The best hiking shoes for women that are functional, comfortable, and still look good exist, trust us. Check out our guide.
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Finding the perfect pair of hiking shoes for women can be tricky. There are so many styles and features to consider and it also depends on the type of hikes you’ll be doing.
But worry not! In this article, I’m going to share with you my top picks for the best hiking shoes for women. I’ll also explain why certain features matter and help you decide which ones are the right ones for you.
I’ve been hiking for over 20 years and have gone through quite a few pairs of hiking shoes and hiking boots during that time. While hiking shoes vs hiking boots is a matter of personal preference, I have both. I use my hiking shoes on easier, shorter hikes and my hiking boots on longer hikes or technical terrain.
Top 5 Best High-Quality Hiking Shoes for Women
Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX is a lightweight shoe that is the perfect fit for outdoor adventurers looking for comfort and support for fast and light hikes on a variety of terrain. They have a short break-in period and work best for ladies with narrower feet.
Feature:
- Flexible uppers are made from durable materials and 100% recycled polyester mesh
- GORE-TEX has waterproof membranes and breathable protection
- Lacing systems wrap the feet for a natural fit
If you're looking for stability and tend to easily roll your foot, increasing the chance of spraining your ankle, you'll love La Sportiva Spire They are light, have waterproof protection, and are incredibly stable, which I love. You can adjust the lacing system to fit your feet type, but they are better for narrow feet than for wide feet. My favorite pair of hiking boots ever were La Sportiva.
Features:
- Abrasion-resistant synthetic mesh uppers provide durable protection
- Nano Cell 2.0 structure supplies maximum breathability
- STB Control System integrates ventilation outlets into the midsoles, giving structure and torsional stability for comfort, stability, and a snug fit
Danner Trail 2650 is true to size and is reinforced with external heel counters to provide additional support. The Vibram® 460 proprietary rubber outsole with Megagrip technology offers excellent traction on wet and dry surfaces
Features:
- Durable, lightweight leather and textile uppers
- Mesh liners improve breathability
- A lightweight option with shock-absorbent EVA midsoles are topped with open-cell OrthoLite® footbeds for cushioning
Fun fact: The Sawtooth X series is named for the 10th anniversary of the original Sawtooth hiking footwear. This sturdy hiking shoe has a B-DRY waterproof/breathable membrane that let sweat escape while keeping moisture out. Nylon shanks offer protection for the underfoot, increasing sure-footedness on uneven terrain.
Features:
- REPREVE® laces and webbing are made of greener materials
- Adaptive Cushioning Technology midsoles with TPU heel counters increase comfort
- True Tread rubber outsoles offer plenty of traction
Merrell MOAB 2 is perfect for ladies with wide feet! The Waterproof technology provides breathable membranes to protect your feet from the weather. The Merrell Air Cushion in the heels absorbs shock and adds stability.
Features:
- Performance suede leather and nylon mesh uppers have protective rubber toe caps
- Molded nylon arch shanks add stability
- Vibram TC5+ outsoles have a 5mm deep lug pattern for grip
Top 3 Best Overall Quality Hiking Shoes for Women
Salomon Pathfinder hiking shoes are great because they're ultra-durable and have excellent grip on mixed terrain. They are rail running shoes perfect for walking, hiking, backpacking, or running on tough trails and all types of terrain.
Features:
- These lightweight, low-top hiking and trail running shoes combine style & function
- Protective coated-leather uppers
- Has an aggressive grip for slippery or technical terrain
KEEN Terradora II have DRY waterproof/breathable membranes to keep outside moisture at bay while allowing inside moisture to escape. The PFCs break down very slowly in the environment, so KEEN has switched to a PFC-free durable water-repellent (DWR) treatment that is still effective in repelling water and dirt. The rubber grippy outsoles with 4mm multidirectional lugs offer a high-traction grip
Features:
- Women-specific low-density EVA midsoles
- Anatomic flex grooves enhance natural movement
- Fit tip: This style has a narrower fit than a traditional KEEN shoe
Merrell Moab 3 is a favorite not just for me but for many hikers, and it's not hard to see why. The GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable membrane helps keep your feet dry. The Super Rebound Compound provides durable shock absorption in the heels to help reduce torque and allow for a smooth transition to the midfoot and the molded nylon arch shanks provide additional support.
Features:
- 100% recycled laces and webbing
- Pigskin leather and mesh uppers with 100% recycled mesh linings
- Vibram® TC5+ outsoles are designed with a nonmarking formula and a technical compound that delivers an all-around balance of grip, traction, durability, and flexibility
Related Reading: Women’s Hiking Gear
- Best Hiking Boots for Women
- 14 Best Hiking Sandals for Women
- The Best Hiking Leggings for Women: Thermal, Pockets and More
- The Best Women’s Clothes for Hiking
- The Best Hiking Jackets for Men and Women
Hiking Shoes That Deserve a Special Mention
No guide of mine would be complete without these amazing hiking shoes for women. If your next great hiking adventure requires a specific type of hiking shoe, check out my special mentions.
Top Pick Overall Hiking Shoe
Solomon OUTline GTX is a pair of hiking shoes that is versatile on any trail condition. They are light yet very durable. I love how it transitions well from town to rough trails. The gusseted tongues keep muddy trail debris out so you can focus on the trail. The midfoot shanks add stability while allowing feet to move freely. They are great for ladies with all-foot shapes. Just adjust the lacing system for a snug fit. wider
Features:
- GORE-TEX® waterproof liners keep your feet dry and comfortable regardless of the forecast
- Removable OrthoLite® footbeds add shock absorption; antimicrobial treatment inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria on footwear
- 5mm deep lugs with reverse chevron pattern help the nonmarking Contagrip® outsoles claw to any surface
Best Shoe for Technical Trails
If you're looking for stability and tend to easily roll your foot, increasing the chance of spraining your ankle, you'll love La Sportiva Spire They are light, have waterproof protection, and are incredibly stable, which I love. You can adjust the lacing system to fit your feet type, but they are better for narrow feet than for wide feet. My favorite pair of hiking boots ever were La Sportiva.
Features:
- Abrasion-resistant synthetic mesh uppers provide durable protection
- Nano Cell 2.0 structure supplies maximum breathability
- STB Control System integrates ventilation outlets into the midsoles, giving structure and torsional stability for comfort, stability, and a snug fit
Best Lightweight Hiking Shoe
Solomon OUTline GTX is a pair of hiking shoes that is versatile on any trail condition. They are light yet very durable. I love how it transitions well from town to rough trails. The gusseted tongues keep muddy trail debris out so you can focus on the trail. The midfoot shanks add stability while allowing feet to move freely. They are great for ladies with all-foot shapes. Just adjust the lacing system for a snug fit. wider
Features:
- GORE-TEX® waterproof liners keep your feet dry and comfortable regardless of the forecast
- Removable OrthoLite® footbeds add shock absorption; antimicrobial treatment inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria on footwear
- 5mm deep lugs with reverse chevron pattern help the nonmarking Contagrip® outsoles claw to any surface
Best Supportive Hiking Shoe
The Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex is a very supportive and lightweight shoe. It works well for light and fast adventures and for women carrying a heavier pack. They are waterproof and quite warm. For ladies who like hiking in a wide range of terrain, prefer a roomy toe box comfort, and heavier-duty hiking shoes, these are the perfect pair for you!
Features:
- Anatomically molded heel cups improve support, fit, and comfort
- Lightstrike EVA midsoles offer cushioning and flexibility for long-lasting comfort
- Molded sock liners enhance comfort and fit
Best Heavy-Duty Hiking Shoe
If you are not a fan of hiking boots but need support and comfort, KEEN Targhee III Low is for you! These are amazing hiking shoes that give great support for multi-day hikes but don't rub your ankle. The mud shields add protection and durability, while the removable, dual-density EVA footbeds cushion your stride.
Features:
- Injected TPU heel-capture system promotes stability as you hike
- Cleansport NXT™ treatment provides natural odor control
- KEEN's rubber outsoles with 4mm multidirectional lugs promise high-traction grip on a variable terrain
Best Waterproof Hiking Shoe
I highly appreciate the women-specific design of the Salomon X Ultra! They are made with softer materials, especially around the collars and heels, and a lower-density chassis. The Gore-Tex lining holds up to the hype. The waterproofing system is impeccable, but when you're home and giving them a wash, they do take their time to dry.
Features:
- ADV-C chassis targets articulations on the outer foot to optimize stability while keeping the front of the shoe flexible
- Contagrip® MA outsoles grab even wet terrain giving your more control, especially on steep terrain
- Durable outsoles can handle various surfaces, balancing the geometry and rubber compound to deliver confidence on wet, dry, hard, or loose surfaces.
Best Grip Hiking Shoe
Salomon Cross Gore-tex is for ladies who love the outdoors in any condition. They're designed with multi-directional lugs, seamless, closed-mesh construction, and waterproof Gore-Tex membrane. Agile yet grippy, this new low version is lighter and gives you more freedom of movement wherever your adventures take you.
Features:
- Anti-debris mesh and rubber stone guards add protection
- The Cross Hike GTX cushions your ankle and keeps you on track
- Contagrip® rubber outsoles with multidirectional chevron lugs give you extra grip on muddy terrain, while an optimized heel brake keeps you stable on those downhill climbs
Best Value Hiking Shoes for Women
ABAO hiking shoes have amazed me with how comfortable these are on the trail. The upper is made of knitted mesh material making it lightweight and breathable. I appreciate how quickly you can adjust the fit of the shoes using the adjustable shoelace. Super easy to put on and take off
Features:
- The Upper is made of knitted mesh material making it lightweight and breathable
- Made with a professional anti-slip rubber outsole with a unique pattern for reliable traction
- The pull tap at the heel is easy to put on and take off.
MAINCH is an eco-friendly company that features breathable and quick-drying hiking shoes for women. The open mesh upper keeps feet ventilated and comfortable While the synthetic ribbons on both sides of the water shoes provide support and stability.
Features:
- Lug patterns of the rubber sole provide excellent traction
- The raised points on the sole enhance the grip and friction
- The midsole channel of hiking shoes has multiple small holes, which effectively promote the rapid drainage of water.
BEARPAW Women's Olympus Hiker is famous among beginner hikers. The cushioned footbed provides great comfort while the mesh lining provides breathability. It does fit large so I recommend ordering a size down.
- COMFORTABLE HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL AND FIT: Cozy comfort, plus rugged durability, the Olympus hiker will have you testing the trails. Great for any and all seasons! Fit: Runs large. Order a size down.
- MESH LINING AND CUSHIONED FOOTBED: Suede and mesh upper, with mesh lining for breathability and a mesh top-cover cushioned footbed for ease and comfort.
- DURABLE TPR MIDSOLE & OUTSOLE FOR HIKING: Our BEARPAW Women's Olympus Hiker
- NEVERWET TECHNOLOGY:
Features:
- Made of Thermoplastic Elastomers sole
- Has a durable TPR midsole and outsole for traction
- Treated with NeverWet technology to provide strong water resistance.
Buying Hiking Shoes for Women Pro Tips
To choose the perfect pair of hiking shoes for women, consider the following factors:
• Comfort: Do you prefer a shoe that feels soft against your feet or does comfort matter less? Always pay attention to comfort when buying hiking shoes. Every women’s foot is different so what feels good for a friend may not feel good for you. I’d also recommend looking for a shoe with a cushy sole since that will provide more comfort on long hikes. Comfort is the #1 factor when choosing a pair of hiking shoes.
• Stability: Will you spend hours hiking over rugged terrain or plan to hike on easy paths? The type of terrain you’ll be using them on will determine how rugged of a shoe you need
• Durability: Look for hiking shoes with a rugged sole to help ensure long-term durability so that you can use the same pair for several years – or longer, depending on how often you hike.
• Fit: Your hiking shoe should fit comfortably and your heel shouldn’t lift when you raise it. They should be a bit snug but not rub – that will cause blisters and discomfort when your feet swell after hiking for several hours.
• Waterproofing: Does your next hiking adventure require waterproof hiking shoes or are water-resistant hiking shoes enough? It depends on where you’re hiking and the range of weather conditions you’ll be hiking in.
• Traction: Does the hiking shoe allow you to confidently climb steep inclines and descend on slippery slopes without fear of falling? Grippy soles provide more traction, so be sure to check the sole when buying hiking shoes.
• Weight: Which is more important to you? A lightweight shoe with less support? Or do you prefer more support and a heavier hiking shoe? There’s no right answer. It depends on the type of hikes that you’ll be doing and whether or not you’ll be carrying heavier loads or a light day pack.
• Price: If you hike only occasionally and stick to mainly easy hikes, you can get away with value-priced hiking boots. On the other hand, if you hike regularly or on rugged terrain, it’s worth investing in a high-quality durable pair of hiking boots.
While each person has different preferences, the above tips can help you narrow down your choices and help you buy the right pair of hiking shoes for you.
Hiking Tip: Once you’ve found the perfect pair of hiking shoes, remember to break them in before your hike to prevent painful blisters.
With our guide to buying hiking shoes for women, you’ve got our top recommendations and know what features to look for. Happy Hiking!
