April 18, 2023

hiking boots for women

I researched various sources, including Reddit discussions, online articles from Forbes, Outdoor Life, GearJunkie, and OutdoorGearLab, to find recommendations for women's hiking boots. There was a general consensus on the importance of fit and comfort in choosing the right hiking boots, but specific brand recommendations varied. The most common brands mentioned across sources were Salomon, Altra, Merrell, and Keen. My research provided a comprehensive understanding of various hiking boots options for women, but personal preferences and individual fit may still influence the final choice.

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Fit and Comfort

According to a reddit discussion, finding the right hiking boot depends on one's foot and hiking style, and it is important to try on as many pairs as possible. Most websites I visited agree that the single most significant factor to consider is fit. The toe box should have enough space for about a finger's width of space between the end of the toes and the tip of the boot.
Salomon
Altra

Altra

Altra Lone Peak was another common recommendation across sources. The Altra Lone Peak All-Weather Mid was praised for its wide toe box, lightweight design, padded ankle support, and excellent traction. Some users mentioned that while Altra Lone Peaks were very comfortable, they might not be as durable as other options, needing to be replaced every season.
Merrell

Merrell

Merrell hiking boots, specifically the Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP, received high marks for their simple, supportive, and comfortable design at an affordable price. However, they may lack ankle support for extended backpacking trips and have been noted to have a less durable lacing system.

Keen

Keen hiking boots were recommended for people with wide feet, offering an ample toe box and a classic look at an affordable price. The KEEN Tempo Flex was a runner-up best hiking boot for women in one source, praised for its Bellows Flex technology and durability.

Other Brands

Other recommended brands included Oboz, La Sportiva, Vasque, and Lowa Renegade. Oboz Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof boots were mentioned for their sustainable construction and waterproof features. La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX hiking boots were praised for their comfort, lightweight design, and impressive waterproof capabilities. Vasque Talus XT GTX and Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots were noted for their protection and durability but were on the heavier side compared to other options.

Trail Runners vs Hiking Boots

Some sources suggested considering trail runners as a lighter and more comfortable alternative to traditional hiking boots. Brands like Altra, Saucony, Brooks, and Salomon offer popular trail runner options. The choice between hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail runners ultimately comes down to personal preference and factors like pack weight, route technicality, and terrain. In conclusion, Salomon, Altra, Merrell, and Keen are among the top recommended brands for women's hiking boots. However, it is essential to try different options to find the best fit and consider personal preferences when choosing between hiking boots and trail runners.

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Research

Source: "Best Hiking Boots with Wide Toe Box?" (from reddit, r/CampingGear)

  • Query: hiking boots for women
    • Reddit post from r/CampingGear with title “Best Hiking Boots with Wide Toe Box?”
      • User is looking to buy their first pair of hiking boots
      • Wants hiking boots with a wide toe box
      • Interested in minimalist/barefoot shoes, but hasn’t found any with decent tread and quality for anything besides city walking
      • Not interested in snow
      • Wants one pair of boots for both winter and summer
      • Comments mention several brand recommendations:
        • Topo trailventure
        • Altra lone peak trail runners (not boots)
        • Lowa Renegades
        • Keen
        • Oboz
        • Salomon (mixed reviews on toe box width)
        • Merrell
      • Topo trailventure comments:
        • Built like running shoes, to be replaced every ~300 miles
        • Very comfortable and well-made, with stiffer sole than expected
        • Several users recommend for wide toe box
      • Altra lone peak trail runners comments:
        • Not boots, but with most ample toe box ever had
      • Lowa Renegades comments:
        • Only boot you’ll need year round
        • Far from lightweight
      • Keen comments:
        • Often have ample toe box
      • Oboz comments:
        • Often have ample toe box
      • Salomon comments:
        • Mixed reviews on toe box width
        • Often have narrow toe box
      • Merrell comments:
        • No specific information given
      • User comment with sizing info and boot recommendations:
        • Recommends Topo trailventure WP boot as most wide
        • Recommends Salomon XA 3D WP as next most wide, but personally experienced some fit issues
        • Lowa in size 10D is most narrow, but also very different boot
        • Topos have tread that feels “high” or something, making for a different fit and lacing system

Source: "What are the best (good support, lasting qualit..." (from reddit, r/RedditForGrownups)

  • According to a Reddit user who worked in an outdoor shop, there’s no such thing as the best shoe, and the fit depends on the type of foot.
    • Neutral in width feet are perfect for Scarpa.
    • Keen or Meindl shoes are the better option for wide feet.
    • Salomon shoes would be the best for narrow feet.
    • Meindl makes the best insoles, with Scarpa following closely
  • It’s best to go to one of the specialist outdoor shops close to you and try the shoes there.
  • It’s recommended to choose slightly larger size than what you’d wear normally if you plan on walking for a long periods of time, over uneven terrains.
  • Insoles are recommended for maximum support and comfort.
  • Brands recommended by Reddit users for wide feet are Keen and Hoka One One
  • Brooks, Oboz, New Balance, and Dr Martens were also mentioned in the comments.
  • It’s best to buy comfortable pairs from different manufacturers and swap them out every day to give your feet a break.
  • Go to a running store for a gait analysis and support recommendations.

Source: "Hiking boot recommendations?" (from reddit, r/BuyItForLife)

  • Recommendations:
    • Best place to look for hiking boots - local REI
    • Trail running shoes might be better for lighter weight and superior comfort
    • Good brands - Altra, Saucony, Brooks, Salomon, Columbia, Vasque, Merrell, Oboz, Lowa, La Sportiva
  • Personal Experiences:
    • Solomon is lightweight, durable, breathable, and comfortable. Great all-around waterproof performance hiking boot. Cost $150.
    • Salomon and Vasque are excellent quality boots at affordable prices
    • Altra Lone Peak shoes are very comfortable but not very durable. Need to be replaced every season ($$).
    • Columbia’s trail running shoes are not recommended for poor quality
    • La Sportiva’s quality for climbing and approach shoes has gone downhill in the past 2 years
  • Fit:
    • Best hiking boots depends on personal preference and fit. Trying on shoes in a store for a few minutes is not enough. Some people have no problems with shoes, while others have severe issues.
    • Trail runners are ideal for walking around a campground, unless there is a rocky trail
    • Shoes should be comfortable and durable for a few years before being replaced
    • Shoes below $200 are generally not recommended
  • Additional Advice:
    • Invest in some good wool socks and liners for all-day comfort in hiking boots

Source: "Hiking Shoes or Boots with good grip for Day Hi..." (from reddit, r/CampingGear)

  • Query: “hiking boots for women”
    • User is looking for hiking boots or shoes with good grip for easy-moderate day hikes around 1-6 hours
    • Wants them to be lightweight and easy to move around in, similar to sneakers
    • Sometimes hikes in drizzle, but never snow; lives in CA, so it’s never super cold
    • Budget: willing to spend up to $100 if it’s worth it, but would prefer $50 range
  • Recommendations from Reddit users:
    • Trail runners are a hybrid between a hiking boot and a running sneaker
    • Head to an outdoor store, such as REI, and try on as many shoes as possible
    • Altra Lone Peaks are SUPER grippy and lightweight, usually under $100 on sales, but not super durable
    • Saucony Peregrine line found at great deals on Poshmark and eBay
    • Sticks might help with loose rock
    • Merrell Moab Ventilators are a staple in personal kit for years
    • Solomon x mid GTX boots are super light
    • Teva arrowood Rivas WP are comfortable walking shoes, but a little over user’s price range
    • Decathlon Evadict TR shoes are uncomfortable for some, try before buying
    • Rocky alpha force boots are stunning after much abuse with slip-resistant soles
    • La Sportiva TX4 mids are affordable and come in many colors
    • Merrell Thermo +6 are waterproof with good grip

Source: "Trail Runner vs Hiking Boot" (from reddit, r/CampingandHiking)

  • Users have mixed opinions on whether to wear hiking boots or trail runners for hiking.
    • Some prefer trail runners for comfort.
    • Others prefer boots for security dealing with inclines.
    • Generally, decision based on pack weight, route technicality, and terrain.
    • Some prefer boots for snow, wet and cold conditions, rocky terrain, and off-trail hiking.
  • Approach shoes can provide a solid, grippy, and light-weight alternative to boots or runners.
  • Ankle coverage in boots may be preferable when hiking up a mountain to protect against falling rocks.
  • In wet conditions, non-waterproof trail runners perform better than boots for drying out quickly.
  • Boots may cause muscle tension in feet when carrying a heavy pack.
  • Trail runners can cause soreness when hiking on rocky terrain.
  • Trail runners with a rock plate can prevent soreness from rocks.
  • Sensory issues with feet can affect shoe preference.
  • Combat boots can provide ankle coverage and comfort.
    • Real leather uppers are indicative of quality.
  • Vans “Off the Wall” high-top skate shoes can provide a hybrid shoe-boot option with lightweight comfort and ankle protection.

💭  Looking into

What is the difference between hiking shoes, hiking boots, and trail runners?

💭  Looking into

What type of toe box should I look for when choosing hiking boots?

💭  Looking into

Does the Salomon brand have a specific female last for their boots?

💭  Looking into

What materials are used in Obōz boots?

💭  Looking into

Are Ahnu Sugarpine boots available in both fabric and leather versions?

Source: "The 6 Best Hiking Boots for Women | Tested by G..." (from web, www.outdoorgearlab.com)

  • Best Hiking Boots for Women:

    • La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX

      • Comfort: 9.0
      • Support: 8.0
      • Traction: 8.0
      • Water Resistance: 8.0
      • Weight: 8.0
      • Durability: 8.0
      • Weight: 1.68 pounds
      • Upper: AirMesh, microfiber, TPU
      • Reasons to Buy:
        • Comfortable
        • Lightweight and breathable
        • Impressive waterproof capabilities
        • Great price-to-performance ratio
      • Reasons to Avoid:
        • Not as supportive as a traditional hiking boot
        • Runs small, but is available in wide option
    • Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP

      • Comfort: 7.0
      • Support: 7.0
      • Traction: 7.0
      • Water Resistance: 8.0
      • Weight: 5.0
      • Durability: 6.0
      • Weight: 2.06 pounds
      • Upper: Leather and mesh
      • Reasons to Buy:
        • Well-padded ankle
        • Comfortable
        • Breathable
        • Improved traction
      • Reasons to Avoid:
        • Lacks ankle support for extended backpacking trips
        • Lacing system is not very durable
        • Heavier than other models in this review
    • Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid

      • Comfort: 9.0
      • Support: 9.0
      • Traction: 8.0
      • Water Resistance: 7.0
      • Weight: 9.0
      • Durability: 5.0
      • Weight: 1.60 pounds
      • Upper: eVent fabric
      • Reasons to Buy:
        • Wide toe box
        • Lightweight
        • Padded ankle support
        • Durable lacing system
        • Lugs and outsoles provide excellent traction
      • Reasons to Avoid:
        • A bit spendy
        • 0mm drop takes some adjustment and training
    • Hoka Kaha 2 GTX - All Gender

      • Comfort: 9.0
      • Support: 9.0
      • Traction: 8.0
      • Water Resistance: 8.0
      • Weight: 4.0
      • Durability: 8.0
      • Weight: 2.2 pounds
      • Upper: Nubuck leather
      • Reasons to Buy:
        • Supreme comfort
        • Excellent traction
        • Durable and waterproof design
        • Gender-neutral design
      • Reasons to Avoid:
        • Less breathable
        • Expensive
        • Thicker soles and rigid design take some adjustment
    • Teva Grandview GTX Mid

      • Comfort: 9.0
      • Support: 8.0
      • Traction: 8.0
      • Water Resistance: 7.0
      • Weight: 7.0
      • Durability: 8.0
      • Weight: 1.86 pounds
      • Upper: Leather, synthetic, textile
      • Reasons to Buy:
        • Lightweight
        • Stylish
        • Supportive thanks to heel lock feature
        • Comfortable
      • Reasons to Avoid:
        • Lacks ankle support for extended trips
    • La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX

      • Comfort: 8.0
      • Support: 8.0
      • Traction: 8.0
      • Water Resistance: 9.0
      • Weight: 5.0
      • Durability: 8.0
      • Weight: 2.24 pounds (size 40 EU)
      • Upper: Nubuck Leather
      • Reasons to Buy:
        • Superior water protection
        • Excellent support
        • Durable
        • Comfortable
      • Reasons to Avoid:
        • Less breathable
        • Pricey
    • Other Relevant Information: None

Source: "Best Hiking Boots For Women 2023 - Forbes Vetted" (from web, www.forbes.com)

  • Best hiking boots for women:

    • Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX
    • Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX
    • Danner Mountain 600
    • Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid
    • Merrell Moab 3 Mid
    • La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX
    • Oboz Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof
    • La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
  • Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX:

    • Weight: 1.7 pounds
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • Contagrip outsole for versatile traction
    • Breathable Gore-Tex liner to keep dry
    • Customizable fit with lacing system
    • Rubber caps protect sensitive parts of feet
  • Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX:

    • Weight: 1.75 pounds
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • Cushioning reduces impact and fatigue
    • Vibram Megagrip compound outsole
    • Sustainable design
  • Danner Mountain 600:

    • Weight: 1.87 pounds
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • Durable and waterproof suede leather upper
    • Vibram Megagrip rubber compound for superb grip
    • Red laces
    • Made for half size smaller
  • Altra Lone Peak All-Wthr Mid:

    • Weight: 1.5 pounds
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • Lightweight trail running shoe design
    • Waterproof membrane upper is breathable
    • Foot-shaped toe box boosts comfort
    • Canted lugs improve grip
  • Merrell Moab 3 Mid:

    • Weight: 1.81 pounds
    • Waterproof: No
    • Suede leather upper
    • Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole
    • Quality construction at a great price point
  • La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX:

    • Weight: 2.18 pounds
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • GORE-TEX Performance Comfort laminate and QB3 waterproof fabric
    • Toe-the-toe lacing system provides a dialed fit
    • Vibram La Sportiva Cube rubber outsole
  • Oboz Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof:

    • Weight: 1.71 pounds
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • Sustainable construction with recycled plastic
    • Molded insoles offer improved comfort
    • Deep directional lugs for reliable grip
  • La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX:

    • Weight: 1.37 pounds
    • Waterproof: Yes
    • Gore-Tex Surround lining with Nub
    • Lightweight design

Source: "The Best Hiking Boots for Women in 2022 | GearJ..." (from web, gearjunkie.com)

  • Best Overall Hiking Boot for Women

    • SCARPA Rush Mid GTX
    • Synthetic mesh upper offers breathability
    • Reinforced toeboxes lessen the possibility of blowing through the front
    • GORE-TEX Extended Comfort lining keeps feet dry
    • Traction-enhancing, shock-absorbing concave impact zones that compress and absorb energy as you walk
    • 1 lb. 8 oz. weight
    • Available at REI and Amazon
  • Runner-Up Best Hiking Boot for Women:

    • KEEN Tempo Flex
    • Bellows Flex takes 60% less energy to bend than other boots
    • TPU around the toe, sides and lacing reduces wear and tear
    • Mini lugs in the arch grip slippery-looking log
    • 2 lbs. 6 oz. weight
    • Sold on Amazon and Walmart
  • Best Women’s Hiking Boot for Backpacking:

    • La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
    • Nubuck leather upper is protective and sturdy
    • Breathable due to GORE’s Surround system
    • Vibram sole offers good grip and enhanced braking traction
    • 1 lb. 6 oz. weight
    • Available at REI and Amazon
  • Best Budget Hiking Boot for Women:

    • Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof
    • Comfortable right off the bat
    • Zonal arch and heel support + EVA footbed for comfort and security
    • 5mm-deep lugs provide great traction
    • 2 lbs. weight
    • Available at REI and Amazon
  • Most Stylish Hiking Boot for Women:

    • Teva Grandview GORE-TEX
    • Wider toebox provides room for toes to wiggle and splay
    • Heel Lock strap provides additional foot support
    • GORE-TEX liner keeps feet dry
    • 1 lb. 11 oz. weight
    • Available at REI and Amazon
  • Best Women’s Hiking Boot for Thru-Hikes:

    • Altra Lone Peak All-Weather Mid
    • 12 ounces makes this one of the lightest hiking boots
    • eVent waterproof bootie blocks puddles and rain without making feet sweaty
    • Ultrawide toebox leaves plenty of space for the toes to spread
    • Available at Amazon

Source: "Best Hiking Boots for Women of 2023 | Outdoor Life" (from web, www.outdoorlife.com)

  • Altra Lone Peak Hiker:
    • Minimal to no break-in time
    • Wide toe box promotes good foot placement
    • Less durable than other hiking boots
    • Not as robust ankle protection
  • Vasque Talus XT GTX:
    • Great support
    • Waterproof
    • Expensive
    • Heavy
  • Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots:
    • Best out-of-the-box for most foot types
    • Fewer redesigns over the years than other hiking boots
    • May not work well for individuals with truly wide feet
    • Expensive
  • KEEN Women’s Targhee II Waterproof
    • Works well for people with wide feet
    • Classic look at an affordable price
    • Can delaminate after a season or two of use
  • Women’s hiking boots range from $100 to upwards of $400
  • The choice between hiking boots, hiking shoes, and trail runners comes down to personal preference
  • Ankle support comes from the rigidity of the base of the hiking boot
  • Toe box should have enough space for about a finger’s width of space between the end of toes and the tip of the boot
  • Vasque Talus XT GTX and Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots are more expensive but offer more protection and durability than Altra Lone Peak Hiker
  • KEEN Targhee II Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots are best for wider feet
  • Vasque Talus XT GTX and Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots are heavier than others on the list
  • For long hikes, an insole like Superfeet can help prevent the arch of the foot from becoming fatigued None.

Source: "Best women's hiking boots....GO!" (from reddit, r/hiking)

  • Advice on choosing hiking boots:
    • Finding the right boot depends on one’s foot and hiking style.
    • Try on as many pairs as possible; walk around in them in the store.
    • Brands don’t matter as much as fit.
    • Full leather is better for long hiking trips.
    • Waterproof shoes can get wet and take a while to dry.
  • Recommended resources for ratings/reviews:
    • outdoorgearlab
    • backpacker magazine
  • Recommended brands:
    • Ahnu Sugarpine (fabric and leather versions available)
    • Obōz
    • Salomon (has a specific female last for their boots)
  • Leather boots are comfortable but don’t always hold up well:
    • Can leak after walking through wet grass for a while.
    • Can start falling apart at the seams sooner than expected.
  • Non-waterproof shoes can be a good alternative for long hiking trips:
    • Dries out faster than waterproof boots which can take much longer to dry out.
  • None

💭  Looking into

What are the best hiking boots for women?