10 Best Women’s Hiking Boots

When you’re hitting the trails, the last thing you want is discomfort slowing you down. A reliable hiking boot is key to ensuring your feet stay comfortable, supported, and dry all day long. Whether you’re embarking on a short, casual hike or preparing for a multi-day adventure, the right pair of boots can make all the difference in helping you tackle challenging terrain with ease.

We’ve spent time testing various hiking boots in diverse conditions — from rocky mountain paths to muddy riverbanks — to find the 10 Best Women’s Hiking Boots. Featuring top-tier brands like Oboz, Merrell, and others, we assessed durability, waterproofing, comfort, and support to help you find the perfect boot for your next adventure.


Best Women’s Hiking Boots:

Photo Title Buy
Merrell Women's Moab...image Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Check Price
Oboz Women's Katabatic...image Oboz Women's Katabatic Mid B-DRY Waterproof Hiking Boot Check Price
Asolo Women's Falcon...image Asolo Women's Falcon EVO GV Hiking Boot Check Price
KEEN Women's Targhee...image KEEN Women's Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots Check Price
La Sportiva Womens...image La Sportiva Womens Nucleo High II GTX Waterproof Hiking Boot Check Price
Lowa Women's Renegade...image Lowa Women's Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot Check Price
SCARPA Women's Charmoz...image SCARPA Women's Charmoz HD Waterproof Boots Check Price
HOKA ONE ONE...image HOKA ONE ONE Kaha 2 Gtx Unisex Shoes Check Price
ALTRA Women's Lone...image ALTRA Women's Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid 2 Trail Running Shoe Check Price
Columbia Women's Strata...image Columbia Women's Strata Trail Mid Waterproof Boots Check Price

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Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot

What to Consider

These boots feature a waterproof membrane that seals out water while allowing moisture to escape, ensuring your feet stay dry even in wet conditions. The pigskin leather and mesh upper offer a balance of durability and breathability. Metal hook traditional lace closure provides a secure fit, and the bellows tongue helps keep debris out of the boots.

The protective toe cap ensures added safety on rocky trails, and the breathable mesh lining keeps your feet cool throughout the day. With a rubber sole and a shaft height of 3 1/2 inches, these boots provide excellent support and stability for various terrains.

The Details: Available Sizes: 5-14 U.S Size | Upper: Pigskin leather, mesh | Sole Material: Rubber | Waterproof: Yes (Waterproof membrane) | Closure: Lace-up with metal hooks | Shaft Height: 3 1/2 inches | Protective Features: Toe cap, bellows tongue | Lining: Breathable mesh


Oboz Women’s Katabatic Mid B-DRY Waterproof Hiking Boot

Oboz Women's Katabatic Mid B-DRY Waterproof Hiking Boot

What to Consider

The Oboz Women’s Katabatic Mid B-DRY Waterproof Hiking Boot is a high-performance, durable boot perfect for hikers who need a reliable option for lighter, faster travel on the trail. Its B-DRY waterproofing system ensures that your feet stay dry in wet conditions, while the breathable mesh allows moisture to escape for comfort on long hikes.

These boots feature abrasion-resistant breathable mesh with B-DRY waterproof membrane, offering a balance of durability and breathability while keeping your feet dry. The reinforced TPU overlays enhance protection, reducing weight and increasing durability.

The O FIT insole provides a custom fit, delivering unmatched comfort, support, and performance, while the single-density EVA midsole offers excellent cushioning. The ESS plate underfoot ensures added protection and tuned stiffness for stability.

The Details: Available Sizes: 5-12 (varies by color) | Upper: Abrasion-resistant breathable mesh, B-DRY waterproof membrane, reinforced TPU overlays | Sole Material: Trail Tread Rubber Compound | Waterproof: Yes (B-DRY waterproofing system) | Closure: Lace-up
| Lining: Breathable mesh | Footbed: O FIT Insole for custom comfort | Midsole: Single-density EVA with ESS plate for stability


ASOLO Women’s Falcon Evo Gv Hiking Boot

ASOLO Women's Falcon Evo Gv Hiking Boot

What to Consider

These boots are a bit heavier compared to other options, so they may not be the best choice for those looking for ultra-lightweight footwear.

Designed with water-resistant suede and high-tenacity nylon, these boots are built to withstand the elements while providing flexibility and comfort. The Gore-Tex lining ensures your feet stay dry while maintaining breathability, making them perfect for long hikes in changing weather conditions.

The boots feature a secure and supportive fit, especially around the ankle area, thanks to the anatomical footbed. Despite their sturdy construction, they are surprisingly lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue on long hikes. The Vibram Redster sole with MegaGrip compound provides outstanding traction, making it easy to navigate through wet, dry, or rocky trails without slipping.

The Details: Available Sizes: 6-10 (US) | Weight: 490 grams per half pair (size 8 UK) | Upper: Water-resistant suede and nylon | Lining: Gore-Tex for waterproofing | Sole: Vibram Redster with MegaGrip compound | Resoleable: Yes

Related: The Best Hiking Watches for Outdoor Adventures


KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot

KEEN Women's Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boot


What to Consider

These boots offer great value for the price, but they may not be the most lightweight option for those seeking ultra-light hiking footwear.

Designed with KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable technology, these boots keep your feet dry by letting moisture escape while keeping water out, ensuring comfort during long treks. The KEEN All-Terrain rubber outsole provides impressive traction, making it easy to navigate through muddy trails or rocky surfaces. Plus, the mid-profile upper enhances ankle support and stability, while the removable metatomical footbed provides excellent arch support and contours to the foot’s natural shape.

Despite the affordable price, the boots don’t compromise on performance. They are sturdy and offer sufficient ankle protection for rugged terrains, providing comfort throughout the hike.

The Details: Available Sizes: 5.5 – 11 (US) | Weight: 2.1 lbs per pair | Upper: Leather and mesh | KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane | KEEN All-Terrain rubber with high traction | Mid cut height, external support shank


La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Waterproof Hiking Boot

La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Waterproof Hiking Boot

What to Consider

Built with durable Nubuck leather uppers and a waterproof Gore-Tex Surround membrane, these boots ensure that your feet stay dry while allowing heat and moisture to escape, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. The Vibram Nano XS-Trek sole provides superior traction, with well-positioned, large lugs for excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. The compression-molded EVA foam midsole cushions each step, reducing fatigue during long hikes, and the stiffener insert offers the support you need when hiking with a heavy pack.

These boots made with the 3D Flex ankle hinge, which enhances mobility and reduces the break-in time, making them a perfect choice for those who need boots that perform right out of the box. With both medium and wide width options, these boots can be tailored for the perfect fit, ensuring comfort on every hike.

The Details: Available Sizes: Medium and wide widths | Weight: 16.8 oz (476g) per boot | Upper: Nubuck leather with Nano Cell inserts | Lining: Gore-Tex Surround waterproof membrane | Outsole: Vibram Nano XS-Trek with large lugs | Midsole: Compression molded EVA


Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot

What to Consider

The Lowa Women’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot features a nubuck leather upper for durability and style, paired with a waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX lining that ensures your feet stay dry while allowing excess moisture to escape. The medium shaft height provides solid ankle support while offering flexibility for more technical hikes or rugged trails. A removable, pre-shaped insole adds additional cushioning and arch support, enhancing overall comfort.

The boots are ideal for tackling a variety of terrains, whether you’re walking on muddy trails, rocky paths, or grassy meadows. The rubber outsole ensures excellent traction, keeping you steady even on slippery surfaces, and the overall design is built to handle long hikes with ease.

The Details: Available Sizes: US 5-12 (Medium and Wide options available) | Weight: Varies based on size | Upper: Nubuck leather | Lining: GORE-TEX waterproof and breathable membrane | Insole: Removable, pre-shaped for added comfort | Outsole: Durable rubber for traction | Shaft Height: Medium shaft

Related: The Best Women’s Walking Shoes for Travel in Europe


Scarpa Charmoz GTX Women’s Hiking Boot

Scarpa Charmoz GTX Women's Hiking Boot

What to Consider
These boots are engineered for more rugged, technical use, so they may not be the best fit for casual hikers or those looking for a lighter, more flexible option. Additionally, they feature a semi-automatic crampon compatibility, which might not suit every type of hiker.

The SCARPA Women’s Charmoz HD Waterproof Boots features a full rubber rand for added protection and a durable, water-resistant exterior. The HDry waterproof membrane ensures that your feet stay dry even during wet conditions, while the 37.5 Technology lining helps wick moisture away from the foot, improving thermo-regulation and keeping your feet at the ideal temperature. The boots’ semi-automatic crampon compatibility makes them suitable for tackling more challenging climbs or snowy conditions, and the lightweight construction ensures that they won’t weigh you down during long treks.

The Details: Available Sizes: US 6.5-10 | Weight: 1 lb 6 oz (1/2 pair, size 6.5-7 US Women’s) | Upper: Polyurethane (PU) | Lining: HDry Waterproof Membrane | Moisture-wicking and temperature control | Crampon Compatibility: Semi-Automatic | Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)


Hoka One One Kaha 2 GTX Boots

Hoka One One Kaha 2 GTX Boots

What to Consider
The HOKA Kaha 2 GTX boots are on the heavier side compared to other trail runners, so they might not be the best choice for those seeking an ultra-lightweight shoe. However, their added weight is a result of the incredible cushioning and durability they offer, making them perfect for long-distance hikes and rough terrains.

These unisex shoes are designed with a synthetic-and-rubber construction, offering excellent protection, support, and durability. Featuring a waterproof GTX (Gore-Tex) lining, the shoes provide reliable water resistance, keeping your feet dry even in wet conditions. The rubber sole delivers great traction, making it easy to navigate through various terrains, from rocky paths to muddy trails.

The Kaha 2 GTX shoes also feature a lace-up closure for a secure fit and the signature HOKA cushioning that absorbs impact while providing comfort, especially for those with sensitive feet or anyone seeking extra support during long outdoor activities.

The Details: Available Sizes: US 11-14 (Unisex) | Heavier due to cushioning and durability | Upper: Microfiber and synthetic material | Sole Material: Rubber | Waterproof: Yes (Gore-Tex) | Closure: Lace-up


ALTRA Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid 2 Trail Running Shoe

ALTRA Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid 2 Trail Running Shoe

What to Consider

These trail running shoes are designed to handle wet and muddy environments due to their waterproof features. However, some runners might find them a bit heavier than regular running shoes, but they more than make up for it with durability and waterproof protection.

The Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid 2 shoes have a robust rubber sole that provides excellent traction for running on rugged terrains. The waterproof polyester material helps to keep your feet dry, making them a great option for running in rainy or muddy conditions. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, preventing any discomfort while running on uneven surfaces.

The Details: Available Sizes: US 5.5-11.5 | Medium, designed for durability and protection | Upper: Waterproof polyester | Sole Material: Rubber | Waterproof: Yes | Closure: Lace-up


Columbia Strata Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Columbia Strata Trail Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe

What to Consider

These shoes feature Columbia’s Omni-Tech waterproof construction, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions while allowing breathability. The lightweight Techlite midsole ensures cushioning and high energy return, so you’ll be comfortable even on long hikes. The Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber outsole provides excellent grip, making it perfect for navigating rocky or uneven terrains.

The gusseted tongue helps keep debris out, while the suede and mesh upper offers a secure, snug fit with excellent support. If you’re planning to hike in diverse conditions, these shoes provide the right balance of comfort, stability, and waterproof protection.

The Details: Available Sizes: 5-15 sizes | Upper: Suede and mesh | Sole Material: Rubber | Waterproof: Yes (Omni-Tech technology) | Closure: Lace-up


Tips for Buying Hiking Boots

When shopping for hiking boots, it’s crucial to choose the right pair to ensure comfort, durability, and protection on the trails. With so many options available, understanding the key features and what to look for can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process of buying hiking boots:

1. Determine Your Hiking Style and Terrain

  • Type of Hiking: Consider the type of hiking you’ll be doing. Are you a weekend hiker or a serious adventurer? Do you plan on tackling rugged mountain trails or sticking to well-maintained paths? The terrain you’ll be covering will influence the features you need in a boot.
    • Day Hikes: If you’re only venturing out for short day hikes, a lighter boot with moderate support might be all you need.
    • Backpacking/Extended Treks: For multi-day backpacking trips or long-distance treks, a sturdier, more supportive boot with extra cushioning and durability is important.
    • Mountaineering or Alpine Hiking: If you plan on navigating more challenging, icy, or rocky terrain, look for boots designed for mountaineering with advanced features like crampon compatibility.

2. Fit and Comfort

  • Sizing: Proper sizing is crucial when buying hiking boots. Make sure there’s enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes, but not so much space that your feet slide around. Your heels should stay securely in place to avoid blisters, and the boots should feel snug around the midfoot.
    • Tip: Try on hiking boots at the end of the day, when your feet are naturally swollen. Always wear the socks you plan to hike in when testing the fit.
  • Insoles and Arch Support: A good insole can make a significant difference in comfort. Consider boots with removable insoles, so you can replace them with custom insoles if necessary. Make sure the boots provide enough arch support for your foot shape, especially if you have flat feet or high arches.
  • Cushioning: A well-cushioned boot will reduce foot fatigue on long hikes. Look for boots with a comfortable midsole that provides shock absorption. If you plan to carry heavy loads, extra cushioning can also help reduce impact on your joints.

3. Waterproofing

  • Waterproof Membrane: Many hiking boots feature waterproof membranes, such as Gore-Tex, which prevent water from entering the boot while allowing moisture (like sweat) to escape. Waterproof boots are essential if you’re hiking in wet conditions or crossing streams.
    • Breathability: While waterproofing is important, look for boots that also have good breathability to keep your feet dry and comfortable. A breathable boot will allow sweat to evaporate, preventing moisture buildup inside the boot.
  • Water-Resistant Boots: If you’re hiking in dry conditions or during the warmer months, you may not need full waterproofing. Water-resistant boots can keep out light moisture but may not provide the same level of protection in heavy rain or snow.

4. Traction and Outsole

  • Grip and Traction: The outsole of the boot plays a critical role in providing traction on different surfaces. Look for boots with rubber outsoles and aggressive tread patterns, such as Vibram soles, which offer excellent grip on slippery, muddy, or rocky terrain.
  • Lug Pattern: The depth and design of the lugs (the raised rubber patterns on the sole) determine the traction and stability of your boots. Larger, deeper lugs are ideal for rocky or off-trail conditions, while smaller lugs are sufficient for smoother, well-maintained trails.

5. Weight

  • Lightweight Boots: If you’re doing fast-paced hikes or short day hikes, lightweight boots will be more comfortable and less tiring. These boots are easier to move in and don’t weigh down your feet as much.
  • Heavier Boots: For long-distance treks or challenging terrain, a heavier boot may be necessary to provide the added support and protection your feet need. While heavier boots might feel more cumbersome, they offer superior ankle support and durability.

6. Ankle Support

  • Low-Cut Boots: These boots are ideal for lighter hikes on well-maintained trails. They provide more flexibility and are generally lighter in weight.
  • Mid-Cut Boots: Offering moderate ankle support, mid-cut boots are great for day hikes or weekend trips where you need a balance of flexibility and protection.
  • High-Cut Boots: These boots provide full ankle support and are better suited for longer hikes, heavy loads, or challenging terrain. They help prevent ankle twists on uneven surfaces but may feel stiffer and less flexible.

7. Durability

  • Material Choices: Hiking boots are typically made from leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. Leather boots are durable, water-resistant, and long-lasting but can be heavier. Synthetic boots tend to be lighter and more breathable but may not offer the same level of durability over time.
    • Tip: If you’re looking for boots that will last for years and endure tough conditions, leather or a combination of leather and synthetic materials is a solid choice.
  • Reinforced Toe Caps and Heels: Look for boots with reinforced toe caps and heel counters for added durability. These features protect your feet from rocks and other obstacles, as well as extend the lifespan of the boots.

8. Price and Warranty

  • Budget Considerations: Hiking boots can range from affordable to high-end, depending on the brand, materials, and features. Generally, you get what you pay for, with pricier boots offering better performance, durability, and comfort.
  • Warranty: Some boot manufacturers offer warranties to guarantee the quality of their products. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, knowing you can replace or repair defective boots within a certain time frame.
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