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10 Best Women Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Brindle, 8

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,329
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Water Resistance

Most important from
5798 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfortable right out of the box with no break-in needed.
Support and Stability
The shoes provide excellent heel-to-toe walking support, enhancing overall comfort.
Water Resistance
They keep feet warm and dry even in challenging conditions like Alaska.
Durability
Well-made construction that inspires confidence in durability and support.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,329
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Water Resistance

Most important from
5798 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfortable right out of the box with no break-in needed.
Support and Stability
The shoes provide excellent heel-to-toe walking support, enhancing overall comfort.
Water Resistance
They keep feet warm and dry even in challenging conditions like Alaska.
Durability
Well-made construction that inspires confidence in durability and support.
#2

Timberland Women's White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Lt Bei Suede W Md Grey, 10 Medium

Rating
9.1
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction

Most important from
66527 reviews

Fit and Comfort
These boots deliver exceptional comfort and fit perfectly, even allowing for added insoles without sacrificing snugness.
Support and Stability
While not designed for heavy-duty hiking or maximum ankle support, they excel at casual hiking, campus walking, and moderate trails.
Traction
The durable rubber sole provides reliable traction across varied terrains like grass, gravel, snow, and wood chips without slipping.
Water Resistance
The waterproof leather and fully gusseted tongue effectively keep feet dry, even when walking through puddles and shallow streams.
Weight
These boots are sturdy enough to protect against hazards like nails while remaining lightweight enough to reduce fatigue on long walks.
Durability
Despite initial concerns, the sole holds up remarkably well to extensive daily use and rough outdoor 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.

Rating
9.1
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction

Most important from
66527 reviews

Fit and Comfort
These boots deliver exceptional comfort and fit perfectly, even allowing for added insoles without sacrificing snugness.
Support and Stability
While not designed for heavy-duty hiking or maximum ankle support, they excel at casual hiking, campus walking, and moderate trails.
Traction
The durable rubber sole provides reliable traction across varied terrains like grass, gravel, snow, and wood chips without slipping.
Water Resistance
The waterproof leather and fully gusseted tongue effectively keep feet dry, even when walking through puddles and shallow streams.
Weight
These boots are sturdy enough to protect against hazards like nails while remaining lightweight enough to reduce fatigue on long walks.
Durability
Despite initial concerns, the sole holds up remarkably well to extensive daily use and rough outdoor conditions.
#3

KEEN Women's Targhee 2 Low Height Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Rating
7.9
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction

Most important from
3983 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoes fit comfortably right out of the box, offering a perfect shape that feels like they were made for your feet.
Support and Stability
The removable footbed supports arches well, enhancing comfort and stability on uneven ground.
Traction
These hiking shoes deliver excellent grip with a chunky tread that performs well on varied terrain.
Water Resistance
Waterproof protection keeps feet dry while maintaining breathability, though the shoes can feel warmer in hot conditions.
Breathability
Waterproof protection keeps feet dry while maintaining breathability, though the shoes can feel warmer in hot conditions.
Weight
Despite the heavier weight compared to ultralight options, these shoes balance support and protection effectively.
Durability
Durability is strong overall, but the tread's glue can fail after about a year, causing the sole to separate.

The KEEN Women's Targhee 2 Low Hiking Shoes are a solid choice for women who enjoy hiking and need reliable footwear. They offer good waterproof protection thanks to the keen.dry membrane, which keeps your feet dry while still letting moisture escape, helping to prevent overheating. The shoes have a sturdy rubber outsole with excellent grip, making them suitable for muddy or rocky trails without leaving marks indoors. Support-wise, these shoes include an external shank for balance on uneven ground and a contoured heel for extra stability.

Comfort is addressed through a low-profile design with a padded collar and tongue, along with a removable footbed that supports your arches and contours to your feet. The fit is roomy in the toe area, which adds comfort during long walks. While the shoes are breathable, the waterproof layer might make them a bit warmer in hotter conditions. Additionally, the shoes are not very lightweight, so they could feel a bit heavier than some other options if you prefer ultralight gear.

In terms of durability, the rubber sole and quality construction suggest these shoes can handle regular use on rough trails. These shoes are best suited for women looking for dependable, comfortable hiking shoes that balance waterproofing and traction, especially for moderate to challenging outdoor adventures.

Rating
7.9
Fit and Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction

Most important from
3983 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The shoes fit comfortably right out of the box, offering a perfect shape that feels like they were made for your feet.
Support and Stability
The removable footbed supports arches well, enhancing comfort and stability on uneven ground.
Traction
These hiking shoes deliver excellent grip with a chunky tread that performs well on varied terrain.
Water Resistance
Waterproof protection keeps feet dry while maintaining breathability, though the shoes can feel warmer in hot conditions.
Breathability
Waterproof protection keeps feet dry while maintaining breathability, though the shoes can feel warmer in hot conditions.
Weight
Despite the heavier weight compared to ultralight options, these shoes balance support and protection effectively.
Durability
Durability is strong overall, but the tread's glue can fail after about a year, causing the sole to separate.

Buying Guide for the Best Women Hiking Shoes

Choosing the right pair of women's hiking shoes is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience. The right shoes can prevent injuries, provide support, and enhance your overall performance on the trail. When selecting hiking shoes, consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on, the distance of your hikes, and your personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing women's hiking shoes.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are the most important factors when choosing hiking shoes. A good fit ensures that your feet are well-supported and reduces the risk of blisters and other foot injuries. Hiking shoes should have enough room in the toe box to wiggle your toes, but not so much that your feet slide around. They should also provide a snug fit around the heel to prevent slipping. Try on shoes with the socks you plan to wear while hiking and walk around to ensure they feel comfortable.
Support and StabilitySupport and stability are essential for maintaining balance and preventing injuries on uneven terrain. Hiking shoes should have a sturdy sole that provides good arch support and cushioning. Look for shoes with a firm midsole and a supportive heel counter. If you have weak ankles or plan to hike on rough terrain, consider shoes with higher ankle support. The level of support you need depends on your personal preference and the type of hikes you plan to undertake.
TractionTraction is important for maintaining grip on various surfaces, such as rocks, mud, and loose gravel. The outsole of the hiking shoe should have a lug pattern that provides good traction. Deeper lugs offer better grip on muddy and loose surfaces, while shallower lugs are suitable for well-maintained trails. Consider the type of terrain you'll be hiking on and choose a shoe with an appropriate lug pattern to ensure you have the necessary grip.
Water ResistanceWater resistance is a key feature if you plan to hike in wet conditions or cross streams. Water-resistant or waterproof hiking shoes can keep your feet dry and comfortable. Look for shoes with a waterproof membrane, such as Gore-Tex, or water-resistant materials. However, keep in mind that waterproof shoes may be less breathable, so if you hike in hot and dry conditions, you might prefer shoes with better ventilation.
BreathabilityBreathability is important for keeping your feet cool and dry, especially during long hikes or in hot weather. Shoes with breathable materials, such as mesh panels, allow air to circulate and help prevent excessive sweating. If you tend to hike in warm climates or have sweaty feet, prioritize shoes with good breathability. However, if you hike in cold or wet conditions, you might prefer shoes with less breathability and more insulation.
WeightThe weight of the hiking shoes can affect your overall comfort and energy levels during a hike. Lighter shoes are generally more comfortable and less tiring to wear over long distances, making them ideal for day hikes and well-maintained trails. Heavier shoes, on the other hand, offer more support and durability, which can be beneficial for rough terrain and multi-day hikes. Consider the type of hikes you plan to do and choose a shoe weight that matches your needs.
DurabilityDurability is important for ensuring that your hiking shoes last through many adventures. Look for shoes made from high-quality materials, such as leather or durable synthetic fabrics. Reinforced areas, such as the toe cap and heel, can provide extra protection and extend the life of the shoes. If you hike frequently or on challenging terrain, prioritize durability to get the most out of your investment.

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