The 12 Best Hiking Boots for Women of 2023 to Take You Wherever You Want to Go
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We researched and tested the best-fitting, comfortable hiking boots out there
People / David Hattan
Ahh, the great outdoors. There’s nothing like a good hike to make you feel one with nature — the sounds of crunching leaves, the kiss of a breeze along your cheek. But foot pain can stop you in your tracks (literally) without the right pair of hiking boots. We could go on romanticizing the outdoors all day, but instead, we’ll help you find the best pair of women’s hiking boots to take you on your next adventure.
A well-fitting, comfortable pair of hiking boots is essential to enjoy every peak and valley, so we turned to expert podiatrist Dr. Bradley Schaeffer, a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon with Sole Podiatry NYC, who stars on the TLC show My Feet Are Killing Me.
“Regardless of the activity, our feet are our body’s shock absorbers and need to be taken care of, cushioned, supported, and stabilized,” Dr. Schaeffer tells PEOPLE. “Arch support is one of the most important things to look for regarding fit and comfort in any shoes. For hiking boots, it is even more important because of the unstable terrain you are enjoying.”
Hiking is a great way to stay active while enjoying the outdoors, which might be why its a popular exercise choice for celebrities like Shawn Mendes and Jamie Chung. It’s also the perfect romantic date activity no matter the season — as long as you have the proper gear.
“A good rule, obvious as it may seem, [is to] go for function over fashion,” says Dr. Bradley. “Some hiking boots that are all the rage, which look a lot like hiking boots, are truly not suitable for hiking.”
We’re here to take the guesswork out of your hunt for the best pair of women’s (or women’s-sized) hiking boots. We rounded up the best-performing, most well-fitting galoshes for you and your hiking partner (did we mention that they make great holiday gifts?). We poured over reviews and even tested some of the most popular hiking boots on the market, trekking through rivers and over mountains to determine which are really the best.
Read on to discover PEOPLE's picks of the best hiking boots, some of which we tested ourselves, to take you wherever you want to go.
Best Overall: Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
Pros
Super cushioned soles are immediately comfortable out of the box, with solid ankle support
Responsive rubber outsole provides impressive traction on all terrain
One of the best values for a high-quality, comfortable pair of hiking boots compared to other boots we’ve tested
Cons
These boots offer a standard and wide fit, but aren’t available in any narrow sizes
Forget everything you’ve ever known about hiking boots — these babies from Columbia prove that you needn’t settle for heavy, uncomfortable, or unattractive shoes for your next trek. The cushiony soles and breathable waterproof membrane keep you comfortable and secure over every rock and river.
The Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof hiking boots have garnered more than 1,800 five-star reviews on Columbia.com — and for good reason. These suede boots are soft and cushy, with exceptional ankle support and a responsive rubber outsole that can carry you over rocks and rivers with ease.
PEOPLE Commerce Writer Cai Cramer tested these boots out for an entire day, and as someone with a high arch and low tolerance for foot discomfort, they exceeded every expectation. The grippy outsoles provide great traction, and the mid-height uppers hugged my ankles with a secure yet cushiony squeeze. They’re so lightweight and comfortable that I’ll even slip them on for a casual walk through NYC.
The only downside is that these boots are only available in standard and wide sizing, which could ultimately be too wide for those who have narrow feet. Overall, though, hoppers agree that the Newton Ridges are a very comfortable, mid-width option for most people.
Price at time of publish: $59.99 (orig. $100)
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Suede/mesh | Weight per pair: 1.7 lbs.
Related: The 7 Best Women’s Water Shoes of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Overall, Runner Up: Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Ventilator
Pros
Available in both standard and wide sizes, making these a reliable choice for a variety of foot shapes
Comfortable for right out of the box without any need for break-in time
Cons
We found them to be slightly heavier and bulkier on the feet than some other boots we’ve tested
These sturdy hiking boots are comfortable enough to wear on long treks but tough enough to tackle rocky terrain. The mid-ankle uppers are soft yet supportive enough to protect against ankle-rolling, and the cushiony heels absorb shock and add stability. Right out of the box, we found the Merrell Moab 2 boots to be impressively comfortable.
Traverse any stream with confidence that these boots will keep your feet dry and toasty, and the 5 millimeter lug depth (the rubbery crevices on the underside of the shoe) prevent slipping or stumbling.
We love that these boots are available in a handful of “wide” sizes to accommodate wider feet or additional orthopedic insoles. Our only complaint after testing these boots is that they feel a tad heavier on the feet than some of the other boots we’ve tested. But, weight aside, we think these boots are still an amazing value.
[Editor's note: Merrell has released an updated version of this shoe, the Moab 3 Mid.]
Price at time of publish: $114.74 (orig. $138)
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Suede/mesh | Lining material: Mesh | Weight per pair: 2 lbs.
Best Waterproof: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
Pros
Waterproof Gore-Tex lining keeps feet dry while still allowing for breathability and airflow
Padded tongue and shock-absorbing midsole make these boots very comfortable
Cons
Some shoppers say the “wide” size isn’t wide enough
A bit heavier compared to other hiking boots we tested
Rain or snow, you can keep on trekking in these waterproof boots from Lowa. The Gore-Tex lining is adept at keeping water out while still allowing for breathability and airflow, plus a polyester lining effectively wicks away moisture, so you can be sure that your feet stay dry.
Available in narrow, standard, and wide sizing, the Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot is made for every wanderer. With a shock-absorbing polyurethane midsole and padded tongue to ensure full comfort, these boots are ready to accompany you wherever your next adventure takes you. Some shoppers report that the “wide” size doesn’t actually provide enough width for some feet, so make sure to take that into account when choosing your size. Additionally, at 2 lbs., 2 oz., these won’t feel weightless on your feet, so keep in mind if that’s something you’re looking for in a hiking shoe.
Price at time of publish: $245
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Nubuck leather | Lining material: Gore-Tex waterproof breathable membrane/polyester | Weight per pair: 2 lbs. 2 oz.
Related: The 13 Best Sleeping Bags of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Lightweight: Hoka Women's Speedgoat Mid 2 GTX Hiking Boots
Buy at Dicks-sporting-goods.pxf.io
Pros
Lightweight sneakers are great for both hiking and running errands
Cushiony insole great for people with high arches
Mid-style shaft offers exceptional ankle support
Cons
Some customers note that despite the inner Gore-Tex bootie, they’re not entirely waterproof
It turns out Hokas are great for more than just hot-girl walks and runs — the celebrity-favorite athletic shoe brand also makes an amazingly lightweight pair of hiking boots. These cushy shoes are made from a synthetic upper that sits around the mid-ankle but otherwise resembles the appearance of their running-shoe cousins.
Lined with a waterproof Gore-Tex bootie, the Speedgoat Mid 2 boots have a Vibram Megagrip rubber outsole with 5-millimeter stepped lugs and a 4-millimeter toe drop. Customers have noted that, while these are impressively lightweight hiking shoes, they’re also not entirely waterproof, so they might not be best for journeys that include river crossing or wet terrain.
[Editor's note: The Hoka Speedgoat 5 Mid GTX is the most updated version of this style.]
Price at time of publish: $170
Waterproof: Water resistant | Upper material: Synthetic | Lining material: Gore-Tex waterproof membrane | Weight per pair: 1 lb. 6.7 oz.
Best Everyday: Blundstone Women’s All-Terrain
Pros
Stylish design is great for casual hiking and can be dressed up or down
Supportive arches mold to your feet for a customized fit
Features leather that's water-resistant
Cons
Don’t provide much ankle support, so might not be a great choice for more intense hikes
Be ready for adventure any time, any place in the Blundstone Women’s All-Terrain boots. These oh-so-comfortable Chelsea boots are handsome enough to wear on the streets of NYC without anyone turning an eye (other than an envious one, that is). (Succession star Sarah Snook even donned a pair of Blundstones on her wedding day!) But don’t let their good looks deceive you — these shock-absorbing boots were engineered to withstand rough outdoor conditions.
The Blundstone name has been attached to high-quality, long-lasting work shoes since their founding, but as a personal fan of the brand, I can attest that these galoshes are so bootiful (sorry, I had to), they’ll be the only pair of footwear you ever want to slip on. These aren’t hard-core hiking boots but rather tough boots made with Vibram outsoles and gorgeous water-resistant leather. With that in mind, these shoes are great for both easy-to-moderate hikes as well as outdoor work.
Price at time of publish: $244.99
Waterproof: Water resistant | Upper material: Water-resistant leather | Lining material: Leather
Best Low-Rise: Adidas Terrex AX4 Hiking Shoes
Pros
Low-rise hiking sneakers won’t rub against your ankles
Very lightweight with sturdy outsoles that are capable of tackling any terrain
Doubles as a trail running shoe, which adds to its value
Cons
Provide less ankle support compared to higher-cut boots
Not waterproof, unlike most other options on this list
Sensitive ankles are a real thing! As someone prone to painful blisters on the backs of my heels, I often prefer a low-rise shoe. The Terrex AX4 Hiking Shoes from Adidas let your ankles roam free with a low-rise upper that resembles the classic running shoes they’re known for. Somewhere between a hiking boot and a running shoe, the Terrex AX4s are incredibly lightweight with a durable sole.
With warp-knit stretch mesh covering the outside of the shoe, and a continental rubber outsole, these hiking shoes are rugged enough for scrambles yet as lightweight and comfortable as traditional runners. If you require more stability from your hiking boots, we’d recommend opting for a pair with higher, stiffer ankle coverage. But if you simply adore the feeling of a cool breeze on your bare ankle, we might have found the perfect pair of hikers for you.
Price at time of publish: $70
Waterproof: No | Upper material: Warp-knit stretch sandwich mesh | Lining material: Knit textile | Weight per pair: 11.1 oz.
Best for Snow: Keen Women’s Greta Boot
Pros
Charcoal bamboo insulation keeps the elements out and the warmth in
Relatively lightweight for snow boots, coming in at about 2 lbs.
Rubber outsole provides extra traction on slippery surfaces like ice and snow
Cons
Not an all-season type of hiking boot, especially if your feet are prone to sweating
Cold weather is no match for the Greta Boot. This warm pair of winter shoes are basically a puffer coat for your feet — need we say more? The insulation is made from charcoal bamboo, a surprisingly warm (yet sustainable) stuffing that keeps these boots lightweight yet protective, rated to withstand as cold as -25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keen designed the rubber outsole to provide extra traction over slippery surfaces like ice and packed snow. We love these boots for a winter hike or stroll (they look adorable with jeans and a pea coat), but they might be a bit warm for non-winter wear, especially if your feet are prone to sweating.
Price at time of publish: $144.39 (orig. $180)
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Waterproof leather and textile | Lining material: Breathable textile lining | Weight per pair: 2 lbs. 1 oz.
Best Breathable: Merrell Women's Speed Eco
Pros
Comfortable right out of the box, so we didn’t need to factor in any break-in time
Supportive footbed is great for people with high arches
Super lightweight compared to other hiking shoes that we tested
Versatile enough to wear hiking, running, walking, or biking
Cons
Low-shaft shoe doesn’t provide as much ankle support compared to high-top hiking boots
We were able to get moving right away in the Merrell Speed Eco Hiking shoes with no break-in time. In fact, the first thing we did once we slipped on the low-profile hikers was go for a 30-minute run, which resulted in zero blisters or rubbing. The footbed arch is nice and supportive, which is a win for anyone with high-arched feet.
The Merrell Speed hiking shoes are also incredibly lightweight compared to most other hikers on the market, which makes them a versatile choice for trips that may include a variety of activities like walking, running, biking, and (of course) hiking. Perhaps our favorite thing about these lightweight hiking shoes is that they’re lined with a breathable mesh that kept our feet cool even during a particularly hot hike in Arizona.
These are low-cut shoes, so they won’t provide as much ankle support as a full boot. But after multiple foot-painless hikes in the Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoe, we think this lightweight hiker is one of the best values for hiking boots that we’ve seen — especially considering that it does the job of multiple pairs of athletic shoes in one.
Price at time of publish: $100
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Jacquard | Lining material: Breathable mesh lining | Weight per pair: 1 lbs. 3 oz.
Best Stylish: Teva Geotrecca Low Women's Hiking Shoe
Pros
Lightweight, low-profile shoe still manages to provide great ankle support
Design looks like a trendy sneaker, so we wore them on the mountain and off
Made with partially recycled polyester and EVA materials
Cons
Tongue of the shoe initially felt a bit stiff but loosened up after one wear
Lightweight than a traditional hiking boot, the Teva Geotrecca low shoes are low profile while still providing ankle support and are shockingly lightweight. Plus, they look more like trendy, chunky sneakers than clunky hiking boots, so you can go from museum walk to hike without changing your shoes. They are also made with partially recycled EVA and recycled polyester, so they're great for those who prioritize reducing their carbon footprint in any way they can.
The one qualm we found when testing the Teva Geotreccas is that the shoe’s tongue initially felt a bit stiff, but not so stiff that it caused us any blisters. By the time we had worn them on one intermediate hike, the tongue softened up and broke in, and we think that the initial stiffness is nothing that a thicker pair of socks couldn’t solve.
Price at time of publish: $140
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Recycled polyester, spandex, synthetic and waterproof leather | Lining material: Breathable recycled nylon and polyester mesh
Best for Wide Feet: KEEN Women’s Targhee 3 Low Height Waterproof
Pros
Wider toe box than most standard-sized hiking shoes, which is great for anyone with wider feet
Waterproof leather uppers can keep feet dry in a variety of weather conditions
One of the best values for a high-quality hiking boot compared to others we’ve tried
Cons
Doesn't provide as much ankle support compared to high-top hiking shoes
Finding hiking boots that are comfortable on wider feet can be a pain — literally. That’s why we appreciated the wider-fitting Keen Targhee hiking shoe. They’re made of waterproof leather and a 4 mm-deep lug sole that allowed us to stay comfortable while hiking on all different terrain during our tests. We noted that the footbed is wider than most standard-sized hiking boots, which is pretty typical for Keen shoes.
The Targhees have a lower cut than the typical hiking boot but offer a little more ankle support than most sneaker-hiking shoe hybrids. And if you can find them on sale like we did, they’re shockingly reasonable for such a high-quality shoe. Because they have a wider toe box, we wouldn’t recommend the Keen Targhees for people with particularly narrow feet because you may slide around in the shoe which can lead to blisters. But, for anyone with wider feet looking for a very reasonable and high-quality boot, this one is a great choice.
Price at time of publish: $89.89 (orig. $165)
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Waterproof leather and performance mesh | Lining material: Dry waterproof, breathable membrane | Weight per pair: 1 lbs. 10 oz.
Best Design: Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 WP Hiking Boot
Pros
Cushioned midsole and a roomy toe box made these boots instantly comfortable right out of the box without needing any break-in period
Thick Vibram outsole is rugged and protective against rocks and other terrains
Waterproof inner booties kept our feet dry, even when submerged in water
Cons
Some people might find the stiff outsole to be too thick if they prefer to feel the terrain under them while hiking (or want something more breathable)
From the minute we slipped these hiking boots on, the quality was evident. Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, they were comfortable right from the start — no break-in time necessary. That meant that we were able to set off on our adventures right away. Through every challenge we tackled in the Topo Athletic Trailventure 2 boots — including a hot summer hike, a traverse through a creek, and a chillier shaded hike — they stayed strong and showed no signs of wear or tear. Thanks to the waterproof inner booties, they kept our feet completely dry and cool.
The soles and sides of the Topo Trailventure 2 boots are padded and springy, which helped us stay comfortable through long hours of walking. We were also impressed by the level of ankle support and roomy toe box, which contributed to the boot’s comfort. The Vibram outsole of the boot is firm and stiff which can help protect the soles of the feet while hiking on rocky terrain. Hikers who prefer boots with more flexibility and thinner soles might want to opt for a different shoe — but we think most people would love the sturdy, comfortable Topo Athletic Trailvetures as much as we do.
Price at time of publish: $120
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Textile and synthetic mesh upper | Lining material: eVent® waterproof inner-bootie | Weight per pair: 1 lbs. 14 oz.
Best Value: Nortiv8 Women's Waterproof Hiking Boots
Pros
One of the best values for quality hiking boots that we’ve found
Sturdy ankle support with cushiony insole
Surprisingly lightweight for a clunkier, high-top hiking boot
Cons
Since they're pretty clunky, these are less versatile than others on the list and we recommend reserving these just for mountaineering
Don't come in wide or narrow sizing options
Another classic boot from the outdoor brand Nortiv8, these waterproof hiking boots are comfortable, sturdy, and, of course, a great value. A fan-favorite, this pair has earned over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon with many raving about their comfortable cushion, nice ankle support, and lightweight feel.
Plus, many found that they didn't need to be broken in at all — they were able to unbox and get to hiking right away. A few things worth noting: They only come in regular sizing, with no narrow or wide options. Plus, because they reflect a more standard hiking boot silhouette, they're clunkier than many others on the less, thus less versatile for other outdoor activities other than hiking and mountaineering.
Price at time of publish: $53.99 (orig. $79.99)
Waterproof: Yes | Upper material: Polyurethane leather, breathable mesh
Related: The 23 Best Walking Shoes of 2023, According to Experts
Things to Consider Before Buying Hiking Boots
Upper Material
Though every boot is made from a slightly different combination of materials, Dr. Schaeffer has some tips for what to look for (and what to steer clear of) in the fabric that covers the outside of hiking boots. “Have a mix of leather and mesh, a hybrid if possible, to provide stability and breathability for long walks and hikes,” Dr. Schaeffer says. “Stay away from spandex or elastic-based materials — you don’t want too stretchy of a material.”
Outsole/Lug Depth
When it comes to the bottom of your hiking boots, thicker doesn’t always mean better. Balanced flexibility and shock absorption are just as (if not more) important, says Dr. Schaeffer. “You don’t want to slip, fall and break bones or get tendon injuries!” he says. “[Look for outsoles that are] not too soft and flexible but not too hard, because you are already walking on rocks or unusually firm terrain.”
Waterproofing
Depending on where your hike takes you, it’s important to know if your boots are waterproof or not. If you’re planning on stepping through puddles or over river stones, a light level of outer waterproofing from suede and inner insulation should suffice, such as the Blundstone Women’s All-Terrain. But, if your trek will take you through deeper rivers or snowbanks, make sure that the boot is fully insulated with a tongue that keeps the boot sealed to your foot so no water can seep in through the top.
Arch Support
Arch support is one of the most important factors in comfortable hiking boots that can keep you on your feet all day. Dr. Schaeffer stresses the importance of arch support to “keep your lower body in alignment as much as possible” and provide shock absorption to keep you cushioned, supported, and stabilized. Depending on how high the natural arch of your foot is, look for a boot with soles that reach up to match your foot’s curve with a responsive cushion that is neither too firm nor too soft.
How We Tested Women’s Hiking Boots
To find out which hiking boots are truly the best of the best, we conducted thorough research and pored over reviews, as well as tested some of the best-selling hiking boots in the real world. For those we tested ourselves, wore each pair of hiking boots for, at minimum, two hours at a time. We exposed the boots to different climates and terrain, including mountains, desert, forests, and streams. If a pair of boots claimed to be waterproof, then we submerged the boots in water or doused them with a hose.
After we wore each pair of boots multiple times, we took careful notes on the comfort, fit, and toughness of the boots. Paying close attention to all the details, we evaluated the lug depth, break-in time, and how warm or cold our feet felt in each pair. We paired our testing results with online research and reviews to compile this list of the best women’s hiking boots to take you wherever you want to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hiking shoe for arch support?
“Arch support is probably the most critical feature that affects comfort and can help prevent a myriad of issues,” says Dr. Schaeffer. The best hiking boot for you is totally dependent on the shape of your feet and the curve of your arch, but if your foot is moderate to highly arched, our top pick is the Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot for it’s cushiony and responsive arch support that we tested in the real world.
Is it better to wear hiking boots or hiking shoes?
Though this comes down to personal preference, many hikers tend to prefer boots that come up higher for extra ankle support. According to Dr. Schaeffer, this is one of the most important factors in choosing the right hiking boots. “Adequate ankle support will help you avoid rolling your ankle, tendon injury, and ankle fracture,” Dr. Schaeffer tells PEOPLE. “I would suggest going for boots that lace up past the medial or lateral malleoli (ankle joint).” Though most of our picks include a high level of ankle support, we especially recommend the Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots for their sturdy lace-up support.
Do I really need hiking boots to hike? Can I just wear my sneakers?
The short answer: Yes, you really should wear supportive, cushioned hiking boots in order to prevent injuries like twisted ankles, bunions, ingrown toenails, blisters, and more. Although your sneakers might be easier to slip on and run out the door, a pair of lightweight hiking boots should be just as comfortable and ultimately keep you on your feet for longer during your hike.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Cai Cramer is a Commerce Writer at PEOPLE, covering the best and buzziest products across the beauty, fashion, health, and lifestyle spaces. Growing up in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, Cai often spent time hiking in the Rocky Mountains. For this story, Cai spoke with esteemed board-certified podiatrist Dr. Bradley Schaeffer, DPM of Sole Podiatry NYC and star of the TLC show My Feet Are Killing Me, who provided expertise on foot and ankle health.
What Is People Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
Up Next: The 14 Best Cushioned Running Shoes of 2023, According to Running Experts
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