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 Columbia Women's Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot in Kettle/Berry Patch offers a solid option for hikers looking for reliable footwear in varying conditions. Its OMNI-TECH feature provides effective waterproofing, making it ideal for those who might encounter moderate rain or snow during their hikes. The durability of the boot is enhanced by its leather and mesh upper, along with metal hardware, ensuring longevity through various adventures. Comfort is prioritized with a cushioned collar that adds extra comfort around the ankle.

The TECHLITE technology is noteworthy for those who need lightweight boots that still offer excellent cushioning and impact absorption, perfect for traversing different terrains without feeling weighed down. Additionally, the OMNI-GRIP sole adds significant traction, ensuring stability and grip across multiple surfaces, whether wet or dry. This makes the boots suitable for diverse hiking environments, from rocky trails to muddy paths.

However, while the boots are designed with ankle support, the shaft height, categorized simply as 'ankle', might not provide as much support for those who require high ankle stability, particularly on rough terrains. The rubber sole material, though standard, complements the boot's multi-terrain capabilities but might not appeal to users looking for more specialized materials.

In terms of weight, despite the cushioning and durability features, these boots are designed to be lightweight, which is a significant advantage for long hikes. The boots come in a stylish Kettle/Berry Patch color, which can appeal to hikers looking for aesthetic options alongside functionality. These boots are well-suited for intermediate hikers who need a balanced combination of durability, waterproofing, and comfort for moderate hiking conditions.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for women looking for a comfortable and reliable shoe for day hikes and moderate trails. It features a durable pigskin leather and mesh upper that is breathable yet protective, with recycled materials used in the laces and lining, adding an eco-friendly touch. The shoe offers good comfort through its Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole and lightweight EVA foam midsole that adds cushioning and stability. Merrell’s Air Cushion in the heel helps absorb shock, making longer walks easier on your feet. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole provides strong traction, which is helpful for grip on uneven or slippery surfaces.

While the shoe includes a molded arch shank for support, it provides medium rather than high ankle support, making it better suited for lighter hiking rather than very rugged or steep terrain. The protective toe cap guards against rocks or roots. At around 3.5 pounds, it is somewhat heavier than minimalist trail shoes but balances support and comfort well. These shoes are a dependable, all-around hiking footwear option that prioritize comfort and durability over ultra-lightweight design or heavy ankle protection.