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After months on the trail, we found the best hiking boots for women. Whether you want to head out for a local day hike or spend your summer thru-hiking, we've got you covered.
Finding the right pair of boots for your feet is vital. Sure, things like trekking poles or daypacks will enhance your time on the trail. But a good shoe sets the entire foundation, and a poor fit can quickly ruin your plans or dream adventure.
It takes time to sort through all the brands and models of boots out there, so we’ve done all the grunt work for you. Since 2021, our team of testers has been on a constant hunt for the best boots on the market today. We put 15 of them to real-world use, logging dozens of miles from the Rocky Mountains to the hills of Virginia and the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada. We’ve worn these boots on multiday backpacking trips, for quick local jaunts, and from the trailhead to around-town errands or travel legs — in a range of conditions from dry to mud-ridden.
Each boot was measured and compared via a series of metrics such as fit, breathability, stability, materials, and support — to give an extensive look at where each stood out or fell short. We considered details such as the tread of each boot, cuff height, and waterproofing — all to help you understand the features you might be looking for. While there isn’t a single hiking boot that’s perfect for everyone, we’ve broken this list into categories to help you find the best fit for you.
Read on for our favorite new hiking boots of the year, or jump to the category you’re looking for. At the end of our list, be sure to check out our comprehensive buyer’s guide, FAQ, and comparison chart.
Editor’s Note: We refreshed this article on December 22, 2023, adding additional details about our testing practices, and ensuring each existing boot is in stock and up-to-date.
We continue to clock miles in this supportive hiking boot on steep, rocky, meandering, or mellow trails, and it continues to be our overall favorite. The updated version provides even more support while still remaining as lightweight and nimble as the previous model. With a traditional feel and a modern aesthetic, SCARPA’s trail-running-inspired Rush 2 Mid GTX ($219) might look lighter-duty, but it has the backbone and protection of a mid-height waterproof hiker with fantastic levels of cushioning and support.
One of the new features of this updated boot is the addition of a Dynamic Stabilizer Torsion (DST) insert, which is a TPU frame in the heel area that provides extra support against torsion, or twisting. Having better support in this area makes these boots feel even more secure on rocky or uneven terrain.
A slightly taller ankle cuff than the older version also increases the overall support of this shoe. Our female testers also vastly preferred the new colorways to the older ones, which are a bit more gender-neutral in general.
The Rush’s synthetic mesh upper offers breathability, so our feet didn’t get too hot, and is reinforced with welded overlays. There’s also an over-padded, softly lined collar, giving it lightweight, dynamic ankle support.
For lacing up, the tongue is streamlined and soft, so tightening down is smooth. Reinforced toeboxes lessen the possibility of blowing through the front, even with sustained use, and help protect our digits when we accidentally pummel rocks.
Ultimately, this versatile and confidence-inspiring design has an untraditional feel, given the shoe is made with lighter materials than we’ve seen in other SCARPA hikers, and offers stability, comfort, and temperature regulation. As more brands trend towards making their hiking boots feel like trail runners, we think the Rush 2 Mid GTX does an excellent job pairing solid support with nimble performance.
The Moab 3 Mid Waterproof ($150) boot is an affordable, reliable updated version of Merrell’s ever-popular Moab 2’s. Partially recycled fabrics, more supportive insoles, more cushioned midsoles, and even grippier outsoles set these apart from their predecessors. They are lighter as well, weighing in at 1 pound 13 ounces for a pair compared to the 2-pound weight of the older version.
We took this pair up gullies, through meadows, and across many streams all the way to the treeline. The 5mm-deep lugs are very noticeable underfoot and provide great traction over rocky stream crossings and over talus fields and slabs.
With a drop of 11.5mm, these hiking boots are a moderate heel-striking shoe, meaning that it will be possible to midfoot strike while hiking, but you will feel the heel significantly. If you are someone who prefers to hike more on the mid to forefoot, these won’t be the boots for you and you might want to look for a boot with less of a drop.
The Moab 3 features a removable contoured footbed with reinforced heel cushioning for those heel strikes that our testers found very comfortable right out of the box. Also, the breathable mesh upper is reinforced by a suede leather overlay. If you want an even more waterproof version of this shoe, it comes in a GORE-TEX model as well.
The boots are simple and durable if a bit clunky. We also like that they’re super easy to lace up and tighten down. They’re a perennial favorite and one of the best women’s hiking boots you can get for $150.
An impressively lightweight hiking boot, it’s easy to tell that the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX ($175) is made by a running shoe manufacturer. These boots aren’t technically the lightest in our lineup, but feel light and agile on our feet regardless.
Softer materials around the collar and heels and a lower-density midsole are design features that make this a more woman’s specific fit. This boot is undeniably comfortable and noticeably softer than other boots we tested.
The X Ultras sport a GORE-TEX membrane and an All Terrain Contragrip outsole. We were impressed with the traction on these boots, which handled rocky terrain and gritty slabs in our high desert backyard with ease. We did a slip test on wet rock and the Contragrip outsole did a great job maintaining balance.
While the softness of these boots makes them undeniably comfortable, this feature also contributes to a general feeling of instability, especially in the collar. While a high collar often means more ankle support, which is generally preferable while carrying heavier loads, the softness of the collar in these boots doesn’t inspire much confidence.
Our tester also noticed that these boots were a lot bigger than other boots she tested at the same size, and recommends you size down a half a size for a more technical fit.
A more traditional backpacking boot, the high-cut, mid-duty nubuck Nucleo High is big news for La Sportiva. After specializing in narrow-lasted boots for years, it’s the first hiking boot they’ve made for both average-width and wide feet. The leather boot is protective and sturdy in the way only a leather boot can be, and thanks to a GORE-TEX liner, it’s also waterproof.
The breathability of the Nucleo High II GTX ($239) is enhanced by micro-vents under mesh from the arch of the foot to the ankle along the line of the sole — GORE’s Surround system. A Vibram rubber rand and toecap deflected scuffs and rocks. The Vibram sole also provided steady grip climbing, enhanced braking traction on descents, and the slightly rockered shape made it easier to heel into a step and toe out of it.
Well-padded fabric at the Achilles gave us plenty of pressure-free range-of-ankle movement on steep descents. On rocky trails, a polypropylene stiffener in the midsole protected our feet from bruising, and the arch support is excellent.
Overall, the Nucleo High stands out as one of the best women’s hiking boots for long backpacking trips where your feet will thank you for having ankle support, good traction, and the ability to stomp through streams with ease. Plus it is super lightweight, clocking in at only 1 lb. 6 oz for a pair!
Read our full review of the Nucleo High II GTX.
This lightweight boot ($160) from Salomon feels just like a trail running shoe but with the added support and protection of an ankle cuff and deeper lugs for better traction. Our testers loved the snug, comfortable fit of these boots right out of the box, and were impressed with how nimble they were on long hikes over varying terrain in the California high desert.
Salomon’s Fuze foam compound provides impressive cushioning and energy return, making our steps feel light and springy as if we were wearing our favorite trail runners. A curved midsole makes for a nice rolling stride, and the All Terrain Contagrip outsole inspires confidence on dirt, gravel, and even snow.
At 1 pound, 7 ounces, these are some of the lightest hiking boots we tested and they definitely feel that way. We would recommend these boots for avid day hikers who want more support than a trail running shoe, or lightweight backpackers who look for comfort and a boot that will hold up to the elements.
There are a couple of places where this boot falls a bit short, however. The ankle support is roomy and with only one set of eyelets to tighten your shoelaces with, it’s not possible to get a super tight, supportive fit. This has led us to feel prone to ankle rolling, especially with a heavier backpack on, which is why we mostly recommend this boot to lightweight backpackers. Our testers also found that the toe cap on the front of the boot felt too short, and wished the rubber came up and over the toe for added protection.
These gripes are definitely worth considering when thinking of purchasing this boot, but we give the OUTpulse a high rating regardless for their great traction, comfort and maneuverability, lower price, and light weight which make them an overall excellent choice for the lightweight backpacker.
Looking for a hiking boot that easily transitions from mountaintop to coffee shop? It’s time you met the Teva Grandview ($175). This popular pick offers modern-retro styling in a boot that performs impressively well on the trail.
These boots proved comfortable from the very first wear. The wider toebox gave us plenty of room for toes to wiggle and splay out naturally. One narrow-footed tester found them too roomy, so keep that in mind if you have particularly narrow feet.
We had adequate traction on wet rocks during a stream crossing, and the GORE-TEX liner kept our feet dry through it all. Even on warmer spring hikes, we didn’t have a problem with our feet overheating.
The Heel Lock strap provided subtle yet helpful additional foot support. Teva claims it helps lock your foot in place and decrease toe pressure on descents, and we were pleasantly surprised to find that it held up to these claims.
This boot may not have enough support or traction for technical rocky terrain or extended backpacking trips, but for day hikes and around-town jaunts, it’s our new favorite women’s hiker.
At 1 pound, 8 ounces, this is one of the lightest hiking boots you can buy. It’s nimble and fast, more like a running shoe with mid-height ankle support.
The Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 ($190) also uses an eVent waterproof bootie to keep feet dry. It blocked puddles and rain from seeping into this shoe, and the membrane truly breathes, making this one of the least sweaty waterproof shoes we’ve worn.
When cranking out mileage is your primary concern, these shoes rise to the challenge. Altra’s signature ultrawide toebox leaves plenty of space for the toes to spread, which helped us hike longer miles without foot pain. When we wore this hiker in cooler temps, the roomy toebox also helped our toes stay warm. When the toes aren’t restricted, there’s more space to retain heat from movement.
A springy insole gives the boots a running shoe feel and will put some spring in your step. And the sole’s directional V-shaped lugs were grippy on rocks and roots but didn’t get packed with mud. Also, the 25mm stack height felt lower in the heel than others we tested, which was super comfortable over many days and miles of wearing them.
The updated All-WTHR Mid 2 does have a MaxTrac outsole (as opposed to the previous DuraTread) that enhances traction and durability from previous models. The sole extends slightly longer than the body of the boot in the back, which made rolling through each step feel natural and smooth. A gusseted tongue kept water out when we misjudged the depth of a puddle. It also kept out fir needles, leafy debris, sand, shale, and everything else that tried to creep in on various hikes.
The only real downside to this boot is that it lacks the sturdy rock protection found in some other hikers, which is a tradeoff for weight. Overall, the thru-hikers agree that it’s one of the best women’s hiking boots for long distances.
Want more information on the previous, almost identical model? Read our full review of the Altra Lone Peak All Weather-Mid.
Designed for best-in-class protection in rocky, technical terrain, Salewa’s mid-height Alp Trainer ($229) is up to the challenge. This boot melds the best features of a climbing shoe with the best features of a hiking boot for traction, precision, and comfort on rocky, technical trails where falling isn’t an option.
This hiker has a secure and highly adaptable fit. The zonal traction Vibram sole was able to cruise through any terrain or weather we encountered, from sweaty summer peak-bagging to a wintery mix when scouting ski lines in New York’s Adirondacks.
To-the-toe lacing let us tune the fit to our feet throughout the day as our feet swelled. And the upper, a 1.4mm-thick leather, deflected rock abrasion on a backpacking weekend in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.
A stiffer, smoother zone in the toe was precise and grippy when we took a shortcut that required a short stretch of technical climbing moves.
Salewa’s 3F System, which wires the heel of the boot to the upper, is a signature Salewa technology that continues to deliver superb ankle stability without sacrificing feel. Salewa wraps wires around the boot’s Achilles and arches, and locks them into the top lace. The 3F system really made the boot feel like an extension of our foot.
The Alp Trainer Mid’s ankle flexibility was enhanced with a padded fabric cutout in the Achilles. The design gives the ankle more forward-backward motion without compromising support, which was comfortable on steep downhills along Vermont’s Long Trail.
The boots come with an additional footbed insert — part of Salewa’s Multi Fit Footbed system. Swap the insoles or combine them for a personalized fit.
New for last year, the Jack Wolfskin Terraventure Texapore Mid ($185) adds a well-cushioned, comfortable hiker to our lineup of favorites. The materials and design are also among the most sustainable available.
The flexible, synthetic upper is made of recycled and PFC-free material. Inside, the smooth tricot lining is 100% recycled. The PU-rubber insole, which serves up a feeling of walking on a cloud, is also recycled.
Adding more comfort, the Vibram midsole is made of EVA, sugar cane, and cork — the latter two of which are biodegradable. On the ground, the outsole features 30% recycled rubber in the Vibram Ecostep materials. Up top, the lace hooks are mostly made of recycled zinc (76%). It’s all in the details.
What’s super cool and unique is the brand’s proprietary waterproof technology called Texapore Ecosphere. It includes a membrane integrated into the boot and is made with totally upcycled (read: recycled) materials that would otherwise go to waste in the factory. The big deal? There are no chemicals in this waterproof membrane, and the brand plans to remove PFCs from all of its footwear by 2025. We love it!
While hiking around the steep, high-altitude mountains of Southwest Colorado, we found the Terraventure boot comfortable out of the box with no break-in time required. It’s waterproof, breathable, supportive, and well-cushioned. This is a solid hybrid design with a sturdy outsole and pliable upper. We also like that there’s a rubber toe protector and a soft hook on the back of the collar to help smoothly pull on the boot.
Though the outsole does offer good grip, we likely won’t use this boot on super uneven, rocky routes — like ones that go to the top of Colorado’s 13,000-foot peak summits — because the shoe feels too suspended above the ground for the precise footwork we prefer in that type of terrain. The tongue, which is amply cushioned, also took effort to smoothen before tightening up the laces. Otherwise, this is a great choice for plenty of trail comfort.
The Anacapa Mid GTX ($185) from HOKA may get you some peculiar looks out on the trail, and might not be our top choice for more technical terrain, but these boots live up to the standards of comfort for which HOKA is well-known.
Although at first glance these boots may appear bulky, they are actually quite lightweight, weighing in at 1 pound 12 ounces. Their upper is made of a mix of nubuck leather and GORE-TEX materials to help seal out wet weather. A high ankle offers support and keeps out more water and debris, and a Vibram outsole provides great traction.
The most notable (and visible) part of these hiking boots is the extended heel which allows for smoother heel-to-toe transitions. This rockered design paired with the generous cushion of the outsole feels incredible on maintained dirt trails, allowing you to move quickly and comfortably almost as if you were wearing trail runners instead of a heavier hiking boot.
When transitioning to more technical hiking terrain, however, like any third-class scrambling or traversing of rocky off-trail ridgelines, it was harder to trust the stability and grip of these boots. All of a sudden, the extended heel and rockered outsole feel bulky and unsteady. We would not recommend this hiking boot if you primarily participate in off-trail adventures.
However, if you want to log some serious mileage on dirt hiking trails that don’t involve a lot of scrambling, the Anacapas provide great comfort, water resistance, and stability.
Made in the style of a classic mountaineering boot, not only is the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Boot waterproof, comfortable, and stylish, but also affordable with a $100 price tag — making it a great choice for beginners venturing into the world of hiking. Coming in a variety of colorways, with uppers of either leather or suede, the Newton Ridge Plus does well at repelling water, with the only exception being if they are submerged up to the ankle cuff, where water can seep in through the tongue.
The lightweight midsole is moderately cushioned, providing comfort over long days on maintained trails. The combination of full-grain leather and suede ensures that the quality is high and that the boots will be durable in the long run. The seam-sealed membrane bootie construction enables the boots to withstand the elements, making this an ideal shoe for hikes with creek crossings or for environments prone to storms.
We put these boots to the test over long switchbacks in the High Sierra of California, and while they remained comfortable on maintained trails, they weren’t able to keep up with more technical boots when the terrain got more rocky or variable. The proprietary Omni-Grip rubber isn’t quite as sticky and reliable as the Vibram found on more expensive boots, and if you’ll be doing a lot of hiking on terrain where you need excellent grip, this is something worth considering. Another consideration is that a leather or suede construction will inherently be less breathable than a synthetic upper, with the tradeoff being superior waterproofing.
All in all, this boot is a fantastic option for those breaking into hiking and who are looking for a comfortable, waterproof boot that is also easy on the eyes — as well as the wallet.
Made for light hiking or adding extra support to your daily activities, the KEEN Terradora II ($165) makes walking easier with loads of heel cushioning, a soft collar, and a contoured fit made for women. Because of its low-key look and all-day comfort, this is a boot we often grab for walking the dog or hitting the trails in addition to back-to-back errands.
The new technology in the Terradorra II is specifically designed for women’s comfort. The boot features a contoured shape, low-density EVA midsole, light arch support, and plenty of cushion. A “Konnect-Fit” heel capture system ensures that your heels will stay snug and supported to reduce any friction or heel slippage.
The rubber outsole is made with KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber that features multi-directional, 4 mm deep lugs for traction. We took these boots up and down rocky trails in California’s High Sierra, and the traction did well crossing slippery logs and traversing slabs. A stability shank inside also prevented pokey rocks from bruising our feet.
As with many boots that emphasize cushion and comfort, the Terradorra II wouldn’t be our top choice for more technical terrain. Having less cushion allows for more nimble navigation over varying terrain. But these are some of the most comfortable hiking boots we tested, with the contoured shape hugging our feet and providing just the right amount of support.
Overall, this is still one of the best women’s hiking boots for light-duty missions mixed with time around town or other activities like yard work, gardening, or dog walking.
Oboz Footwear’s Sawtooth collection of hikers has been around for 10 years. In that time, the Sawtooth has only gotten very minor updates (like the ones made in 2019 in the Sawtooth II).
But now, 10 years later, Oboz decided to make some big upgrades to its classic hiker. It’s worth noting the Sawtooth X ($175) comes in low and mid styles, but we tested the mid-rise.
While the original Sawtooth models were largely popular, some big complaints were the fit around the ankle and the narrow fit in the sides and toes. It seems as if Oboz has set out to solve this with its design of the Sawtooth X, which has a markedly different heel shape, as well as a slightly wider toebox for a more comfortable fit.
The new model also includes a different midsole material (rubber-blended foam), and a new rubber on the outsole called True Tread for better traction.
We’ve taken this hiking shoe out on some very technical, scrambly hikes here in Colorado specifically to test the new traction. The multi-directional lugs (it seems like there are more of them!) perform great on both loose, packed, and rocky terrain.
The last new feature? Recycled PET in the laces — which so far have proven durable when yanking on and lacing up these boots.
Things that remain the same in the hiking boot from previous models include the nubuck leather on the upper, Oboz B-DRY waterproof breathable membrane, and O FIT insoles.
Already, we think the fit is great (better than other Sawtooths) and the added CORDURA in the upper definitely increases the durability of this boot.
If you’ve ever felt like your feet might run out of energy mid-hike, this could be your shoe. The North Face’s VECTIV Exploris 2 Mid Futurelight ($179) hiker literally rolls you into your next step, helping to keep you moving and conserving your energy as you stride along the trail.
The energetic feel of this shoe comes from a rockered midsole that propels you forward with each step. It’s paired with a 3D plate between the midsole and sole that wraps up the sides of the boot for lateral stability. It also protected our feet from rocks and uneven trails.
The meshy upper is lined with The North Face’s Futurelight waterproof, breathable fabric, which kept our feet dry and comfortable even on warm days. And while the boot’s lacing doesn’t look like anything special, the lace guides lock in the laces every time they cross the tongue of the boot, making the lacing zonal.
Although the VECTIV Exploris is rockered, we felt stable and confident in this shoe. Plenty of hiking shoes and boots have protective plates in the midsole, but by extending that plate up the shoe’s sidewalls and also wrapping it around the heel, we never feared rolling our ankles.
The Y-shaped lugs on the VECTIV Exploris had zonal traction. Harder lugs on the perimeter of the forefoot gave this boot extra bite when conditions were soft or rocky. The heel had aggressive braking lugs that helped us control the descent, and the sole is anatomically scored, which made rolling through each footstep feel fluid.
If you’re looking for the traditional 360-degree ankle support of a completely leather boot in a lighter, more flexible and breathable package, here’s your winner.
The Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots ($230) blend a comfortable, pliable upper with a rigid chassis that wraps around the ankle to help reduce fatigue under pressure from high mileage with a heavy load. With added protection and stability, it feels similar to an ace bandage buffering the ankle, which is just what some hikers need.
The burly, deep lugs help deliver traction, preventing slippage in variable conditions. Whether you’re hiking through mud, at a river crossing, or under a downpour, the waterproofing works — plus, it’s PFC-free.
With tiny pebbles or vegetation flying around, the gusseted tongue helps keep those discomforts out. And the laces feature a setback hook on either side of the ankle that helps you lock in the tightness you prefer on the lower half of the foot before snugging up the remaining two notches up the ankle.
If you’re looking for a boot that works well for dog walks and walking around town between trailheads, this boot is too much. The design is just right for hikers in need of extra protection that’s not too stuffy or rigid.
Our GearJunkie crew has tested dozens of hiking boots (since May 2021) and whittled them down to 15 of the best to help make your decision-making process a streamlined affair. Staff writer Morgan Tilton is a lifelong hiker from Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, a passionate summiteer of the Centennial State’s 14,000-foot peaks, an adventurous backpacker, and an international trekker.
A gear tester for 4+ years, and an avid rock climber and hiker, Miya Tsudome lives in Bishop, Calif., in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Right outside her front door are endless trails from rocky desert slopes to aspen-lined switchbacks, where she logged many miles in the boots she tested.
Hailing from Montana, reviewer Kylie Mohr is an avid, lifelong hiker from day hikes in her home state of Washington and the Olympic Peninsula to backpacking in the Tetons of Wyoming. Like many, Mohr struggles to choose between lighter, faster pairs and boots with more ankle support. So when the holy grail of footwear comes along, they stand out.
Our final list of recommended women’s hiking boots is the combined result of thorough firsthand experience across the globe and various conditions. Using a variety of metrics, from performance, quality, durability, fit, comfort, protection, ergonomics, unique features, and value — we were able to come to objective conclusions about each boot’s strengths and weaknesses.
Our testers made sure to hike at least 3 miles in each model, with and without weight on their backs, and over varying terrain to best imitate real-life applications. We added five new boots to this most recent update, and are continuously on the lookout for new boots that could be worthy for our next round.
The top picks also factor in the most popular, timeless, highly rated, innovative, and well-acclaimed products. Ultimately, these hiking boots and shoes serve a range of athletes, environments, objective goals, and budgets.
Here we focus on the best hiking boots for women. We have a separate guide if you’re looking for men’s hiking boots or hiking shoes.
The main reason to buy a women’s-specific hiking boot is the fit. Most women have narrower heels than men, and many women have smaller and narrower feet than men.
It’s also common for women to have a higher arch. Women’s-specific hiking shoes and boots are all built on a last that takes into consideration what’s specific about women’s feet.
But as with anything, one size doesn’t necessarily fit all. If you have a wider foot, a larger foot, or a broader heel, a unisex or men’s boot might be a better choice. There are also several boots among our picks in this guide that offer a wide version of the design, such as the Nucleo High II GTX, the Moab 3 Mid Waterproof, and the Columbia Newton Ridge hiking boots.
Boot sizes are not universal. The length, width, and volume vary across each brand. There are also wider and narrower toebox options. That’s why you might find some boots to be particularly streamlined or roomy compared to others.
Ultimately, it’s extremely helpful to go to a local retailer to get your feet professionally measured and to try on at least one boot model per brand to get an idea of the size that works for you as well as the overall compatibility of the last with your foot shape and needs.
Fit is the most important consideration when buying a boot. While all hiking boots break in to some degree — it’s always smart to wear them around your house or around town before hitting the trail all day — a boot should feel comfortable in the shop.
The Salomon OUTpulse Mid GORE-TEX boots were incredibly comfortable right out of the box, as were the KEEN Terradora IIs.
Plus, your heel should not slip up and down. If it does, choose another boot — or you’re bound to end up with blisters. Likewise, your toes should not feel smushed or graze at the top end of the toebox. Otherwise, you might end up with toe bang, especially after a descent and while wearing a heavy pack.
Note your socks. Take your most-used hiking hosiery with you to try on your hiking boots whether that’s a minimal, well-cushioned, lightweight, mid-weight, or heavyweight hiking sock. To that end, make sure you’re choosing the best hiking sock for the trip you plan to take and according to the season. We generally like merino or merino blends for a good balance of breathability and protection against cold while also helping to fight odors, especially for back-to-back days.
In general, hiking boots are more built-out compared to hiking shoes. They offer more rigidity, traction, and protection from the outsole and tread and around the upper. Often, hiking boots have more material around the ankle but the height can range from low-cut to mid to high. Some hiking boot uppers are full-grain leather while others are a hybrid of leather and nylon mesh or nylon mesh and plastic overlays for reinforcement.
Typically a hiking shoe is low-cut, and the shoe is less rigid, offering more comfort for cross-over use. The upper is typically made of synthetic materials (versus leather) and is breathable. The tread and outsole are more moderate compared to a built-out boot.
Also, there’s been a surge of hiking boot designs that are running-shoe inspired, such as the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, the Salomon OUTpulse Mid GORE-TEX, or the Altra Lone Peak All-Weather Mid, offering a more flexible upper with a more rugged sole — it’s the best of both worlds with a hiking boot and shoe blend.
Hiking boots are a great option if you plan to carry more weight on your back, travel big miles, or venture through rocky or variable terrain where you need the protection and support of a built-out boot. If you are likely to travel through a range of weather conditions, such as snow and rain, or creek crossings, a boot can serve as a strong shield. The more rugged boots in our lineup include the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX and the Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots It also comes down to personal preference and if you feel more comfortable and protected in a boot versus a hiking shoe.
Hiking shoes are a good choice if you enjoy hiking fast when you’ll want more aeration and light so you might not need as much support. Some hikers opt for a hiking shoe because they prefer the minimal, close-to-ground feel — even with weight in a pack.
Others opt for a hiking shoe because it can be a good versatile crossover for trail running or everyday walks, for instance. In general, hiking shoes also dry out faster and pack down well, so they can be a good choice for airplane travel or to use in combination with a hiking sandal, especially in hot, humid environments.
At the end of the day, some hikers might prefer a narrower, athletic, precise-fitting hiking shoe for more freedom of movement versus a bulkier, sturdier, and higher-tread boot.
Since hiking shoes don’t offer quite as much support as boots — particularly around the ankle — it’s important to train up the muscles around your feet before setting off on any long hiking trip with shoes.
Hiking boot height is a matter of personal preference and is influenced by the terrain you’ll be wandering in. A higher-reaching boot is created through a taller collar or cuff, which is typically padded and some are more rigid than others.
A higher boot collar will offer more ankle support, such as security when traversing loose rock or protection against abrasive vegetation. The higher profile the boot, the better it may do at keeping debris or moisture out. And most people will recommend a tall boot if you’re backpacking a heavy load.
The tradeoff is that a higher-cut boot won’t be as flexible. This may not be ideal if you’re scrambling on rocks beside the trail and you need more ankle articulation, or if you need to crouch down to tend to kiddos or pets. Higher ankle support also generally holds in more heat with less airflow around the ankles. Taller socks will be more comfortable with a higher cuff.
For hiking in technical terrain, we recommend the Salewa Alp Trainer 2 Mid GTX, and for top-notch, locked-in ankle security, go for something like the Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hikng Boots. Not everyone needs a lot of ankle support, so don’t be afraid to experiment with more flexible options if you’re unsure.
Also among the over-the-ankle heights, we liked the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX Women’s Wide best for backpacking. Though plenty of thru-hikers also wear hiking shoes on their Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail quests.
And our favorite all-around light-yet-sturdy hiking boot with ankle protection is our top pick, the SCARPA Rush 2 Mid GTX. And we love the Salomon OUTpulse Mid GORE-TEX for lightweight backpacking adventures with their trail-runner-type feel.
Hiking boots, being more built-out and typically more water-resistant than hiking shoes, can vary in their breathability. In general, if this is an important consideration for you, we would recommend you go with a hiking shoe with breathable mesh upper materials. But that’s not to say that some of the hiking boots in our lineup aren’t breathable as well.
While hiking boots like our top pick, the SCARPA Rush 2 Mid GTX, come with a synthetic mesh upper for enhanced breathability, it is also made with GORE-TEX waterproof material, which is the best on the market at keeping your feet dry. Our testers found that boots made with GORE-TEX, like the Rush Mid GTX, the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX, or the Teva Grandview, are always going to sacrifice breathability to some extent. While a synthetic mesh upper does help, boots that are the best at keeping water out won’t compare to light trail runners with thin membranes that are guaranteed to keep your feet cooler in the long run.
Our testers found that the Lone Peak All-Weather Mid boots, however, did surprisingly well at keeping our feet from getting that swampy feeling that tends to happen with waterproof boots. The eVent upper material of these trail-runners-turned-hiking-boots kept our feet from overheating in the height of the summer while also having great waterproofing capabilities, making them a good choice for those looking for a more breathable hiking boot.
In addition to boot height, a boot or shoe’s stability depends on what’s underfoot, how the boot is structured in the heel, and what stabilizers and reinforcements have been built into the boot upper.
The underside of the hiking boot or shoe is the outsole, or tread, which contacts the ground. It’s made of rubber. Each pair has its own lug pattern, which provides varying degrees of traction in different trail conditions and terrain.
The heel, also called the heel brake, is where there’s a shelf in the back of the boot, beneath the heel of the foot, that helps provide traction, too.
The midsole is the layer of materials between the outsole (the outermost part of the boot) and the upper (the material that wraps around the top of your foot). The midsole influences overall comfort through cushion and shock absorption. It also adds buffer against whatever you walk over including rocks or roots.
In some cases, hikers prefer less cushion and more stiffness or a closer-to-ground feel, especially if the terrain is super uneven or rocky. In which case, too much cushion can lead to a bowling ball feeling where your feet aren’t as stable.
Midsole materials break down over time. Pay attention to when that midsole starts to crumble or crack, which means the support you need is gone and it’s time for new hiking shoes.
The materials are typically EVA, which is plush and lightweight, or polyurethane, which is more dense. EVA tends to break down faster and costs less.
The upper is the area that covers the top of the foot and attaches to the materials beneath the foot including the midsole and outsole. The materials that comprise the upper part of the boot or shoe range from rigid to soft.
A full-grain leather (also plainly referred to as leather) is stout, durable, and weather and water-resistant. Nubuck leather as found on the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX resembles suede and is full-grain leather that has been buffed. These boots are more traditional in style and require more break-in time (nubuck leather can feel a tad more flexible). They also don’t provide as much breathability as other materials.
Uppers can also be a blend of synthetic materials including mesh and plastic overlays that provide reinforcement and stability such as on our top pick, the SCARPA Rush 2 Mid GTX. Synthetic uppers generally are a blend of nylon and polyester but synthetic leather is an option. They break in easier, are more malleable, offer more breathability, and dry quickly when they get damp or wet. However, they do not typically last as long as full-grain leather and can tear or wear holes much faster. That’s visible in the price, as they don’t typically cost as much.
Hybrid uppers (also known as split-grain leather) like on the Teva Grandview GORE-TEX can feature both leather and synthetic materials, so you get more breathability and stability. These designs still aren’t as durable as full-grain leather boots.
Love getting after it in the spring when snowmelt is rushing off the mountains? Live in the soggy PNW? Hate switching to sandals when you’re backpacking? Consider going waterproof. Lots of options in this guide stood up to creek crossings galore, like the SCARPA Rush 2 Mid GTX or the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof.
It’s also important for your overall health and safety to consider if you need waterproof protection. When your feet are wet or damp for extended periods of time, especially if they are also fighting cold (but above freezing temperatures), your feet can be at risk of trench foot, which can lead to sensations such as persistent itching, prickliness, or other severe symptoms. That’ll do more than end a trip.
Consider choosing a boot made with GORE-TEX materials to ensure the best waterproofing, like found on the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX’s.
So consider the climate and topography where you’ll be hiking and what time of year you like to hike. Check in with other backpackers or hikers that have experienced that climate or trail, or call a local outdoor retailer to ask if waterproof boots are recommended for that objective. If you’ll be wearing this boot when it’s rainy, snowy, cold, or in variable conditions, we generally recommend opting for a waterproof boot. It will keep moisture out, which will keep your feet dry, protected and comfortable regardless of how many miles you’re ticking off.
Alternatively, if you’re hiking primarily or exclusively in hot, dry conditions, a waterproof boot will likely be stifling and cause your feet to perspire more, especially on summer days. A membrane-free and treatment-free boot will keep your feet cool and dry just fine.
Some hiking boots have an integrated waterproof/breathable membrane, like GORE-TEX or eVent or Texapore Ecosphere, and no topical treatment. Other footwear is (or can be) treated with a waterproof treatment product for waterproofness. If you do go with waterproof, be sure to read the product’s instructions about any required waterproof treatment application or upkeep.
Arch support is something that is highly individualized. Hiking boots can vary widely with how supportive their arches are, and if you suffer from any particular pain in your feet, hips, or knees from hiking we always recommend buying some third-party insoles to better support your feet.
The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof feature a zonal arch and heel support made for folks with high arches. These shoes were made with support in mind, and since our arches support much of our body weight while walking or hiking, we appreciate that Merrell incorporates this into their design.
The KEEN Terradora II come with light arch support and are contoured to fit a women’s foot, making them one of the most comfortable shoes in our lineup. “Women’s foot” almost always means a narrow foot, with a more curved inner and higher arch. Of course, women’s feet can be wider with low arches as well, but some boots like the Terradora II aim to provide support and comfort for the prototypical female foot.
The Altra Lone Peak boots feature a zero-drop design, which means that there is no height change between the heel and forefoot. This lack of support is supposed to encourage more natural foot movement and build foot strength, but is not for everyone and can take some time to get used to.
In the end, arch support is a very personal feature, and will change from foot to foot! The good thing is that you can remove the insoles of any boot and add in your own to make them work best for you if necessary.
Most hiking boot insoles are made of basic foam materials which easily flatten out over time and add little protection or arch support. If you know you have a certain arch type, suffer from plantar fasciitis, or often experience knee or hip pain after logging some miles, then you might benefit greatly from adding some insoles to your hiking boots. Not only will this increase comfort, but it can also help to prevent injuries and improve joint function and stability.
We definitely recommend taking your hiking boots with you to a store where you can try on different types of insoles so you find the best fit for your foot as well as the ones that will best fit your boot. Hiking boots are typically high-volume shoes, so can accommodate a variety of insoles and arch sizes, but you won’t know for sure until you try them out for yourself.
Everyone’s foot shape and foot health needs differ, so there’s not a “most comfortable” boot for every hiker.
The most comfortable women’s hiking boots are ones that feel good when you put them on before your hike — and still feel good when you take them off at the end of your hike.
A soft boot might feel great to slide into at home, but it might not have enough support or protection to leave you feeling great after a long day on the trail.
Ultimately, some hikers might prefer a boot with more rigid and firm support versus a plush and cushioned design. Also some hikers might prefer a narrower, athletic, precise-fitting hiking shoe for more freedom of movement versus a bulkier, sturdier, and higher-tread boot.
Whether you hike in shoes or boots is a personal preference and influenced by your surrounding terrain.
Hiking boots are a great option if you plan to carry more weight on your back, travel big miles, or venture through rocky or variable terrain where you need the protection and support of a built-out boot. If you are likely to travel through a range of weather conditions, such as snow and rain, or creek crossings, a boot can serve as a strong shield. It also comes down to personal preference and if you feel more comfortable and protected in a boot versus a hiking shoe. There are also many hiking boot designs that are running-shoe-inspired, offering a more flexible upper with a more rugged sole.
Hiking shoes are a good choice if you enjoy hiking fast when you’ll want more aeration and light so you might not need as much support. Some hikers opt for a hiking shoe because they prefer the minimal, streamlined, close-to-ground feel – even with weight in a pack. Hiking shoes can offer more freedom of movement. Others opt for a hiking shoe because it can be a good versatile crossover for trail running or everyday walks, for instance. In general, hiking shoes also dry out faster and pack down well, so they can be a good choice for airplane travel or to use in combination with a hiking sandal, especially in hot, humid environments.
Many thru-hikers even wear hiking shoes for big adventures because the more breathable upper helps prevent hot spots and blisters for day after day miles. The mesh upper can also be easier to clean (and dry).
Structure underfoot — the shoe’s midsole and outsole — matters as much as how high the cuff of the boot is. Choose a boot or shoe that feels good to wear and gives you confidence when you’re hiking in your favorite terrain.
Buy boots that fit and wear them with only one pair of high-quality socks. Take your most-used hiking socks with you to try on the boot. Make sure you’re choosing the best hiking sock for the trip you plan to take and according to the season. Do not buy hiking boots a size bigger.
You do, however, want to leave enough room that your toes do not feel smushed and do not graze the top end of the toebox. Your heel should not slip up and down. If it does, choose another boot or you’re bound to end up with blisters.
The best lightweight hiking boots are the ones that fit your foot. Try the Altra’s Lone Peak All-Weather Mid. We loved them for their featherweight design, superb support, and roomy toebox. If you don’t need a waterproof boot, choose one without a membrane.
Generally, the lower the cuff height, the less robust and more lightweight a boot will be. Hiking shoes are generally lighter than hiking boots.
It depends on how you plan on using your hiking boots. Leather gets high marks for its durability, and hiking boots made from quality leather can often withstand tough trails and be resilient to abrasion over time.
Waterproofing is where you make sacrifices — if you waterproof leather boots, you lose any breathability. Leather can be more expensive than synthetics and also heavier.
Synthetic materials sometimes get a bad rap for durability, but often breathe better too. It’s all about tradeoffs.
Nubuck leather (holds up to abrasion, is more breathable and water-resistant) can thread the needle between the benefits of full-grain leather (tough, durable) and synthetic materials like polyester and nylon (less expensive, need a waterproof membrane to deal with moisture).
If you’re looking for the best hiking boots, look no further. We’ve tested dozens of hiking boots over hundreds of miles to help you stay happy and comfortable on the trail.
We tested and ranked the best hiking shoes for men and women for 2024, including top picks from Salomon, Lems, Merrell, SCARPA, and more.
Based among the awe-inspiring peaks of Crested Butte, Colorado, Morgan Tilton is a Senior Editor for GearJunkie honing the SnowSports Buyer’s Guides alongside warmer coverage. More broadly, she’s an adventure journalist specializing in outdoor industry news and adventure travel stories, which she’s produced for more than a decade and more than 80 publications to date. A recipient of 14 North American Travel Journalists Association awards, when she’s not recovering from high alpine or jungle expeditions she’s usually trail running, mountain biking, or splitboarding in Southwest Colorado, where she grew up and lives today. From resort to backcountry and human-powered to motorized travel, she loves sliding across snow.
Kylie Mohr is an Author at GearJunkie. She’s been writing about skiing, hiking, camping, trail running, and more for over 10 years.
Kylie has worked as a journalist at High Country News, E&E News, Jackson Hole’s newspaper of record, and national newsrooms. She’s also a freelancer for magazines, newspapers, websites, and radio stations.
Based in Missoula, Montana, she loves exploring wild landscapes on foot, skis, and bike. Her next big goal is successfully paddleboarding with her puppy.
Originally from New York, Miya graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English from Skidmore College and quickly fled west to see what the great outdoors had to offer. What was supposed to be a summer job in Yosemite National Park turned into five years, with her ultimately becoming a rock climbing guide with the Yosemite Mountaineering School. She now works as a photographer and freelance writer and is always looking for ways to share her passion and expertise for outdoor gear through her writing.
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