The 11 Best Women’s Hiking Boots of 2023, Tested and Approved
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Salomon’s X Ultra 4 Mid GTX Hiking Boots are a versatile pair that offers support and grippy traction for most terrains.
Verywell Fit / Alli Waataja
Fact checked by Rich ScherrReviewed by Michele Stanten, ACE-GFI
Whether you’re a serious backpacker or recreational hiker, a reliable pair of hiking boots can make all the difference in your comfort, safety, and overall experience on the trail. Where regular footwear can fall short, hiking boots provide the necessary support and protection that other footwear options can’t.
“When hiking, especially if on uneven terrain, it is possible to experience ankle instability (walking on rocks, tree branches, streams of water, etc.), so added ankle support is essential,” says Bruce Pinker, DPM, a podiatrist based in New York. “Hiking boots are recommended for hiking activities, especially for climbing on rocks and uphill.”
Not only should hiking boots be protective and supportive, but they should also have grippy traction to keep you afoot as you climb. You’ll want them to fit comfortably to avoid blisters and provide sufficient cushioning to absorb shock.
To help you find the right women’s hiking boots, we consulted experts and researched dozens of the best women’s hiking boots on the market before hitting the trails. We then set out on multiple hikes to see how the top pairs measured up, rating each on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) in seven key areas: cushioning, comfort, fit, traction, stability and support, water resistance, blister protection, and value.
We also had a a walking coach and certified group fitness instructor from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in hiking boots, how they should fit, and whether you need them at all.
Best Overall: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-tex Women's
Pros
Lightweight and flexible
Great ankle support
Hugs the foot for a custom, stable fit
Cons
Not for heavy packs
Less breathable
Alternative widths not available
Salomon’s X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking Boots are our top pick for women’s hiking boots for their lightweight comfort, stability, and protection, which makes them a durable and versatile pair for most trails. Flexible and lightweight, these were some of the most comfortable boots we tested, even on long hikes, scoring a 5 out of 5 for comfort and cushioning.
While lacing up this trail-runner boot hybrid, we noted that the lace strap chassis hugs the midfoot for a customized fit that feels secure and supportive. We love its roomy toe box that lets feet naturally splay, and the heel keeps the whole foot locked in for extra stability, earning it a 5 out of 5 for stability and support. These shoes are flexible and lightweight yet offered plenty of cushion, support, and protection during test hikes.
While testing, we found the X Ultra’s grippy thanks to multidirectional lugs, scoring them a 5 out of 5 for traction. The tread, combined with the pair’s flexible soles, tackled steep, loose inclines and wet surfaces like rocks particularly well, making them great for diverse trails. The GORE-TEX lining and tongue gussets kept water and debris out reliably, and their durable outsole was very protective as terrain turned hazardous. The waterproofing did get slightly sweaty during really hot hikes, costing it a half point for a 4.5 out of 5 in blister protection, but the hot spots were minor.
Aesthetically speaking, the sporty look isn’t for every outdoorswoman, but the earthy colors, flattering look when on, and quality make up for it. Compared to heavier options, the boot’s overall comfort and stabilization make this a great boot that can handle miles of challenging terrain with little fatigue and is ideal for light-to-medium pack loads.
Price at time of publication: $175
Key Specs:
Upper: Textile, synthetic | Height: Above ankle | Weight (pair): 1.7 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: True to size
Best Budget: Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boot
Pros
Durable suede upper
Comfortable, cushioned interior
Traditional, yet trendy, look
Cons
Not for heavy packs
Less roomy toe box than others
If your hiking plans are budget-contingent, you can’t go wrong with these classic-looking boots with modern comfort and support features. Like our top pick, this affordable pair is lightweight with plenty of cushioning without feeling too heavy or bulky. They felt great immediately when our tester slipped them on, requiring no break-in period, which is why we rated them a 5 out of 5 for comfort and blister protection. The toe box could be a bit roomier, leading us to dock a half point for fit, but the pair does come in wide sizes for those who prefer a more spacious fit.
When we tested them on the trail, the Newton Ridges were supportive enough for short to longer hikes, and like our top pick, the rubber sole performed well on a variety of surfaces. No matter the terrain type or condition, the grippy traction helped our tester maintain footing, earning the pair a 5 out of 5 for stability, support, and traction. Also, like our top pick, this pair’s light weight means a swift and comfortable hike most suitable for lighter pack loads.
The pair is waterproof with a seam-sealed bootie lining and a partially-gusseted tongue, which comes in handy when you’re walking in the rain. We love that the trendy work boot meets hiking boot design is crafted from leather, suede, and breathable mesh, and we're impressed by the durability of these boots. Even after multiple hikes, they look as good as new, and we expect the suede to hold up nicely over time. Choose between five earthy or bright color combinations for a classic or trendy trail look.
We love that this pair is made in partnership with a female-empowerment program that strives to support working women through education and skills training.
Price at time of publication: $100
Key Specs:
Upper: Leather, suede, mesh | Height: At ankle | Weight: 1.7 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: True to size, wide available
Best For Beginners: KEEN Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot
Pros
Sustainably and ethically made
Comfortable EVA foam cushioning
Odor control interior
Cons
Not enough cushion for long, heavy hikes
If you’re new to hiking, we recommend Keen's Targhee III for its long tradition of excellence and sustainably-made craftsmanship that will last. This reliable boot is easy for newbies to break in thanks to its flexible upper construction. During test hikes, we found it spacious enough for feet to relax. It features medium-light, streamlined padding around the ankle collar and throughout, with a heavy-duty outer and multidirectional, slip-free treads that can take a beating. It even helps keep odors at bay with an interior designed to keep your feet fresh and dry.
Scoring a 4.5 out of 5 in comfort, the boot has nice EVA foam cushioning underfoot and a flexible ankle. We like the lacing system strap that wraps around the heel for a customized fit, which also helps stability. But we found it lacks enough padding and stability that hikers with heavy packs need, which is why we docked a point for both cushioning and support.
Still, we think they feel stable and supportive on most surfaces and very protective. If you’re a recreational hiker who wants a durable, waterproof boot for everyday outings, we think this pair will get you far.
Price at time of publication: $175
Key Specs:
Upper: Oiled nubuck leather, mesh | Height: At ankle | Weight: 1.8 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: True to size, wide available
Related: The 11 Best Hiking Boots for Men, Tested and Reviewed
Best Waterproof: Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
Pros
Breathable upper
Aggressive lugs for great traction
Lightly insulated
Cons
Pricier than other options
A bit heavy
High collar not for everyone
Dry feet are warm feet. So if you anticipate tromping through streams or rivers or just want some protection from the rain, we highly recommend these water-tight boots with breathable, light insulation, and GORE-TEX waterproofing.
This supportive boot feels built for backpacking technical terrain, with a stable base and aggressive lugs to tackle offroading wet or dry paths at any incline. The supportive insole feels stiffer than others on the list but surprisingly comfortable, and we were thankful for its highly stable frame and nylon shanks underfoot when encountering rocks, branches, and other debris on our test hikes. Its ankle collar, a bit higher than others and not for everyone, was very comfortably padded, streamlined, and supportive, granting it a perfect score for stability and support.
The solid outsoles, which can feel heavy, kept us upright on slippery rocks and mud to dry land and are still quite light for such a heavy-duty boot. This makes it a great choice for long hikes with medium to heavy packs. The Renegade’s lugs are impressive, to say the least, with deep teeth and multi-surface rubber grippy enough to handle slippery rocks, snow, and packed dirt, earning a 5 out of 5 for traction. If you find yourself hiking during cold winter months, keep in mind these boots are not designed for icy conditions, so it is best to purchase shoes for walking on ice.
When it comes to waterproofing, we took this pair for a chilly dip in ice-cold, rushing river water to see how they fared. We were impressed to find the gusseted tongue, GORE-TEX lining, and higher ankle kept our feet perfectly dry, and the insulation worked for warmth as we waded through the cold pass. Not even a drop penetrated the moisture-repellent leather upper, yet out of the water, they remained breathable, cool, and locked-in, earning a perfect water-resistance score and a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort. While these shoes are pricey, we know this pair is a powerhouse.
Price at time of publication: $255
Key Specs:
Upper: Nubuck leather | Height: Above ankle | Weight (pair): 2.1 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: Light insulation | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: True to size, wide and narrow available
Best Ventilated: Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Ventilator
Pros
Breathable
Minimal break-in period
Good cushioning and ankle support
Cons
Water-resistant, not waterproof
Heel may be too high for some
Full Review: Merrell Moab 2 Mid Ventilator Boots Review
If you’re hiking in hot weather or struggle with sweaty, hot feet, the Merrell Moab is our top recommendation for keeping cool. The Ventilator does just that—allowing heat to escape through a mesh lining that promotes airflow, allowing your feet to breathe, and keeping odors at bay.
The sole of this pair is firmer than expected, making it a good option for hikers needing extra durability underfoot. And the heel is well-cushioned, thanks to a shock-absorbing air pocket that our tester noticed. This, combined with a nice, contoured arch support, left her feeling less fatigued post-hike than others she tested.
The ankle is supported with a lot of padding, but it didn’t rub or irritate during our tests. The pillowy collar and the higher heel might feel too much for some hikers, but it’s easy to get used to and does provide a very comfortable, stable ride. We were impressed by the 5-millimeter lug soles, which is why we gave the shoes a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for traction in their safety and gripping abilities.
While this boot isn’t completely waterproof due to the vents, scoring lower with a 3.5 out of 5 in water resistance, it dries quickly, and we appreciate its overall value and performance. It requires zero break-in period, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for comfort and making it a great option for summer hikes.
Price at time of publication: $85
Key Specs:
Upper: Suede, mesh | Height: Above ankle | Weight: 2 pounds | Waterproof: No (not fully) | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: True to size, wide available
Related: 10 Best Cooling Towels to Keep You Cool on Sweaty Days
Best Insulated: KEEN Revel IV High Polar Hiking Boots
Pros
Sustainably-made
Very warm, yet breathable
Great traction for deep or packed snow
Cons
Stiff, high-cut ankle might bother some
Pricer than other options
Runs a half size small
Winter hiking can be a great snow sport and workout as long as you’re equipped with proper footwear to keep you warm and dry. This pair by Keen is our top pick for insulation, thanks to its waterproof insulation that’s ideal for hiking and rated to withstand temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees. Keen’s anti-odor, waterproof lining is much like GORE-TEX to lock out moisture while venting heat. We found it breathable on test hikes and found that it prevented feet from getting too sweaty, which can turn extremities cold quickly. It earned a perfect score in water resistance.
We like that this pair is constructed with a stability shank to stabilize and protect the feet over fields or forests. On test hikes, we found the ankles a bit high cut and stiff for shorter legs, especially after a long period, but this also meant extra protection and support while trudging through deep snow drifts. The speed hook laces were nice for easily re-lacing the boots when wearing gloves, too.
Packed snow stands little chance against the 5-millimeter lugs on these thermal hikers, which have a multi-directional pattern and handle hills very well, which is why we scored them a 5 out of 5 for traction. They are comfortable, with a responsive insole, earning a 4.5 out of 5 in comfort. This pair is a bit expensive for the occasional dusting of snow or mild climates but is a great investment for regular cold-season climate areas. They tend to run small, so size up a half-size, especially if you’re planning on wearing thick winter socks or need to add insoles for flat feet.
Price at time of publication: $210
Key Specs:
Upper: Leather, mesh | Height: Above ankle | Weight: 1.9 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: Yes | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: Runs small
Verywell Fit / Jessica Murtaugh
Best Lightweight: Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid Hiking Boots
Pros
Wide toe box
Breathable waterproof upper
Minimalist, heel-to-toe drop
Cons
Not supportive enough for heavy-duty hiking
Toe box may feel stiff
If you’re looking for an airy option to take you swiftly through your trail route, we recommend these trail runner-boot hybrids, our top pick for the best lightweight boots. Weighing a feathery 1 1/2 pounds, the Lone Peaks have a wide toe box that is made to allow feet to splay and move naturally. During tests, we gave these slipper-feel kicks a 5 out of 5 for comfort, noting this would feel especially great for feet that struggle to spread in tighter options.
Like the boot’s sister shoe, the Altra Lone Peak Trail Running Shoe, this boot is designed similarly with a “zero-drop”—meaning no offset between the heel and the toes—making it a more minimalist boot with a light, springy, and responsive sole. If you’re looking for a ton of cushion or extra support, keep walking because these are less pillowy than others, with a semi-firm but flexible sole geared at surface feedback. We docked one point for stability and support because the comfy collar is a bit too flexible for a ton of support.
Regardless, this pair is still quite protective and performed well on our water test with a 5 out of 5 in water resistance. These would make a great boot for short and fast day hikes or times when you’re wanting more ankle support and water protection than a trail runner can offer.
Price at time of publication: $180
Key Specs:
Upper: Fabric, nylon | Height: Above ankle | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: Runs wide (for foot splay)
Verywell Fit / Jessica Murtaugh
Best For Wide Feet: Topo Athletic Trailventure 2
Pros
Spacious fit
Great traction
Lightweight
Cons
Not for narrow feet
Not waterproof
Like the Altras, these trail runner-boot hybrids are designed with your foot’s anatomy in mind, meaning they are wide and roomy inside to let your feet relax. Also, like the Altras, they are lightweight and great for speed hiking but with a slightly more aggressive and sturdy outsole, making them better equipped for longer journeys.
The Trailventure proved stable and protective when we took them out, due in part to the ESS rock plate through the midfoot and a heel counter that kept our feet locked in. The ankle collar also felt comfortable and a bit more supportive than the Altras, with a nicely cushioned interior, without going overboard, scoring a 4.5 out of 5 in comfort, stability, and support.
While they aren’t waterproof, these boots are compatible with Topo Athletic's Performance Gaiters, which can add another layer of protection against moisture, mud, and other slop from seeping onto your feet. Although not waterproof alone, we love that these sneaker-ish boots are very breathable, with a nice mesh upper to vent your sock steam. They even have an antimicrobial insole to combat moisture-causing odors. If you prefer something more waterproof, you can opt for Topo Athletic’s waterproof version of this shoe.
Price at time of publication: $160
Key Specs:
Upper: Mesh | Height: At ankle | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Waterproof: No | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: Runs wide (for foot splay)
Best For Narrow Feet: La Sportiva Women's Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
Supportive and stable
Flexible upper
Minimal break-in period
Pricier than other options
Runs small
If you have narrow feet, you need a supportive fit that won't let your feet swim, and our top recommendation is this light and flexible pair. Sizing runs on the small side in this boot, and compared to other boots, LA Sportiva also skews more toward the narrow-footed hiker, so if that is you, you’ll want to upsize a half size.
Although on the slender side, this pair was comfortable on test hikes, with molded, cushioned midsoles. Considering the average foot might find these a bit constrictive, however, we docked a half point for comfort; when sized appropriately, however, they are cozy. During tests, they absorbed shock well without sacrificing the proprioceptive feedback, or “feel” of your foot in space, for balanced responsiveness and scored 4.5 out of 5 for cushioning.
The ankle collar offered flexible support, and we liked the built-in gaiter, a stretchy fabric with a pull tab that keeps muck out of the boot as you step. They weren’t quite as supportive as others on our list, but stable nevertheless, especially on slick, uneven ground, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for traction. The outsoles of these boots aren’t messing around, and it wasn't just their bold appearance either. We also found them to be very protective against brush, fallen branches, and other debris.
The Ultra Raptor II scored high in our wet test, with our tester experiencing no leaking through the mesh upper and waterproof lining when fully submerged to the ankle, which was particularly impressive. The pair remained breathable, keeping her feet dry for the rest of the hike.
Price at time of publication: $209
Key Specs:
Upper: Synthetic | Height: Above ankle | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces | Fit: Run small and narrow
Best for Technical Terrain: Salomon Women's Quest 4 Gore-tex Hiking Boots
Pros
Very durable
Waterproof
Great for heavy backpacking
Cons
Heavy
Pricier than other options
Less breathable on hot hikes
If you’re on an adventure with more challenging terrain, Salomon’s Quest 4 GTX is our top choice for its ability to tackle technical ground and steep inclines while keeping you comfortable, protected, and stable.
A heavier boot with durable outsoles and deep lugs, the Quest 4 shines on technical hikes with heavy packs but is also comfortable enough for everyday hikes, thanks to a spacious fit and flexible midsole that didn’t require any break-in time. We did dock half a point from the pair’s comfort rating, scoring them a 4.5 out of 5 due to the slightly rigid upper. The upper’s thinner interior offers little padding but also has fewer seams, which prevented blisters and any rubbing on test hikes.
Lined with GORE-TEX and constructed with a gusseted tongue, the pair scored perfect in our water test, with a 5 out of 5 for water resistance. After testing these on cold, rainy, and hot days, we found them to be generally breathable but not an ideal boot for hot hikes since they can get sweaty with all the weatherproofing.
The arch wings on the sides of the midsole securely wrap the foot when laced for a supported fit that lasted an entire hike. The pair’s lace locks also contributed to their perfect score for fit. We love the sleekly padded ankle and heel area of these boots, which contours and supports the back of the foot for an exceptionally comfortable feel.
We didn’t even mind the taller ankle height, finding it super comfortable and great for any stature. This was really great when attacking hills with a heavy pack, earning the boots a superb 5 out of 5 for stability and support.
Overall, we recommend this boot for anyone wanting a reliably tough and comfortable boot with outstanding support, stability, and weatherproofing that excels on longer hikes with heavy packs on any trail.
Price at time of publication: $230
Key Specs:
Upper: Nubuck leather, nylon | Height: Above ankle | Weight: 2.4 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: No | Closure: Speed hook laces, lace locks | Fit: True to size
Related: The Best Outdoor Workout Gear of 2023
Best for Kids: KEEN Kids’ Unisex Ridge Flex Waterproof Hiking Boot
Pros
Durable, grippy traction
Easy to clean
Quick-tie laces
Cons
Long laces
Pricier for kids’ boots
If you have little ones coming along for your hikes, we love these comfortable kids’ boots for their durability, functionality, and great traction. Our kid hiker’s parents were impressed by the quality and durability of this boot, mentioning they would hold up to frequent use and are easy to clean. They’re well-made with great foot protection thanks to a reinforced toe, grippy traction, and excellent waterproofing, making these safe for a variety of surfaces and adventures.
They are comfortable with a cushioned sole and padded interior, two features that are especially important for when your little one starts to grow tired on the trail. With input from our young tester, we scored these a 5 out of 5 for comfort.
The boots have a flexible midsole and collar for all the bending, jumping, and scrambling that kids love to do. There’s even a patch of flexible material on the upper above the toes to help the shoe bend more and rub less. The pair is made with anti-odor materials that are infused with a non-toxic vanilla fragrance that activates when temperatures rise, combating that smelly sneaker smell.
For fun walks with the kids, your child can slip these on fast by themselves, thanks to quick tie laces that use a toggle to tighten for a snug fit. Our young tester’s mother did note that she had to pull pretty tightly to secure her daughter’s slender feet, which left a long loop that had to be tucked away. A quick DIY hack can solve this by shortening the lace altogether and reattaching the toggle, but you might want to pass on these if your child is small or you’d rather not bother. Given this predicament, we docked a full point from these boots’ fit score. But these shoes are sized to fit most children.
This unisex pair comes in “Little” and “Big” kids' sizing and multiple color options, making this somewhat pricey kid boot a well-made option that can be passed down to siblings or family friends once outgrown.
Price at time of publication: $85
Key Specs:
Upper: Leather, mesh | Height: At ankle | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Waterproof: Yes | Insulated: No | Closure: Quick-tie laces | Fit: True to size, little and big kid sizes available
How We Rated the Best Women’s Hiking Boots
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best women’s hiking boots we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These women’s hiking boots are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great women’s hiking boots, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These women’s hiking boots are just average.
3.4 and below: We don't recommend women’s hiking boots with this rating; you won't find any on our list.
How We Selected and Tested the Best Women’s Hiking Boots
To make our list of the best women's hiking boots, our expert—a certified personal trainer—spoke with podiatrists Dr. Bruce Pinker, DPM, and Dr. Jacqueline Prevete, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM, about which important features a pair of hiking boots should have. We then researched dozens of women’s hiking boots from the top, trusted brands on the market.
We tested eleven pairs of top hiking boots to see how each boot performed in key areas, including size and fit, comfort, cushioning, support and stability, traction, durability, and value. We tested each boot at various intensities, from short and easy hikes on groomed trails to longer, more challenging outings on more technical terrain and steeper elevations. Each hike ranged from 2 to 5 miles. When testing, we noted each boot’s performance in key areas, giving each pair a score between 1 (would not recommend) and 5 (highly recommend) in each key category.
Each boot also went through a “wet test” to gauge waterproofing. To be selected as our top pick in each category, each pair had to perform according to high standards of technical specifications and expert insight.
What to Look for in a Hiking Boot for Women
Fit
A great shoe is useless if it doesn’t fit. Our experts recommend trying on a pair of hiking boots in your size before buying to ensure it has a roomy but snug fit. “Contrary to popular belief, hiking boots that are too LARGE can actually cause just as many problems as hiking boots that are too small,” says Dr. Prevete. “If the boot is too large, your foot can move around in the boot excessively, causing blisters and occasional bleeding underneath the toenails, which can be painful after activity. Fit is just as important as support in these cases,” she says.
When laced up, your boots should feel comfortable without any tight pressure points or rubbing at the toes, sides, or ankle collar. The toebox should have enough room for your foot and toes to spread out as you hike, and the upper and midsole should support your midfoot and arch according to your needs. The heel box should also hold the back of the foot so that your foot doesn’t slip around inside or out of the boot as you walk.
When buying online, check the reviews to see if the pair tends to run large or small and size up or down accordingly. If you have wide feet, look for hiking shoes that come in wide widths to prevent any rubbing against toes or bunions, as well as additional room for orthotics and insoles. And if you have narrow feet, look for hiking shoes that tend to run narrow, like La Sportiva’s Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX.
Verywell Fit / Jessica Murtaugh
Cushioning
A well-cushioned hiking shoe or boot will give you the most comfortable hiking experience by absorbing shock impact from miles of terrain, protecting your joints and muscles. Choose a boot with ample, evenly-distributed cushioning appropriate to the surfaces and daily mileage you’re planning to traverse.
For shorter hikes with a lighter pack load, you can opt for a less-cushioned, more flexible boot sole than journeys with longer mileage and heavier gear. A thinner sole will save you speed, energy, and potentially unnecessary strain on knees and hip flexors. If you need running shoes for bad knees, keep this in mind when buying hiking boots.
For more demanding hikes with heavier packs, choose a heavier boot with firmer, thicker soles and cushioning. Your feet and legs might take longer to get used to a firmer, heavier pair, possibly requiring a longer break-in period, but the trade-off will be worth it in stability on long, heavy trips. (More on this below).
Stability and Support
Your hiking boots should have enough support and stability to handle the terrain you’re covering and the weight of supplies you’re carrying. As a general rule of thumb, the more technical the trail and heavier the pack, the more ankle support you’ll need from your footwear. (To help build ankle strength, consider adding a balance board to your fitness regimen.)
Heavier packs usually require heavier boots to help keep you stable, as well. “Especially for those with ankle issues or who are prone to ankle sprains, stability is key. When you have uneven surfaces to deal with, stability to counteract this can prevent an injury,” says Prevete. If you’re traveling light and aiming for speed and energy efficiency, keep your boots and gear light.
Water Resistance
If there’s any possibility that you’ll be hiking near water or mud, it’s worth it to purchase a pair with this feature. Water-resistant boots usually utilize an exterior material or treatment to repel moisture but do not always lock it out completely. Waterproof options take it a step further with boot-lining membranes that completely lock out moisture but are sometimes less breathable. “Breathability is important, and hiking boots constructed with GORE-TEX can allow for this and also keep the feet dry,” says Pinker. GORE-TEX and similar linings technologies, along with shoe design elements like tongue gussets or attachable gaiters, keep water on the outside and your feet dry, warm, and blister-free on the inside.
Premium waterproofing can be more expensive than other boots, but it is worth it in the wild when it counts. And you can generally find water-tight options at any price point.
Verywell Fit / Jessica Murtaugh
Durability and Protection
In addition to waterproofing, you might consider a pair of hiking boots with protective features for cold climates, like insulation or quick-lace hooks and drawstring lock systems, which make lacing boots up while wearing gloves easier and safer.
For rocky or thickly wooded terrains, boots with footplates, nylon shanks, and steel or reinforced rubber toes offer extra protection to keep your feet safe from sharp debris. Steel soles or toes mean heavier boots. If you want extra protection without the added weight, stiff nylon shanks or rubber-reinforced toes offer sufficient shielding for most hikes.
Traction
The proper tread will help you feel confident with each stride and keep you safe on loose, slick, or steep terrain. Consider where you will be hiking and what kind of traction the surface demands.
Most hiking boots have outsoles made of durable rubber with cleat-like traction and might even have rugged design elements like “heel brakes” for downhill control. Boots with softer rubber outsoles grip smoother surfaces (like wet rock) better but can wear out faster with use. Harder rubber soles are often better for softer surfaces like mud or snow. Many boots have outsoles made with a medium-sticky rubber, like Vibram soles, for use on a variety of terrains, making them a versatile choice and investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to wear walking or running shoes for hiking?
You can wear walking or running shoes while hiking—especially if your shoes were specifically designed for trail running. That said, even trail runners don’t offer many of the waterproofing, grippy soles, or extra protective features found in hiking boots. For anything more intense than light to moderate day hikes, our experts recommend opting for a supportive, off-trail hiking shoe with an outsole that’s made for taking on challenging terrain.
“Hiking boots offer more support above the ankle, or at least provide a bit more stability, which decreases your risk of inversion-type injuries,” says Prevete.
How should hiking boots fit?
“Hiking boots should fit snugly in width but not tight,” says Pinker. If your shoes are too loose, they might blister your feet or let debris in. And if they’re too tight, they might leave you uncomfortable for hours on end. “For length, there should be 3/8 of an inch from the end of the longest toe to the end of the boot. There should also be adequate arch support for the foot type of the wearer, as well as appropriate room in the toe box to prevent cramping,” Pinker says.
A good rule of thumb: Try your boots on with the socks you plan to wear while hiking—and at the end of the day or after exercise. Your feet may swell after hours of hiking, and you want your shoes to fit right at both the start and the end of your hike.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
A certified personal trainer, trail-runner, and avid camper, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, researches and reviews fitness gear for Verywell Fit. She also owns multiple pairs of hiking shoes and boots herself. One of her go-to pairs for hiking is Lowa’s Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boot, which she loves for its stability, traction, waterproofing, and protection.
Additional reporting by Lindsey Lanquist
As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.
