The 11 Best Hiking Boots for Women of 2021

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Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot at Amazon

"The classic, waterproof hiking boot is textured for traction, helping you confidently navigate a range of trails."

Best Budget:

Mountain Warehouse Adventurer Waterproof Hiking Boots at Amazon

"Affordable without skimping on features, the pair is both supportive and breathable, while the rubber sole offers plenty of grip."

Best Lightweight:

The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid FutureLight at Thenorthface.com

"Lightweight but durable, it's lined with protective toe caps and heel overlays, keeping your feet supported on your hikes."

Best Waterproof:

KEEN Women’s Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Shoes at Amazon

"Waterproof and designed to withstand mud, it's a solid shoe for dealing with a downpour and the aftermath."

Best Cushioned:

Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes at Amazon

"Its EVA foam footbed is contoured to support your arches and your heels while its air cushioning absorbs shock to keep you stable."

Best for Beginners:

Salomon OUTline GTX Hiking Shoes at Backcountry.com

"Ideal for beginners who may find hiking shoes bulky, it won't weigh you down with its shock-absorbing footbed and toe caps."

Best Ventilated:

Oboz Sawtooth II BDry Hiking Shoes at Amazon

"Perfect for long, hot treks, the shoe boasts a durable upper, lined with moisture-wicking mesh panels to keep your feet cool."

Best Insulated:

XPETI Women's Mid High-Top Waterproof Hiking Boot at Amazon

"Designed for cold weather, the interior of the shoe is insulated to keep your feet warm at temperatures as low as 13 degrees."

Best for Rock Climbing:

La Sportiva TX Guide Rock Climbing Shoes at Amazon

"Fit for trail runners and rock climbers, it's distinguished by its dual-compound outsole, which offers traction and grip."

Best for Wide Feet:

Hi-Tec Skamania Waterproof Shoe at Zappos

"Complete with a wide, roomy toe box, its padded collar promises a snug fit, while its grippy outsole offers plenty of traction."

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQs
Why Trust Verywell Fit?

Hiking is better in the right pair of shoes. (Or perhaps it’d be more precise to say: Hiking can be horrible in the wrong pair of shoes). If you go hiking every weekend, you undoubtedly understand what a difference the right pair of hiking boots can make.

Great hiking shoes protect your feet from the elements, give you all the grip you need, and keep you comfortable after hours of trekking. Meanwhile, improper shoes can leave your feet wet, uncomfortable, and unsupported—which can be incredibly frustrating, even if you only hike a couple of times a year.

The good news is: Great hiking boots abound. And since there are so many options on offer, you can easily find a pair that suits your affinity for hiking—and your budget.

Here are the best hiking boots for women worth considering for your next trek.

Buy on Amazon Buy on Columbia.com

Pros

Lightweight
Waterproof
Durable—crafted from a combination of leather and suede
Comfortable, cushioned interior
Versatile—features an all-terrain rubber outsole

Cons

Some sizes and colors are more expensive than others

The Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a classic hiking boot that promises a comfortable, lightweight feel—and plenty of durability. The boot is crafted from a combination of leather and suede. And since it’s waterproof, you won’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain.

The boot’s all-terrain rubber outsole is textured for traction, helping you confidently navigate a range of trails during different times of the year. And since the interior of the boot is lined with ample cushioning, it promises to keep you comfortable on even your longest hikes.

Size Range: Women's 5 through 12 | Width Options: Standard and wide | Waterproof: Yes

Buy on Amazon Buy on Mountainwarehouse.com

Pros

Lightweight
Waterproof
Comfortable, cushioned interior
Interior lined with breathable mesh for hot weather

Cons

Not available in wide widths

The Mountain Warehouse Adventurer Hiking Boot is a lightweight, waterproof hiking boot that’s genuinely budget-friendly. The boot’s synthetic upper promises to be durable, but lightweight—offering plenty of protection without sacrificing breathability. And since the shoe’s interior is lined with breathable mesh, you can rest assured knowing you’ll stay cool and comfortable—even when it’s hot out.

The shoe’s textured rubber sole offers plenty of grip, and its waterproof design will give you the confidence to tackle trails, even on rainy days. To top things off, the shoe’s footbed is cushioned for comfort—with added padding designed specifically to support your toes and arches.

Size Range: Women's 6 through 10.5 | Width Options: Standard | Waterproof: Yes

The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid FutureLight

Buy on Thenorthface.com

Pros

Lightweight—crafted from breathable, woven fabric
Waterproof
Comfortable, featuring a padded midsole
Features reflective webbing on the heel for visibility at night

Cons

Not available in wide widths

The North Face Ultra Fastpack III Mid FutureLight is a fan-favorite in the lightweight hiking shoe space. The lightweight shoe is crafted from a breathable woven fabric, but it doesn’t skimp on durability. Protective toe caps and heel overlays line the shoes, keeping your feet supported on your hikes. And since the shoes are waterproof, you can take them out in any weather.

The shoe’s textured outsole promises plenty of grip, and the reflective webbing lining its heel will help you stay visible in low-light conditions. Since the shoe’s midsole is padded with North Face’s Energy-Returning foam, you can expect your steps to feel cushioned and comfortable.

Size Range: Women's 5 through 12 | Width Options: Standard | Waterproof: Yes

Buy on Amazon Buy on REI

Pros

Lightweight—crafted from breathable textile
Waterproof
Durable—features mud shields
Comfortable—features dual-density EVA foam cushioning
Versatile—features an all-terrain rubber outsole

Cons

Not available in wide widths
Low-cut design may not be for everyone

The KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Shoe isn’t just waterproof—it’s also designed to withstand mud. This makes the shoe a great pick for dealing with rain and handling the terrain you’ll find yourself in the moment the rain stops.

The bulk of the shoe is crafted from a breathable, waterproof textile. And the shoe comes equipped with mud shields, designed to further protect your feet (and to help your hiking shoes last as long as possible). The shoe’s all-terrain rubber outsole promises plenty of traction. And its dual-density EVA foam promises to cushion your stride every time you take a step.

Size Range: Women's 5 through 11 | Width Options: Standard | Waterproof: Yes

Buy on Amazon Buy on Zappos Buy on REI

Pros

Waterproof
Comfortable—cushioned heel
Versatile—designed for rain or shine
Contoured footbed is designed to support your heels and arches

Cons

Low-cut design may not be for everyone

The Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe is a classic low-cut hiking shoe that’s designed for durability and cushioned for comfort. The shoe’s suede upper promises to protect your feet, while ample mesh panels keep them cool and comfortable. And since the shoe is waterproof, you can rest assured knowing your feet will stay dry—even on rainy days.

What really sets the shoe apart, though, is all the comfortable features it boasts. The shoe’s EVA foam footbed is contoured to support your arches and your heels. Its heel comes equipped with Merrell Air Cushioning, which promises to absorb shock and keep you stable. And its bellowed tongue promises a snug fit that will help you keep debris out.

Size Range: Women's 5 through 12 | Width Options: Standard and wide | Waterproof: Yes

Buy on Backcountry.com Buy on REI

Pros

Lightweight—feels like a running shoe, but with added support
Waterproof
Durable
Comfortable—features protective toe caps
Versatile—features a textured outsole for varied terrain

Cons

Not available in wide widths
Low-cut design may not be for everyone

The Salomon OUTline GTX Hiking Shoe boasts the feel of a running shoe—combined with the durability of a hiking shoe. This makes the shoe a particularly great pick for beginners, who may find traditional hiking shoes heavy or bulky.

The lightweight hiking shoe is waterproof, so it promises to keep your feet dry—no matter what the weather is doing. And its shock-absorbing footbed will keep your feet feeling supported. The shoe comes equipped with protective toe caps, which will help you comfortably navigate a range of terrain. And its textured outsole will give you all the grip you need to confidently tackle trails.

Size Range: Women's 5 through 12 | Width Options: Standard | Waterproof: Yes

Buy on Amazon Buy on REI

Pros

Highly Breathable—leather upper is lined with moisture-wicking mesh panels
Waterproof
Durable—features toe caps, heel counters, and high-friction outsoles

Cons

Low-cut design may not be for everyone

The Oboz Sawtooth II BDry Hiking Shoe is a durable hiking shoe that’s ventilated to keep you comfortable on long, hot treks. The shoe boasts a durable leather upper, which is lined with breathable, moisture-wicking mesh panels to keep your feet cool and comfortable as you hike.

What’s nice? Despite its breathability, the shoe still manages to be waterproof. And it boasts a number of durable, protective features—like toe caps, heel counters, and high-friction outsoles—that you might expect to find in a heavier, bulkier shoe.

Size Range: Women's 6 through 11 | Width Options: Standard and wide | Waterproof: Yes

XPETI Women's Thermator Mid High-Top Waterproof Hiking Outdoor Boot

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Waterproof
Durable—features a rubber outsole for added grip
Comfortable—features an EVA foam midsole
Insulated—should keep your feet warm at temperatures as low as 13 degrees

Cons

Not available in wide widths

The XPETI Thermator Waterproof Hiking Boot is a sturdy hiking boot designed with cold weather in mind. The shoe is crafted from waterproof mesh and finished with a waterproof Hydroshield Membrane that promises to keep your feet dry, even on snowy days.

Even better: The interior of the shoe is insulated to keep your feet warm at temperatures as low as 13 degrees. The shoe’s rubber outsole offers plenty of grip, and its molded heel and toe caps promise to keep your feet supported and protected.

Since the shoe boasts an EVA foam midsole, you can rest assured knowing you’ll be pretty comfortable on your cold-weather treks.

Size Range: Women's 6 through 11 | Width Options: Standard | Waterproof: No

Buy on Amazon Buy on REI

Pros

Lightweight
Durable—features protective heel counters and toe caps
Good for climbing—features a complex lacing system for a secure fit

Cons

Not available in wide widths

The La Sportiva TX Guide Approach Shoe is a lightweight hiking shoe fit for trail runners and rock climbers, alike. The shoe’s low-cut design offers the lightweight feel of a running shoe, which will help you nimbly navigate hikes and climbs. And its complex lacing system will help you get a snug, secure fit that feels just right.

Like many hiking shoes, the La Sportiva TX Guide Approach Shoe comes equipped with protective heel counters and toe caps. But what sets it apart is its dual-compound outsole. The front of the outsole is crafted from Vibram Megagrip rubber—a grippy material that’s great for climbing. And the back is made of Vibram Idrogrip rubber—a more durable material designed for “braking” or holding yourself in place.

Size Range: Women's 6 through 11 | Width Options: Standard | Waterproof: Yes

Buy on Zappos

Pros

Lightweight
Waterproof
Comfortable—features a wide, roomy toe box
Versatile—features a grippy rubber outsole for varied terrain

Cons

Wide toe box may be too roomy for those with narrow feet

The Hi-Tec Skamania Waterproof is a solid hiking shoe that’s great for those with wide feet. Crafted from a blend of high-performance mesh and breathable suede, the shoe promises to hold up in a variety of circumstances. Its padded collar promises a snug, comfortable fit, and its grippy rubber outsole promises plenty of traction.

The shoe’s availability in wide widths makes it a great pick for those with wide feet—and its wide, roomy toe box makes it an even better one. While the shoe’s midsole is lined with plush EVA foam, it also comes equipped with a molded insole that you can leave in for added padding—or remove to give your feet a little more room.

Size Range: Women's 5 through 11 | Width Range: Standard and wide | Waterproof: Yes

Buy on Amazon Buy on Moosejaw.com

Pros

Lightweight—made of durable suede and breathable mesh
Waterproof
Comfortable—features a padded interior
Versatile—features a grippy rubber outsole for varied terrain

Cons

May be too narrow for those with wide feet

It can be hard to find hiking boots in narrow widths. But since Teva shoes tend to run narrow, their hiking boots may be an excellent pick for those with narrow feet. Of course, this isn’t the only thing the Teva Sugarpine Hiking Boot has to offer. The boot is crafted from durable suede and breathable mesh—a combination that promises to keep your feet both protected and comfortable.

Since the shoe is waterproof, you can wear it on a rainy day. And its sleek design will help you shed mud as you do. Its padded interior will keep your feet cushioned and comfortable. And its grippy rubber outsoles will help you nimbly navigate a range of terrain.

Size Range: Women's 5 through 11 | Width Range: Standard | Waterproof: Yes

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a classic hiking boot, you can’t go wrong with the Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Shoe (view on Amazon). The boot promises to be durable, but lightweight. And since the boot boasts ample cushioning, it should be comfortable enough to wear on even your longest treks.

If you’d prefer a budget-friendlier boot, the Mountain Warehouse Adventurer Hiking Boot (view on Amazon) is another great pick. Durable, waterproof, and comfortable, the boot offers everything you could want from a hiking shoe. Plus, its lightweight feel makes it a great pick for beginners—who may feel weighed down by heavier options.

What to Look for in a Hiking Boot for Women

Size Range

A great shoe is useless if it doesn’t fit. So while this one pretty much goes without saying, make sure the shoe comes in your size before buying it. (And remember to check the reviews to see if a shoe tends to run large or small!)

Width Range

The size of your feet is one key consideration, but the width of your feet is another. If you have wide feet, look for hiking shoes that come in wide widths. And if you have narrow feet, look for hiking shoes that tend to run narrow. (While many hiking shoes are available in wide widths, it’s harder to find hiking shoes available in narrow widths).

Water Resistance

If you go hiking infrequently, you may not think it’s necessary to spring for a pair of waterproof boots. But the truth is, it’s ridiculously easy to find hiking boots that are waterproof—and you can find them at just about any price point. So if there’s any possibility that you’ll be hiking near water or mud, it’s worth it to purchase a pair with this feature.

FAQs

Is it OK to wear running shoes for hiking?

Yes, you can wear running shoes while hiking—especially if your shoes were specifically designed for trail running. That said, running shoes don’t offer many of the features found in hiking boots. Running shoes may be lightweight, protective, and comfortable. But many of them are not waterproof, and very few boast the heavy, grippy soles that hiking boots have. So if you have no other option, you can probably get away with wearing your go-to sneakers. But you’d usually be better off in a pair of hiking boots.

How should hiking boots fit?

Your hiking boots should feel snug and secure, but not tight. If your shoes are too loose, they might blister your feet or let debris in. And if they’re too tight, they might leave you uncomfortable for hours on end. A good rule of thumb: Try your boots on with the socks you plan to wear while hiking —and at the end of the day or after exercise. Your feet may swell after hours of hiking, and you want your shoes to fit right at both the start and the end of your hike.

Why Trust Verywell Fit?

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

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