11 Best (and Comfortable) Hiking Boots for Women
As we inch closer to spring, you might find yourself planning for a hiking trip that’ll have you immersed in the great outdoors. But as breathtaking and enjoyable as hiking can be, there’s a chance it can turn not-so-fun if your feet start aching before you’re halfway through the route —especially on complicated tourist routes such as Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites.
And that’s why it’s so important to bring a solid pair of hiking boots along for the ride! The following are the best hiking boots for women, based on a number of different qualifiers that’ll help you figure out which ones are right for you.
We’re reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). These are products we’ve heavily researched and stand behind. You can read through our full affiliate disclosure here.
11 best hiking boots for women in 2024
1. Best affordable hiking boot: HI-TEC
Quality hiking boots don't have to come with a high price tag; in fact, this pair from HI-TEC starts as low as $25. These waterproof boots feature a removable molded insole, a cushioned EVA midsole, and a steel shank for extra stability and support. In simpler terms, these boots are designed for high performance and will keep your feet dry if/when you encounter inclement conditions. Plus, their impressive traction means you can tackle even the most technical trails.
Price range: starting at $25
2. Best all-terrain hiking boot: Timberland
If you need a boot that’s prepped for all different kinds of terrain, the Norwood design from Timberland is ready to take you anywhere you want to go. Among the many highlights of this boot are a premium waterproof leather upper, a fully gusseted tongue to keep out debris, and a recycled rubber outsole with first-rate traction. All in all, these sleek boots would make a great choice whether you’re hiking through rain, snow, or a mostly rocky landscape.
Price range: starting at $79
3. Best travel-friendly hiking boot: Danner
Danner’s Adrika Hikers are perfect for any occasion while you’re traveling — from running A.M. errands to taking a sunset hike, these boots can do it all. This style comes with a waterproof suede upper, a rubberized EVA midsole, and an outsole featuring multi-direction lugs. These lugs, as we discovered, mean the studs point in different directions to stop your feet from sliding sideways or backwards as you’re hiking. Seems like a smart design element to us!
Price range: starting at $169
4. Best lightweight hiking boot: Columbia
These Newton Ridge boots from Columbia are inspired by a classic mountaineering style, but are much more lightweight than those traditional designs. Some of the most notable features of these boots are the waterproof waxed canvas, suede upper construction, and TECHLITE lightweight midsole for long-lasting comfort. What’s more, the non-marking rubber outsole provides a great grip across a wide variety of terrain and seasonal conditions.
Price range: starting at $89
5. Best ankle support hiking boot: XPETI
Few things can ruin a hike like a rolled ankle — but luckily, XPETI’s hiking boots can protect you from this type of casualty. Not only do these boots have molded ankle support, but they come with a waterproof mesh upper, a moisture-wicking mesh lining, and an integrated EVA midsole that’s sturdy enough for any adventure. As a matter of fact, these boots are designed for hiking, camping, climbing, cycling, and just about any other outdoor activity you can think of.
Price range: starting at $65
6. Best zero break-in hiking boot: KEEN
When you’re in a time crunch and can’t break-in your boots before a big trip, this style from KEEN could certainly come in handy. These boots have a waterproof, breathable membrane that’ll keep your feet dry and comfortable in wet terrain — plus, there’s even a mud shield for improved durability in the toughest conditions. But the best part is, these boots are super comfortable from the start, with zero break-in period required. Pretty convenient, huh?
Price range: starting at $120
7. Best roomy hiking boot: Foxelli
While some hiking boots can be a little tight in the toe box, that’s not the case with this pair from Foxelli. These roomy boots make a *great fit* for shoppers with wider feet, and are sure to keep you comfortable for hours and miles on end. On top of that, this design has: superior cushioning around the ankle area, shock absorbent midsoles to minimize the impact on your joints, and removable foam insoles that offer quality relief and protection for your feet at all times.
Price range: starting at $89
8. Best backpacking hiking boot: Lowa
Lowa’s Renegade hiking boots are about as supportive and durable as they come. In addition to their excellent traction (which will keep you stable on loose terrain), these boots also have a climate-control footbed that wicks moisture and provides exceptional comfort. And because the Renegade has such a secure structure at the ankle, you can trust them to support you while carrying extra weight — like when you’re hauling a backpack for a weekend camping trip.
Price range: starting at $232
9. Best running hiking boot: ALTRA
For anyone who’s into trail running or is planning on covering long distances, ALTRA’s Lone Peak shoes are an amazing option. While these boots are rugged enough to take on a trail, they're also lightweight enough to really pick up the pace. ALTRA’s signature Balanced Cushioning™ platform positions your heel and forefoot at an equal distance from the ground, meaning you can take advantage of better alignment, improved form, and a low impact landing.
Price range: starting at $149
10. Best stylish hiking boot: Merrell
This Ontario boot from Merrell is all kinds of cute — we’re allowed to call hiking boots cute, right? Well, it definitely has a stylish shape and appearance, but it’s also totally functional and hiking-approved. These boots come equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole and a removable contoured footbed for flexible support and ease of wear. But we also think you’ll love the clean and nostalgic look of the full-grain leather that makes these boots an instant classic.
Price range: starting at $89
11. Best year-round hiking boot: Forsake
The Forsake Patch boot is basically a sneaker-soled hiking boot you can wear any time of the year. That’s because this design is not only waterproof, but it has taped seams and a gusseted tongue, as well. What this means for you, is that these boots will hold up in both summer showers *and* winter storms. The brand also made sure these boots were breathable and sweat-wicking, so you can wear them in the tropics just as easily as on snow-covered trails.
Price range: starting at $99
Common FAQs about hiking boots
What is the best brand for women’s hiking boots?
There are a ton of brands out there making high quality, high performance hiking boots, yet there are a few companies who have managed to outshine the others. The best brands for women’s hiking boots include KEEN, Merrell, Lowa, Sorel, and Danner.
What are the most comfortable hiking boots?
No matter if you’re hiking one mile or one hundred, comfort is the key to enjoying your hike and making sure your feet remain in good shape. Some of the most comfortable hiking boots available include Sorel’s Kinetic Caribou and KEEN’s Targhee 3 design.
Which hiking boots have the best arch support?
If you need a hiking boot that can accommodate a high arch, Merrell can definitely help you out. Their Moab 2 Mid GTX has a supportive, air cushion heel that absorbs shock and offers serious stability. Additionally, these boots have a molded nylon arch shank that’ll guarantee your feet are feeling good no matter how many miles you put in on the trails.