The 7 Best Hiking Shoes for Women

Our Picks of Women's Hiking Shoes

Best Overall Women's Hiking Shoe

La Sportiva Spire GTX - Women's

Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5)	1.66 lbs (size EU 39.5)
Upper	Abrasion-resistant mesh
Lining	Gore-Tex Surround
Midsole	EVA
Outsole	Vibram XS Trek

The La Sportiva Spire GTX, built with the agility of a trail runner and the stability of a hiking boot, is an unstoppable trail shoe ready for the burliest missions. The fit is comfortable right out of the box, though it may run a little big and favor those with a high arch. The abrasion-resistant mesh upper combined with the compression-molded midsole offers excellent support while remaining flexible. Our lead tester, Trish Matheny notes, “I felt supported from day hikes to extended trips into the backcountry with the added weight of a pack.” The Vibram XS Trek outsole and Stability Control System built into this design are ready to tackle any type of terrain without sacrificing ground feel underfoot or responsiveness on the steeps. This shoe features one of the highest flood levels, measuring 3.75 inches above the ankle, and a waterproof membrane that remains breathable without allowing water to penetrate the shoe. Whether crossing creeks during high runoff or moving through melting, slushy snow, this shoe is up for the challenge.

For some who are seeking simple day hikes on well-maintained trails, this shoe may be overbuilt with too many additional features. “The outsole is rugged and the toe cap is burly enough for more technical terrain,” says one tester. The waterproof membrane may also be too hot for those who plan to hike at lower elevations during the heat of summer. And finally, though we love Sportiva's nod towards sustainability by including 100% recycled polyester laces, they may require adjustment or replacement depending on your foot shape and how much off-trail travel you get up to. While the Spire is one of the most expensive designs that we tested, we believe it's worth every penny and will last for many hiking seasons to come. If this shoe is a bit out of your budget, the Merrell Moab 3 stands out for its price-to-performance ratio.

Read more: La Sportiva Spire GTX review

Best Bang for the Buck

Merrell Moab 3 - Women's

Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5)	1.70 lbs
Upper	Pigskin leather, mesh
Lining	Recycled mesh
Midsole	Air cushion
Outsole	Vibram TC5

The Merrell Moab 3 is a constant and reliable hiking shoe for those seeking performance at a reasonable price. The mesh and leather combination upper are comfortable out of the box, though we found that it took a few miles on the trail before hitting the sweet spot. The shoe is true to size and available for those seeking both regular and wide fits. The Super Rebound Compound midsole offers a ton of support, especially for those with high arches. Merrell also upgraded the outsole to a Vibram TC5 rubber that performed much better than its predecessors, thanks to a multi-directional lug pattern. Though this is not a waterproof shoe, we found it to be perfect for hot desert trails or low-elevation hikes when precipitation isn't in the forecast, as the lack of a waterproof liner helped increase the breathability and overall comfort of the shoe. Our testing team reports, “These are the shoes I turn to when headed out on a desert hike. I appreciate how my feet are able to breathe in the hot weather.”

For those of you looking for lightweight performance, this shoe is not the best choice, as it weighs in with some of the heavier hiking shoes that we tested for this review at 1.70 pounds (size 8.5). We attribute this additional weight to the beefy Vibram outsole that effectively protects every stride from debris along the trail, in addition to the excessive padding that surrounds the ankle collar. While we didn't experience any durability failures during our testing period, we can't help but question the mesh upper that could easily snag on technical terrain. The lacing attachments are also constructed from mesh and webbing, which doesn't inspire much confidence in their longevity. Weight and durability usually don't go hand in hand, but The North Face VECTIV seems to tackle both reasonably well. Overall, the Moab remains a consistent top performer, especially for those seeking a more affordable option for day hikes and backcountry overnights, and everything in between.

Read more: Merrell Moab 3 review

Best Hiking Shoe Below $100

Columbia Crestwood - Women's

Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5)	1.50 lbs
Upper	Leather, mesh, and webbing
Lining	Omni-Tech
Midsole	Techlite
Outsole	Omni-Grip

The Columbia Crestwood is a lightweight and nimble hiking shoe that features a suede leather and mesh combination upper, which allows for out-of-the-box comfort and a flexible sneaker-like feel underfoot. The shoe runs true to size and is available for those with narrow and wide foot shapes. The design supplies just enough padding surrounding the ankle and the bellow tongue without adding a ton of bulk and weight below your feet. The Omni-grip rubber outsole performed well on most terrain types, though one tester notes, “I found it to offer the most security on slippery boulders and polished rocks along the trail.”

While this is not a waterproof design, we believe you can work that to your favor by selecting this shoe for its breathability rather than waterproof protection. The enhanced breathability is perfect for those day hikes in the desert or at low elevations during the hottest months of the year. While we didn't experience any issues regarding durability during our testing period, we can't imagine these shoes will last as long as their leather counterparts, especially with the flexible mesh upper and mesh lacing attachments. Overall, our testers were impressed with the performance of this shoe, which is available for a price that doesn't break the bank. If you have the funds to invest in a burlier pair of shoes, the La Sportiva Spire GTX is one of our all-time favorites.

Read more: Columbia Crestwood review

Best for Versatile Performance

Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex - Women's

Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5)	1.54 lbs
Upper	Matryx: Kevlar and technical yarn
Lining	Textile
Midsole	EnergyCell
Outsole	Contagrip rubber

The new and improved Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex features excellent traction, a relatively lightweight design, and impressive midfoot stability. With a sleek, modern appearance and a snug, protective fit paired with a surprisingly solid base, it proves particularly well suited to technical backcountry terrain and mountaintop scrambles. Our lead tester, Trish, reports, “I appreciate how capable these shoes are for tricky terrain.” The welded, synthetic upper does a great job of locking the forefoot and heel securely into place for stability from the bottom up. Meanwhile, the rubber Contagrip sole features a chevron lug pattern to enhance traction while navigating loose scree or slippery rocks, and the Gore-Tex liners deliver watertight confidence during inclement weather. While the X Ultra 5's toe box is also notably roomier than in previous iterations, the Salomon fit typically favors those with narrow feet and higher arches.

When it comes to agility and responsiveness on technical terrain, the X Ultra 5 makes a fantastic shoe, even if it isn't our go-to for multi-day expeditions while carrying a heavy pack. Perhaps our biggest complaint about this shoe is the Quicklace system — it's designed for convenience but ultimately prevents a customized fit and requires adjustments due to loosening on the trail. And while former iterations of this design weren't our first choice for off-trail travel, the X Ultra 5 features a double overlay in the lacing system and the forefoot, which further increased the durability of the synthetic textile upper, making it better able to endure impact from sharp rocks, talus, and scree. Still, these are an all-around, hard-charging option available at a reasonable price. If you are happier in wider shoes, the Alra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof is worth your consideration.

Read more: Salomon X Ultra 5 Gore-Tex review

Most Comfortable

Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX - Women's

Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5)	1.52 lbs (size 8)
Upper	Nubuck leather, recycled mesh
Lining	GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable membranes
Midsole	EVA (30% sugarcane)
Outsole	Vibram Megagrip rubber

The Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX is a lightweight and uniquely engineered hiking shoe that prioritizes all-day comfort through a thickly-cushioned sole that helps to propel you forward with every step on the trail. The recycled mesh upper also contributes to overall comfort by releasing moisture that's built up during those hard-earned trail miles, as well as protecting the feet during stream crossings with exceptional Gore-Tex Invisible Fit technology. The Vibram Megagrip outsole performed well, whether our team was navigating the steeps or cautiously hiking on slippery boulders found on popular trail systems. One of our testers reports, “I love how cushioned these shoes are. They have the typical Hoka cushioned approach but are more than capable of tackling the outdoors.”

Though these shoes are designed with neutral stability in mind, we found that adding an aftermarket insole enhanced arch support for those who need or prefer it. We would also like to recommend engaging the extra runner's loop eyelet near the ankle, which will help to lock your heel into place, especially on steep and demanding trails. The sole of the Anacapa is comprised of a lightweight, soft rubber and a high-performing Vibram Megagrip rubber. Unfortunately, we noted that the softer rubber can be impacted when navigating scree fields and burlier terrain. Still, these hiking shoes impressed our testing team thanks to their standout comfort, breathable waterproof capabilities, and solid traction whether you're headed out for a multi-day backpacking trip or a short weekend stroll. If you can sacrifice a bit of comfort for streamlined weight and better durability, the The North Face VECTIV Fastpack is built for speed.

Read more: Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX review

Best For Day Hikes

On Cloudrock Low Waterproof - Women's

Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5)	1.54 lbs
Upper	Recylced polyester, TPU
Lining	DWR
Midsole	Plush Helion
Outsole	Missiongrip rubber

The On Cloudrock Low Waterproof is our favorite hiking shoe for day hikes in all terrain types. This thick midsole provides all-day comfort and a “cloud-like” feel underfoot. The design also includes one of the thickest insoles that we've tested, which also contributes to the overall comfort, but may not be quite enough support for those with high arches. After testing these shoes on one of the most slippery and popular trails that we could find, our team confirmed the extra grippy outsole performance of the Missiongrip rubber, “the Cloudrock outsole performs better than some of my approach shoes,” says one tester who was referring to her shoes that are specifically designed to provide extra grip on polished rock. The double overlay of material on top of the upper helps increase the longevity of the design, while the toe cap prevents any pain after accidentally kicking a rock or stump along the trail.

While our testers love the waterproof performance of the Cloudrock, we couldn't help but notice some hot spots on our forefoot and heel after hiking during the middle of the day in the heat of summer. Even with a lighter color on the upper, the sun still managed to heat up the inside of the shoe, which caused some discomfort midday. We also don't love the thicker laces on the shoe as the thick lace puts more tension on the tiny webbing attachments that hold the lace in position, and this could break the webbing that attaches the laces to the shoe. The thicker laces also prevented some of our testers with more narrow feet from being able to easily cinch the laces down enough to create a tight fit for steep descents. “I noticed this shoe is heavier and more expensive than other models in the review,” says one tester who noted the attention to detail regarding comfort, support, and durability also increase the weight and cost of the design.

Best For Wide Feet

Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof - Women's

Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5)	1.46 lbs
Upper	Recycled polyester mesh
Lining	Waterproof bootie construction
Midsole	Altra EGO foam
Outsole	MaxTrac

The new and improved Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof features an updated waterproof bootie construction along with an even grippier MaxTrac outsole for better performance on most terrain types. The new no-sew recycled polyester mesh upper appears thicker and more durable than previous iterations, including a more user-friendly lacing system that's also built to last. Our lead tester has a narrow foot with high arches and mentions, “I found these shoes to be comfortable right out of the box,” allowing plenty of room in the toebox and midfoot without needing to size up from her usual street shoe size. This spacious toebox sets this design apart from other models in the review and is the shoe we would recommend for those with wide feet. The redesigned Altra EGO midsole foam reduces the weight of the design while maintaining connection with the ground underfoot. The waterproof bootie lasted through most of the soggy and inclement conditions found along the Eastern Sierra trails as the snow melted in the spring. If you like the idea of a modern lightweight shoe that's versatile enough for a trail run or a day hike, other options like the The North Face VECTIV Fastpack may be worth your attention.

Perhaps the biggest caveat to the Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof is the adjustment to the zero-drop heel, which can take up to two weeks, depending on your body and the amount of miles you put in. Altra uniquely designs this 0mm drop to place your foot in its natural position to encourage a better range of motion over a solid foundation. Our lead tester has been wearing various iterations of Altra's for years, so she doesn't need to adjust. However, she does remember some sore calves while breaking in her first pair. The new design is more stable than the last, featuring an a no-sew overlay and redesigned overlay cage for better trail protection, yet still this shoe will not provide the same protection as a traditional hiking shoe. After hiking for far too many miles in these shoes with an oversized and heavy pack, we highly recommend these shoes for day hikes due to their neutral support and cushioning. If you would like a shoe that has more structure within a waterproof design, check out the La Sportiva Spire GTX that's perfect for extended trips into the backcountry. And if you're on a budget, check out the Columbia Crestwood for another day hiking option.

Read more: Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof review

How We Tested

Before testing begins, we research a wide variety of available options. After scouring the market and vetting many manufacturers and models, we purchased all the shoes in this review at retail price. Our selection includes models that we consider to be the most promising, innovative, intriguing, and of high value. We then test our selected models for months, hiking many miles in each pair, sometimes under heavy packs. We assess their comfort and how suitable each shoe is for different foot shapes, noting adjustment points like laces and tongues. We evaluate arch and lateral structures for support and test traction on a variety of surfaces, from rock slabs and wet logs to sandy trails and mud. We test out their water resistance by submerging them in several inches of water for five minutes, as well as flowing streams. For more on our testing process, see our How We Test article.

Women's hiking shoes were tested across 6 performance metrics:

• Comfort (30% of overall score weighting)

• Support (25% weighting)

• Traction (20% weighting)

• Durability (15% weighting)

• Water Resistance (5% weighting)

• Weight (5% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab

Comfort and support tests are the two most important metrics we investigated, and together, they make up nearly half of the total weighted score. We wore each pair of hikers in various terrains, from soft trails in the forest to scree-covered buttes and scrambles over slippery granite. We assessed support while traveling light and while wearing a heavier pack, checked traction by wearing them back-to-back on dry and technical scrambles, and carefully evaluated all of their positive and negative attributes along the way. Since 2012, we've tested over 50 unique hiking shoes for women, giving us insight to better evaluate the performance of each and every shoe.

Our review team is headed up by a team of strong women with decades of hiking experience. Our lead tester is Trish Matheny, an avid climber, splitboarder, ultra runner, and gear junkie. Pick a day, and Trish is on the move, probably testing gear or working with Search and Rescue in Yosemite, where she clocks countless miles.

She is backed up by Myrha Colt, a long-time adventure travel professional and trail enthusiast whose feet have carried her from the rugged backcountry trails of the US West to dramatic heights and dusty roads in trekking hot spots worldwide.

Contributing to this dynamic team is long-time climber, backpacker, and all-around outdoor gear expert Mary Witlacil. These three backcountry connoisseurs are well-versed in assessing the features that make a great trail shoe while calling out the hiking shoes that may miss the mark. So it is with great enthusiasm that they bring you their final, well-vetted assessments.

Analysis and Test Results

Following our testing period, we scored each pair of hiking shoes on specific criteria so you can find the best shoes for your needs. Read on to learn more about each metric and which shoes rose to the top.

What's the Best Value?

The Columbia Crestwood provides a ton of performance in exchange for a modest price tag. The mesh and leather combination upper offers a flexible, sneaker-like feel directly out of the box while also offering the stability and support you'd expect from a hiking shoe. Though not a waterproof design, our testers appreciated the enhanced breathability that was perfect for hot and dry days on the trail.

The Merrell Moab 3 is another great choice for those seeking value in exchange for their investment. The Moab 3 is also a more breathable, non-waterproof option, yet offers more support for those with high arches, along with a beefy Vibram outsole for more protection on the trail. When you need to move quickly to achieve your objectives, the The North Face VECTIV Fastpack is an excellent, well-priced option that will impress you with its rockered design that optimizes forward motion.

While the Merrell Siren Edge 3 wasn't a top performer (nor is it waterproof), it is one of the least expensive and lightest-weight shoes in our review. It provides reasonable comfort out on the trail with better breathability than hiking shoes that feature a waterproof membrane. The Siren is also available in a waterproof version. The Merrell Moab Speed 2 provided an impressive performance during our spring testing period, thanks to a Vibram outsole and breathable mesh upper, making it a great affordable option for hiking in the desert heat. The Nortiv 8 Lightweight was the most affordable shoe that we've tested so far and proves that you truly get what you pay for. This shoe features a minimalist design that offers limited trail protection and durability.

Comfort

It is difficult to overstate the importance of comfort when considering hiking footwear. Your feet are your foundation on the trail, navigating roots, rocks, and rugged terrain, so it is essential to have cushioned and comfortable shoes, especially with the weight of a pack. Even a short hike can be unpleasant in an uncomfortable shoe, let alone a weeklong thru-hike in remote mountains. It's hard to take in views when all you can think about are hotspots and blisters on your toes.

Our testers discovered a few standout options when evaluating each shoe for comfort — the Anacapa 2 Low GTX, the Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof, the Altra LP Alpine, and the On Cloudrock Low Waterproof. While the Anacapa 2 and the Cloudrock both offer ample and unique cushioning combined with substantial structure and support, our testing team ultimately preferred the thickly-cushioned Anacapa 2 above all. The LP Alpine and LP 9 Waterproof feature distinctive comfort through a spacious toe box and Balanced Cushioning that encourages your body's natural alignment by placing the heel and forefoot at the same height.

One telltale sign of a comfortable shoe is the amount of fatigue and soreness you feel in your feet at the end of the day. Though the La Sportiva Spire GTX is not the most cushioned option, it has a responsive and dynamic midsole and excellent support that performs particularly well on technical, off-trail terrain. While the abrasion-resistant mesh upper could be considered too spacious for some, a set of Superfeet insoles could be a great way to add cushioning and achieve a near-perfect fit.

The Salomon X Ultra 5 also features flexible, soft materials and supportive technical overlays, which combine to make a remarkably agile and comfortable shoe. And finally, we'd be remiss not to mention the VECTIV Fastpack for its moderate cushioning, flexible forefoot, and rockered design that increases comfort without weighing you down on the trail.

Leather shoes can sometimes require a few miles to break in, as the material needs to be worked to conform to your foot. Conversely, shoes made with synthetic materials tend to be more comfortable out of the box, with the laces establishing a more individualized fit. We found a stiffer material, like that of the Adidas Terrex Swift R3 Gore-Tex and Keen Targhee IV Low, will certainly require quite a few hikes to soften up and increase responsiveness. We highly recommend slowly increasing your mileage while breaking in any new shoe rather than heading out for a demanding hike. This will give you time to dial in the lacing and adjustments you'll need to maximize the comfort of the shoe and hopefully prevent any development of blisters or hot spots before committing to a longer hike.

There is great variation across shoe brands when it comes to width, length, and shape. While we evaluate whether each shoe will work best for a narrow or wide foot, keep in mind that some models like the Oboz Sawtooth X Low, Merrell Siren Edge 3, the Merrell Moab 3 WP, the Merrell Moab 3, the Columbia Crestwood, the Nortiv 8 Lightweight, and both Keen Targhee models also come in wide sizes. If you prefer more width in your hiking shoe, these models are worth considering.

Support

When evaluating the overall support of a hiking shoe, we consider the arch support, lateral stability, overall stiffness of the sole, and the effectiveness and adjustability of the lacing system. We examined each feature and evaluated the different shoes side-by-side, noting how they performed relative to one another. It's important to understand that ankle-high hiking shoes simply do not offer the same amount of support as a full boot with an ankle cuff for additional stability. If you prefer more ankle support while exploring uneven terrain or you plan to hike with a heavy pack over long distances, we highly recommend a full hiking boot (often referred to as “mid” height).

The shape of your foot will often determine the amount of arch support you prefer your hiking shoe to have built into its structure. If you have flat feet and put on a shoe with pronounced arch support, it's not going to offer stability or comfort. Conversely, little to no arch support in a shoe can feel brutal to someone with medium to high arches, especially after hiking all day. If you love every other feature of a specific hiking shoe but are after more support for your arches, it is possible to replace the insole of the shoe with an aftermarket insole that better suits the shape of your feet and provides a more customized fit.

Out of all the shoes we tested, the La Sportiva Spire, the Salomon X Ultra 5, and the On Cloudrock offered the most support for moderate to high arches. The proprietary insole in the Cloudrock provides the most support of the bunch, with extra padding and a molded arch that holds its shape well.

Those who prefer more neutral support may want to consider the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low, or the Altra LP Alpine, which have less pronounced arches.

One of the best mixes of support and mild forefoot flexibility we saw was in the La Sportiva Spire GTX. On longer and technical hikes and scrambling for summits (with or without the weight of a backpack), it offered protection underfoot and solid stability with limited motion side-to-side. Or if miles of uphill climbs lie ahead, the Salomon X Ultra 5 impressed us with ample flexibility at the ball of the foot, coupled with ankle and pronation support via overlays on the outside of the upper.

A key feature for ensuring stability is to have your heel secured in place. An extra runner's loop eyelet on shoes like the Oboz Sawtooth X and the Anacapa 2 Low allows for alternative lacing strategies to create a snug fit and minimize heel lift.

It's important to consider that even the slightest amount of movement in the heel over the course of an all-day hike can be a recipe for severe blisters and discomfort, so we highly recommend finding a shoe with the best fit for your feet. We recommend reversing the final lace on shoes like the Merrell Moab 3 and the Columbia Crestwood, which helped to lock the heel into place while also placing less torque on the mesh lacing attachments.

Traction

Traction is a critical consideration for any footwear designed for the trail. Slick feet could land you on your rear end, contribute to twisted ankles, and severely limit the terrain you feel confident exploring. Several things contribute to a shoe's traction, including the stickiness of the rubber as well as the size, shape, direction, and depth of the lug pattern on the outsole. Vibram soles are the gold standard for high-end hiking shoes; they make dozens of different rubber compounds and tread patterns with varying degrees of surface grip.

Notable performers include the La Sportiva Spire GTX, which features a Vibram XS Trek outsole and an Impact Brake System positioned on the heel for additional grip and traction while quickly descending technical terrain. This rubber also performed exceptionally well in cold, wet conditions, where we've seen other softer rubbers lose traction once the temperatures dropped.

We'd also like to give a shout-out to the Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX but with an asterisk. The sole is comprised of two separate rubbers, and in our case, the light purple rubber represented the durable, high-performing Vibram Megagrip rubber, while the lighter soft-sole rubber was very susceptible to durability issues, especially when moving through challenging and rocky terrain.

We primarily evaluated traction on steep and unconsolidated dirt trails littered with decomposing granite, in addition to slippery slabs, roots, wet logs and boulders, mud, loose scree, melting snow, and talus fields. Above-average traction on dirt is usually achieved through a deep lug pattern that can dig into the ground with every step. We found shoes that feature outsoles with “multi-directional” chevron lug patterns that look like zigzags or arrow tips to provide the highest-performing traction. This optimal traction allowed us to tackle the steeps without losing confidence in our footwork. On the Upper Yosemite Falls trail in Yosemite National Park, the Missiongrip rubber outsole on the On Cloudrock design kept our testers upright and in control even on the most polished and slippery steps.

Other notable pairs include the Salomon X Ultra 5, the Altra LP 9 Waterproof and the Altra LP Alpine, which feature a chevron pattern with a very different feel underfoot. Though none of these outsoles are equipped for tons of off-trail terrain, the LP Alpine boasts more flexibility and control thanks to the Duratread rubber and Trailclaw patterning, while the X Ultra 5 offers exceptional grip even on icy terrain without being overly rigid. The LP 9 Waterproof is equipped with a MaxTrac rubbber outsole and a very flexible upper that allows the shoe to provide excellent traction through maximum surface area.

The Omni-Grip rubber outsole on the Columbia Crestwood offers a multi-directional lug pattern along with a flexible, sneaker-like upper that grips the best on slippery rocks and boulders.

When it comes to traction on rock, the greatest impact comes from the stickiness of the rubber rather than the shape of the lugs. Hard and stiff rubber doesn't grip as well as softer and more pliable formulations. The Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof, Altra LP Alpine, and the Salomon X Ultra 5 performed particularly well on rock that lacked texture due to their flexible and grippy outsoles.

Though various types of rubber, these outsoles remained soft, flexible, and sticky, thereby increasing our confidence as we leaped from boulder to boulder and scrambled over polished slabs. Of course, the temperature can affect stickiness, and soft rubber typically does not perform as well in colder conditions. Therefore, in colder conditions, we recommend the Spire GTX, which is outfitted with a Vibram XS Trek outsole, giving high performance while maintaining flexibility on cold, icy, and wet surfaces.

The flexibility of the forefoot will also affect traction. If you can't bend the front of your foot or the sole is too thick to feel the rock, you may have difficulty achieving secure footing. The X Ultra 5 and the Spire GTX both hit that sweet spot between forefoot flexion and stability to prove themselves as great options for navigating technical descents and steep climbs. Conversely, the stiff and bulky design of both Keen Targhee shoes lacked the flexibility required for sure-footing. These nubuck leather designs take quite a while to break in and increase sensitivity, they were also terrifying to walk in once conditions turned wet, especially on slippery slab.

Durability

Hiking shoes are the buffer between you and the rough, rugged, or abrasive terrain you encounter on the trail, so it's no surprise that they may wear out faster than the rest of your hiking gear. A typical shoe with a soft EVA midsole lasts between 300-500 miles, depending on its structure, as well as where you hike, how you walk, and how much weight you carry. If you are a casual hiker, it might take years before your shoes begin to break down. Ambitious hikers, however, may go through one or more pairs per year. Shoes with a polyurethane (PU) midsole are expected to last up to twice the mileage; however, that extra durability can come at the expense of comfort and an extended break-in period. Normal wear and tear on any shoe packs down the midsole and wears down the outsole, so stiffer midsoles (like a dual-density EVA) and dense rubber soles will last longer overall.

While time does not allow us to put 500 miles on every shoe in this review, each pair was still worn extensively on various terrains. We closely inspected them for damage, areas of potential weakness, or premature wear and compression. In an effort to make shoes lighter weight, some midsoles are left almost entirely exposed. Since that material is softer than rubber, it is more prone to snagging on vegetation, tearing, or even pulling away from the upper. If you hike in very brushy terrain, you may see more of this kind of damage than if you are out on desert slabs or well-maintained trail systems.

In addition to the soles, we look closely at the uppers. Leather tends to have the greatest longevity, especially when it is double-stitched. Synthetic materials are lighter and more breathable than leather, but our experience shows that they are more vulnerable to tearing or cracking after encountering debris on the trail. We closely inspect seams, eyelets, toe boxes, and pressure points for any indication of failure, delamination, or wear. The abrasion-resistant mesh of the Spire GTX is supplemented with a polyurethane toe cap and a “heel-surround” for added durability. Some models have welded overlays made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), which adds durability while being lighter than rubber. It protects from abrasion but will not provide as much protection from rocks, roots, or other potential toe-stubbing hazards.

The Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof and Keen Targhee IV Low both impressed our testers thanks to their durable leather uppers and mesh inserts to improve breathability. Double or triple-stitched seams gave no indication of pulling or unraveling throughout our testing period. The main difference between the two Targhee models seems to be in overall durability. Keen is even promoting a “lifetime delamination-free guarantee” that is based on their glue-free, fused construction. These shoes are burly, and the insoles are solid, thereby increasing the life of the footbed. All of these shoes are designed to handle long-distance hikes, and we expect them to offer long-lasting performance. That being said, though leather uppers will offer a better return on your investment in terms of longevity, the design may include additional weight and bulk. Beefy toe caps also create more weight in the shoe but also provide important protection along the trails, especially if you often glance around at the scenery.

Water Resistance

Many hiking shoes are available in both waterproof and non-waterproof versions. The best option for you depends on the climate, terrain, elevation, and the season where you plan to do most of your hiking. Do you live in the desert and avoid hiking in the rain? Are your hikes primarily shorter and closer to home? You may want to pass on the less breathable Gore-Tex membrane and opt for a pair with a mesh lining instead. However, most hiking destinations have unpredictable weather, and an afternoon rainstorm far from the trailhead can make for a soggy, uncomfortable, and even painful hike.

Waterproof membrane technology is always improving, allowing shoes to transfer heat and sweat away from your feet and out of the shoe. Even as the technology becomes more breathable, a membrane will invariably be less breathable than a shoe without this lining. The best mix of breathability and waterproof protection in our current lineup is the Spire GTX, which is designed with a Gore-Tex Surround liner that increases ventilation through the bottom of the shoe with open channels in the sole.

Other breathable waterproof options include the VECTIV Fastpack and the On Cloudrock, whose designs feature performance mesh and waterproof membranes that maximize water resistance without sacrificing overall breathability, thereby making them better options for hikes during the heat of the summer at lower elevations. That being said, these designs simply do not breathe as well as a non-waterproof hiking shoe, and can still run hot during the dog days of summer. The Altra LP 9 Waterproof is another waterproof bootie construction to consider as it performs well in most conditions and offers similar breathability to the designs mentioned above.

If you live in a wet climate or like to plan trips into the mountains, a waterproof shoe is typically a necessity. Most of the models in our current test suite claim such protections, but we also included a few non-waterproof models for comparison. To determine the level of water resistance each offer, we performed various trail tests, including stream crossings and a controlled submersion test (5 minutes submerged in 3 inches of water) with each shoe. We were immediately impressed by the performance of modern waterproof technology, noting that each shoe advertised as waterproof could back up its claim in practice, holding strong against any outside moisture to keep our toes warm and dry.

Other excellent options that offer waterproof performance but lack some breathability include the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX, Keen Targhee IV Low as well as the Oboz Sawtooth X Low. Though the X Ultra 5 offers excellent waterproof protection, we found the design to run hot, causing our feet to sweat and swell in warmer climates. On the flip side, we appreciated this design feature when some of our early hikes required post-holing through knee-deep snow and crossing several cold creeks filled with recent snowmelt.

In comparison, each of our mesh-lined shoes lasted less than 60 seconds in our submersion test, with the Merrell Moab Speed 2, Merrell Siren Edge, Danner Trail 2650, Altra LP Alpine, Columbia Crestwood, Merrell Moab 3, Saucony Excursion TR17 and Nortiv 8 Lightweight immediately soaking through and absorbing a significant amount of water. Among them, the Siren Edge and Saucony Excursion were the fastest to dry by a long shot. So, if waterproofing is not a top priority but breathability is, this could be a great option to regulate sweat and foot temperature while still drying quickly in the event of an unexpected storm. Most of these shoes are also available in a waterproof version if you love the fit but desire more protection from the elements.

Weight

Light hiking gear can often lead to a more enjoyable experience on the trail, and hiking shoe technology has now advanced to the point where hikers are almost as light as trail running shoes without sacrificing protection, stability, or performance. Though less than half a pound separates our testing group's heaviest and lightest pairs, this extra weight can make quite a difference, especially when carrying a heavy pack or increasing overall mileage. It's important to consider that some of the lightest shoes that we tested also delivered the least performance.

Some examples of shoes that offer a lightweight design and limited performance are the Saucony Excursion TR17 and the Merrell Moab Speed 2. While the Excursion TR17 is the lightest and most affordable shoe that we tested, weighing in at only 1.14 pounds for a US women's size 8.5, this shoe supplies the least amount of support and structure. The design is too flexible to provide support in both forward and lateral motion, and the outsole is so soft that you can feel every stump and rock encountered on the trail. In our opinion, shoes like the Excursion TR17 sacrifice a ton of performance in exchange for a lighter weight.

For a little extra weight, we found shoes that combined the agility of a trail runner with the stability of a hiking boot to offer the best performance. For instance, the VECTIV Fastpack only weighed 1.44 pounds (after we sized up 1/2 size to a US Women's size 9) per pair yet offered excellent comfort, support, and waterproof protection.

The On Cloudrock and the Salomon X Ultra 5 both weigh only 1.54 pounds, and though not as durable as their nubuck leather counterparts, they still remain appropriate and responsive for navigating technical terrain.

Moving to the middle of the pack, the La Sportiva Spire GTX weighs in at 1.68 pounds. The synthetic upper remains flexible while also offering high performance in both traction and waterproof protection. The extra weight is worth the trade-off for the additional features and stability that allow this shoe to navigate off-trail while carrying a pack. Our lead tester especially enjoyed the stability of this shoe during her work on Yosemite Search and Rescue. The shoe was light enough to wear on multi-day searches while carrying the weight of a pack and stable enough to support the added weight of a litter when a patient needed a carry out to the nearest trailhead.

The heaviest shoes that we tested were the Keen Targhee IV Low, weighing 2.08 pounds for a US Women's size 8.5. The Oboz Sawtooth X Low Waterproof weighed in at 1.88 pounds and felt equally as heavy as the Keen models.

The Merrell Moab 3 WP and Merrell Moab 3 weighed in around 1.7 and 1.78 pounds, yet the Moab 3 felt lighter underfoot due to its mesh lining and more flexible upper. Though most of these examples are only a few ounces heavier than our lightest contenders, most the designs feature a bulky leather construction with additional volume that makes for a heavier feel on the trails. It is also worth mentioning that in most cases, the added weight for these hiking shoes translates to increased durability and a long-lasting, if heavy, hiking shoe design.

How to Choose Hiking Shoes for Women

Consider Hiking Shoe Styles

Getting the Right Fit

Another important consideration is that active feet will often expand inside the shoe, especially when moving through warmer climates during the heat of summer. Most avid hikers and trail runners will size up their shoe by half size in order to account for this additional swelling, as well as allowing enough room in the toe box for descents. Finding the sweet spot between enough wiggle room in the toes and a sloppy fit can be tricky, just be sure that the shoe fits well enough that your heel doesn't lift and your foot feels support without compression. While we were sure to highlight the best brands for both wide and narrow feet, it is worth mentioning that most brands supply options in both regular and wide fits.

The overall weight of a shoe construction can be an important factor to consider when purchasing your next hiking shoe. Heavyweight designs can often drain the energy from your body, making your feet work harder for every step. While lighter gear promotes energy savings as well as moving faster through mountainous terrain, they also provide less stability, ankle support, and in some cases, less durability. It is important to appropriately match the weight of your hiking shoe with your planned objectives. Planning on carrying a heavy backpack through demanding terrain? A hiking boot may be your best option for the job. You may reach a point where your lightweight trail running shoe isn't supportive enough for the weight of your backpack; however, for most hiking objectives, lighter is better, and your feet will thank you later.

The Importance of Stability

Stability is also a crucial consideration for your next trail shoe, especially since hiking rarely happens on flat terrain free of obstacles. Such stability is a combination of internal arch support and a sole's flexibility and firmness, which comes into play when you are boulder-hopping, scrambling, or hiking over mixed terrain through rugged trail systems. Whenever you can wring out a shoe like a wet towel, that shoe's lateral structure will leave a lot to be desired. However, the more stiffness you add, the less flexibility you'll find in the forefoot, and the shoe can become less suitable for tackling steep inclines. On the flip side, too much flexibility under the balls of your feet means you will absorb more shock from the trail and fatigue your feet more quickly. So, your hiking plans will likely dictate your priorities.

Water Resistant Performance

Water resistance is simply whether or not the shoe is built to protect your feet from various forms of precipitation as well as creek crossings and lingering snowfields. Hiking shoe designs will feature both an inner waterproof membrane (Gore-tex, eVent, etc.) and a chemical treatment that protects the upper. While most brands advertise breathable water-resistant performance, we found that some membranes perform better than others. There is no doubt in our minds that a water resistant design will keep your feet warmer than a breathable mesh or textile, therefore considering the terrain type you plan to hike most frequently will help determine the performance that you will need. Another key consideration of a hiking shoe is the flood level or the measurement at which water can enter the shoe from the ankle. While most shoe designs only vary by half an inch, this can make a big difference when navigating spring run-off or snowfields during the summer months.

Conclusion

Many innovative and exciting technologies are being used to design hiking shoes these days, making them lighter and more responsive without sacrificing support, stability, or waterproof performance. However, it can require many miles to test new features and models with any depth. We hope this review helps you to narrow down your selection so that you find the right hiking shoe for your upcoming adventure, whether exploring local trails or planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Hiking in the great outdoors is a ton of fun, whether you load up on gear or head out with nothing more than some water and a solid pair of shoes. And if you are the kind of hiker who loves to have all the gear, we've probably tested it and have recommendations for you, like women's daypacks and hydration packs.