10 Best Hiking Shoes Women 2026 in the United States

The Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped hiking boot is a solid choice for women looking for durable and comfortable footwear for trail adventures. It combines waterproof leather and suede materials with seam-sealed construction, which helps keep your feet dry during wet hikes. The mid-cut design offers decent ankle support, making it suitable for moderate trails where stability matters.

Thanks to Columbia's TECHLITE midsole, the boot provides good cushioning and energy return, so you can stay comfortable even on longer hikes. One of its standout features is the Omni-GRIP rubber outsole, delivering reliable traction on various terrains to reduce slipping risks. Additionally, the reinforced toe and heel protect key wear areas, promising longer-lasting durability.

These boots may feel a bit heavier than some lighter hiking shoes, which could be noticeable on very long treks or fast hikes. While the mid-cut design offers support, it might not be enough for very rough or technical hiking requiring high ankle protection. If you want a dependable, waterproof boot combining classic style and solid all-around performance for most hiking conditions, this model fits well—especially for casual to moderate trail use.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is a solid choice for women who want reliable, all-around footwear for day hikes or casual trail walking. Made with durable 100% leather and mesh uppers, it offers good breathability and comfort. The shoe includes a protective toe cap and a bellows tongue to keep debris out, which is great for rough terrain. It features Merrell’s Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with heel cushioning that provides medium support and comfort, and the molded nylon arch shank helps with foot stability.

The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole delivers dependable traction on a variety of surfaces, so slipping is less of a worry. While the shoe isn’t fully waterproof, the materials and design do help with some water resistance. It offers moderate ankle support but isn’t a high-cut boot, so it’s better suited for lighter hikes rather than very rugged or steep trails. The weight is reasonably light thanks to the EVA foam midsole, making it comfortable for longer walks without feeling bulky.

The shoe runs in standard sizes and tends to fit well for most women. For those seeking a versatile, comfortable hiking shoe that handles day hikes and trail walking with decent protection and traction, the Moab 3 serves as a dependable pick. However, for heavy wet conditions or extreme ankle support, a dedicated waterproof boot might be a better option.

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.