When you're getting ready for a hike, it may feel like there are a million factors to consider. Between picking a trail, deciding on the length of your hike (long or short?), checking weather conditions, and getting the right gear, planning your hike can take longer than the hike itself. One of the most important items on your hiking checklist that should definitely not be overlooked are your shoes. The best hiking shoes for women offer tailored support and comfort for the more elongated shape of a woman’s foot. Not only that, but thanks to recent improvements in shoe tech, the best hiking shoes for women are as stylish as they are functional.
However, the best hiking shoes come with a lot of parameters. With so many features to consider like materials, waterproofing, and weight, it can be overwhelming to get started. That’s why we put together this guide, including 10 of our favorite hiking shoes for women. Keep reading to learn how to find the right shoe for you.
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The Best Hiking Shoes for Women - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Hiking Shoes for Women: adidas Terrex Trailmaker Mid Gore-tex
- Best Budget Hiking Shoes for Women: Salomon Patrol
- Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Women: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-tex
- Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Women: adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-tex
- Best Walking Hiking Shoes for Women: adidas Eastrail 2.0 Mid Rain.Rdy
- Best Trail Running Hiking Shoes for Women: Nike Wildhorse 7
- Best Hiking Shoes for Women with Flat Feet: Reebok ZigWild Trail 6
- Best Hiking Shoes for Women with Wide Feet: Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid Gore-tex Wide
- Most Durable Hiking Shoes for Women: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-tex
- Best Women's Hiking Shoes for Backpacking: Salomon Quest Element Gore-tex
Best Overall Hiking Shoes for Women – adidas Terrex Trailmaker Mid Gore-Tex
SPECS
- Weight: 14 oz. per shoe
- Waterproof: Yes; Gore-tex
- Sizes: 5-11
- Closure: Laces
- Materials: Traxion rubber outsole, EVA stabilization frame, and midsole, ripstop upper
- Warranty: 6 months
Just like with a hiking backpack or pair of pants, most women want a combination of style and function when it comes to their hiking gear. The adidas Terrex Trailmaker is our top pick for those seeking a functional, aesthetic hiking shoe. The retro high-top look is combined with all the features you need in a lightweight hiking shoe. Designed for all-terrain, the Terrex Trailmaker offers enough ankle support to move confidently through mud, roots, and rocks. The Gore-tex waterproofing combined with Traxion rubber outsoles and deep lugs means wet trails are nothing to worry about.
The EVA midsole offers comfort without adding weight. A ripstop upper prevents quick wear so these shoes will keep looking fly well into the hiking season. Keep in mind that this pair may run a little small, so consider sizing up a half-size. And like most hiking shoes, a break-in period is required, so start with short hikes or walks around town before logging big miles.
What We Like
- Lightweight EVA midsole
- Ripstop upper is abrasion-resistant
- Gore-tex waterproofing
- Retro style
What We Don't Like
- Run a little small
- Require some break-in time
BUY: adidas Terrex Trailmaker Mid GoreTex
Best Budget Hiking Shoes for Women – Salomon Patrol
SPECS
- Weight: 7.75 oz. per shoe
- Waterproof: No
- Sizes: 5-11
- Closure: Laces
- Material: Rubber outsole, textile MCL lining, textile/synthetic upper
- Warranty: 2-year limited
The Salomon Patrol is a solid lightweight hiking shoe that’s priced under $100. The All Terrain Contagrip rubber outsole keeps you secure on any surface you might encounter on your hike, while the EnergyCell EVA foam midsole absorbs shock and cushions your feet.
We like that the welded upper is stitch-free and lays smooth on your feet, preventing rough spots that can cause chafing or blisters. All in all, the Patrol is a well-rounded hiking shoe that transitions from sidewalk to trail with ease. However, we do want to add that the Patrol is not a waterproof shoe, so it's ideal for dry conditions.
What We Like
- 3D mesh for maximum airflow
- Super comfortable OrthoLite die-cut insoles
- SensiFit molds to your foot for a custom fit
- All Terrain Contagrip for any surface
What We Don't Like
- Not waterproof
- White outsoles show dirt
BUY: Salomon Patrol
Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Women – Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-tex
SPECS
- Weight: 10.4 oz. per shoe
- Waterproof: Yes; Gore-tex
- Sizes: 5-12
- Closure: Laces
- Material: Rubber outsole, foam midsole, textile upper
- Warranty: 2-year limited
Whether you’re hiking solo or with a friend, hiking with wet feet is no fun. The Nike Pegasus Trail shoe is designed specifically with wet conditions in mind. In addition to the Gore-tex waterproof layer, they also come equipped with a fitted gaiter at the ankle to keep water, mud, and loose dirt from sneaking in from the top. The Nike React foam midsole is lightweight, but durable, for a comfortable experience, even on the roughest terrain. The Pegasus has a generative traction pattern with rubber nubs that ensure a solid grip uphill and downhill. Reflective details help you be seen on the trail—a nice safety feature if you'll be hiking at night.
What We Like
- Nike React foam runs the full length for the most stability
- Ankle-high gaiter provides extra coverage
- Gore-tex waterproofing
- Available up to size 12
What We Don't Like
- Run about a half-size smaller
- Ankle gaiter is more difficult to get on
BUY: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-Tex
Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Women – adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-tex
SPECS
- Weight: 12 oz.
- Waterproof: Yes; Gore-tex
- Sizes: 5-11
- Closure: Laces
- Material: Continental Rubber and Adaptive Traxion outsole, EVA frame, Primeknit textile upper with ripstop
- Warranty: 6 months
The adidas Terrex Free Hiker is in the same family as our first pick—the Trailmaker—but with some special features. They come in at just 12 ounces thanks to the superlight Boost midsole, known for its incredible energy return. And, the Continental Rubber and Adaptive Traxion outsole tech combine for a solid grip in all conditions.
We like that the sock-like construction is meant to hug the foot, keep the shoe secure, and prevent debris from entering at the ankle. However, the snug fit can be difficult to get on and off though, and is a turn-off for some hikers.
What We Like
- Continental Rubber outsole is super grippy
- Durable Primeknit upper with ripstop and abrasion-resistant weldings
- Gore-tex waterproofing
- Cool retro style
What We Don't Like
- A bit pricey compared to similarly featured styles
- Difficult to pull on and off with fitted ankle
BUY: adidas Terrex Free Hiker Gore-tex
Best Walking Hiking Shoes for Women – adidas Eastrail 2.0 Mid Rain.Rdy
SPECS
- Weight: 10.8 oz. per shoe
- Waterproof: Yes
- Sizes: 5-11
- Closure: Laces
- Material: Traxion outsole, lightweight EVA midsole, mesh upper with synthetic overlays
- Warranty: 6 months
Looking for a pair of hiking shoes that can double as your go-to for long walks? Then you may want to consider the Adidas Eastrail 2.0 Hiking Shoe. Because of the soft mesh and textile uppers, they don't require a break-in period like many other boots and can hit the trail for running. hiking, or walking.
A lightweight EVA midsole feels like a running shoe but provides all the cushion you need on uneven terrain while Traxion outsoles handle wet, dry, soft, and loose trail conditions. We do want to mention that the sizing tends to run a little on the large side, so consider sizing down if you're not a wearer of thick hiking socks.
What We Like
- Made with a minimum of 50% recycled materials
- Great price
- Gusseted tongue
- Lightweight, great for walking
- No break-in period required
What We Don't Like
- Less than reliable waterproofing
- Runs big
BUY: adidas Eastrail 2.0 Mid Rain.Rdy
Best Trail Running Hiking Shoes for Women – Nike Wildhorse 7
SPECS
- Weight: 11.3 oz. per shoe (size 9.5)
- Waterproof: No
- Sizes: 5-12
- Closure: Laces
- Material: Rubber outsole, foam midsole, mesh upper
- Warranty: 2-year limited
When you're ready to pick up the pace on your hike, the Nike Wildhorse 7 is a shoe that goes from walking to running on the trail. It's built for rocky terrain with responsive Nike React foam cushioning and multidirectional traction lugs on the outsole.
We like its breathable mesh upper, designed for ventilation, not water resistance. And, its snug ankle gaiter keeps dirt and rocks out (who has time to stop and shake out your shoes when you're blazing down the trail?).
What We Like
- Responsive Nike React foam cushioning
- Breathable mesh uppers keep feet cool
- Multidirectional high-abrasion rubber lugs enhance grip
- Gaiter collar at ankles keeps dirt out
- Available up to size 12
What We Don't Like
- Not waterproof
- Fit is quite narrow
BUY: Nike Wildhorse 7
Best Hiking Shoes for Women with Flat Feet – Reebok ZigWild Trail 6
SPECS
- Weight: N/A
- Waterproof: No
- Sizes: 5-12
- Closure: Laces
- Material: ZigTech outsole, suede & leather & fabric & synthetic upper
- Warranty: 30-day return policy
The Reebok Zigwild is a uniquely designed trail shoe. The innovative ZigTech outsole is named for the zigzag nature of its squiggly sole, which offers continuous support from the moment your heel touches down to the last contact of toe to earth. In fact, this exact design is what makes this shoe well-equipped for flat feet.
The included insoles leave something to be desired, but can easily be switched out for customs or inexpensive store-bought that are aligned with your foot shape.
What We Like
- Innovative ZigTech outsole cushions from heel-strike to toe-off
- Multi-layered upper is stylish and you get the best of every material option
- Available up to size 12
- Ideally suited for women with flat feet
What We Don't Like
- Included insoles are not very comfortable for long days
Best Hiking Shoes for Women with Wide Feet – Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid Gore-tex Wide
SPECS
- Weight: 13.5 oz. per shoe
- Waterproof: Yes; Gore-tex
- Sizes: 5-11
- Closure: Quicklace
- Material: Rubber outsole, textile MCL lining, textile/synthetic upper
- Warranty: 2-year limited
The Salomon Cross Hike 2 in wide sizes is our favorite shoe for wide feet. The Gore-tex membrane and mid-cut design protect your feet from water and debris, without restricting ankle mobility like many higher boots do. Multi-directional lugs built into the Contagrip outsole also offer extra security on muddy, rocky, and slippery trails whether you're headed up or down. Plus, these boots are made with recycled materials and are PFC-free, so they're working to protect nature while bringing you closer to it.
What We Like
- Materials from recycled products such as PET bottles
- Quicklace one-pull tightening closure, no tying laces
- Welded stitch-free upper for a smooth glove-like fit
- Gore-tex waterproofing
What We Don't Like
- Quicklace drawstring closure does not allow for alternate lacing patterns for different foot shapes
- Slow to dry if they do become wet
BUY: Salomon Cross Hike 2 Mid Gore-tex Wide
Most Durable Hiking Shoes for Women – Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex
SPECS
- Weight: 13 oz. per shoe
- Waterproof: Yes; Gore-tex
- Sizes: 5-11
- Closure: Laces
- Material: Rubber outsole, textile MCL lining, PU coated leather/textile upper
- Warranty: 2-year limited
If you want a shoe that can go the extra mile—and maybe a few more after that—the Salomon X Ultra 4 is that shoe. The polyurethane-coated leather upper is the pinnacle of strength and durability but does require a break-in period. Salomon took the time and care to engineer the X Ultra 4 specifically for a woman's foot, with a softer cuff and lower-density Advanced Chassis for greater stability.
This boot is the antithesis of the shrink-it and pink-it models of women's gear design. The All Terrain Contagrip with chevron lugs and Gore-tex membrane combine to ensure you're safe and dry on even the wettest hikes.
What We Like
- All Terrain Contagrip for wet, dry, hard, or loose surfaces
- Advanced Chassis molded insert provides lateral support and protection
- Chevron lugs with multi-directional grip improves traction
- Gore-tex waterproofing
What We Don't Like
- Break-in period required
- Run narrow
BUY: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex
Best Women's Hiking Shoes for Backpacking – Salomon Quest Element Gore-tex
SPECS
- Weight: 18 oz. per shoe
- Waterproof: Yes; Gore-tex
- Sizes: 5-11
- Closure: Laces
- Material: Rubber outsole, textile MCL lining, leather upper
- Warranty: 2-year limited
The Salomon Quest Element boot is appropriately named for the adventures you'll be taking in it. We recommend this heavier, more supportive boot for backpacking because it's capable of carrying a little extra weight. The high ankle cut and Advanced Chassis offer more support without limiting mobility. Full-grain Nubuck leather is made to conform to your feet and last for years.
The Gore-tex membrane and special water-repellent treatment keep your feet dry so you can enjoy several days of hiking in a row. Plus, the midsole is made with EnergyCell EVA foam to cushion each step along the way.
What We Like
- Full-grain leather upper meant for durability over years of wear
- Lace locker eyelet between the forefoot and ankle allows to precise fit adjustment
- Mud Contagrip is made for extra purchase on loose, soft, rugged, and uneven surfaces
- Gore-tex waterproofing
What We Don't Like
- Considerably heavier than other recommendations
- Required break-in period
BUY: Salomon Quest Element Gore-tex
What to Look for in Hiking Shoes for Women
Sizes
Most brands carry women's sizes 5 to 11, but if you’re looking for anything above a size 11, Nike and Reebok tend to carry sizes 12. Also, for women with particularly small or large feet, a transition into children's or men's styles might be necessary. Some brands tend to run narrower or wider than others, so that is something to keep in mind as well.
Weight
A heavier boot style is generally going to offer more structure and support on the trail. These are often recommended for backpacking, when you will be carrying extra weight or for more technical terrain when uneven, rocky ground can threaten you with a rolled ankle. However, it does require more effort to pick up heavier feet. So, for shorter hikes or smoother trails a light, flexible shoe can be a better choice. Picking the right shoe for your adventure is key to having the safest and most enjoyable experience.
Materials
There are some common elements among most of our picks for best hiking shoes like EVA foam midsoles. These are widely agreed to ride the line of comfortable and lightweight. While you'll notice that the uppers vary widely, from full-grain leather to breathable mesh. A breathable mesh is great for lightweight and quick drying. Full-grain leather is far more durable and will last reliably for many hundreds of miles. Keep an eye out for a few pairs made with recycled materials as well.
Waterproofing
Many of our choices are made with a Gore-tex breathable waterproof membrane. Gore-tex is the industry leader for this type of technology and has been adopted by hundreds of brands to uplevel their products. One thing to keep in mind is that waterproofing works both ways, so if you'll be sweating more than it will be raining, you'll be better off in a breathable shoe that will let the heat out of your feet.
FAQs About Hiking Shoes for Women
What shoes should women wear hiking?
For the easiest and most casual hikes, any comfortable shoe will likely do. But as you start to add up the miles or head out on more technical terrain, a shoe designed specifically for hiking becomes more important. We've chosen shoes with trail-specific features like waterproofing, comfortable cushioning, and aggressive tread that really digs into the earth. Keeping your feet protected from elements and obstacles will allow you to keep your mind on the adventure.
Is it better to have hiking boots or hiking shoes?
Hiking boots are ideal for longer hikes with more technical terrain, especially for backpacking or if you'll be carrying a heavy pack on a day hike. They can also be a better choice for people who have a tendency to roll their ankles or just need a little extra support. A hiking shoe is great for shorter distances or smoother trails. Lighter, more flexible shoes are also the best option if you plan to mix in a little running or eventually transition into trail running.
Can I wear regular sneakers for hiking?
You can wear regular sneakers for hiking, but regular sneakers are not going to be designed for the trail environment. The outsole will likely not be made to grip and protect your feet on uneven or wet terrain, which can put you in a dangerous position if you encounter unexpected conditions. The likelihood of slips, falls, and twisted ankles are significantly decreased when you wear appropriate hiking shoes. Sneakers are also not made to cushion and support the structure of your foot over many miles on uneven ground. You will likely experience more soreness in your feet and potentially strained tendons or even injury from wearing an unsupportive shoe on the trail.
About the Author
Christine Reed is a long-distance backpacker, trail runner, rock climber, and author of the thruhiking memoir, Alone in Wonderland. She believes that the right gear can be the difference between an amazing adventure and an absolute disaster and she loves helping new hikers find their way to the trail.
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