Welcome to the best women’s hiking boots guide. 😊
I’m constantly on the hunt for comfortable, functional, and stylish adventure gear.
I’ve gotta say, it can be quite the challenge to find pieces that check all the boxes for me!
No matter how cute a pair of shoes is, I’m not interested in having a hike ruined by blisters.
But you also won’t catch me dead in anything bright orange!
Looking good on the trail isn’t easy, so to help you out, I’ve compiled all of my research and experience here.
This post contains affiliate links. If you shop these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for helping me continue to create content for you!
1. Best Boots Overall: Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX
The Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX (that’s a mouthful!) boots are a crowd favorite, combining running-shoe comfort with the stability needed for technical hikes.
I hiked several miles through the Grand Canyon, on very steep uphill and downhill terrain, and these boots didn’t bat an eye.
My fiancé even has the same pair in men’s, and LOVES them.
They were also extremely comfortable right out of the box. You just can’t go wrong with these boots!
Pros: comfortable, lightweight, short break-in period
Cons: color choices are limited
2. Best Boots For A Tight Budget: Columbia Newton Ridge Plus
Honestly, these originally caught my eye for the way they looked, as a dupe for some cute, higher-end boots.
I tried these out on a trip to Mount Rainier National Park, and put roughly 30 miles on them over a few days.
Full disclosure, I did add a Dr. Scholl’s insert (you can never be too comfortable, imo), and I was pleasantly surprised.
They were almost as comfortable as my Salomon’s (which were twice the price), but definitely less supportive, particularly around the ankle.
The Columbia Newton Ridge boot is a great choice for beginner or intermediate hikers that just need affordable boots!
Pros: inexpensive, stylish, lightweight, lots of color choices
Cons: not very supportive, narrow toe box
3. Best Boots For A Mid-Price Range: KEEN Targhee III Mid
KEEN has its own loyal following, and the Targhee III is no exception!
Many people love the comfortable, slightly wider fit that the boot provides.
Although if you’re planning on clocking hundreds of miles, they may not be the most durable choice.
Pros: comfortable, lightweight, short break-in period
Cons: not the most durable boot
4. Best Boots For Day Hikes: Merrell Moab 2 Mid
Built like a trail runner with some added oomph, the Moab Mid 2 is a solid choice for hikers that value comfort over stability.
The Moab’s ankle support actually stops at the ankle, instead of going over the ankle, like most mid boots do.
That’s why weighing in at 2 lbs, I find that it’s a little too bulky for the intended use, but the mid-range price point makes up for it.
Pros: comfortable, mid-range price
Cons: not supportive for heavy duty hiking
5. Best Boots For Multi-Day Hikes: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX
Intended for long treks and backpacking, these here are some sturdy boots.
The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX (maybe shorter names pls, Salomon!) blend comfort and stability with technology that helps reduce fatigue.
Pros: supportive, durable, technical
Cons: long break-in period, pricier, limited color choice
6. Best Boots For Classic Style: Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot
These beautiful boots recall iconic 1970’s outdoors style, and were even worn by Reese Witherspoon in the movie Wild.
If you can make it through the break-in period (and the price tag) these Danner boots are a lifetime investment!
Pros: very stylish, durable
Cons: expensive, heavy, long break-in period
7. Best Boots For Hike-To-Street Style: Merrell Women’s Ontario Mid
If you’re looking for a boot you can wear straight from the trail into town to grab a drink, look no further.
The Merrell Ontario blends classic hiking boot aesthetics with modern, Yeezy-like finishes.
Although I love the look of these boots, I found the soles didn’t have enough grip for rockier terrains.
But anyone who wants to do some fun day hikes, and look fly af while doing them, will love these boots.
Pros: stylish, comfortable, lightweight
Cons: not technical enough for more challenging terrain
8. Best Boots For Intense Support And Stability: Lowa Tibet GTX
These ultra-supportive boots are a cult favorite amongst backpackers, hard-core hikers, and hunters alike.
The Lowa Tibet GTX will keep you stable over long distances with a heavy pack.
Weighing in a 3.08 lbs, these boots are stiffer and heavier, meaning they will take longer to break in.
But after hiking hundreds of miles, your body will thank you!
Pros: supportive, durable, technical
Cons: long break-in period, expensive, limited color choice
In closing…
Hope this help! Let me know in the comments if you have any favorites I’ve missed! xo
Leave a Reply