The Ultimate Hiking Boot Guide for Women
There are many things to purchase when you first get into hiking, but one of the most important is what you put on your feet!
As a passionate hiker, you may be a bit overwhelmed about what boots to purchase- there are so many options out there!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the many boot options out there, then this post will help you make that decision. These are the 4 best hiking boots for any hiker that will make your outdoor experience comfortable and unforgettable!
In this post, I will go over:
Why you need a pair of hiking boots
What to look for in a pair of hiking boots
My top 4 favorite hiking boots
Where to buy your new hiking boots
Frequently asked questions about hiking boots
So let’s explore the first topic; why do you need a pair of hiking boots anyway? Won’t your running sneakers work just fine?
Note: this blog post may contain affiliate links. These links help support the blog and I may earn a small commission from any purchases you may make, at no additional cost to you. See Terms and Conditions page for more information.
Why you need hiking boots
My cousin and a group of her friends went on an easy hike that everyone had hiked at least once. Most of the folks in the group had a pair of hiking boots, but one person decided to do the hike in sneakers.
On the way back down there was a lot of loose rock and gravel which caused her foot to slip out from under and she landed in such a way that caused her tibia and her fibula to snap in half.
Luckily they were within cellphone service range and within view of the parking lot. However- she broke her leg in two places and spent many months healing.
Learn from my cousin’s friend and wear your hiking boots- never hike in sneakers! A good pair of hiking boots give you traction, ankle support, and confidence on the trails, keeping you that much safer from an injury.
Now that I’ve hopefully convinced you to buy a pair of hiking boots, what should you look for in a pair of your own? Here are some key factors to consider when buying your first pair of hiking boots.
What to look for in hiking boots:
Ankle support
When hiking over rocks and stepping over roots you can hurt yourself in an instant- and your ankle is especially susceptible to injuries as you go down mountainsides. Boots that have a higher ankle will mean better ankle support, which is why all the boots I will recommend today have a mid-length ankle on them, rather than a lower ankle. This is because having a boot that physically supports your ankle will help prevent ankle injuries.
Waterproof
I’m not saying to go stick your foot in a lake, but you want boots that are going to keep your feet reasonably dry as you walk across streams and through puddles. Nothing ruins a hike faster than a soaking wet pair of boots- trust me on this!
Comfort
“I love getting blisters!” said literally no one ever. Having boots that don’t give you blisters, minimize hot spots, and are overall comfortable as you hike will change your experience. If you get your feet torn apart after a hike, you may not be tempted to go again. So, you want to make sure that you’re getting the most comfortable pair of hiking boots for your unique feet.
Traction
As I’ve mentioned you will likely be going over rocks, wet and slick surfaces, and loose gravel among many other types of terrain. You need a pair of hiking boots that can stand up to the test of the terrain and keep you standing.
Break in Period
Often times you will need to hike a smaller hike or two before taking on a longer hike in your new pair of hiking boots. The break-in period varies by boot and by person, so keep that in mind when shopping. Do you need to use these right away? Or do you have time to test them on a smaller hike or two? Breaking in boots is a process that gets your new hiking boot used to your foot, and the other way around. If you need your hiking boots right away, this is an important metric to consider.
Now that you know what to look for and what metrics to consider, let’s take a look at the four BEST pair of hiking boots that I recommend to everyone.
4 Best Hiking Boots
4. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus
Buy it here:
This is a great boot for the price- less than $100! What I like about the Columbia is that the high tops hold your ankle in really well which provides good ankle support. The ankle area is well padded, which I found to be somewhat uncomfortable after a long day on the trail as the padding started to rub and suppress my ankle a little too much.
They have fairly good traction as I was climbing over rocks, I didn’t slip once in them despite going over some wet areas. I have tried these in two sizes, and I will say that they are very true to size. What I find to the be most frustrating part of wearing these boots is that they are not very waterproof. My socks got wet after walking through tall, dewey grass. And after a river crosing they were absolutely soaked and the rest of the hike was very uncomfortable.
I would recommend these boots for someone who is new to hiking and isn’t sure if it’s something they will stick with, but I don’t think these hiking boots would be a good fit for someone who is experienced and plans to put a lot of miles in them.
3. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
Get them here:
These boots are ideal for hikers who have tall arches and need a little extra support underfoot. And for anyone who has ever struggled with blisters on the back of their heel look no further than the Moab 3. After hours on the trail, our tester reports no blisters, despite struggling with them in every other pair of boots she’s owned.
They are very waterproof, and brook crossing after brook crossing found her feet dry and comfortable. Vibram soles, the best on the market for grip and durability, help you keep your grip underfoot in all conditions and terrain. Also helping to create a really sturdy boot is the mid-height ankle support, so you don’t have to stress about twisting an ankle.
This boot is excellent for hikers who have a tall arch, and want a sturdy, waterproof boot that can take on all conditions.
2. Oboz Bridger Mid Height
Oboz Bridger Mid Height
Get them here:
If you’re looking for a pair of boots that feel more like a sneaker, then you may want to look at the Oboz mid-height boot. These boots provide excellent ankle support, and are very grippy for when you have to walk over slippery rocks, but still feel light and comfortable like a sneaker.
After about 40-50 miles of hiking my tester has reported no blisters- yay! Blisters are the WORST! These boots are very waterproof, only getting the sock wet when the water came up over the top of the boot. Having a lightweight boot will become very noticeable after a day on the trail, so do yourself a favor and try these boots on!
This boot is excellent for those looking for a boot that is sturdy and will last a long time, all while providing a comfortable ride and dry feet.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots
Get them here:
If you’re looking for a pair of high quality hiking boots that you can wear right out the box, look no further than the Salomon X Ultra 4. These boots really get the job done with the mid-height ankle for the best support, Contragrip rubber soles for traction in wet or loose conditions, and a comfortable ride due to the stitch free interior.
GORE-TEX is the best in the biz when it comes to water proofing, so the GORE-TEX protected uppers will keep your feet dry even through wet trails. Overall this boot does not disappoint and delivers some serious comfort, support, grip, and waterproof all while being surprisingly comfortable.
Some things to note on this boot is that they run a little big, the toe box can be narrow, and they don’t offer wide sizes. Some may find that they don’t get enough ankle support with these boots, while others may like that they have a bit more freedom of movement than other hiking boots.
I’d recommend this boot for anyone who doesn’t have time to break in their boots or will be going over a wide variety of terrain.
Where to buy boots
Although I’ve provided links on where to purchase each boot online, I highly recommend going in person to pick out your hiking boots. Trying them on will eliminate boots that are not right for your foot, even if they appear on this list!
And sales associates are great people to ask for help as this is their job- they’re literally experts on hiking boots and will be able to recommend other boots that you (or I) may not even have heard of. REI is probably the most popular as they carry many brands and have excellent customer service. However, if REI is too far from you try finding a local retailer.
If there isn’t a store within a reasonable distance to travel, you can always order online. If you do have to order online, try ordering a couple different pairs so that you can try them on at home and return the ones that aren’t right for you.
Good luck! And remember to bring the socks that you will be wearing most of the time when hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if the boots fit me?
Hiking boots should have a little bit of space between your toes and the end of the boot. The extra space allows for thicker socks for colder weather, and it helps prevent your toes from getting too smooshed as you hike down hill. You want to make sure the laces are nice and tight so that as you’re walking around in them you have the full effect.
Can I buy hiking boots online?
You certainly can! But I highly recommend going in person so that you can try them on before you buy. Everyone has unique feet, and the only real way to know if boots fit you properly is to try them on yourself.
When you go in the store make sure that you have a pair of socks that you would wear hiking so that when you try on the boots you know it’s the best fit possible. Make sure you walk around in them, bonus points if you can find a set of stairs to test them out on as well!
Also, make sure you talk to the sales associate about any issues you may have had in the past with ill-fitting boots or unique to your foot issues that would impact the fit of the boot. They should be able to find you the perfect pair!
Can’t I just hike in sneakers?
Do you need to hear the story of my cousin’s coworker again? Hiking boots are a little pricey but that’s nothing compared to the bill of getting rescued or being brought to the ER in an ambulance.
Boots will help you navigate difficult terrain and will provide comfort as well. So, spend the money on a good quality pair of boots. They should last years, and you will notice a difference!
What do I wear to go shopping?
Wear what you will be wearing hiking when trying on boots. Don’t wear jeans or tight fitting clothing that you wouldn’t wear on the trail. Also, don’t forget to pack your SOCKS!!! Bring the socks that you will be hiking in so that you get the most accurate fit.
Final Thoughts on Shopping Hiking Boots
In conclusion, for any experience level of hiker, selecting the right pair of hiking boots is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. After doing research on the trails, we have identified the top four hiking boots that stand out for their comfort, durability, and overall performance.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GORE-TEX - Featuring premium materials and exceptional waterproofing, these boots are an excellent choice for hikers who are exploring wet and rugged trails.
Oboz Bridger Mid Height - With its lightweight design and excellent traction, these boots offer the perfect blend of comfort and support for any hiker.
Merrell Moab 3 Mid - Ideal for those seeking versatility, these boots provide stability on rough terrains and are suitable for various weather conditions.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus - Designed for comfort and durability, these boots are perfect for first-time hikers looking to conquer moderate to challenging trails.
As you shop for your next or first pair of hiking boots, remember that investing in a reliable pair of hiking boots will protect you from injuries while providing a comfortable experience.
Consider your individual needs and preferences before making your choice, and remember to try them on in person if you can so you can test them out before buying.
If you found this blog helpful and want to stay updated on the latest hiking tips, gear recommendations, and outdoor adventure guides, sign up for our email newsletter today!
By subscribing, you'll also receive a free hiking checklist to help you prepare for your upcoming hikes. Come along and find your next adventure!
