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10 Best Womens Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

NORTIV 8 Womens Waterproof Hiking Boots Low Top Lightweight Outdoor Trekking Camping Trail Hiking Boots Size 8.5 M US SNHB211W, Grey/Blue

The NORTIV 8 Women's Waterproof Hiking Boots are a solid choice for women looking for reliable footwear for hiking and outdoor activities. These boots are designed with comfort in mind, featuring a lightweight and durable midsole. The advanced traction rubber soles provide good grip, especially on rugged terrain, which is essential for safety during hikes.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit
The fit is true to size, comfortable, and simply freaking cute.
Traction
Nice grip on bottom helps walk in any weather, keeping feet dry.
Waterproofing
Worn them in the rain and my feet stayed dry.
Weight
They aren't super light because they are actually substantial, heavy-duty boots.
#2
9.8 score

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Granite, 8.5

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed with several features that make it a strong choice for hiking enthusiasts. One of its key strengths is the waterproof membrane, which effectively keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape, making it suitable for wet and muddy trails. The pigskin leather and mesh upper contribute to both durability and breathability, which is crucial for long hikes. The boot is equipped with 100% recycled laces and webbing, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit
The fit is perfect—no breaking in needed, and they’re incredibly comfortable for long hikes.
Support
Ankle support is great and they make me walk better and with better form.
Traction
The rugged design ensures great traction on various terrains, and the waterproof feature is a huge plus, especially on rainy days or muddy trails.
Waterproofing
The rugged design ensures great traction on various terrains, and the waterproof feature is a huge plus, especially on rainy days or muddy trails.
Weight
I forget I’m wearing them, they are so comfortable.
#3
9.6 score

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped, Elk/Mountain Red, 7.5 M US

The Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped hiking boots are designed for women who enjoy outdoor adventures and need reliable footwear. One of the standout features is the advanced waterproof technology, ensuring that your feet stay dry even in wet conditions, thanks to the seam-sealed construction and the durable leather and suede materials. This makes them an excellent option for hikers facing varied weather. The boots also boast a lightweight TECHLITE midsole that provides comfort and good energy return, making it easier to walk long distances without fatigue.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit
Comfortable for hiking long distances with no discomfort or rubbing.
Support
Held my weight well and my feet never felt beat up despite wearing them for hours.
Traction
Lugs on the bottom provide safe walking traction.
Waterproofing
Kept my feet warm, dry, and comfortable in cold, snowy, and slushy conditions.
Weight
They never felt heavy even after hours of wear.
Durability
Lasted over 5 years, enduring very wet conditions like the Amazon rainforest while keeping feet dry.

Top 10 Best Womens Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Granite, 8.5

Fit: Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole
Support: medium support, nylon arch shank, EVA midsole
Traction: Vibram TC5+ rubber sole
Waterproofing: waterproof membrane
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Breathability: pigskin leather and mesh upper
Durability: pigskin leather

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped, Elk/Mountain Red, 7.5 M US

Support: Ankle-high design provides support
Traction: Omni-GRIP outsole offers solid grip
Waterproofing: Advanced waterproof technology, seam-sealed
Weight: Lightweight TECHLITE midsole
Breathability: Concern during warmer weather
Durability: Reinforced toe and heel structure

KEEN Women's Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Magnet/Atlantic Blue, 8.5

Fit: secure and comfortable
Support: robust support, mid-cut height, removable footbed
Traction: excellent traction, KEEN ALL-TERRAIN outsole
Waterproofing: KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane
Weight: relatively heavier
Breathability: reduced breathability
Durability: durable

Merrell womens Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoe, Rock/Bluestone, 9 US

Fit: Customizable fit with lace closure
Support: Kinetic Fit BASE removable insole
Traction: Rubber sole
Weight: 1.55 Pounds
Breathability: Mesh and TPU upper
Durability: Mesh material may wear out faster

Brooks Women’s Cascadia 17 Trail Running Shoe - White/Navy/Bittersweet - 7.5 Medium

Fit: DNA LOFT v2 midsole
Support: adaptable stability, rock plate, zonal pods
Traction: TrailTack Green outsole
Waterproofing: not fully waterproof
Weight: 3 Pounds
Breathability: canvas may not provide breathability
Durability: lacks rugged durability

ALTRA Women's Lone Peak 9 Trail Running Shoe, Dusty Olive, 10.5

Fit: snug, wrap-around
Support: ample support for high-intensity hikes
Traction: excellent traction on various terrains
Weight: not the lightest option
Breathability: mesh outer promotes breathability
Durability: durable DuraTread outsole

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Granite, 8 M US

Fit: Traditional lace closure with hooks
Support: Removable insole with heel cushioning
Traction: Rubber sole for various terrains
Waterproofing: Waterproof membrane
Weight: 15.6 ounces
Breathability: Pigskin leather and mesh upper
Durability: Pigskin leather and mesh upper

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe, Smoke, 7.5 M US

Fit: Traditional lace, Kinetic Fit insole
Support: Reinforced heel cushioning
Traction: Vibram TC5+ rubber sole
Waterproofing: Not waterproof
Weight: Lighter side
Breathability: Pigskin leather, breathable mesh lining
Durability: High-quality materials, robust Vibram sole
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Buying Guide for the Best Womens Hiking Shoes

Choosing the right women's hiking shoes is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience. The right pair will provide support, protection, and comfort, allowing you to focus on the trail ahead. When selecting hiking shoes, consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on, the weather conditions, and your personal preferences for fit and style. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing women's hiking shoes.
FitFit is the most important factor when choosing hiking shoes. A good fit ensures comfort and prevents blisters and other foot issues. Hiking shoes should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot, with enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes. When trying on shoes, wear the socks you plan to hike in and walk around to ensure they feel comfortable. If you have wide or narrow feet, look for brands that offer different width options.
SupportSupport refers to how well the shoe stabilizes your foot and ankle. This is important for preventing injuries, especially on uneven terrain. Hiking shoes come in different levels of support: low-cut shoes offer minimal ankle support and are best for easy trails, mid-cut shoes provide moderate support and are suitable for more challenging hikes, and high-cut boots offer maximum support for rugged terrain and heavy loads. Choose the level of support based on the difficulty of your hikes and your personal preference.
TractionTraction is the shoe's ability to grip the ground, which is crucial for maintaining stability on various surfaces. The outsole, or bottom part of the shoe, is responsible for traction. Look for shoes with deep, multi-directional lugs for better grip on loose or muddy terrain. For rocky or wet surfaces, shoes with a sticky rubber compound provide better traction. Consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on most often and choose a shoe with an appropriate outsole pattern.
WaterproofingWaterproofing keeps your feet dry in wet conditions, which is important for comfort and preventing blisters. Many hiking shoes come with a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, that keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape. However, waterproof shoes can be less breathable, so if you hike in hot, dry conditions, you might prefer non-waterproof shoes for better ventilation. Consider the typical weather conditions of your hikes when deciding on waterproofing.
WeightWeight affects how much energy you expend while hiking. Lighter shoes are generally more comfortable for long distances and faster hiking, while heavier shoes provide more support and durability. Lightweight hiking shoes are ideal for day hikes and well-maintained trails, while heavier boots are better for multi-day hikes and rough terrain. Think about the length and difficulty of your hikes to determine the right weight for your shoes.
BreathabilityBreathability refers to how well the shoe allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and dry. This is especially important in hot weather or during strenuous hikes. Shoes with mesh panels or breathable materials offer better ventilation. However, highly breathable shoes may not be as durable or protective as those with less ventilation. Consider the climate and intensity of your hikes when choosing the level of breathability you need.
DurabilityDurability is the shoe's ability to withstand wear and tear over time. Durable shoes are made with high-quality materials and reinforced in high-wear areas, such as the toe and heel. While more durable shoes may be heavier, they are a good investment if you hike frequently or on rough terrain. If you hike occasionally on well-maintained trails, you might prioritize other features over durability.

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