There is the huge difference between the male and female feet. Women have thicker ankles and narrower heels than men. There is more of a curve to the shape of the foot. Which means women have higher arches, so they require more support.
Also, women face four times more problems than men.
Best Hiking Boots for Women – Quick Pick
If you’re in a hurry, here are our two favorite hiking boots for women in this review.
- Danner Women’s Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boot – Editor’s Choice for 2019 (best Value for the Money)
- Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot – (Easy lacing, Full-grain leather construction, Molded midsole and Heavily treaded sole)
But the good news is that you can prevent all these issues with the best pair of hiking boots for women. These provide apt support for your feet depending on what kind you require. Hiking boots are classified by their height at or above the ankle, hard rubber soles, and durable construction.
As a great hiking enthusiast, looking after your feet is one of the most significant things you need to do. Selecting the best boots can be quite confusing, especially for the first time. And getting the right gear can make a difference between a painful and a comfortable hike.
Depending on what you require, hiking with more comfortable, durable and protective footwear allows you to fully enjoy the surroundings without any kind of hassles.
Table of Contents
- 10 Best Women’s Hiking Boots in 2019
- 10 Best Women’s Hiking Boots Reviews in 2019
- 1. Danner Women’s Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boot
- 2. KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boot
- 3. Ahnu Women’s Montara WP Boot
- 4. Timberland Women’s White Ledge Hiking Boot
- 5. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
- 6. Merrell Women’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
- 7. Hi-Tec Women’s Bandera Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot
- 8. Adidas Women’s Terrex Swift R Mid GTX W Shoes
- 9. Ariat Women’s Terrain H20 Hiking Boot Copper
- 10. Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Boot
- Why are Hiking Boots for Women important?
- How to Choose Best Hiking Boots for Women?
- The Best Pick
10 Best Women’s Hiking Boots in 2019
Best Hiking Boot for Women | Product Dimensions | Shipping Weight | Price |
---|---|---|---|
KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boot (Top Pick) | 13×11×6inches | 2.3 pounds | |
Danner Women’s Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boot (Editor's Pick) | 14×10×5inches | 1 pounds | |
Ahnu Women’s Montara WP Boot (Top Pick) | 0.88 pounds | ||
Timberland Women’s White Ledge Hiking Boot | 12×8×4 inches | 1 pounds | |
Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot | 12×8×4inches (PD) | 2.5 pounds | |
Merrell Women’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot | 1×1×1 inches (PD) | 2 pounds | |
Hi-Tec Women’s Bandera Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot | 12×8×4 inches (PD) | 1 pounds | |
Adidas Women’s Terrex Swift R Mid GTX W Shoes | 14×9×5inches | 4 pounds | |
Ariat Women’s Terrain H20 Hiking Boot Copper | 15×14×5inches(PD) | 4 pounds | |
Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Boot | 8×9×10inches | 3 pounds |
10 Best Women’s Hiking Boots Reviews in 2019
Ranging from intensely high-tech boots designed for high mountain hiking to mid-hiking boot designed for your normal day hiking, here are the review of 10 best hiking boots for women.
1. Danner Women’s Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boot
The Danner Women’s Mountain 600 hiking boot is the lightweight boot. It is one of the greatest backpacking and hiking boots of all time.
Its upper is constructed with waterproof suede which keeps your feet dry and comfortable. It features with the combinations of Vibram SPE midsole and Fuga outsole that gives an unparalleled grip on wet and dry surfaces while providing superior cushioning without the weight.
The boots interior has a support made from moulded polyurethane running from the heel to the instep. Because of the EVA midsole, the Danner Women’s Mountain provides good shock support.
Even though the boot is all leather, it has a great breathability that makes it wearable even in summer.
They are beautiful hiking boots that come in various style and colours. You also need to think about the type of socks that you will be wearing with this pair of boots.
If you prefer thick socks, then you need to consider a half size larger than your normal size.
The pricing of this boots is also reasonable if you consider the high-quality that you get in return.
Features I like
- Comfortable
- Waterproof
- Strong rubber sole
- Enough space and supportive
- Highly durable
2. KEEN Women’s Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boot
The Targhee II Mid WP Hiking Boot from Keen has the perfect combination of fashion and function. This boot is built for all-day comfort and the mid-cut heights add to further ankle support.
This mid-height boot features with the waterproof nubuck leather and flexible nylon mesh uppers. KEEN DRY waterproof breathable membranes keep feet dry while allowing perspiration to dissipate before it saturates the inside of the shoe.
It has secure-fit lace capture system with sturdy nylon webbing eyelets and heel wraps. This really helps you to lock your feet to footbeds and further increased support.
Webbing pull loops at heel and tongue allow easy entry and exit. Padded and gusseted tongue keeps out debris and moisture while relieving lace pressure.
This boot features with the patented rubber toe guards protect feet and uppers from injury.
EVA footbeds are shaped to provide ample cushioning and arch support. Compression-molded EVA midsoles offer shock absorption and padding for all-day comfort.
The supportive nylon shanks provide torsional stability and protection from uneven terrain.
Also, non-marking carbon rubber outsoles with aggressive 4mm multidirectional lugs deliver durability and traction.
Since these boots run a half size small, so you are recommended to buy half size larger than the normal size.
Features I like
- DRY™ Waterproof breathable membrane
- EVA midsole
- Good ankle support
- Secure-fit lace system
- Strong rubber outsole
- KEEN toe protection
- Removable Metatomical Footbed
- Torsion stability ESS shank
3. Ahnu Women’s Montara WP Boot
The lightweight ‘Montara WP Boot’ by Ahnu will keep your feet warm and comfortable. This boot is specifically designed to be comfortable for women with a narrower foot and does not have enough space for adjustment in lacing system.
Waterproof oiled leather and suede leather uppers are flexible and tough and provide long-lasting performance on the trail.
The dual-density EVA midsoles provide support and cushion in the sole of the foot. Vibram rubber outsoles on the Ahnu Montara boots ensure lasting and dependable traction on the trails.
Additionally, the pig leather at collars enhances comfort and nylon linings wick moisture away from feet.
The Montara features the famous Numentum technology which provides stability and support in the instep.
You will find traditional lacing system secures for a snug fit. Rubber toe cap in the front protects uppers and feet from abrasion.
Feature I like
- Good traction
- Secure lacing system
- Supportive underfoot
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
4. Timberland Women’s White Ledge Hiking Boot
You can hit the trail in the style with the Timberland Women’s White Ledge Hiking Boot.
It is a waterproof and breathable making it one of y favourite hiking gears.
This boot is specially designed to follow four motions of the foot i.e. supporting, braking, flexing and propelling
The uppers of this boot are made of premium full-grain leather that keeps your feet dry and warm.
The tongue is soft enough, so you will not feel the lace pressure on the top of your foot.
These boots have a combination of a D-ring and speed hook lacing. There is no way for the laces to tear or loosen up while walking and hiking.
The midsoles of the boot have the well known removable dual-density EVA footbed. It also provides additional air circulation. There is a moisture-wicking textile lining that keeps your feet dry and comfortable inside of the boot.
The rubber lug outsoles are well lifted from the ground and they grip tight and also have excellent traction. The collar and the tongue of this hiking boot are very thick.
Thus, you are provided with a good cushioning surrounding the upper foot and the lower ankle.
Features I like
- Good traction
- Flexible
- Lightweight
- No break-in period
5. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
The Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot is specially designed for people who don’t want to compromise their comfort. If you are looking for a high-quality made, waterproof, safe and balanced boot then this boot will be a perfect choice.
It is constructed with a durable mix of leather and mesh. The uppers on this waterproof hiking boot are protective, breathable and secure.
Inside, the midsole is lightweight and cushioned with enough support. It is made of compression-moulded ethylene vinyl acetate foam.
The laces on tops are firmly placed all over the boot in triangular D-ring shape. Due to the clamshell lacing, it is pretty easy to pull the lace tighter. The feet are well protected with a toe-bumper.
This woman hiking boot has two layers in a rubber outsole i.e. Omnigrip lugged outsole and the white runner heel that parts the midsole from the outsole. These boots are made of waterproof, full-grain leather featuring Omni Shield water powered with stain resistant treatment.
It offers ample durability, flexibility, and breathability for comfort on the go.
Feature I like
- Stylish and sporty
- Easy lacing
- Full-grain leather construction
- Molded midsole
- Heavily treaded sole
6. Merrell Women’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Merrell Women’s Moab Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is water-resistant, lace-up leather hiking boots which do not look like your typical hiking boot. At the same time, it is sturdy and provides excellent cushioning and support for your feet too.
The upper part is made of waterproof Dura leather except for the tongue, that is made of soft and breathable mesh so that your feet will not suffocate inside the boot.
Waterproof, seam-sealed inner booties offer a new level of breathability while retaining complete waterproof protection. Additionally, linings are treated with AEGIS® antimicrobial technology to keep odours at bay.
Synthetic leather toe bumpers and heel wraps protect your feet from bumps and abrasions. Q-Form™ alignment system provides women with a precise anatomic fit for superb, tailored comfort.
The compression-moulded EVA midsoles provide cushion and support for all-day wear. The air-cushioned heel provides extra shock absorption under heels and stabilizes your foot strike.
Molded nylon arch shanks increase stability on uneven terrain.
The Vibram® Multi-Sport™ outsole with TC5+ rubber and 5mm lugs deliver reliable traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
Feature I like
- Comfort
- Price
- Durability
- Traction
7. Hi-Tec Women’s Bandera Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot
The Hi-Tec Women’s Bandera Mid-Rise Hiking Boot is a lightweight, high-performance waterproof boot that delivers stability and comfort on the trail.
It is impressively light, comfortable and stylish, and a fantastic choice for mid-length hikes across the wet, dry, flat, or uneven terrain.
The upper part is made of waterproof suede leather combined with the mesh that has striped nylon straps alongside it. Inside the boots have been fitted with the removable foam-contoured insole.
The collar and tongue of this boot are very thick. The padding is just enough to allow proper lacing.
The moisture-wicking lining on the Banderas will keep your feet dry all the times. The midsole is designed with EVA technology.
The outer sole has air pockets that provide support cushioning. The outsole is carbon runner with non-marking and multi-directional traction to ensure added grip.
Features I like
- Lightweight
- Good ankle support
- Waterproof
- Very sturdy
- Reasonably priced
8. Adidas Women’s Terrex Swift R Mid GTX W Shoes
The Terrex Swift R Mid GTX W designed by Adidas is apt for hiking and performs really well on the trail.
This waterproof hiking boot delivers good enforcement when you are out on rough trails and provides stable comfort and help you hike long distances.
The upper section of the boot is made of synthetic material with a gusseted tongue. So these boots will give you protection from water.
Both the toe section and heel are additionally protected with rubber caps.
This is very flexible boot with an AdiPrene midsole. This is Adidas’ own technology, that makes these boots highly shock absorbent. It also comes with a durable foam.
The outsole is a rubber with very deep lugs which provide a great traction on all terrain. The collar cushioning is nicely done, the footbed is contoured and removable.
It also comes with a pull loop on the back.
Feature I like
- Highly comfortable
- Amazing support
- Suboptimal traction
- Good design
9. Ariat Women’s Terrain H20 Hiking Boot Copper
The Ariat Women’s Terrain H20 Hiking Boot Copper is a perfect combination of waterproof performance, comfort, and style.
The upper section of the boot is made of the Cordura material that is breathable, extremely durable, and lightweight.
The midsole is manufactured with EVA technology. It is designed with Advanced Torque Stability, that gives your foot ultimate stability and encourages a good posture. Long-lasting traction is guaranteed because of Duratread rubber outsoles.
There is a rubber toe bumper at the front that provides double protection. This boot has a enough space at the front for foot movement.
The laces are enough long to cover form the toes to ankle giving you a fantastic closure for great fit.
Features I like
- Good arch support
- Very comfortable
- Waterproof
- Good design
- Highly durable
10. Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine Hiking Boot
The Ahnu Women’s Sugarpine hiking boot is incredibly lightweight yet extraordinarily supportive. It is a stylish woman hiking boot offered in different vibrant colours.
The uppers are made of waterproof leather and synthetic textile provides long-lasting performance on the trail.
Waterproof, breathable membranes protect feet from the elements while retaining excellent breathability and also nylon linings wick moisture away from feet.
The dual-density EVA midsoles provide cushioned support underfoot. The boots Vibram rubber outsole provides grippy traction with wide lugs to prevent debris pick-up and keeps you stable on rough terrain.
Ahnu designs the boot specifically for women, so they have plenty of arch and heel support. And despite their great support, the boot’s sole is flexible to allow easy movement on the trail.
The boot also features a gusseted tongue to keep out dirt and durable toe protection provide defence against root and rocky terrain. Nylon and fibreglass arch shanks are also combined with EVA shock plates for extra stability and support.
Features I like
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Very waterproof
- Good ankle support
- Simple Design
Why are Hiking Boots for Women important?
There are many things to consider for women going on the hiking trip, such as what to pack, what food to bring, and what to wear. For hiking, what to wear on your feet is one single and most important determining factor for your comfort and success of your journey.
So, investing in high-quality hiking boots can make a huge difference. You don’t need any kind of experience or skill to figure out that what subject cause your feet and leg strain of walking or hiking.
The primary function of the hiking boot is to provide enough support and comfortable surroundings for your feet. So that, your feet can stretch as much as to accommodate comfortably forwards and your movements are on the track too.
Hiking boots are designed to provide a lot of support around the ankle to prevent you from sprains. It also adds further stability. You can choose a high ankle supportive boot which will also guard you against debris and more coverage from the water.
Almost all good hiking boots for women are waterproof and include a waterproof membrane lining which will keep your feet dry. A traditional leather boot will also be waterproof if it is well maintained.
A toe guard is the section of rubber on the outside of your walking boot and it acts like a bumper. It guards your toes against sharp rocks and helps to protect it from wear and tear.
Soles of the boot provide both durability and stability while you need hiking long or short distances. Vibram soles have high impact absorption that gives you good traction and is really comfortable.
Some stiffness in the sole is important to provide adequate protection while hiking all day over the rocky and uneven path which can be painful on the feet. Likewise, a toe and or stiffened toe box will protect the toes from stubbing against rocks.
The high ankle cuff gives support when feet are twisting and turning when you are carrying a heavier load.
Since hiking boots are such a vital gear for walking, so you need to invest in as good as the pair as you can afford. Generally, the more technical and feature-rich hiking boots are pity expensive. But you need to remember that this is truly an investment in your past for your well being and comfort future, so it will be worth it.
How to Choose Best Hiking Boots for Women?
There are no any specific rules for choosing the best hiking shoes, it largely depends on the matter of your personal choice. Though different hiking trail demands different hiking boots or different hiking boots are made for different terrains.
Therefore, it is very important to select the best hiking boots wisely, especially if you are heading towards most challenging backcountry hiking.
Thus, depending on the type of the terrain and conditions you expect to hike in, you need to choose your boots with the following features and characteristics.
Fit
Finding the correct fit is important thing to examine when purchasing the hiking boots. The fit consists of the length of the feet, the width of the feet, and the volume of the feet.
A well-fitting boot should fit securely all the way around the foot, with enough space for breathing on the sides and at the end. If your toes feel too tight then that it is not a perfect boot for you.
It’s not only the size that you need to spot on, but also the shape of the boot. You should measure the length and width of your foot before visiting a local shoe store. You can also ask for a professional fitting and take advice on the best walking boots solution for your needs.
You will get accurate fitting only if you wear right kind of socks and those which you will eventually be using while walking.
Support
All women’s hiking boots should offer good support as this is their key function. When you are wearing on your feet, you should feel like there is a good amount of arch support. You should be happy with the way the cuff of your boot hugs your ankle.
Boot support is determined by sole stiffness, midsole construction, arch support, and forefront flexibility.
Lightweight
Normally, hiking boots are heavy but nowadays super lightweight models are coming in the market. This is a great news, as your key mission is keeping weight down throughout the journey.
So, I highly recommend buying lightweight hiking boots for women if you can. This will also make walking a lighter and easier exercise and you will be happy to carry them when they are not on your feet.
Material
Before purchasing the hiking boots you need to know the different materials.Leather hiking boots are waterproof, durable, tough, and breathable at the same time they are also heavier and more rigid than any other synthetic fabric boots.
Leather boots also have to be broken in before you can wear them out for a hike. By doing this, you can avoid considerable discomfort and potentially even pain.
Boots made of synthetic materials are lighter and cooler than leather boots. They have a much shorter break-in period and tend to cost less.
Different types of the leather and synthetics at the uppers, rubber at the outsoles, and either EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) or polyurethane for the midsoles.
These materials range in flexibility and durability depending on the type of boot needed and the type of the hiking trip it’s meant for.
Cut
Basically, there are three types of cuts to consider while purchasing the hiking boots i.e. Low-cut, mid-cut, and high cut. The boot having low-cut are ideal for lightweight travel and easy terrain.
Mid-cut shoes have material that wraps around the ankles and offers support form heavier debris and slightly heavier terrain. The boot having high-cut support the feet and ankles for long hiking trips with heavy loads.
Comfort
The comfort is the next important factor that needs to be considered while choosing the best pair of the hiking boots. If you find the correct fit you should be comfortable in that pair of hiking boots.
Any kind of discomfort, especially at initial phase can cause pain or damage. It is important for women to choose between comfort over fashion. As hiking boots tend to get dirty but they are built for durability and support.
When you are trying hiking boots, you need to make sure that there’s still room for toes for little movement when you are on the trail.
A good way to check this is to walk in your boot and make sure there isn’t any heel slippage. You always need to keep the break in before setting off on your adventures. You can go for a short walk to get your feet and boot used to each other and also to soften up the boot’s material slightly.
Water Resistance
Another important concern is how waterproof the hiking boots are and this can be normally be verified instantly through the specifications.
Almost all hiking boots are water-resistant, the outsole and upper keep water out through their respective materials. The upper also has a breathable function so that the feet are kept dry almost all the time.
Generally, the leather boots are considered the most waterproof and durable. Boots which are the waterproof need to have waterproofing spray or cream. They are essential to apply to the outside to protect the fabric from the elements. By using it on the fabric, it will prolong the life of the boots.
The Best Pick
Personally, I prefer the Danner Women’s Mountain 600 4.5” Hiking Boot out of all the ones that I listed. Its unique features just make it the best among the best.
As this boot is light and comfortable, the durable and waterproof suede leather upper provides the ankle with enough support. Also, the Vibram SPE midsole provides great support throughout the trails.
Vibram Fuga outsoles feature self-adaptive lugs and provide great traction when hiking through the uneven trail.
Since hiking boots are such a vital gear for walking, so you need to invest in as good as the pair as you can afford. Generally, the more technical and feature-rich hiking boots are pity expensive. But you need to remember that this is truly an investment in your past for your well being and comfort future, so it will be worth it.