes and a low-top version.
We were pleased to find that the boots easily repel debris and moisture, making it unnecessary to be concerned about walking in mud, snow, or water. Additionally, the boots are suitable for hiking in both cold and warm weather and are breathable enough that we did not experience excessive sweating in our feet. The traction is exceptionally secure, allowing us to navigate wet and icy rocks, steep slopes, and rough terrain without slipping. Regardless of the hikes you have in mind, these boots are well-prepared for any challenge.
Danner Mountain 600 Waterproof Hiking Boot
Upon first glance, you will immediately be struck by the impressive appearance and superior quality of these leather boots from renowned hiking brand Danner. We were particularly impressed by the attractive and robust look of the boots, due to the outer leather which presents a natural and well-used aesthetic. As a result of this design, the boots do not exhibit significant signs of wear and tear even after extensive use. Although the ankle area may feel somewhat rigid upon initial wear, a brief walk will quickly cause them to stretch out and become pleasantly soft to the touch.
These boots offered ample ankle support and cushioning for the balls of our feet while hiking in the woods or walking on a sandy lakebed. The soles of the boots provided a good grip when climbing over boulders and descending hills, and their thickness prevented us from feeling any rocks or branches beneath our feet. It is worth noting that these boots are not as breathable as those with mesh uppers, and they did make our feet sweat. Therefore, they may be most suitable for colder weather hikes, even when wearing thinner socks.
Zamberlan 335 Circe Low GTX Hiking Shoes
The Zamberlan 335 Circe Low GTX Hiking Shoes are a great choice for hikers seeking a more versatile shoe that doesn’t have a bulky ankle. They have suede-like uppers and durable Vibram soles, with Gore-tex features for waterproofing, rock guards on the toe box, and mesh panels for airflow. These shoes seem capable of enduring long distances, as they maintain their traction on various terrains such as gravel, sand, grass, and concrete paths, providing excellent grip even in rainy conditions. Despite multiple hikes, the soles appear almost new and the uppers remain in excellent condition.
These hiking shoes provide excellent fit. They offer the same rigid support and stability as hiking boots, yet they are lightweight and adaptable enough to be worn as everyday walking shoes. They are extremely comfortable for long days and do not require a break-in period to prevent blisters or hot-spotting issues. If you are in search of a hiking shoe that can withstand hours of use while still feeling great, this pair meets all the criteria.
