10 Best Womens Hiking Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is designed with several features that make it a strong choice for hiking enthusiasts. One of its key strengths is the waterproof membrane, which effectively keeps water out while allowing moisture to escape, making it suitable for wet and muddy trails. The pigskin leather and mesh upper contribute to both durability and breathability, which is crucial for long hikes. The boot is equipped with 100% recycled laces and webbing, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.

For fit and support, the Kinetic Fit ADVANCED removable contoured insole offers reinforced heel cushioning, providing medium support that can be customized. The molded nylon arch shank and lightweight EVA foam midsole add to the stability and comfort, reducing strain on your feet over extended periods of use. The Vibram TC5+ rubber sole is notable for its excellent traction, ensuring you stay steady on various terrains. The bellows tongue is a practical feature that keeps debris out, enhancing the overall hiking experience.

However, the boot weighs 1.5 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some, especially during longer hikes. While the breathability is decent, those who hike in extremely hot conditions may find it less ventilated compared to lighter, non-waterproof options. The durability of the materials, particularly the pigskin leather, suggests a long lifespan, making it a good investment. In summary, the Merrell Moab 3 is a reliable and rugged option for hikers needing effective waterproofing, solid support, and good traction, although its weight and breathability may be minor concerns for some.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 offers solid performance for hiking, combining comfort, support, and durability. These shoes have a lightweight leather and mesh upper that helps with breathability, keeping your feet cooler during hikes. The removable contoured insole with reinforced heel provides good support and cushioning, which is important for longer walks on uneven trails.

Traction is strong thanks to the Vibram TC5+ outsole, designed to grip well on both wet and dry surfaces, helping you stay steady. The built-in air cushion and rebound compound add extra shock absorption, reducing foot fatigue and smoothing your step. Fit-wise, the lace-up closure allows you to adjust snugly, and features like the bellows tongue and toe cap protect against debris on the trail.

These shoes are a great choice for moderate to challenging hikes where comfort and reliable traction matter most, especially if you prioritize durability and support.

The Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Shoe is designed to offer a solid balance of comfort and performance for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a pigskin leather and mesh upper, which helps with breathability while maintaining durability. The shoe includes a bellows tongue to keep debris out, which is useful on rough trails. It provides medium support through a removable contoured insole with reinforced heel cushioning, along with a molded nylon arch shank that adds stability. The lightweight EVA foam midsole helps absorb shock and offers comfort during long walks.

Traction is strong thanks to the Vibram TC5+ rubber sole, known for gripping various surfaces well. Although the shoe is not fully waterproof, the materials and construction suggest some water resistance, but may not keep feet completely dry in wet conditions. The use of recycled materials in laces and lining adds an eco-friendly aspect. Weighing around 3.46 pounds, it is moderate in weight—light enough for day hikes but potentially a bit heavy for those wanting ultra-light gear.

This shoe is well suited for hikers seeking dependable support, good traction, and breathability on moderate trails. However, individuals needing fully waterproof footwear or ultra-lightweight options might want to consider other models.