10 Best Hiking Shoes Women 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot in Granite, size 8.5, offers a well-rounded package for avid hikers. Its waterproof membrane effectively keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape, ensuring your feet stay dry in various conditions. The pigskin leather and mesh upper provide a durable yet breathable structure, and the use of 100% recycled materials for laces and webbing aligns with eco-friendly values.

Comfort is prioritized through features like the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole, which provides reinforced heel cushioning. Additionally, the lightweight EVA foam midsole offers both stability and comfort, while the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel helps absorb shock and adds to the stability of the shoe. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is designed for excellent traction on various terrains, making it a reliable choice for diverse hiking conditions.

Ankle support is adequately provided by the mid-height design, which also includes a protective toe cap and a bellows tongue to keep out debris. At 1.5 pounds, the boots are reasonably lightweight, which can make a difference on longer hikes. However, some users might find the fit to be slightly bulky, especially those with narrower feet. The use of pigskin leather may not appeal to everyone, particularly those looking for vegan-friendly options. Despite this, the Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot stands out for its blend of performance, comfort, and environmental considerations, making it a strong contender for anyone in need of reliable hiking footwear.

The NORTIV 8 Women's Lightweight Hiking Shoes are a good choice for women looking for comfortable and versatile footwear for hiking and everyday use. Weighing just 9.7 ounces, these shoes are very light, which helps reduce tiredness during long walks or hikes. The Oxford cloth upper combined with TPU overlays makes the shoes durable and resistant to wear, while the seamless design helps avoid irritation on the feet. The quick cord lacing system is handy for easily tightening or loosening the shoes for a secure fit.

Traction comes from a textured rubber outsole, which provides a reliable grip on different surfaces, making these shoes suitable for various outdoor terrains. Inside, you get a cushioned mesh EVA insole and padded collar, adding to the comfort even during extended wear. These shoes do not have waterproof features, so they might not be the best option for wet or muddy conditions. While they offer decent support around the collar, they don’t have the higher ankle support found in some hiking boots designed for rough or uneven trails.

The materials used strike a balance between breathability and durability, but those needing heavy-duty protection might want something more robust. These shoes fit well for casual hikers, trail walkers, and those seeking lightweight, stylish shoes suitable for both outdoor adventures and daily wear.

The KEEN Women's Targhee 3 Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are designed to provide a comfortable and supportive experience for hikers. One of the standout features is the KEEN.DRY waterproof breathable membrane, which effectively keeps feet dry in various weather conditions without causing discomfort from trapped moisture. The boots also offer excellent traction, thanks to the KEEN ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole, which performs well on both muddy and rocky surfaces while ensuring you don’t leave marks indoors. This makes them particularly versatile for different hiking environments.

The mid-cut height and external support shank offer good ankle support and stability, which is essential for maintaining balance on uneven trails. Additionally, the contoured heel design further enhances stability, ensuring a secure fit coupled with a padded tongue and collar for added comfort. The removable metatomical footbed is another highlight, providing excellent arch support and aligning with the natural contours of the foot for all-day comfort.

However, the boots might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially those new to hiking or who prefer lighter footwear. The fit might also be an issue for people with wider feet, as the mid-profile upper may not accommodate all foot shapes comfortably. These boots are well-suited for those who prioritize durability, waterproofing, and support in their hiking footwear.