There are fewer things more rewarding in this world than hiking through the natural beauty of the world while breathing in some fresh air. But when embarking on a hiking trip, being prepared is crucial. That’s why having a good pair of hiking boots is crucial for any hike, for the user’s comfort and safety. Whether scaling a challenging mountain, hiking on uneven terrain, encountering muddy trails, or hitting unpredictable weather, what you wear on your feet can make or break your hiking experience. Luckily, we can help you find the right pair with our list of the best hiking boots for women this season!
Ready to explore the great outdoors? Considering the many benefits of being in nature, heading out on a hike makes for more than just a way to fill an afternoon. As always, we at StudyFinds have combed through nine expert sources to bring you the top five best hiking boots for women for the season! Don’t see your favorite on our list? We would love to hear from you in the comments down below.
The List: Best Hiking Boots for Women, According to Experts
1. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
If you’re looking to save a little money, The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots may be slightly more affordable than the other boots on our list. In comparison to their predecessor, the Moab 2, these boots are partially made with recycled materials, have better insole cushioning, and reinforced heel cushioning with a better grip overall (Sports Illustrated).
If you have wider feet, you may appreciate that the Moab 3 boots come in both regular and wide widths. According to The New York Times, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof continues to be a reliable option for budget-conscious hikers. These comfortable boots have been a favorite for years, offering wearers a no-frills choice that delivers on the essentials. They’re waterproof for light rain and puddles, provide ankle support for day hikes, and are easy to adjust with the laces. Plus, they boast decent breathability for keeping feet from getting too sweaty during moderate hikes.
The Moab 3’s are Merrell’s most eco-friendly boot to date. The Inertia likes the Moab 3’s eco-friendly construction with 100% recycled laces and lining. Merrell packed these boots with features, including a waterproof membrane, a durable leather and mesh upper, a comfy interior lining, and a sole that shields against scrapes. An added bonus is the removable insole that provides extra heel cushioning for all-day comfort, making them a great pick for those who value both performance and sustainability.
2. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid
The Renegades come in at a steep price, but their exceptional durability makes them well worth it because they are long-lasting. Lowa’s lighter colors may show dirt fairly quickly, but a bit of soap easily gets these boots looking brand new.
Hitting the trails can mean facing all sorts of challenges, but your footwear shouldn’t be one of them. According to Travel and Leisure, hikers swear by these boots for keeping their feet comfortable and protected no matter the terrain. They held up through stumbles, scrambles, snowy hikes, and even river crossings, all without letting in any moisture. Sounds like they can handle whatever you throw at them!
Looking for a supportive boot that can tackle tough trails? Switch Back Travel loves how this burly leather boot lives up to the task. The reviewer points out its rugged design and stable construction that provide excellent ankle support, especially on technical terrain. This boot doesn’t sacrifice comfort for toughness though, as it comes in various widths and features a tall collar for a secure fit. The Lowa Renegade boot is the jack of all trades combining the look, feel, and performance of a traditional design with an impressively low weight.
3. La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots
La Sportiva has a Vibram outsole that provides grippy traction. These stylish boots work whether you’re hitting the trail for a multi-day hike or just heading out for the day. Hitting the trails often means dealing with uneven terrain. No worries with the La Sportiva Nucleo High II! Sports Illustrated mentions these boots have a high-cut design to shield your ankles on rough ground. But here’s the kicker: this high ankle design also incorporates a hinge for increased comfort and flexibility, so you won’t feel restricted. And according to reviewers on REI.com, these boots are comfy right out of the box, requiring minimal (if any) break-in time.
The breathability of the Ultras comes from micro-vents under the mesh from the arch of the foot to the ankle along the line of the sole. Gear Junkie says this traditional, mid-height boot is built with tough nubuck leather for durability. Unlike previous La Sportiva boots, which tend to run narrow, the Nucleo High II comes in both regular and wide widths to accommodate different foot shapes. An added bonus: a Gore-Tex liner keeps your feet dry while you explore.
4. Salomon X Ultra 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes
Considering a hike that might take you through sloppy conditions? Salomon’s X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex boots might be your new best friend. Reviewers on Amazon.com rave about their grippy soles that handle mud, wet rocks, and uneven terrain with ease. These boots are built for adventure, featuring a special molded insert (called an Advanced Chassis by Salomon) that provides ample side-to-side support without sacrificing flexibility (Sports Illustrated).
This version of the Salomon boot is said to get better with time. They aren’t the most comfortable at first, but with time they break in and loosen up. Plus, they are super lightweight. Don’t let the weight fool you, though. The Inertia says that despite their weight, they are surprisingly sturdy, offering plenty of ankle support and keeping your feet dry with a trusty Gore-Tex lining.
Many sites describe Salomon X Ultras as feeling like a pair of running shoes with the ankle support of a hiking boot. Travel and Leisure reviewers were impressed by the breathability, even questioning if it could hold up in wet conditions. Their doubts were quickly squashed as the Gore-Tex treatment kept their feet 100% dry, even after submerging them in puddles, mud, and snow. These light hikers won’t weigh you down, whether you’re power-hiking or scrambling up technical terrain.
5. Salomon Quest 4 Gore-Tex Hiking Boots
Here we are again with another Salomon brand boot. In 2021, Salomon updated its popular Quest boots from 3D to four. And if you are looking for boots that can handle anything the trail throws at you, look no further! These versatile hikers from Salomon tick all the boxes. According to The New York Times, they provide reliable traction, excellent cushioning, and the most spacious toe box they’ve ever tested. These features make them ideal for long hauls with a heavy backpack, but they’re comfortable enough for shorter hikes too.
NY Magazine loves how rugged these are. They mention the deep lugs for superior grip on any terrain, a reinforced toe for extra protection, and a breathable Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet dry. Incredibly, these boots manage to be tough while also remaining flexible for a comfortable fit.
Gear Junkie also says these boots are perfect for hikers who want the classic ankle support of a leather boot with a modern twist. They’re constructed with a lighter, more breathable material that won’t weigh you down.
Sources:
- Sports Illustrated
- NY Times
- Backpacker
- The Inertia
- Travel and Leisure
- NY Magazine
- Outdoor Gear Lab
- Gear Junkie
- Switch Back Travel
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.