-Hiking Shoes for Women-
Choosing a pair of hiking shoes with the proper blend of comfort, traction, weight, and durability will make a tremendous difference in every step you take on the trail. That’s why in this article we’ve listed out the best hiking shoes for women.
Best Hiking Shoes for Women
One of the most crucial gear decisions you’ll make is the hiking shoes to choose. Choosing a pair with the proper blend of comfort, traction, weight, and durability will make a tremendous difference in every step you take on the trail.
Our team spent thousands of miles researching, breaking in, and trail testing dozens of hiking shoes to offer you this list of the best hiking shoes on the market.
1. La Sportiva Spire GTX
The La Sportiva Spire GTX is a sporty yet solid hiking shoe that quickly became our lead tester’s favorite. It functioned admirably on all surfaces while remaining stable and protected.
It has a Gore-Tex liner that provides great waterproofing. The durable Vibram lugged soles are ideal for multi-day hiking and loose scrambling.
Despite all the support they provide, they aren’t overly hefty underfoot, weighing in just 1.6 pounds for a pair in size 7. While these shoes are pricey, we recommend them to anyone searching for a high-performance hiking shoe.
Overall, the Spire is a fantastic performer.
2. Merrell Moab 2 WP
The Merrell Moab 2 WP – Women’s is a tried-and-true hiking shoe that performs year after year. It’s moderately priced, lightweight, and has excellent traction.
Although the ankle height is significantly lower than some of the other models we examined, enabling water to pass over the top in shallower puddles or streams, the Moab 2 WP proved to be entirely waterproof on the trail and in our controlled tests.
Indeed, this shoe performs admirably in all categories and at a reasonable price.
When we first put the Moab 2 on, it was a little stiff. After a couple of short hikes, they became much more at ease. It’s also a little short, so keep that in mind if you’re in between sizes or prefer to hike in a thick sock.
3. Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex
This is Women’s is the most recent update to the X Ultra line, and it features a fresh fit and new materials.
It has lost a lot of weight and enhanced solidity, and our testers really like it. The toe box is considerably roomier for improved comfort, while the upper’s snug support keeps the foot in place, minimizing any sloppy feels.
We enjoy the cinching Quicklace technology, which replaces traditional laces and allows these shoes to be put on and taken off in seconds.
Salomon uses a lot of technical jargon to explain why their shoes provide support and comfort. According to our interpretation, it carefully reinforced the lightweight top with diverse components after kilometers of hiking.
4. Arc’teryx Aerios FL
The Arc’teryx Aerios FL is a sleek and minimalist hiking shoe that is exceptionally light and performance-oriented. Welds replace stitching, and mono-colored materials are used throughout, from the upper to the laces to the rubber toe cap.
Its trail prowess in a variety of terrain has wowed us. The sticky rubber soles provide good traction on a variety of surfaces, from loose, unconsolidated rubble to wet boulders.
The synthetic uppers stood up to lava rock and thorny desert bushes.
The shoes are dusty but relatively undamaged from our exploits after several miles of hiking. Though the compressed EVA midsoles provide excellent support for mild trekking, we do not believe they are sufficiently supportive.
Because of the shoe’s lightweight upper, we wouldn’t recommend it for multi-day journeys or walks in difficult terrain.
5. Hoka One One Sky Arkali
The hiking shoes from Hoka One One set a new standard for comfort. The Hoka One One Sky Arkali. Women’s features a responsive and cushioning midsole, as well as velcro-adjustable straps on the heel and ankle for more support and a secure fit.
The shoes are incredibly supportive, sensitive, and agile, despite their huge soles, which appear to be heavy. The Sky Arkali is a hybrid approach and hiking shoe with sticky rubber soles.
Also, the shoe has a protective rubber band on the upper that provides exceptional foot protection. In these shoes, we confidently attacked lava rocks and steep hills.
6. Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry
Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry, Women’s hiking shoes provide excellent support and comfort for all-day walks, even while carrying a 20-30 pound pack.
The Sawtooth II’s plush midsole and unique insole give structural support, making it a perfect choice for multi-day hikes. The rubber is soft enough to grip rock slabs and logs, while the lugs shed muck and grasp on loose surfaces.
Oboz’s BDry waterproof/breathable membrane kept our feet dry in the rain while also allowing sweat to escape.
Larger vents for increased ventilation are one improvement in this model over prior incarnations.
7. Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore
The Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex is an extremely supportive and lightweight sneaker with a running shoe appearance and a robust attitude.
It’s ideal for both light and rapid journeys and ones that cause a bigger pack. We discovered they are waterproof but also extremely warm, making them unsuitable for hiking on hot days.
In most conditions, the soft rubber sole holds well, yet softer rubber has a shorter lifespan than harder, more dense rubber soles.
These are wonderful hiking shoes for folks who hike in a variety of circumstances and desire a large toe box.
8. Lowa Locarno GTX Lo
The Lowa Locarno GTX Lo impressed us with the capacity to shed water, but it wasn’t the most comfortable shoe for lengthy hikes.
When compared to the hiking shoe competitors, it lacked traction in muddy and rainy circumstances. It’s also pretty pricey compared to its performance.
It is, however, a good choice for more moderate and predictable terrain. Hikers looking for a single shoe to handle a variety of terrains, from urban to the trail, and who want waterproofness and durability will appreciate this model’s traditional style.
9. Keen Targhee III Low
The Keen Targhee III Low hiking shoe is a fantastic choice. It features a waterproof barrier that keeps water out, but in our tests, the leather absorbed rather than shed a lot of water.
While the traction was good, they slipped a little on a bare rock when compared to the other hiking shoes. They have a robust rubber toe box and a significant level of cushioning in the midsole.
It is, however, cut on the wide side, so if you have regular to narrow feet, this pair may not fit well.
10. Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof
Rubber bellows on top of the toes on the Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof shoe making trekking more flexible. It took a few hikes to get this function working.
The model is waterproof, and our socks remained dry during our tests, albeit it absorbed a large quantity of water into the upper. Overall, we found it to be a capable, sturdy, but hefty hiking shoe.
While it performed admirably in our hiking testing, it is best suited to ladies who have a wide forefoot or want a large toebox. The Ridge Flex moves in the opposite direction as hiking shoes get more nimble, faster, and lighter.
11. Salomon Vaya Low GTX
The Salomon Vaya Low GTX is a lightweight hiking shoe with a unique look and some useful defensive features. It’s a good and comfortable option for day treks on established trails, with a fairly soft top.
Despite successfully repelling water on wet walks, these Gore-Tex lined shoes leaked a lot in our standing water test.
This shoe is best for ladies with wider feet and shorter day hikes with a light pack where support is not as important.
The toe box is quite roomy, and the upper fabric is quite flexible, so this shoe is best for ladies with wider feet and shorter day hikes with a light pack where support is not as critical.
12. Salomon OUTline GTX
The Salomon OUTline GTX is a light and water-resistant shoe. This is a fantastic option if you’re planning a trip that includes some light trekking or sightseeing.
It’s comfy right out of the box, but it’s a little tight and doesn’t adjust for feet with a lot of volumes.
While the midsole is flexible and responsive on the trail, it lacks the support that we prefer for more moderate or serious hiking, and the traction on loose or wet terrain was weak.
It’s a great shoe, but our testers don’t think it’s built for long hikes or as functional as some of the competition.
13. Merrell MQM Flex 2 Low
The Merrell MQM 2 Flex Low Women’s hiking shoe stands out from the crowd with its wild-style colors. While it does not provide a lot of support and is not waterproof.
It has a good traction and will keep your feet cool on light, warm-weather hikes. This type is breathable and doesn’t have a waterproof layer, so your feet will stay cool all summer.
This style has the potential to be a great travel shoe, as it is light and comfortable enough for city excursions.
14. Altra Lone Peak
The mid-height version of Altra’s Lone Peak trail running shoes has a cult following among thru-hikers, making it an intriguing notion.
The result is instant comfort (no break-in period was required), as well as greater protection and support on hazardous terrain or when carrying weight.
Thanks to the Lone Peak’s signature wide toe box, substantial cushioning, and zero-drop construction. It’s also one of the lightest boots here, at only 1 pound 8 ounces—a game-changer for long days on the trail.
It features an eVent waterproof membrane for modest creek crossings and muddy portions. We’ll admit that we were skeptical of the hiking boot-meets-trail-runner concept at first.
15. Hanwag Tatra Light GTX Bunion
In finding a hiking boot that fits properly, women with bunions don’t have it easy. You’re often forced to choose the wide version of a boot like the Merrell Moab above, only to have your midfoot and heel drown in the high-volume design.
Hanwag is one of the few firms to address this, offering hallux valgus versions of their basic hiking boots with extra room in the forefoot and ball of the foot.
With a flexible suede upper, a robust Vibram sole, and waterproofing via a Gore-Tex membrane, the Tatra Light GTX Bunion is the most current, well-rounded design.
16. Hoka One One Speedgoat 4
Hoka One One is no stranger to trail-ready footwear and it’s lightweight. Also, cushioned styles have just made their way into the hiking market.
Speedgoat 4 is a trail runner that has gained popularity among thru-hikers as a sturdy and capable shoe that can suit the needs of hikers.
The Speedgoat, in classic Hoka form, has an extremely thick midsole that isolates you beautifully from uneven terrain. While still providing enough firmness to cover substantial ground.
The outsole is similarly gripping, despite being unconventional. We enjoyed the sporty and sprightly sensation of the rockered sole.
17. La Sportiva TX4
Another non-traditional hiker joins the Speedgoat above: La Sportiva’s TX4. Despite its approach shoe category. The TX4 is an incredibly robust and capable shoe.
It shines in off-trail terrain and is a favorite among Switchback Travel’s hikers and climbers.
The generous rubber rand and sturdy midsole give crucial protection and stability while boulder hopping or scrambling up slabs. While the sticky Vibram sole provides confidence-inspiring traction on rock.
To top it off, the TX4’s leather upper has weathered a tremendous amount of abuse with no symptoms of wear.
18. Salomon Cross Hike GTX
If you haven’t picked up on a theme in our selections yet, the Salomon Cross Hike should help you do so. Hiking in leather clunkers is a thing of the past; trail-runner-inspired hiking shoes have nearly taken over.
And the Cross Hike is about as well-designed as they come. Salomon took their Speedcross running shoe (a popular choice for mountain terrain) and improved the protection and support.
Also, lowering the stack height for improved stability. As a result, the shoe is light and quick on the trail while also being tough enough to handle everything from third-class scrambling to pulling an overnight load.
READ ALSO:
- Nike Shoes 2022 for Walking, Running or for Nurses who Stand All Day
- Best Men’s Lifestyle Shoes to Buy at the Moment
- Places to Sell Used Shoes for Cash Online and Near You
- Nike Product Testing: How to Get Free Nike Shoes in 2022
19. Danner Trail 2650 Campo
Danner is best known for its industrial boots, but the long-running footwear business has recently expanded to include hikers.
And the Trail 2650, a running-shoe-inspired shoe, is clear about its goals: with the Pacific Crest Trail’s mileage in its name, they built this shoe to cover a lot of ground.
The Trail 2650 is lightweight (particularly for a partial-leather design) and comfortable right out of the box. It has a Vibram outsole and is 1 pound, 2 ounces per pair.
Finally, it accomplishes what most hiking shoes cannot do, look decent while doing so. Overall, we’re satisfied with Danner’s direction, and the Trail 2650 lineup has gotten a lot of positive feedback.
20. Scarpa Rush Low GTX
The hiking-shoe-meets-trail-runner love story has been going on for a while. But Scarpa has only lately entered the fray with the Rush line.
The Rush Low GTX is an agile hiking shoe that offers top-ranked models like the Salomon X Ultra a run for their money for on-trail performance.
They released it last year. It is a tough fabric top with welded reinforcements, a robust midsole with EVA foam, and TPU reinforcements for cushion and stability.
I have a sticky outsole with a rockered shape, for fast movements are all included. A Gore-Tex membrane protects your feet from the elements (they also offered the shoe in a non-GTX version).
21. Merrell Siren Edge 3
The Merrell Siren Edge 3 is a simply designed shoe that comes in at the bottom of our ranking. This shoe, like the Salomon Vaya and Oboz Sapphire before it, they produced for ladies.
However, unlike the more mainstream Salomon and Oboz, the Merrell has a basic style with strong crossover appeal for everyday use.
The Siren Edge gets our recommendation for ladies searching for comfortable shoes for easy hikes and daily walks close to home. It has a feathery build (at 1 lb. 2 oz., it’s one of the lightest hiking shoes available) and an approachable price tag.
However, with such a simple design, you’ll want to stay within the Siren Edge’s comfort zone.
22. Brooks Cascadia 16
The Brooks Cascadia, now in its 16th generation, is one of the most popular trail runners on the market, with a strong following among thru-hikers.
This shoe, like the Speedgoat and Lone Peak above, bridges the gap for speed-focused hikers.
It does this by providing the support and protection needed for tough routes. Also, plenty of cushioning for long days on the trail. It won’t weigh you down as much as the hiking-specific shoes here, at only 1 pound 3 ounces for the pair.
Recent Cascadia incarnations have felt obsolete compared to more recent trail runner competitions.
23. Oboz Sapphire Low Waterproof
If you’re concerned about outdoor brands’ “shrink it and pink” inclinations, the Oboz Sapphire is an excellent alternative.
The Sapphire holds its own on and off the mountain, combining feminine curves and tailoring with a waterproof, breathable design.
You get a fitted fit that eliminates bulk and looks fantastic for casual wear, superb midsole stability. Thanks to a delightful mix of TPU and EVA foam, and a long-lasting and protective nubuck leather upper.
The Sapphire is a high-quality, multipurpose hiking shoe that is worn above the treeline or in town for a post-hike beer.
The Sapphire’s accommodating toe box will certainly appeal to women with finicky feet. However, the narrow heel won’t be suitable for everyone.
24. Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX for women
Are you ready to extend your hikes by a day or two with your knapsack slung over your shoulder? Then make sure you’re wearing the Mountain Trainer Lite GTX!
Within our circle of pals, we’d brag about this Salewa must-have as “sticky, sticky, sticky.”
It had tooth-like lugs on the outsole that chewed into whatever ground we walked on. On the slopes, the shoe’s strong heel brake was fantastic; we didn’t slip at all!
In the comfort sector, the Mountain Trainer Lite GTX has become a hot topic. It’s one of those shoes that doesn’t need to be broken in. Yes, we used it right away, and it made us feel fantastic.
The Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX struck us in as a Gore-Tex kick.
FAQs
1. How Do you Protect your Feet During Hiking?
Here are some ways to protect your feet during hiking:
‣ Remove anything you feel in your shoe. Start with prevention. …
‣ Stop if you feel a hot spot. Again, don’t wait. …
‣ Elevate your legs and feet. …
‣ Rinse your feet. …
‣ Rinse and rotate your hiking socks. …
‣ Soak your feet in cold water. …
‣ Let your feet and socks air during meal breaks. …
‣ Pre-tape your feet.
2. Is it Normal to Get Blisters From New Running Shoes?
While it’s not “normal” to blister when breaking into new shoes, it can happen.
3. Are Hiking Socks Necessary with Hiking Shoes?
Yes, a decent pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes are essential. And even the greatest socks money can buy won’t be able to compensate for a lousy pair of footwear. But a bad pair of socks can be an issue even with good shoes.
4. What is the Best Way to Prevent Blisters When Hiking?
Below is the best way to prevent blisters when hiking
‣ Changing your socks–particularly if they’re damp or sweaty.
‣ Patching your hotspot–getting a blister-specific bandage on it as soon as possible.
‣ Taping your hotspot–using high-quality tape that doesn’t move.
‣ Applying lubricant to the area to minimize friction.
5. Do Hiking Boots Need to be Broken in? Why or why not?
If you have the time, you should absolutely break in your hiking boots properly, since this will enhance the fit and extend the life of your hiking boots. If not, the second, much faster method is a surefire way to get your hiking boots ready in time for your next hike.
Hiking shoes now incorporate a variety of innovative technology that makes them lighter and more responsive without losing support or stability. Without putting in the miles to evaluate new features and models, it might be difficult to compare them.
Hope you enjoyed this article, share this information with family and friends