The Best Hiking Boots and Shoes for Women in 2021

New and experienced hikers alike share one thing in common: the need for good quality and durable hiking boots. Footwear can easily make or break your day on the trails. Shoes that don’t fit properly, that aren’t broken in, or that are worn out can put pressure in all the wrong places and leave you with blisters.

Whether you’re shopping for your first pair, or you need to replace your old shoes, there is a lot to keep in mind when searching for the best hiking shoes for you. It’s helpful to first consider what your specific needs are. Start by asking yourself some of these questions: Where will I be hiking? What season and weather am I most likely to hike in? What is the terrain like where I will be hiking? From there, it’s time to look at boot features and find something that works the best for you!

Best Women’s Hiking Boot Features

Women’s hiking shoes are designed specifically with women’s feet in mind. While you certainly can get away with wearing men’s shoes if needed, hiking boots for women will likely fit more comfortably and keep your feet feeling more secure.

So, what are some of the best women’s hiking boot features you should be looking for when selecting a new pair of boots? After considering the conditions you’re most likely to hike in, take a look at the list below so that you can get an idea of what is the most important for you as you search for the best hiking boots for women.

• Waterproofing

            This is an important feature if you’re going to be hiking in rain, snow, or through puddles

or streams. Some of the best hiking boots for women are designed with a Gore-Tex membrane or other waterproofing features that are ideal when you know you’re going to want some extra protection to keep you dry!

• Breathability

            If hiking in hotter climates or summer months is something you’ll be doing often,

breathability is a feature you want to be looking for. Ventilation and lightweight

material will prevent your feet from overheating and getting too sweaty.

• Traction

            The best hiking boots for women are the ones that won’t let you slip! All types of

hiking boots and shoes feature some sort of traction that will keep you gripped as you climb over rocks or up steep slopes, but some offer additional support such as heel reinforcements or rubber toes.

• Profile

When searching for the best hiking boots for women, profile is another thing you want to keep in mind. Some boots and shoes have a higher profile, meaning that they’re taller and keep your ankle supported, while others are lower and offer you more flexibility.

• Weight

You’ll want to be sure that whatever shoes you choose are a comfortable weight for you. The best way to figure that out is to try on a few pairs in person to compare them. What may feel lightweight and easy to move in for one person will be different for another, so it’s all about personal preference!

• Cushioning

This is another feature that is easiest to evaluate for yourself by trying on a pair of women’s hiking boots in person as soon as they’re delivered. You want something that provides you with adequate cushioning while still allowing you to feel in control of the terrain you’re exploring.

Best Hiking Boots for Women in 2021

Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Wide Hiking Boots – Womens

To start off our list of best hiking boots for women, this pair from Salomon is a great choice, especially for women who have wider feet. One of the prime features in these best-selling women’s boots is the Descent Control technology which helps your feet stay gripped even on steep declines. These boots also are designed with Gore-Tex and other waterproofing materials, making them a great choice for rainy days.

The North Face Back to Berkeley Redux Remltz Lux Hiking Boots – Womens

If you’re looking for something a bit more breathable, these North Face women’s boots are the way to go! They have a low profile and comfortable OrthoLite Hybrid footbed that keeps the soles of your feet comfortable wherever you wander. Plus, they’re the most stylish on our list of best women’s hiking boots!

Keen Explore Mid WP Hiking Boots – Womens

Ready to go exploring? These Keen shoes are perfect for anywhere you want to hike! Both waterproof and breathable, they work well in a variety of conditions and terrain. They also feature hooks for easy lacing adjustments when you’re on the trails along with odor control technology, keeping them fresh even after a long day in the great outdoors!

Keen Targhee III Mid WP Hiking Boots – Womens

Last on our list of best hiking boots for women is this durable, waterproof option. Just like the other pair from Keen on our list, these shoes are also breathable and easy to adjust when you’re on the go. However, these have a higher profile, giving your ankles more stability and providing more protection if you’re doing a lot of hiking through streams or puddles.

This season, find the best hiking boots for women along with all of the other women’s hiking gear you need so that you can be well equipped for your next big adventure!