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10 Best Womens Hiking Boots 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Bungee Cord, 9

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,308
Weight
Waterproofing
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
2499 reviews

Weight
The boots feel incredibly lightweight, almost like wearing nothing at all, making them easy to wear all day without fatigue.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing works well in wet conditions, keeping feet dry while maintaining breathability.
Traction and Outsole
The grip on various surfaces is outstanding, with a sole that provides reliable traction and no slipping.
Fit and Comfort
Generous toe box and wide fit offer plenty of wiggle room, ideal for those who prefer extra space or wear thick socks.
Ankle Support
These boots provide a good balance of support and flexibility, especially appreciated by those needing some 'give' around the ankle.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is a solid choice for women looking for reliable footwear for outdoor adventures. Its waterproof membrane keeps your feet dry while letting moisture escape, which is great for wet or variable conditions. The upper combines durable pigskin leather with mesh for breathability and a bit of flexibility. Comfort-wise, the boot includes a removable insole that supports the arch and cushions the heel, alongside a lightweight EVA midsole that adds stability without feeling heavy.

With a weight of about 1.5 pounds, these boots are relatively light for mid-height hiking boots, helping reduce fatigue on longer walks. The Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole provides good traction on various terrains, which is essential for hiking safely. Ankle support is moderate with a mid-height design that helps protect your ankles without being too restrictive. Additional features like a bellows tongue keep debris out, and the protective toe cap guards against rocks and roots.

These boots offer medium support, so hikers needing extra ankle stability or specialized cushioning might want to consider more technical options. Since the fit may vary depending on foot shape, trying them on is advisable. They are well-suited for casual to moderate hiking, combining comfort, durability, and eco-friendly materials like recycled laces and mesh.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,308
Weight
Waterproofing
Traction and Outsole

Most important from
2499 reviews

Weight
The boots feel incredibly lightweight, almost like wearing nothing at all, making them easy to wear all day without fatigue.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing works well in wet conditions, keeping feet dry while maintaining breathability.
Traction and Outsole
The grip on various surfaces is outstanding, with a sole that provides reliable traction and no slipping.
Fit and Comfort
Generous toe box and wide fit offer plenty of wiggle room, ideal for those who prefer extra space or wear thick socks.
Ankle Support
These boots provide a good balance of support and flexibility, especially appreciated by those needing some 'give' around the ankle.
#2

Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, Granite, 8

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Traction and Outsole
Waterproofing

Most important from
2499 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The boots deliver a perfect fit right out of the box with no break-in period needed, providing comfort even on long hikes.
Traction and Outsole
Exceptional traction from the Vibram soles offers confidence and stability on varied and challenging terrains.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing effectively keeps feet dry during rainy or muddy conditions without sacrificing breathability.
Ankle Support
Ankle support is solid without feeling bulky, improving walking form and overall stability.
Weight
The combination of cushioned insoles and shock-absorbing heel support makes the boots feel lightweight and comfortable all day.
Material
Durability and rugged design ensure the boots hold up well over time, making them a reliable choice for frequent hikers.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed to offer good protection and comfort for hiking enthusiasts. Its waterproof membrane effectively keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape, helping feet stay dry on wet trails. The upper combines pigskin leather and mesh, providing a solid balance of durability and breathability. The boot features a mid-height ankle design, which offers decent ankle support without feeling too bulky. Comfort is enhanced by the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with reinforced heel cushioning, plus the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel absorbs shock and adds stability during long walks.

The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole delivers reliable traction that works well on a variety of surfaces, helping prevent slips. It also has a molded nylon arch shank and lightweight EVA foam midsole that contribute to stability and reduce foot fatigue. Weighing about 1.5 pounds, the boot is lighter and easier to wear for extended hikes. Some users might find the fit a little narrow depending on their foot shape, and while the waterproofing is effective, it may not be ideal for very wet or muddy conditions over long periods. These boots serve as a solid choice for women seeking a comfortable, supportive, and fairly lightweight hiking boot suitable for moderate outdoor conditions.

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Traction and Outsole
Waterproofing

Most important from
2499 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The boots deliver a perfect fit right out of the box with no break-in period needed, providing comfort even on long hikes.
Traction and Outsole
Exceptional traction from the Vibram soles offers confidence and stability on varied and challenging terrains.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing effectively keeps feet dry during rainy or muddy conditions without sacrificing breathability.
Ankle Support
Ankle support is solid without feeling bulky, improving walking form and overall stability.
Weight
The combination of cushioned insoles and shock-absorbing heel support makes the boots feel lightweight and comfortable all day.
Material
Durability and rugged design ensure the boots hold up well over time, making them a reliable choice for frequent hikers.
#3

Columbia Womens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot, Kettle/Berry Patch, 9.5

Rating
9.5
Boot Type
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
344 reviews

Boot Type
These boots blend the lightweight feel of a tennis shoe with the sturdiness of a hiking boot, making them ideal for active, all-day wear.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is reliable and effective, keeping feet dry even in snow and muddy conditions, while mud wipes off effortlessly.
Fit and Comfort
Initial break-in is needed as the top lace and tongue area can cause slight soreness above the ankle, but comfort improves significantly after a few wears.
Ankle Support
The ankle support strikes a good balance, offering stability without bulkiness, suitable for moderate trails and day hikes.

The Columbia Womens Transverse Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed for women seeking durable and reliable footwear for outdoor adventures. It features Columbia's OMNI-TECH waterproof technology that protects feet from rain and snow while allowing breathability, making it suitable for wet conditions. The boot combines a leather and mesh upper with metal hardware, offering a sturdy yet comfortable fit with a cushioned collar that enhances ankle comfort and support. Its TECHLITE midsole provides lightweight cushioning and impact absorption, helping reduce foot fatigue on varied terrains.

The OMNI-GRIP outsole delivers dependable traction on rocks, dirt, and gravel, both wet and dry, thanks to specially designed lugs that improve stability. The boot’s ankle height offers adequate support without feeling bulky, making it well-suited for day hikes or moderate trails. The shaft circumference is relatively narrow (1 inch), which might feel tight for some users around the ankle. While it excels in waterproofing and grip, it is designed primarily for casual to moderately serious hikers who want comfortable, waterproof footwear with good traction and ankle support for wet or mixed terrains.

Rating
9.5
Boot Type
Waterproofing
Fit and Comfort

Most important from
344 reviews

Boot Type
These boots blend the lightweight feel of a tennis shoe with the sturdiness of a hiking boot, making them ideal for active, all-day wear.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is reliable and effective, keeping feet dry even in snow and muddy conditions, while mud wipes off effortlessly.
Fit and Comfort
Initial break-in is needed as the top lace and tongue area can cause slight soreness above the ankle, but comfort improves significantly after a few wears.
Ankle Support
The ankle support strikes a good balance, offering stability without bulkiness, suitable for moderate trails and day hikes.

Buying Guide for the Best Womens Hiking Boots

Choosing the right women's hiking boots is crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience. The right pair of boots can make a significant difference in your performance and enjoyment on the trail. When selecting hiking boots, consider the type of hiking you plan to do, the terrain you'll be covering, and your personal comfort preferences. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing women's hiking boots.
Boot TypeBoot type refers to the design and intended use of the hiking boots. There are three main types: lightweight hiking shoes, midweight hiking boots, and heavyweight hiking boots. Lightweight hiking shoes are ideal for day hikes on well-maintained trails. Midweight hiking boots offer more support and are suitable for longer hikes and rougher terrain. Heavyweight hiking boots provide maximum support and durability for multi-day backpacking trips and challenging terrains. Choose the boot type based on the length and difficulty of your hikes.
MaterialThe material of the hiking boots affects their durability, weight, and breathability. Common materials include leather, synthetic, and a combination of both. Leather boots are durable and offer excellent support but can be heavier and less breathable. Synthetic boots are lighter and more breathable but may not be as durable. Combination boots offer a balance of durability, weight, and breathability. Consider the climate and terrain of your hikes when choosing the material.
WaterproofingWaterproofing is important for keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. Waterproof hiking boots are made with materials and treatments that prevent water from entering the boot. This feature is essential for hiking in rainy weather, crossing streams, or walking through wet grass. However, waterproof boots can be less breathable, so if you hike in dry, hot conditions, you might prefer non-waterproof boots for better ventilation.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for preventing blisters and ensuring a pleasant hiking experience. Hiking boots should fit snugly but not too tight, with enough room to wiggle your toes. Consider trying on boots with the socks you plan to wear while hiking. Pay attention to the arch support, cushioning, and overall feel of the boots. It's also a good idea to break in your boots before embarking on a long hike to ensure they are comfortable.
Traction and OutsoleTraction and outsole refer to the grip and durability of the boot's sole. The outsole should provide good traction to prevent slipping on various terrains, such as mud, rocks, and loose gravel. Look for boots with deep lugs and a sturdy rubber sole for better grip. The type of terrain you hike on will influence the level of traction you need. For example, rugged trails require more aggressive outsoles, while well-maintained paths may need less.
Ankle SupportAnkle support is important for preventing injuries, especially on uneven terrain. Hiking boots with higher cuffs provide better ankle support and stability, which is beneficial for carrying heavy loads or hiking on rocky trails. Lower-cut boots offer more flexibility and are suitable for less challenging hikes. Consider the level of ankle support you need based on the terrain and the weight of your backpack.
WeightThe weight of the hiking boots can affect your energy levels and overall comfort. Lighter boots are easier to walk in and can reduce fatigue on long hikes. However, they may offer less support and durability. Heavier boots provide more support and protection but can be more tiring to wear over long distances. Choose the weight of the boots based on the length and difficulty of your hikes, as well as your personal preference for support versus lightness.

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