10 Best Women Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Columbia Womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped is a solid choice for women looking for reliable hiking shoes. It excels in water resistance thanks to its seam-sealed construction and waterproof leather and suede materials, keeping your feet dry on wet trails. The TECHLITE midsole adds lightweight cushioning and energy return, which helps with comfort and support during longer hikes.

Traction is a strong point with Columbia’s Omni-GRIP rubber outsole offering good grip on various surfaces, making it suitable for different terrains and seasons. Durability is enhanced by reinforced toe and heel areas designed to handle tough use over time. However, breathability isn’t highlighted, so the waterproof materials might feel a bit warm during hot weather or intense activity. The weight is balanced well for a mid-cut hiking boot, but it may feel heavier than low-cut trail shoes if you prefer ultra-light gear.

These boots are well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who want a dependable, supportive, and protective shoe for moderate to challenging hikes, especially in wet conditions.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe is designed to offer a comfortable and reliable experience for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a waterproof membrane that effectively keeps your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, helping prevent discomfort from sweat. The combination of pigskin leather and mesh provides good breathability, though it might not be as airy as shoes made mostly from lighter synthetic materials.

Fit and comfort are well considered with the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole and reinforced heel cushioning, delivering medium support suitable for moderate hikes. The molded nylon arch shank adds stability, which is helpful on uneven terrain. Traction is strong thanks to the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, giving you confidence on slippery or rocky paths. Lightweight EVA foam in the midsole contributes to comfort without adding unnecessary weight, though the shoe may feel a bit heavier compared to trail runners. Durability is solid, with protective toe caps and a sturdy build that should hold up well over time. One minor drawback is that while the shoe is waterproof, the leather upper could require some care to maintain its look and flexibility.

This shoe is an excellent fit for hikers needing dependable support, good traction, and water resistance in a comfortable package, particularly suited for day hikes or moderate trail conditions.

The Timberland Women's White Ledge Mid Lace-Up Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for casual hikers or those needing reliable footwear for light to moderate trails. It offers good water resistance thanks to its premium waterproof leather upper and a fully gusseted tongue, which helps keep water and debris out. The lace-up design with D-ring lacing and recycled PET laces provides a secure and customizable fit, contributing positively to comfort and support around the ankle.

The rubber sole is designed for decent traction, making it suitable for varied terrain, although it may not perform as strongly on very slippery or technical surfaces. Because the boot is made with sturdy materials, including durable suede and a tough rubber sole, it should hold up well over time with regular use. However, the breathability might be limited due to the waterproof leather construction, so your feet could feel warmer during long hikes in hot weather. The boot is relatively lightweight for a waterproof mid-height hiking shoe, which can reduce fatigue on the trail.

This boot is well-suited for hikers looking for dependable water protection, ankle support, and durability in a comfortable, everyday hiking shoe. It might not be the best option for those requiring maximum breathability or specialized traction for heavy-duty hiking.