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10 Best Womens Hiking Boots 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof, Bungee Cord, 9

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,101
Weight
Waterproofing
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
2921 reviews

Weight
The boots feel incredibly lightweight, almost like wearing nothing at all, making them easy to wear all day without fatigue.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing works well in wet conditions, keeping feet dry while maintaining breathability.
Traction and Outsole
The grip on various surfaces is outstanding, with a sole that provides reliable traction and no slipping.
Fit and Comfort
Generous toe box and wide fit offer plenty of wiggle room, ideal for those who prefer extra space or wear thick socks.
Ankle Support
These boots provide a good balance of support and flexibility, especially appreciated by those needing some 'give' around the ankle.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for women looking for reliable footwear for outdoor adventures. Its waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry while letting moisture escape, which is great for wet or variable conditions. The upper combines durable pigskin leather with mesh for breathability and a bit of flexibility. Comfort-wise, the boot includes a removable insole that supports the arch and cushions the heel, alongside a lightweight EVA midsole that adds stability without feeling heavy.

With a weight of about 1.5 pounds, these boots are relatively light for mid-height hiking boots, helping reduce fatigue on longer walks. The Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole provides good traction on various terrains, which is essential for hiking safely. Ankle support is moderate with a mid-height design that helps protect your ankles without being too restrictive. Additional features like a bellows tongue keep debris out, and the protective toe cap guards against rocks and roots.

These boots offer medium support, so hikers needing extra ankle stability or specialized cushioning might want to consider more technical options. Since the fit may vary depending on foot shape, trying them on is advisable. They are well-suited for casual to moderate hiking, combining comfort, durability, and eco-friendly materials like recycled laces and mesh.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,101
Weight
Waterproofing
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
2921 reviews

Weight
The boots feel incredibly lightweight, almost like wearing nothing at all, making them easy to wear all day without fatigue.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing works well in wet conditions, keeping feet dry while maintaining breathability.
Traction and Outsole
The grip on various surfaces is outstanding, with a sole that provides reliable traction and no slipping.
Fit and Comfort
Generous toe box and wide fit offer plenty of wiggle room, ideal for those who prefer extra space or wear thick socks.
Ankle Support
These boots provide a good balance of support and flexibility, especially appreciated by those needing some 'give' around the ankle.
#2

Columbia Womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped, Stratus/Canyon Rose, 8

Rating
7.9
Ankle Support
Waterproofing
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
25742 reviews

Ankle Support
These boots provide excellent ankle support, especially for those prone to sprains, combining sturdiness with comfort.
Waterproofing
Waterproof performance is reliable, keeping feet completely dry even when exposed to water and muddy trails.
Traction and Outsole
The grip is outstanding, offering confidence on slippery and uneven terrain without worry about slipping.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort is noticeable right out of the box, with no significant break-in period needed, and they remain comfortable after hours of walking.
Weight
They strike a great balance between being lightweight enough for ease of hiking and sturdy enough for protection and support.
Material
Durability stands out as these boots hold up well over time, outperforming other day-shoes under similar use.

The Columbia Womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped is a mid-cut hiking boot designed with durability and comfort in mind. Its leather and suede upper offers reliable waterproofing thanks to a seam-sealed construction, making it suitable for wet conditions. The TECHLITE midsole provides lightweight cushioning that helps reduce foot fatigue, which is great for longer hikes.

The boot has a sturdy outsole with Columbia’s Omni-GRIP rubber, designed to provide solid traction on various terrains, so you can trust it on slippery or uneven paths. Reinforced toe and heel areas add extra protection and durability where boots often wear out first. With a shaft circumference under 6 inches, it offers moderate ankle support—enough for typical hiking without feeling too bulky.

Built for comfort and weather resistance, this boot might feel a bit heavier compared to trail runners, which is common for waterproof leather boots. It fits well for women looking for a dependable, all-around hiking boot for three-season use, especially if solid protection and grip are priorities without sacrificing comfort.

Rating
7.9
Ankle Support
Waterproofing
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
25742 reviews

Ankle Support
These boots provide excellent ankle support, especially for those prone to sprains, combining sturdiness with comfort.
Waterproofing
Waterproof performance is reliable, keeping feet completely dry even when exposed to water and muddy trails.
Traction and Outsole
The grip is outstanding, offering confidence on slippery and uneven terrain without worry about slipping.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort is noticeable right out of the box, with no significant break-in period needed, and they remain comfortable after hours of walking.
Weight
They strike a great balance between being lightweight enough for ease of hiking and sturdy enough for protection and support.
Material
Durability stands out as these boots hold up well over time, outperforming other day-shoes under similar use.
#3

Merrell Women's MOAB 3 MID Shoe, BRACKEN/PURPLE, 7.5

Rating
7.9
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
5638 reviews

Waterproofing
They provide reliable warmth and maintain dryness in cooler, moderately wet conditions, with no need for a break-in period.
Fit and Comfort
Swapping out the original footbed for a preferred one can transform comfort and support, enabling long hikes without blisters.
Traction and Outsole
These boots deliver exceptional grip even on challenging slick granite surfaces, instilling confidence on tough trails.
Ankle Support
Durable construction and solid ankle support make these boots dependable for extended hiking adventures.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 MID boots are designed as mid-height hiking shoes that provide solid ankle support, which is beneficial for uneven trails. They feature a durable pigskin leather and mesh upper, ensuring both breathability and toughness. The bellows tongue helps keep dirt and debris out, making them suitable for dry to moderately wet conditions despite the absence of specific waterproofing information.

Comfort is a strong point, thanks to the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with extra heel cushioning and a lightweight EVA midsole that balances support and shock absorption. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole offers reliable traction on various surfaces, enhancing safety on slippery or rocky paths. Additionally, the inclusion of recycled materials in laces and lining adds an eco-friendly touch.

These boots might feel a bit heavier compared to some ultra-light options, and without explicit waterproof features, they may not be the best choice for very wet or muddy hikes. They serve well for casual to moderate hikers who desire comfort, ankle support, and dependable grip across a range of terrains.

Rating
7.9
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
5638 reviews

Waterproofing
They provide reliable warmth and maintain dryness in cooler, moderately wet conditions, with no need for a break-in period.
Fit and Comfort
Swapping out the original footbed for a preferred one can transform comfort and support, enabling long hikes without blisters.
Traction and Outsole
These boots deliver exceptional grip even on challenging slick granite surfaces, instilling confidence on tough trails.
Ankle Support
Durable construction and solid ankle support make these boots dependable for extended hiking adventures.

Buying Guide for the Best Womens Hiking Boots

Choosing the right women's hiking boots is crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. The right pair of boots can make a significant difference in your performance and enjoyment on the trail. When selecting hiking boots, consider the type of hiking you plan to do, the terrain you'll be covering, and your personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing women's hiking boots.
Boot TypeBoot type refers to the design and intended use of the hiking boots. There are three main types: lightweight hiking shoes, midweight hiking boots, and heavyweight hiking boots. Lightweight hiking shoes are ideal for day hikes on well-maintained trails. Midweight hiking boots offer more support and are suitable for longer hikes and rougher terrain. Heavyweight hiking boots provide maximum support and durability for multi-day backpacking trips and challenging terrains. Choose the boot type based on the length and difficulty of your hikes.
MaterialThe material of the hiking boots affects their durability, weight, and breathability. Common materials include leather, synthetic, and a combination of both. Leather boots are durable and offer excellent support but can be heavier and less breathable. Synthetic boots are lighter and more breathable but may not be as durable. Combination boots offer a balance of durability, weight, and breathability. Consider the climate and terrain of your hikes when choosing the material.
WaterproofingWaterproofing is important for keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. Waterproof hiking boots are made with materials and treatments that prevent water from entering the boot. This feature is essential for hiking in rainy weather, crossing streams, or walking through wet grass. However, waterproof boots can be less breathable, so if you hike in dry, hot conditions, you might prefer non-waterproof boots for better ventilation.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for preventing blisters and ensuring a pleasant hiking experience. Hiking boots should fit snugly but not too tight, with enough room to wiggle your toes. Consider trying on boots with the socks you plan to wear while hiking. Pay attention to the arch support, cushioning, and overall feel of the boots. It's also a good idea to break in your boots before embarking on a long hike to ensure they are comfortable.
Traction and OutsoleTraction and outsole refer to the grip and durability of the boot's sole. The outsole should provide good traction to prevent slipping on various terrains, such as mud, rocks, and loose gravel. Look for boots with deep lugs and a sturdy rubber sole for better grip. The type of terrain you hike on will influence the level of traction you need. For example, rugged trails require more aggressive outsoles, while well-maintained paths may need less.
Ankle SupportAnkle support is important for preventing injuries, especially on uneven terrain. Hiking boots with higher cuffs provide better ankle support and stability, which is beneficial for carrying heavy loads or hiking on rocky trails. Lower-cut boots offer more flexibility and are suitable for less challenging hikes. Consider the level of ankle support you need based on the terrain and the weight of your backpack.
WeightThe weight of the hiking boots can affect your energy levels and overall comfort. Lighter boots are easier to walk in and can reduce fatigue on long hikes. However, they may offer less support and durability. Heavier boots provide more support and protection but can be more tiring to wear over long distances. Choose the weight of the boots based on the length and difficulty of your hikes, as well as your personal preference for support versus lightness.

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