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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 Hiking Boot, Bungee Cord, 8

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid option for women who love outdoor adventures. One of its standout features is the waterproof membrane that effectively keeps your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, making it ideal for wet conditions. The combination of pigskin leather and mesh upper offers durability and breathability, which is essential for long hikes. Additionally, the boot's lightweight design, weighing just 1.5 pounds, won’t slow you down on the trails.

Comfort is another strong point, thanks to the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole that provides medium support and cushioning for your heels. The EVA foam midsole adds extra stability and comfort, making it a good choice for longer treks. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole ensures excellent traction, which is crucial for navigating various terrains.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is great for casual to moderate hikers who value comfort, waterproofing, and lightweight design. It excels in performance for various outdoor conditions but may require some attention to fit for individuals with wider feet or those needing extra arch support.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Waterproofing
The waterproof feature is a huge plus, especially on rainy days or muddy trails.
Fit and Comfort
No breaking in needed, and they're incredibly comfortable for long hikes.
Traction and Outsole
The rugged design ensures great traction on various terrains.
Ankle Support
Ankle support is great, and they make me walk better with better form.
#2

Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped, Elk/Mountain Red, 8

The Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped hiking boots are designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfort and durability on various terrains. One of their standout features is the advanced waterproof technology, which includes a seam-sealed construction and a combination of leather and suede materials. This ensures that your feet stay dry during wet conditions, making them ideal for hiking in unpredictable weather. The boots also offer a lightweight TECHLITE midsole that provides excellent cushioning and energy return, allowing for extended wear without discomfort.

In terms of traction, the Omni-GRIP rubber outsole is notable for its ability to provide reliable grip, whether you're on rocky paths or muddy trails. This makes the boots suitable for three-season use, appealing to those who enjoy diverse hiking experiences. Additionally, the reinforced toe and heel construction enhances durability, ensuring the boots can withstand wear and tear over time.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the ankle-high design offers decent support, some users may prefer higher boots for added stability on more challenging hikes. The fit may also vary; some wearers report needing to size up for a more comfortable fit, which could be a drawback for those who prioritize an exact size match. Weight-wise, these boots are lightweight compared to traditional hiking boots, but they might still feel bulkier than some minimalist options available on the market.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Boot Type
Versatile enough for hiking in various terrains and seasons, from summer to snowy conditions.
Waterproofing
Kept my feet warm, dry, and comfortable during a winter travel trip with cold, snowy, and slushy conditions.
Fit and Comfort
Held my weight well and my feet never felt beat up despite wearing them for hours at a time.
Traction and Outsole
The boots never felt heavy even after hours of wear and provided safe walking traction with their lugs.
Weight
The boots never felt heavy even after hours of wear and provided safe walking traction with their lugs.
#3

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Granite, 7

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot offers a great blend of durability, comfort, and protection for avid hikers. Made with pigskin leather and mesh upper, these boots are designed to be both robust and breathable. The waterproof membrane works effectively to keep your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, which is essential for long hikes in wet conditions.

The inclusion of 100% recycled materials in the laces and webbing showcases Merrell's commitment to sustainability, which is a nice bonus for eco-conscious consumers. With a bellows tongue to keep debris out and a protective toe cap, these boots are well-suited for rugged terrains. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole provides excellent traction, making it easier to navigate slippery or uneven paths.

Additionally, the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel and lightweight EVA foam midsole contribute to stability and comfort, reducing the likelihood of foot fatigue. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole offers medium support with reinforced heel cushioning, which can be particularly beneficial for those who need extra arch support. However, at 1.5 pounds per pair, these boots might be a bit heavier compared to other options on the market, which could be a drawback for some users seeking ultra-lightweight shoes. The ankle height provides good support, but users with specific ankle issues may prefer higher boots. In terms of fit, these boots are generally true to size, but trying them on with hiking socks is recommended for the best comfort. The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a strong contender for anyone looking for reliable, comfortable, and eco-friendly hiking boots that can handle a variety of outdoor adventures.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Waterproofing
These boots provide great traction on various terrains, and the waterproof feature is a huge plus for rainy days or muddy trails.
Fit and Comfort
The Merrell Moab 3 WP Hiking Boots are incredibly comfortable for long hikes, with no breaking in needed.
Traction and Outsole
Fit is perfect, with users feeling secure even on the side of a vertical drop thanks to the Vibram soles.
Ankle Support
The ankle support is excellent, helping users walk with better form and stability.

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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