10 Best Women Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Columbia Womens Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped is a solid choice for women looking for reliable hiking shoes. It excels in water resistance thanks to its seam-sealed construction and waterproof leather and suede materials, keeping your feet dry on wet trails. The TECHLITE midsole adds lightweight cushioning and energy return, which helps with comfort and support during longer hikes.

Traction is a strong point with Columbia’s Omni-GRIP rubber outsole offering good grip on various surfaces, making it suitable for different terrains and seasons. Durability is enhanced by reinforced toe and heel areas designed to handle tough use over time. However, breathability isn’t highlighted, so the waterproof materials might feel a bit warm during hot weather or intense activity. The weight is balanced well for a mid-cut hiking boot, but it may feel heavier than low-cut trail shoes if you prefer ultra-light gear.

These boots are well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts who want a dependable, supportive, and protective shoe for moderate to challenging hikes, especially in wet conditions.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, offering a solid combination of comfort and support. The waterproof membrane effectively keeps your feet dry while allowing moisture to escape, which is crucial for longer hikes. The pigskin leather and mesh upper provide durability, and the bellows tongue helps prevent debris from entering the boot, making it a great choice for rugged terrains.

In terms of comfort, the boot features a Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole that offers medium support and cushioning. The EVA foam midsole adds lightweight stability, which is beneficial during extended walking or hiking sessions. Merrell's Air Cushion in the heel also aids in shock absorption, enhancing comfort and stability.

When it comes to traction, the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is designed for excellent grip on various surfaces, ensuring safety while navigating challenging trails. The boot’s ankle height adds support to the ankle, which can be a significant advantage on uneven paths. However, some users may find the fit slightly narrow, especially if they have wider feet, which could impact comfort over long distances. Additionally, while the boot is designed to be lightweight, it may still feel heavier compared to some lower-profile hiking shoes, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing weight. The boot's breathability is adequate, but it might not be as breathable as some other hiking shoes, potentially leading to sweaty feet in warmer conditions.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed with both comfort and durability in mind, making it a solid choice for women who enjoy hiking on various trails. The shoe’s pigskin leather and mesh upper offer a good balance of sturdiness and breathability, helping keep your feet comfortable and cooler during walks. The Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable insole with reinforced heel cushioning provides medium support, which should be comfortable for medium-length hikes but might suit those needing extra arch support for longer or more challenging routes. The molded nylon arch shank and Merrell Air Cushion in the heel work together to add stability and absorb shock, which helps reduce foot fatigue over time.

Traction comes from the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, known for gripping well on both dry and wet surfaces, making it reliable on slippery trails. While the shoe includes a protective toe cap and a bellows tongue to keep out debris, it is not fully waterproof, so it might not be ideal for very wet conditions or deep puddles. The lightweight EVA foam midsole contributes to comfort without adding bulk, although those sensitive to shoe weight might still notice this shoe is a bit heavier than minimalist hiking options.

Durability looks promising thanks to quality leather and reinforced materials, suitable for frequent hiking. The Moab 3 serves as a good all-around hiking shoe for women seeking comfort, decent support, and reliable traction on moderate trails, but it may fall short if waterproofing or very light footwear is a priority.