The 9 Best Hiking Boots for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Finding the perfect pair of hiking boots is crucial for enjoying your time on the trails. Comfort, support, and durability are key factors to consider, especially for women, whose feet often have different needs than men's. We've rigorously tested a wide range of women's hiking boots throughout 2023 to bring you the best options for 2024. This guide highlights the top performers, based on factors like traction, stability, waterproofing, breathability, and overall comfort. Whether you're tackling challenging mountain peaks or enjoying leisurely forest walks, this list has a boot for you.

Top Hiking Boots for Women: Our Expert Picks

We've broken down our top picks into categories to help you find the best fit for your hiking style and terrain. Each boot has been put through its paces on a variety of trails, ensuring they live up to their promises.

Here's a summary of our top picks:

Detailed Reviews of the Best Hiking Boots for Women

Let's dive deeper into each of our top picks, exploring their specific features and performance on the trail:

La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX: The Backpacker's Choice

The La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX is a powerhouse for serious backpacking trips. Its durable leather upper and Gore-Tex membrane provide excellent weather protection, while the Vibram sole offers exceptional grip on challenging terrain. This boot is designed for stability and support, making it ideal for carrying heavy loads over long distances. Be prepared to break them in, as they can be a bit stiff initially, but the long-term comfort and performance are worth it. This hiking boot is built to last.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX: Lightweight and Agile

If you're looking for a hiking boot that won't weigh you down, the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX is an excellent choice. This lightweight boot features Gore-Tex waterproofing and Salomon's Advanced Chassis for enhanced stability on uneven trails. The Contagrip outsole provides reliable traction, making it a great option for day hikes and light backpacking trips. While it might not be as durable as leather boots, its comfort and agility are hard to beat.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof: Budget-Friendly Comfort

The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof remains a popular choice for its affordability and comfort. This boot features a waterproof membrane and breathable mesh lining to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Its supportive footbed provides cushioning for all-day wear, making it ideal for entry-level hikers and those who prefer well-maintained trails. While it may not be the most rugged option, it's a great value for the price. Consider this hiking boot if you are new to hiking.

Oboz Bridger B-Dry: Waterproof Warrior

The Oboz Bridger B-Dry is designed for wet conditions. Its Oboz B-Dry waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry even in the soggiest environments, while the durable nubuck leather provides excellent protection. The aggressive tread offers exceptional traction on slippery surfaces. Keep in mind that this boot can be warm in hot weather, but it's a top performer when it comes to waterproofing and support. Perfect for women's hiking boots that need to stand up to the elements.

Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof: Comfort for Wide Feet

If you have wide feet, the Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof is a must-try. Its roomy toe box allows your toes to splay comfortably, preventing blisters and discomfort. The Keen.Dry waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry, and the durable leather provides good ankle support. Some users find it a bit bulky, but the comfort and support for wide feet are undeniable. This hiking boot solves the problem of finding the perfect wide fit.

Lowa Renegade GTX Mid: The Gold Standard

The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid is widely regarded as one of the best all-around hiking boots on the market. Its Gore-Tex waterproofing, Nubuck leather upper, and Vibram Rene Trac sole provide excellent comfort, support, and durability. It's a versatile boot that can handle a wide range of terrain and conditions. While it's a pricier option, its quality and performance justify the investment.

Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2: For the Trail Runners

The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 blends the features of a trail runner with those of a hiking boot. The famous Altra FootShape toe box allows your toes to splay naturally and the event waterproof bootie keeps your feet dry. Not as durable as other leather boots, it is more flexible and allows for faster movement.

Danner Mountain 600 EnduroWeave: Style and Function

The Danner Mountain 600 EnduroWeave combines a stylish design with functional performance. This boot features Danner Dry waterproof protection and a Vibram SPE Midsole and Fuga Outsole for comfortable and reliable traction. It's lightweight and ideal for light hiking and everyday wear. However, it may not be as durable as other options on this list. This hiking boot offers both form and function.

Vasque Breeze AT GTX: Breathable Performance

The Vasque Breeze AT GTX is designed for breathability and comfort on day hikes. Its Gore-Tex waterproofing keeps your feet dry, while the abrasion-resistant mesh promotes airflow. The Vibram Contact Grip outsole provides good traction on moderate terrain. It's a lightweight and comfortable option for those who prioritize breathability. One of the best women's hiking boots for breathability.

Choosing the Right Hiking Boot

Ultimately, the best hiking boot for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on, the weight you'll be carrying, and the weather conditions you'll encounter. Be sure to try on several different pairs and walk around in them to ensure a comfortable fit. Don't forget to factor in the thickness of your hiking socks when trying on boots. Happy hiking!