Whether you’re a casual hiker or a serious mountaineer, the boots you wear can have a big impact on your experience. Hiking boots are specially designed for the rigors of the trail. From inclement weather to uneven ground, they protect your feet and allow you to have the best possible experience.
No matter what type of terrain you’re planning to tackle, sturdy boots are a must. When you have extra reinforcement on the sole, you can enjoy extra stability — which is crucial when you’re walking over uneven or rocky ground. Durable soles create an extra layer of protection between your feet and the ground, so they protect you from rough spots, tree roots and small rocks.
As you’re shopping around, it’s a good idea to consider where and when you’re planning to hike. Do you need boots that can stand up to rain and snow? Are you hiking in hot temperatures? If so, you might look for boots with breathable panels to help keep your feet dry and blister-free. To help you get started, we’ve gathered the five best hiking boots for women.
Top 5: Hiking Boots for Women Review
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When you’re planning to hike over serious terrain, the Columbia Newton Ridge Boots are a great choice They’re made with Omni-Grip soles, which provide traction on a variety of terrains. These soles help you maintain your footing on calm trails or when climbing over tree roots and rocks. Plus, with the dual-zone winter tread pattern, you can hike safely on ice and snow.
Planning to hike in inclement weather? The Newton Ridge boots are waterproof, so they keep the rain, snow, and slush off of your feet. The uppers are crafted from full-grain leather; inside, a mesh bootie and a mesh tongue help promote airflow and keep your feet cool.
With their 5.25-inch shaft, these boots provide plenty of support for your ankles, which is essential on rough trails. The lace-up fronts allow you to create the perfect level of support. Inside the boot, luxurious cushioning keeps your feet feeling comfortable even when you’re hiking for hours or walking over rocks. In fact, the boots are engineered for a high energy return to help reduce fatigue on the trail.
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When you need a balance of breathability and water protection, the Vasque Talus Trek Boots are the perfect choice. These boots are built with thick, waterproof leather, so you can stay dry in the rain or snow. Breathable mesh panels and underlays help create ample ventilation to keep your feet dry and cool, even when it’s wet outside. Inside, an UltraDry liner completes the package. This UltraDry allows air to pass through and keeps moisture out.
Planning to tackle backcountry trails? You’ll love the soles on these — they’re made with Vibram Nuasi material, which offers excellent traction on slick rock faces and sandy trails. The secret is in the lug pattern; the multi-directional design grips the ground from all angles to help you keep a stable footing. Inside, the EVA midsole cushions your foot, all while reducing weight for overall comfort. Prone to stubbing your toes? Rubber reinforcement on the toes help reduce the impact.
On the trail, support is key. That’s why these boots have a mid-height shaft that hugs your ankles without restricting your movement. The ghillie lacing adds extra support, so you can walk over uneven ground safely. Lace the boots all the way up when you need extra stability, or leave the top loops empty for a bit of flexibility during steep climbs.
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When you’re going for a classic, rugged look, the Kodiak Surrey II hiking Boots fit the bill perfectly. They’re made with a traditional high-shaft design that transitions well from the trail to the city — and gives you more opportunities for wear. On the top of the shaft, felted wool detailing adds an extra touch of texture.
Don’t let the fashionable design fool you — these boots are designed for outdoor use. They’re crafted from waterproof leather, which keeps your feet dry. For an extra layer of waterproofing, the boots feature sealed seams, so you don’t need to worry about leaks. Waterproof membranes allow air to flow to reduce sweat and moisture inside the boots, which helps prevent blisters.
On the bottom of the boots, you’ll find a thick rubber tread. Made with slip-resistant lugs, the tread gives you traction on every surface, from slick sidewalks to rough trails. Inside, a memory foam insole provides softness and support as you hike.
Planning to be outside in the winter? The 200 GM Thinsulate insulation and microfiber boot liner provide the perfect amount of warmth, whether you’re working up a sweat on the trails or walking to work. The lacing hardware also resists rust, so you can walk in the snow or rain without compromising aesthetics or function.
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If you have unstable ankles, these Manfen Hiking Boots can offer the extra support you need on the trail. They feature mid-rise shafts that rise eight inches above your arch and thoroughly stabilize your ankles. The lace-up design allows you to customize the fit and you can release or add support as needed.
Made from lightweight materials, these boots don’t weigh you down on the trail. The rubber soles are thick and rugged, so they add a valuable layer of protection when you’re walking over trails with sharp rocks or uneven surfaces. The toe caps put an extra layer of rubber between you and obstacles, so you can stub your toe without pain.
Planning to hike in cold or wet conditions? These Manfen boots are waterproof, so you can take on the rain or snow without getting wet. They’re also insulated with 200 g Thinsulate insulation, so they’re comfortable up to -30 degrees Celsius. The breathable membrane lining allows plenty of air to reach your feet, so you don’t have to worry about wet socks hampering your progress.
Keep in mind that these boots tend to run small. If you have wider feet, or if you plan to wear them with thick winter hiking socks, it’s a good idea to size up.
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We love the Hi-Tec Skamania because it is quality boot at a reasonable price. These boots are simple and surprisingly high-performance, which is ideal for hikers on a budget.
With uppers made from waterproof suede and mesh, the Skamania boots are designed to keep moisture out. The mesh allows sweat to evaporate from around your feet, eliminating the dampness that leads to hot spots and blisters. At the same time, the suede diverts rain and snow as you walk.
The Skamania boots come with contoured foot beds that mimic the curves of your feet and add a layer of softness. Need extra support? The foot beds are removable, so you can swap in your favorite insoles. Foam cushioning in the shoe adds extra energy return to help you last longer on the trail.
If you hate to be weighed down on the trail, these boots can help. Each component is lightweight, so the boots are easy to walk in. The EVA rubber cup outsole is light but sturdy, so it protects your feet and adds stability, all while flexing with the natural movement of your foot. It also offers excellent traction, so you can handle nature walks or technical routes. The back of the shaft angles down to allow a full range of motion without sacrificing support.
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womens hiking boots Buying Guide
It’s important to figure out which boots best fit your hiking needs. If you’re walking up gentle, flat trails, for example, you’ll have different needs than if you’re heading into the rugged backcountry. These factors can help you narrow down the type of boot that’s best for your situation.
Consider Moisture Levels
Moisture is the enemy of hikers everywhere. When your feet get wet, it increases the friction between your skin and your socks. This rubbing can cause blisters and raw spots that make every step feel painful. If you’re planning to be outside in the rain or snow, or if you’re going to hike through damp areas, it’s a good idea to consider waterproof hiking boots. These models are designed to resist water, so it can’t reach your skin.
On the other end of the spectrum, you should consider breathability. Your feet get hot when you hike, which causes them to sweat. If you’re planning to hike in hot, dry conditions, look for boots that promote airflow. Usually, they use mesh since this material has rows of small holes which it allows air to circulate freely.
Sole Design
Most hiking boots feature thick soles with a strong tread pattern. These individual treads increase the grip surface on the ground, which helps you stay upright. If you’re planning to hike over a variety of trail types, it’s a good idea to look for boots with a multi-directional tread pattern. That means that even when the ground is uneven, there’s always a lug or a tread there to grip it. As a result, you feel more stable, and you’re less likely to slip.
Shaft Height
The shaft of a hiking boot is the portion that extends up your ankle. Higher shafts provide extra support for your ankle, which is ideal if you have weak ankles, or if you’re prone to stumbling. The tall shafts help prevent your ankle from moving around, which can help you feel more stable and comfortable on rocky trails.
If you prefer more flexibility and a greater range of motion, however, consider boots with a lower shaft. They don’t restrict your ankle joint, so you can climb steep hills or maneuver up technical trails without feeling limited.
Style
The design and coloring of your boots are an often-overlooked part of choosing hiking boots. This type of boot is usually designed for function over form, but it’s still important to find a model that suits your personal style. If you’re going for a classic outdoors look, you can choose boots with detailed, rugged exteriors. For a more modern look, opt for sleek, simple styles.
Color is another key factor. You’ll find that many options come in muted earth tones. This is often to reduce the visibility of dirt and mud that you collect along the trail. Natural colors also help you blend in with your surroundings, which can be less disruptive to wildlife and other hikers.
best womens hiking boot
Each of these options can keep you comfortable on the trail. For the best all-around option, we recommend the Vasque Talus Trek Boots. With their excellent waterproofing and durable soles, these boots can take you comfortably from gentle city trails to serious wilderness expeditions. Order the Talus Trek today and take your next hiking trip to the next level.
Final Verdict
As you’re choosing hiking boots, comfort is key. By selecting a style that’s appropriate for your planned terrain and weather conditions, you can enjoy your hike and come back feeling fresh.
20 Awesome Tips For Hiking (Read Before You Go On Your Hike!)
There are few activities as beneficial to the mind, the body, and the soul as hiking. A day on the trails is an excellent form of physical exercise, while being out in nature brings both relaxation and a surge of euphoria. Hiking feels good, and is good for you. It’s also an activity as easily done alone as with a group of friends or family.- Safety- This is of course the main priority. Mother nature might protect us and hold us close to her bosom, but she’s also capable of violent outbursts and deadly fits of rage. Getting lost on a hike can be a death sentence, as can exposure to the elements.
- Maximizing the Experience- Any hike is likely to be a good experience, but there’s plenty you can do to make a good time even better. By wearing the proper attire you make sure you’ll be comfortable on the hike, and with proper planning you can be sure to see nature in all its glory.
- Respecting Nature and Fellow Hikers- Hiking trails owe their existence to the dedication of fellow nature-lovers and their beauty to their pristine surroundings. As a visitor to the trails, you owe it to the other hikers (past, present, and future) who deserve the same chance to enjoy the natural splendour.
And don't forget your hiking boots!
Hopefully this helps you have more excitement when purchasing your new women's hiking boots from above!