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When you’re hitting the trail, or going on a multi-day trek, having the best womens hiking boots is absolutely crucial. While cute hiking boots are a plus, the most important factors should be comfort, traction, weight, and support. These are the most recommended styles according to our readers!
Most Comfortable Hiking Boots
Table Of Contents
Spoiled by my incredible Meindl leather waterproof hiking boots, it’s been a challenge for me to buy a replacement pair. While I absolute love my Meindls, I bought them to hike Everest Base Camp in winter, but they can get very heavy for the average hike in spring and summer.
Hiking Red River Gorge in summer with my Eddie Bauer Top (similar) and Trail Leggings and Meindl Boots
As I shopped for more lightweight boots, there were several factors that were non-negotiable for me:
- Waterproof: for mud, streams, and rain
- Traction: so I can traverse any terrain with confidence
- Breathability: because my feet swell in the heat
- Weight: so I wouldn’t want to throw them off a mountain after wearing them for several hours
Honestly, I prefer functionality over fashion when I hit the trails. I know how good it feels to have the right gear vs regular or fitness clothes that won’t keep me cool, sweat-free, and comfortable.
In a perfect world, I’d find stylish hiking boots that also ticked every one of my requirements, but this can be a bit of a challenge.
Great Sand Dunes with my Scarpa hiking boots, Patagonia Jacket, and Kirkland Merino Wool socks
My preference is neutral brown or grey colors and I avoid any hiking boots that have bright or pastel colors, because let’s face it, outdoor brands seem to offer women candy colors in their clothing vs clean and classic designs. (Tip: buy neutral colored shoe laces if you don’t like the ones that come with your boots.)
I also like the look of leather hiking boots because they look more like regular boots vs outdoor shoes, but they tend to be a bit on the heavier side.
The Scarpa boots I’m wearing in the above pic were an awesome find!
Don’t make my mistake and wait until last minute to buy boots. Start your research in advance and test out a couple of pairs so you have time to find the right shoes for your feet. The most popular styles get sold out quite quickly!
Here is our TFG reader round-up of the most cute hiking boots for women that also prioritize functionality, too.
What are the Best Womens Hiking Boots?
Spoiler alert: our readers love these three styles the best:
- Scarpa Moraine Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
- Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Boot
- Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boot
Scarpa Moraine Mid GTX Hiking Shoe
Scarpa Moraine Waterproof Hiking Boots
Before I tell you all about why the aforementioned styles are some of the most popular hiking boots, let me share a little about why I’m obsessed with my Scarpa boots!
First and most importantly, they have excellent traction. They’re also waterproof, supportive, and were comfortable with zero break in period.
I originally wanted the less expensive Merrell Moabs but they looked a bit too wide on me so I took a chance on these and they ended up being incredible.
As a bonus, they had no break in period. I hiked the small but challenging Great Sand Dunes in Colorado right after buying them and then spent several hours hiking Utah national parks daily for the following two weeks.
I normally wear a size 7 but based on the recommendation of the sales associate, I sized up to a 7.5 and this was a good choice allowing room for my toes not to touch the tip of the boots when hiking on inclines. The toe box was wider than normal, which I didn’t think was important for my narrow/medium size foot, but this may have contributed to their comfort.
Can’t recommend them enough!
Check out our Scarpa boots review to learn why these boots compare to other outdoor brands like Merrell or Keen!
Ariat Terrain Waterproof Hiking Boot
Ariat Terrain Waterproof Hiking Boots
These Ariat hiking boots have a robust and rugged, oiled full-grain leather which may contribute to why they’re the best-selling option on our list. These hiking shoes for women is made using the Waterproof PRO technology, keeping the water out and your feet dry, even in heavy rain and a classic style. Featuring a lightweight EVA midsole for superior shock absorption and the Duratread outsole for maximum wear resistance and flexibility, you’ll stay sure-footed and comfortable; A must have for any rider, hiker or hunter.
One user explains, “These hiking boots have seen many different climates and terrains, and I’ve been happy with their performance in all of them. Ice-crusted trails, rocky ledges, paths covered with two feet of fresh powder? This boot has your back.”
Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Boot
Merrell Moab Ventilator Hiking Boots with Arch Support
Our readers love Merrells for the outdoors. The above Merrell Boots have good arch support, are comfortable and even more, they are sustainable, made from recycled materials. They have to be one of the top hiking boots Amazon sells for a reason!
TFG readers rave about these lightweight waterproof hiking boots, “They are great! I hiked the Inca Trail in them. No blister or pain of any kind. I wear them on all my hikes now.”
Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Merrell Moab 2 Lightweight Hiking Shoes
Alternatively, for a more packable, lightweight option, consider the Merrell Moab 2 Hiking Waterproof Shoe if you don’t need much ankle support, are doing light hiking in the summer, or need the occasional pair of hiking boots for a long-term trip..
A reader shares, “The low-cut Merrell’s are a great option. They’re lightweight because they don’t go as high. I have a pair that I love and wear for all hiking unless I need the really intense ankle support for backpacking or similar.”
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot
Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boots Available in Wide Sizes
These durable, mid cut Columbia hiking boots are built for comfort. The feature seam-sealed waterproof construction to keep your feet dry, even in the wettest conditions. The signature Omni-grip traction rubber soles provide a high level of grip across the slippiest and crumbliest of terrains too.
A reviewer shares, “These waterproof hiking boots women held up against all different types of climates and weather on my road trip and they still look great! We went through water, desert, rain, and mud, and these boots held up fine.”
Columbia Redmond V2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Columbia Redmond Comfortable Hiking Shoe
For Columbia fans that prefer a lighter weight hiking shoe vs an ankle boot, try the Redmond waterproof boots. Available in a range of sizes, 5-12, this all-purpose hiker offers a multi-purpose option that’s durable and priced under $100.
They’re a more budget-friendly version of the Merrell Moabs and recommended for wide feet. However, whether or not they offer enough arch support is debatable. They may be best for low maintenance feet.
Timberland White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot
Timberland White Ledge Leather Hiking Boots Available in Wide Sizes
If you’re looking for leather hiking boots women love, in a more classic style, then consider the above option by Timberland. They have mid ankle height support and are waterproof for the wettest and coldest of conditions
One user shares, ”They were honestly very comfortable from the moment I put them on. ÷I wore them for 12 hours while making firewood and by the time I took them off that evening they were broke in. (My feet were still dry AND did not hurt!) The padding around the ankle and the tongue is comfortable without being too bulky.”
Vasque Breeze at Mid GTX Hiking Boot
Vasque Breeze Hiking Boots Available in Narrow and Wide Sizes
These Vasque hiking boots are comfortable and supportive. They have abrasion-resistant air mesh panels for breathability and a study sole.
TFG readers LOVE these boots, but recommend them more for dry and warm condition hikes. One reader says, “If you’re doing a trek where you may be at high altitude, but conditions will be dry (for example, Mount Kilimanjaro) you’d totally be fine with the Vasques.”
Another warns that she stumbled into an icy stream wearing hers, and although they were waterproof, they did leave her cold for the rest of the hike.
Remember to always cross rivers and rocks extra cautiously regardless of how much traction your shoes have in other terrain! I like using hiking poles for long or challenging hikes and recommend these by Trail Buddy.
KEEN Targhee 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Keen Targhee II Hiking Boots
If you want a boot that’s comfortable and breathable then check out these Keen hiking boots. Women like them for their sturdy rubber sole and find that they offer sturdy support around the ankle and heel for stability on uneven terrain.
While they cost about $150 at full price, some colors and sizes are available under $100 on Amazon. They offer seven colors in sizes 5-11 and have over 1,000 positive reviews!
Note that some reviews mention that they’re not waterproof but are good for wide feet.
Skechers Women’s Relaxed Fit Trego Alpine Trail Hiking Boot
Skechers Trego Alpine Lightweight Trail Hiking Boot
This lightweight trail hiking boots from Skechers has mesh fabric panels at tongue and collar for breathable comfort, while rubber all terrain traction outsole and relaxed fit design for a roomy comfortable fit. Full length cushioned offers air-cooled memory foam and removable insole, which makes it comfortable to use.
One wearer says, “They are comfy, not too bulky and best of all not one single blister. I have gone through many puddles in them and my feet have remained blissfully dry. Skechers sizes are always on the large size, but the thick hiking socks make them perfect. Very happy with my purchase.”
Best Hiking Boots Comparison Chart
| BRAND | MODEL | FEATURES | REVIEWS | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
|
Scarpa Moraine Mid GTX Hiking Shoe |
First and most importantly, they have excellent traction. They’re also waterproof, supportive, and were comfortable with zero break in period. | Check Price |
|
Ariat Terrain Waterproof Hiking Boot |
“These hiking boots have seen many different climates and terrains, and I've been happy with their performance in all of them.” | Check Price |
|
Merrell Moab Ventilator Mid Hiking Boot |
“They are great! I hiked the Inca Trail in them. No blister or pain of any kind. I wear them on all my hikes now.” | Check Price |
|
Merrell Moab 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe |
“They’re lightweight because they don’t go as high. I have a pair that I love and wear for all hiking unless I need the really intense ankle support for backpacking or similar.” | Check Price |
|
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot |
“These waterproof hiking boots women held up against all different types of climates and weather on my road trip and they still look great!” | Check Price |
|
Columbia Redmond V2 Waterproof Hiking Shoe |
They’re a more budget-friendly version of the Merrell Moabs and recommended for wide feet. | Check Price |
|
Timberland White Ledge Mid Ankle Boot |
”I wore them for 12 hours while making firewood and by the time I took them off that evening they were broke in.” | Check Price |
|
Vasque Breeze at Mid GTX Hiking Boot |
“If you’re doing a trek where you may be at high altitude, but conditions will be dry you’d totally be fine with the Vasques.” | Check Price |
|
KEEN Targhee 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot |
Women like them for their sturdy rubber sole and find that they offer sturdy support around the ankle and heel for stability on uneven terrain. | Check Price |
|
Skechers Women's Relaxed Fit Trego Alpine Trail Hiking Boot |
"They are comfy, not too bulky and best of all not one single blister. I have gone through many puddles in them and my feet have remained blissfully dry." | Check Price |
What Is Important to Consider When Purchasing Womens Hiking Boots?
Keep in mind the soles of the boots. One TFG reader shares this awesome advice. “Many boots will have thinner and lighter soles that put less strain on your ankles, but if they’re too thin you’ll feel every rock and crack after just a few miles. If the terrain you’ll be on is rugged with a lot of boulders, this will kill your feet. Try for a happy medium between thick and too thin.”
Also think about how supportive they are. Another TFG reader explains, “It’s also important to consider how much ankle support you really need, i.e., are you going to be carrying a heavy pack, do you have weak ankles, are you going to be going back down steep grades?”
Looking for some extra support? Check out our readers tried and tested recommendations for the best insoles to add to your walking boots for even more comfort.
How Do You Break In Your Trekking Boots?
TFG readers explain that you need to get your feet used to your boots before you wear them. It’s recommended you have about a month of wear in them before setting out on your big adventures. One gives this tip, “Wear them on all training hikes, with the pack weight you will carry.”
Any Advice To Avoid Blisters?
Blisters can be brutal and they can make a trail trip turn miserable. One TFG reader shares this awesome trick. “Pantyhose! The thin, knee-high kind. If you wear them under your socks, it reduces the rubbing that can cause blisters. I always use them when I’m breaking in a new pair of boots.”
Another point to mention is no matter how well your boots fit—if you don’t have well-fitting socks to go with them, then it’s not worth the bother! A TFG reader recommends, “Don’t skimp on socks, get the Bridgedales or other technical socks, and walk pain-free!”
Here are more recommendations for hiking socks!
How Do You Make Sure They Fit Properly?
If your womens walking boots don’t fit well, it’s a sure fire way to get a blister. TFG readers recommend visiting an outdoor store and trying them on. Lots even have fully trained staff who specialize in fitting hiking boots, so you can find ones that fit like a glove.
Also, consider choosing half a size up to leave room for movement when walking downhill.
How Do I Travel With Womens Outdoor Boots?
Women’s hiking boots can be the heaviest and bulkiest of the items you take with you on a backpacking trip, for this reason, we recommend that you wear them on the plane for your journey, to optimize the baggage allowance you have in your backpack.
What are your favorite women’s hiking boots? What do you recommend—let us know in the comments below!
Read the best travel shoes by category:
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Love all the information you provide on shoes. Sketchers are my favorite. I didn’t realize they had a hiking boot! Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.
I got the Merrill Moab 2 shoes based on this post. Big win! Super comfy and very little break in time. Thanks so much!!
Out of curiosity, what are the boots in the Landing/Article Headline Photo?
Hi Elizabeth, I am afraid that the image is just a stock photo used for this post so we unfortunately we are unsure of the brand ?
I just used my new Vasque Breeze hiking boots in Yellowstone and they were fantastic, thank you for this rec! Three long days in a row and still comfortable at the end. I did also try the Merrill Moab 2, Moab Flight & Siren Edge; and Columbia Redmond. None of them provided both the ankle support and comfort that my Vasque Breezes do.
I’d like to suggest New Balance Minimus 10v1, a non-waterproof low-profile shoe for hiking or trails. If you’re not carrying a heavy load and don’t need ankle support, these could be a great lightweight alternative to boots or trainers. They are low-drop shoes, so your feet may have to get used to them. If you have tried barefoot sneakers before you might love them. The Vibram soles provide great traction. Mine are black with a touch of navy on the sole. They are very lightweight and dry fast, so even when I get wet, I can change socks and have dry feet. These pack small, which is important to me. They are so light and comfortable that I forget about my feet when I wear these.
Hi Diane, thank you for sharing your recommendation for hiking boots with us! They sound fantastic! ?
Hey Alex,
So which did you choose?
I can personally vouch for number 5. They are great! I hiked the Inca Trail in them. No blister or pain of any kind. I wear them on all my hikes now. I was wondering if you have any info on shoes that are good for in the city and a light hike? Like somewhat fashionable hiking shoes? I’ve been on a quest because I’m going on an ATW trip. I will be mostly in cities, but I do like to hike and don’t want to find myself slipping on rocks with just your average sneaker. Yet I don’t want to look like I’m hiking in the city! It’s tough! Great site BTW!
Hi Sheri, thanks for your comment! The Nike Free tends to be the favorite for light hiking plus city shoe: http://amzn.to/1d15SEk
I now travel with this and I see many other female travelers wear this as well. Hope it works for you too 🙂
I would stay off KEEN shoes! Once, 90% of the sole detached from my shoe as I was descending a mountain in Norway! The shoe was less than 2 years old and used maybe 2 or 3 times 🙁
Customer service was useless.
Now I support Columbia. Have owned 2 and so far, it’s holding up.
Good to know, thanks Minty!
Hello Alex!
Keep in mind the soles of the boots. While many boots will have thinner and lighter soles that put less strain on your ankles, if they are too thin you’ll feel every rock and crack after just a few miles. If the terrain you’ll be on is rugged with a lot of boulders, this will kill your feet. Try for a happy medium between thick and too thin.
Get some sock liners too!
Thanks Christina!
I wonder what boots would fit my perculiar ankles – in my family, we have averagely-broad toes, but a narrow heel and ankle, with very pertrusive ankle bones.
Hmm…
The best option seems to go to an outdoor shop and speak to a pro. I just went 2 weeks ago and they measured my feet as well as recommended the exact boots that would be most appropriate for my feet. Try it!
I worked in the outdoor retail industry for years – and our store specialised in fitting hiking boots. It’s a bit embarassing how much I care about people getting the correct fit for their feet with boots! 1 hour of walking in boots that don’t fit your foot properly means everlasting blisters!
Took me ages to find a pair of boots that fit me well, and I ended up with Aku Ultra Lights. They are super lightweight, with a Gore Tex membrane so still waterproof and fairly breathable.
Another point to mention is no matter how well fitting your boots are – if you don’t have good well fitting socks to go with them, then it’s not worth the bother! So don’t skimp on socks, get the Bridgedales or other technical socks and walk pain free!
Hi Jen, wow thank you so much for your insight, and for the tip on socks! I think I need to go get my feet measured and fit properly – that’s the first step so I know my options. No blisters 🙁 Thanks again and cute blog!
I have the Ahnu boots in black and love them! I tried on Keens but the seemed really stiff and I wanted a little more flexibility in the foot. I also tried Merrells but didn’t find them nearly as comfortable in the arch.
Oh these Ahnus are calling my name!
I swear by Ahnu. I have terrible ankles and part of my daily work commute is a substantial uphill hike. I wear my Ahnu boots all day at work, all around town, hiking, and through the (admittedly mild Pacific Northwest) winter. They have substantial ankle support without being too stiff, bulky, or heavy.
It’s great to hear good feedback about Ahnu – thanks!
Another thing to think about with hiking boots is that you have to really try them on. I know this seems like an obvious thing, but fit is more important with technical gear. I have really tiny ankles with respect to my feet so most hiking boots did not fit tightly around my upper ankles and didn’t provide the ankle support I needed. It took years but I finally found my perfect pair (these: womensfashionsboots.com/fashions-boots/womens-glacier-boots) (funny that the link is “fashion boots”). Make sure the boots you choose fit whatever your feet/ankle needs are.
It’s also important to consider how much ankle support you really need, i.e. are you going to be carrying a heavy pack, do you have weak ankles, are you going to be going back down steep grades? Because if not, the the low-cut Merrell’s are a great option. They will be more lightweight because they don’t go as high. I have a similar pair that I love and wear for all hiking unless I need the really intense ankle support for backpacking or similar.
Best of luck! I can’t wait to hear what the trip is!
I’m very lucky that England has millions of outdoor shops so I’m definitely getting fitted for boots. I went to a shop yesterday and they even had a test ramp. It’s so exciting! Thanks for the tips 🙂
I bought a pair of Teva Reva Peak Mid eVent boots a few months ago and have been wearing then in for a few months now, in preparation for a big world trip next year which includes hiking in Nepal. (Woooo!)
So far, so good!
They look great – red! So I’m happy wearing them out. They are also super comfortable. I’m working my way up to a full day hike this weekend and a couple of days in a month or two.
I tried a pair of Scarpa boots but found them much too narrow and so swapped them for the Teva’s. Teva boots are made with a wider last, so fit a wider foot (I don’t have particularly wide feet, I just found the Scarpas way to tight)
Good luck finding your perfect pair 🙂
Thanks Pamela, Sounds like you have a very exciting trip coming up! Let me know how the Teva’s work on your test hike. There aren’t much hiking choices around where I live right now so I think I’ll be hitting the stair master at the gym 😉
Hi There! I am a long distance hiker and fell traveler. I think you should consider the weight of your pack and type of terrain. If I’m carrying a heavier pack I need a studier boot that will help manage the load so my ankles don’t get crunchy. For cold weather hiking I would suggest a leather boot. I have the Asolo Power Matic 200 boots. Gortex lined. Nice arch support, check them out! Pricey but worth the money. Your feet are pretty important to keep happy on a hike. A smart wool liner sock and thicker hiking sock and your good and warm. On your list, I have the Salmon quest for lighter and warmer weather hikes.
Good luck!
Hi there, thanks for your tips! The leather ones are for sure most appealing to me. I’m not carrying a super heavy pack but I will be in an extremely cold place. I don’t do many intense treks like this so I hope one good investment will hold me up for many years 🙂
I just completed the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) hiking 90 miles around Mont Blanc going up and down over passes each day. For my feet, wide in the front and narrow heels, I had great success with Hoka trail runners. If I were going to elevation with cold and snow I would wear my Asolo Stynger boots.
First, find boots that fit your feet. Look at the shape of your foot and find a boot that looks like it. Pretty simple advise.
Second, wear them on all training hikes, with the pack weight you will carry.
Lastly, learn how to cope with blisters See the website Fixing Your Feet fixingyourfeet.com. Know how to AVOID problems and have the supplies and know-how to treat blisters.
I never have had blister problems, until the TMB. Blisters can ruin your trip, and perhaps end it early.
Best wishes and I will look forward to hearing about your adventure.
Hi Betsy, thanks for all the great tips! Hope to do a training walk once a week, there aren’t many hilly options where I live 🙂 It’s so exciting!
Yeah, blisters can be brutal, eh? I don’t get them very often, but my sister does, and she has really suffered on a few of our trips. But we learned an awesome trick a few years ago that really works wonders: panty hose. The thin, knee-high kind. If you wear them under your socks, it reduces the rubbing that can cause blisters. I always use them when I’m breaking in a new pair of boots.
AWESOME TIP! I am definitely going to try that. Thanks!
How exciting, Alex!
Without giving away your destination, can you tell us how cold will it be on your trek? (i.e. near freezing? Or mostly in the 10C range?) And will you be trekking through a lot of snow? Are you looking at a lot of stream crossings?
I ask because the Vasque Breeze 2.0 have been my main boots for a few months now and I have really mixed feelings about them. One the one hand, they’re really light and comfortable. The Goretex lining works well and they provide decent ankle support. But I don’t think they’re as durable and protective as my dearly-departed leather hiking boots (made by Garmont).
I’m not sure that I’d want to walk through a lot of snow in the Vasques. And I don’t think it would provide as much protection from the cold as leather boots. For example, on a recent 2 day backpacking trip in the Sierras, I stumbled into an ice-cold stream and the front part of my boots ended up in the water. My toes got cold so quickly that I thought that water must have gotten in! Turns out it wasn’t water (thank you, Goretex!) but the fabric was so thin that I just felt the cold water immediately.
If you’re doing a trek where you may be at high altitude, but conditions will be dry (for example, Mt Kilimanjaro — when I did this in 2009 there was barely any snow on the trail) you’d totally be fine with the Vasques. But if you know you’re going to be going through more wet conditions like snow and streams, I wouldn’t feel comfortable taking the Vasque.
Just my 2 cents. Good luck with the boot search!
Hi Sivanny, AWESOME feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share it with me 🙂 Yes I will be hitting a very high altitude and doing it during the coldest time of the year – the main perk for me is that this is also the driest! Temperatures are supposed to be around 0 and 4 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and much colder at night. Scary!
A waterproof boot with Goretex is a must – I don’t want to take any chances in this weather. So much to think about! Thanks again for your 2 cents 🙂
Hey I have worked in the outdoor industry for many of years now and have tried numerous pairs of boots in different conditions and trains and still my go too boot is the Lowa Renagade! Its been voted one of the best hikes for many of years now and it’s untouchable! The Gore Tex will keep you dry and warm pluss you have a great Vibram sole! The upper on the boot is very heavy duty as well! These boots are a HEAVY DUTY boot but will have the lightness of the Ahnu! All in all hands down the best boot on the market! Hope this helps!
Wow sounds like the perfect boot. Thank you so much for sharing your feedback! I’ll have to check it out 🙂