10 Best Women Hiking Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed to offer a solid combination of comfort, support, and durability for hiking enthusiasts. Its pigskin leather and mesh upper provide a good balance between protection and breathability, helping keep your feet cool without sacrificing toughness. The shoe includes a protective toe cap to guard against rocks and debris, while the Bellows tongue helps keep unwanted dirt out, which is handy on rough trails.

Comfort is enhanced by the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with reinforced heel cushioning, providing medium support suitable for moderate hiking. The molded nylon arch shank and lightweight EVA foam midsole improve stability, making them comfortable for longer walks. Traction is strong thanks to the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, which is known for reliable grip on various surfaces, enhancing safety on slippery or uneven terrain. The shoe also features Merrell’s Air Cushion in the heel for shock absorption, reducing foot fatigue during extended wear.

While it offers some water resistance due to the leather upper, it may not be fully waterproof, so it might not be the best choice for very wet conditions. The use of recycled materials like laces and mesh lining adds an eco-friendly touch. The shoes are relatively lightweight, which helps avoid extra strain on your feet. Durability looks promising given the materials and build quality typical of Merrell. The Moab 3 is a reliable, comfortable hiking shoe well-suited for women who want support and traction on trails without needing heavy-duty waterproofing.

The KEEN Women's Targhee 4 Low hiking shoes are designed to provide a comfortable and supportive fit, especially for those who need room for their toes to spread naturally. They feature a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps your feet dry without sacrificing breathability, which is great for wet or variable trail conditions. Support is enhanced by a removable footbed that offers good arch cushioning, while padded areas around the tongue and collar add extra comfort. Traction is reliable thanks to the all-terrain rubber outsole, helping you maintain grip on slippery or rocky surfaces. These shoes also include protective features like a rubber toe guard and bruise plate to shield your feet from rough terrain.

The materials used, including leather and mesh, strike a balance between durability and breathability, though the shoe may feel a bit heavier compared to ultralight models. These shoes are well suited for hikers looking for sturdy, waterproof footwear that can handle diverse trails effectively; however, if very lightweight footwear is your priority, you might want to explore lighter options.

The KEEN Women's Hightrail hiking shoes are a solid choice for women who want durable, comfortable footwear for outdoor adventures. Made with quality leather from environmentally responsible sources, they offer good durability and a waterproof KEEN.DRY membrane that keeps feet dry while still allowing breathability, which helps prevent overheating. The shoes feature a lightweight design with KEEN LuftCell technology that cushions each step, supporting comfort during long hikes without feeling heavy.

Stability is enhanced by a shank that supports uneven terrain, and the high-traction rubber sole with 4mm multi-directional lugs gives reliable grip on rugged surfaces. The lace-up closure and contoured fit provide a secure, natural feel that adapts to your foot shape.

On the downside, leather shoes generally require regular care to maintain their look and performance, and while the waterproof membrane breathes better than many boots, some users may find it less airy in very hot conditions. These shoes suit hikers needing reliable support and traction on varied trails, especially in wet or cooler environments, but may be less ideal for those seeking ultra-light, highly breathable footwear for hot weather hikes.