Best Hiking Shoes for Women

Choosing a great pair of hiking shoes is i of the virtually important gear decisions yous'll make. Getting a pair that has the correct balance of comfort, traction, weight and durability will brand a huge difference with every step along the trail.

Our squad has researched, broken in, and trail tested dozens of hiking shoes over thousands of miles to bring you this list of the very best hiking shoes on the market place.

Related: Best Hiking Shoes for Men

The Saucony Peregrine 11 are some of our faves for being comfortable, breathable, and have excellent traction

The Saucony Peregrine are some of our faves for being comfortable, breathable, and have excellent traction

The HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 are well cushioned which makes them awesome for rooty, rocky trails

The Salomon X Ultras have an excellent balance of price, weight, comfort, and traction

The Salomon X Ultras have an excellent balance of price, weight, comfort, and traction

The HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4 are some of the most durable trail runners for hiking

The Oboz Sawtooth II Mid Bdry Boots have a comfy wide fit, aggressive traction, and great support

All-time Women's Hiking Shoes

Salomon X Ultra 4 Low GTX

BEST WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES OVERALL FOR COMFORT, TRACTION & DURABILITY

MSRP: $150

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): 1 lb. 9.9 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Not-waterproof

SIZING: True to size; fits narrow, broad sizes available

PROS: Out-of-the-box comfort, lightweight for how durable and supportive they are, stable, excellent traction, secure fit

CONS: Quicklace takes some getting used to, expensive

BOTTOM LINE: The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX hiking shoes have a smashing residuum of weight and durability. They feel much lighter and more nimble than other similarly built shoes, and the fit is similar to that of a trail runner. Likewise much like a trail runner, they require practically no burglary flow and are comfortable to hike in straight out of the box. The traction is well above boilerplate on the Ten Ultras, which makes them great for backpacking or day hikes in challenging terrain. Needless to say, nosotros're big fans of the X Ultras and we highly recommend them for hikers who desire a shoe that feels like a trail runner and lasts like a more traditional hiking shoe.

Saucony Peregrine 12 Hiking Shoe

All-time Not-WATERPROOF HIKING SHOES OVERALL FOR TRACTION, LOW WEIGHT & COMFORT

MSRP: $130

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): one lb. ii.7 oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof

SIZING: True to size

PROS: Fantabulous traction, breathable, lightweight, secure fit, stone plate (increased protection and durability in sole)

CONS: Not as durable as traditional hiking shoes

Bottom LINE: The Saucony Peregrines have been one of our favorite hiking shoes for many years, and we've worn them over thousands of miles. What makes the Peregrines stand out so much is their exceptional traction. Whether it's a trek through Nepal, the high sierras of California, or the Torres del Paine in Patagonia, the Peregrines bite into the terrain and provide stability and confidence. The newest iteration of the Peregrines features the same sock-like comfort and durability as the previous model, just it's an ounce lighter. The Peregrine 12s are our summit pick for demanding hikes where reliable traction is key.

HOKA ONE ONE Speedgoat 4

Best LIGHTWEIGHT HIKING SHOES WITH AMPLE CUSHIONING

MSRP: $145

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE nine): ane lb. 4.seven oz.

SIZING: Truthful to size

PROS: Comfy, very cushy soles, excellent traction, supportive, roomy toe box

CONS: Non as protective every bit some others, not every bit durable as traditional hiking shoes

BOTTOM LINE: HOKAs are known for their exceptional comfort and back up on trail, and we think the Speedgoat 4 is the best in the lineup. The almost standout characteristic of the Speedgoats is their ultra-cushy midsole. Information technology'south fantabulous at absorbing impact, and it doesn't flatten out as quickly every bit some other shoes nosotros've used. For this reason, the Speedgoats are a favorite amongst thru-hikers who need a shoe that'south lightweight and can keep their anxiety and joints comfortable while logging lots of miles. That said, because these shoes are built more for trail running, they're not going to agree upwardly quite as long as some of the traditional hiking shoes on our listing in the long run. Despite the slight hit to durability, the Speedgoats are our go-to for long days on the trail when comfort is virtually important.

Altra Lone Peak 6 Hiking Shoe

LIGHTWEIGHT HIKING SHOES WITH A NATURAL SHAPE

MSRP: $140

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE nine): 1 lb. iv.5 oz.

Too AVAILABLE IN: Waterproof

SIZING: True to size, wide sizes available

PROS: Roomy toe box, first-class traction, lightweight, comfortable, piece of cake to adhere gaiters, breathable, rock plate (increased protection and durability in sole)

CONS: Not as durable as traditional hiking shoes

Bottom LINE: Altra's Lone Meridian 6s are the commencement major diversion from their typical design in a while. The biggest and near noticeable change is the narrower contour (wide sizes are bachelor). This makes the shoe look and feel a little more sleek while maintaining the signature foot-shaped toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally. The uppers are reinforced and well ventilated, then they feel more durable than previous Lonely Acme models and should last for quite a few more miles than some other shoes in their weight course. We're loving the newest iteration of the Lone Peaks, and recommend them for anyone looking for a comfy ultralight hiking shoe.

Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry

Almost SUPPORTIVE & DURABLE HIKING SHOES

MSRP: $140

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): two lbs. i.1 oz.

Too Available IN: Non-waterproof

SIZING: True to size; wide toe box (though not as wide as other Oboz nosotros've tried), wide sizes available

PROS: First-class traction, durable, stable, supportive, broad toe box, out-of-the-box comfort

CONS: Broad fit isn't for anybody, heavier than some

BOTTOM LINE: The Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry are for hikers who demand the greatest support and stability for tackling rugged terrain. One of the offset things you'll probably find nearly the Sawtooths is that the traction extends past the sole and onto the sides of the shoe, which provides ambitious traction on variable terrain with obstacles like rocks and roots. This extra rubber - along with the leather upper - makes the Sawtooths the heaviest shoes on our list, but it also provides an edge over others for durability. These protective shoes are perfect for day hikers who often find themselves on challenging trails and for backpackers who carry a heavier load of 35 lbs. and up.

Merrell Moab 2 WP Low

BEST Budget SHOES FOR DAY HIKING

MSRP: $135

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE nine): 1 lb. xiii.7 oz.

Likewise Available IN: Non-waterproof

SIZING: Truthful to size; fits wide, broad sizes bachelor

PROS: Out-of-the-box comfort, durable, breathable, good traction

CONS: Heavy, high heel-to-toe drop, broad fit isn't for everyone

Bottom LINE: If you're looking for a good value shoe that doesn't compromise on quality, the Merrell Moab two WP Lows are an splendid choice. These shoes - and the Moab Mids - have been a favorite among hikers for many years at present due to their condolement, durability, and friendly price. Because the Moabs feel a piddling more beefy than some others, they may not be the best choice for big-mile days. Merely they'll last a long time and the cushioning and support they provide is first-class for day hikes and weekend trips.

Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX Hiking Shoes (1).jpg

GRIPPY HIKING SHOES THAT WORK PARTICULARLY WELL IN Wet CLIMATES

MSRP: $150

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 8.5): 1 lb. seven.nine oz.

ALSO AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof

SIZING: Runs large, we recommend sizing down ½ size

PROS: Supportive, stable, first-class traction, durable, rock plate (increased protection and durability in sole)

CONS: Quicklace takes some getting used to

BOTTOM LINE: With fantabulous traction and a stable, supportive build, the Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 GTX are not bad for hiking over tricky terrain. Considering they're lighter than many traditional shoes, only burlier than the trail runners nosotros like to hike in, nosotros consider the XA Pros to be a really good compromise between durability and all-twenty-four hour period condolement. They excel for day hikers wanting a good value option that will last for multiple seasons, and their ambitious Contragrip traction and GoreTex membrane make the XA Pros some of the all-time shoes on our list for backpacking in particularly wet, rugged climates.

Keen Targhee III Low WP

EXCELLENT VALUE HIKING SHOES FOR DAY HIKERS

MSRP: $165.95

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE ix): 1 lb. 11.viii oz.

ALSO Available IN: Non-waterproof

SIZING: True to size; fits wide

PROS: Expert value, stable, excellent traction, roomy toe box, secure lacing system

CONS: Heavy, stiff, requires longer break-in catamenia, tin can experience large rocks through the sole

Lesser LINE: The Dandy Targhee Three Low WP shoes are a crowd favorite because they're supportive, have great traction, and they're very well-priced for the quality. The Targhees are made of leather, then they'll require a longer break-in time than many of the lightweight shoes on our list. That said, the cloth holds up well for multiple years of hiking, which makes them a good value. One of our favorite features is the elastic band that connects the laces to the heel loving cup. This feature helps provide a secure, locked-in feeling and makes it easier to dial in the fit. Because they're on the bulkier side, the Targhees are best suited to day hikers and weekend warriors looking for something long lasting at a reasonable price.

Merrell MQM Flex 2 GORE-TEX Low

LIGHTWEIGHT, YET PROTECTIVE SHOES FOR DAY HIKING

MSRP: $140

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): 1 lb. 4.v oz.

Likewise Available IN: Non-waterproof

SIZING: Truthful to size

PROS: Lightweight, affordable, cushy soles, roomy toe box

CONS: Traction isn't as solid as others, tread tin habiliment downwards faster than some, less supportive than some

Lesser LINE: The Merrell MQM Flex 2 GORE-TEX Low combines some of the protective qualities of boots with the condolement and depression weight of trail running shoes. They take a slim heel and midfoot that opens upward to a wide toe box for a secure, yet unrestricted fit that allows your toes to move naturally. And though the outsoles on the Flex aren't equally gluey as some other shoes, they're plenty sufficient for hikes on relatively tame trails. The cushy soles also provide plenty of comfort for long days with a pack on, so the MQM Flex work well for backpacking trips on easy terrain.

Salomon OUTline Low GTX

VERSATILE SHOES THAT TRANSITION WELL FROM TOWN TO TRAIL

MSRP: $130

MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): 1 lb. v.four oz.

Likewise AVAILABLE IN: Non-waterproof

SIZING: True to size; fits narrow, all-time for low-volume feet

PROS: Out-of-the-box comfort, secure fit, lightweight, breathable

CONS: Narrow/depression book fit isn't for everyone, less supportive than other shoes

Lesser LINE: The condolement, low weight, and coincidental expect of the Salomon OUTline Low GTX make them a versatile choice for day hikes, travel, and commuting around town. That said, they're not as supportive every bit another hiking shoes on our list, so they're not as platonic for backpacking. The OUTlines are built on a running last, and the waterproof upper is made with a highly breathable membrane. This makes them particularly nice for warmer climates since they won't feel as stuffy as some of the more traditional waterproof hiking shoes on our list. Overall, we think the OUTlines are a expert selection for those wanting a shoe that'south slap-up for travel and tin can handle a little crossover into hiking as well.

The distinctive Trail Claw on the bottom of Altra's Lone Peak 5s provides excellent traction

The distinctive Trail Hook on the bottom of Altra's Lone Elevation provides splendid traction

Honorable Mentions

The following shoes didn't make our final list, but they're very popular and they've still got a lot of good things going for them. You never know, 1 of these shoes might exist your perfect fit:

  • Merrell Siren Border 3 WP Low - lightweight and affordable hiking shoes that are a slap-up choice for lightweight backpackers and hikers on a upkeep

  • Ahnu Montara Three eVent Low - durable shoes that are lighter than many other with this level of support, a skillful fit for broad feet

  • Vasque Breeze LT Low GTX - lightweight and breathable, just durable enough to cover big miles

  • La Sportiva TX4 - approach shoes for hikes with a lot of boulder scrambling

  • Arc'terx Aerios FL Depression GTX - high-quality shoes that transition well from town to trail

The Keen Targhee III Low WP shoes have great traction and feel stable over shifting rock

Disquisitional Footwear Considerations

BOOTS VS. SHOES VS. TRAIL RUNNERS - Hiking footwear is a really personal pick, and people often have differing opinions on what type of shoe works all-time for hiking. Hither's an article that will help you lot determine which way will work best for you.

SIZING - Anxiety can cracking during long days on the trail, then it's skillful to purchase hiking footwear at least a half size larger than your normal shoes. A expert way to test sizing on your shoes is to loosen all the laces, situate your foot so that your toes touch the front of the toe box, and and so make sure you tin put your index finger between your heel and the back of the shoe. This will ensure that your toes don't slide frontwards and hit the toe box on downhill sections of trail. Y'all should consider which socks you lot'll be wearing and if you'll exist adding aftermarket insoles when choosing a size. It'due south much better for footwear to be a petty big than too pocket-sized.

Checking the fit on the Merrell Moab 2 WP Low

Break-in Flow - You're going to take thousands of steps on any backpacking or hiking trip, so you need to know that your footwear volition fit comfortably and won't cause blisters. We recommend ownership your footwear at least a few weeks before any long hiking trips and spending equally much time in them as you lot can. This will let your new shoes to soften up, and you tin brand sure they work well for your feet. If you discover any issues, information technology'southward much easier to address them earlier you head into the backcountry.

TRACTION - Traction is ane of the nigh important aspects of backpacking and hiking footwear. Your shoes will accept you over narrow and rocky ridgelines, through slippery h2o crossings, and across loose scree fields. Knowing that your footwear will keep y'all from slipping is crucial, especially over washed out or exposed sections of trail. We heavily factored quality traction into all of our footwear recommendations.

Comparing tread patterns on the Arc'teryx Aerios FL Low GTX, North Face Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Low, La Sportiva TX4 Approach Shoes, and Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry

MANAGING Moisture & BLISTERS - If you're on an extended trip in wet atmospheric condition or yous find yourself caught in a downpour during a twenty-four hour period hike, your feet will likely get wet no matter what type of footwear y'all're wearing. Wet anxiety can lead to hot spots and blisters, merely this tin exist prevented if y'all have a healthy foot care routine. Whether you hike in waterproof shoes or non-waterproof trail runners, be certain to check out our post on How to Preclude and Treat Blisters for more than info on wet and blister management.

The Salomon XA Pro 3D V8 have a good balance of weight and support

WATERPROOFING TREATMENTS - Waterproof footwear is ideal for soggy day hikes, just it'due south important to remember that "waterproof" doesn't hateful that water can never get in. Water always finds a manner in during a prolonged downpour, and light rain can drip down your legs and into your shoes. Even the highest quality shoes will develop small holes that allow moisture to pitter-patter in over time. Waterproof treatments are not permanent, yous'll eventually demand to reapply a treatment to keep your shoes sealed.

The Merrell Moab 2 WP Low have a roomy toe box, and they come in wide sizes if you need a little extra wiggle room

The Merrell Moab ii WP Depression have a roomy toe box, and they come in wide sizes if you need a piddling extra wiggle room

SOCKS - We've found that wearing quality socks makes a big difference in how long we tin go on our feet happy and in adept shape on trail. Hiking socks should be comfy, durable, and fabricated with materials that wick moisture away from your skin. Cheque out our All-time Hiking Socks listing to see our top picks.

INSOLES - Aftermarket insoles can help alleviate a variety of shoe discomforts on the trail. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or you lot simply need more than cushioning and support in an otherwise rigid shoe, swapping insoles may exist your solution. Insoles can too assist take up a fiddling extra infinite in footwear for a customized fit if you're between sizes.

We love using Superfeet Insoles when we need to add a little more support to our hiking shoes

We love using Superfeet Insoles when we need to add together a footling more support to our hiking shoes

A PREVIOUS VERSION OF THE MEN'S AND WOMEN'S Saucony Peregrines ON THE EVEREST 3 PASSES LOOP IN NEPAL

A PREVIOUS VERSION OF THE MEN'S AND WOMEN'Southward Saucony Peregrines ON THE EVEREST three PASSES LOOP IN NEPAL

Why Trust U.s.?

We fully empathize how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that'south one of the chief reasons nosotros congenital CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously. Here are some of the reasons you can trust the states:

  • Our choices are completely independent and based on personal experience.

  • We've logged over ten,000 trail miles and test outdoor gear for a living.

  • We own and field test every production we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.

  • We travel to manufacture merchandise shows to acquire well-nigh upcoming product innovations.

  • We constantly update our guides when new products launch.

  • Nosotros treat our recommendations as if they were for our family and friends.

  • We're lifelong learners and nosotros're always open to constructive criticism. If you lot think we've missed a production or got something wrong, we'd honey to hear your feedback.

We own and use all of the hiking shoes we recommend

We own and employ all of the hiking shoes we recommend

More Information

Nosotros hope this guide helps you detect the perfect gear for your needs. If y'all have more questions or a suggestion, we'd love to hear from y'all! Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on our latest posts and then visit our Facebook folio and Instagram to bring together the community conversation.

If you found this guide helpful, please give it a share on social media! Also, be sure to cheque out our CleverHiker Gear Guide to see all of our top gear picks.

Thanks for reading and happy trails!

About the Author - Casey

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