7 best hiking shoes for women (Reviews)

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Finding the best hiking shoes for women is essential for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable outdoor experience. The right pair offers a perfect balance of support, traction, durability, and protection tailored to women’s foot anatomy and hiking needs. In 2025, the market features advanced designs that combine lightweight materials, waterproof technology, and ergonomic fits to tackle everything from rugged mountain trails to casual day hikes.
Drawing from extensive lab testing, trail reviews, and expert insights, here are the 7 best hiking shoes for women available on Amazon in 2025. Each shoe excels in specific areas such as stability, cushioning, waterproofing, or breathability. I’ll also provide guidance on how to choose the right shoe for your hiking style and terrain.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Shoes for Women
Based on expert testing and my experience reviewing outdoor gear, consider these factors when selecting hiking shoes:
- Fit and Comfort: Women’s hiking shoes typically have narrower heels and wider forefeet. Look for a roomy toe box and secure heel lockdown to prevent blisters and slippage.
- Traction: Deep, durable lugs (around 4-4.5 mm) and high-quality rubber outsoles (like Continental or Vibram) ensure grip on wet, loose, or rocky surfaces.
- Support and Stability: Features like torsional rigidity, firm midsoles, and ankle support help reduce fatigue and protect against injuries.
- Waterproofing vs. Breathability: Gore-Tex membranes offer reliable waterproofing but may reduce breathability. Choose based on your typical hiking conditions.
- Weight: Lightweight shoes reduce fatigue but may offer less protection.
- Durability: Reinforced toe caps and abrasion-resistant uppers extend shoe life on rough trails.
- Break-in Period: Some shoes are comfortable immediately, while others require time to soften.
7 Best Hiking Shoes for Women in 2025
01. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX – Best Overall Hiking Shoe for Women
The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is a top pick for its exceptional comfort, waterproofing, and grip on technical terrain. It features a Gore-Tex membrane that keeps feet dry while its 4.5 mm deep lugs provide outstanding traction on wet, soft, or loose surfaces. The Active Support System stabilizes the ankle with wide straps integrated into the lacing for excellent lockdown, even under heavy loads. Despite a high collar, the shoe remains flexible for quick pace hiking. It’s lightweight with a roomy toe box, though the Quicklace system may not suit everyone.
Pros: Instant comfort, impeccable waterproofing, exceptional grip, stable platform, roomy toe box
Cons: Quicklace system can be tricky, collar may feel too high
02. Adidas Terrex Swift R3 GTX – Best for Stability
This shoe offers boot-like stability with a rigid build and Pro-Moderator technology that prevents lateral foot roll, reducing fatigue. Its Continental rubber outsole delivers reliable grip, and the wide base secures footing on uneven trails. Waterproof yet breathable for a Gore-Tex shoe, it keeps feet dry without overheating. It requires a break-in period and can feel stiff initially, but its cushioning and secure fit make it excellent for long hikes.
Pros: Superior stability, durable, waterproof, excellent grip, cushioned
Cons: Stiff at first, less breathable in hot weather
03. Merrell Moab Speed 2 – Best Overall Value and Comfort
Merrell’s Moab Speed 2 is a versatile, lightweight, and cushioned shoe ideal for day hikes and backpacking. It features a Vibram outsole for traction and a firm midsole for protection. The roomy toe box and improved midsole foam enhance comfort, though heel lockdown could be better on technical terrain. It offers great value for its price and performs well on moderate trails.
Pros: Comfortable, lightweight, good traction, affordable
Cons: Roomy toe box may reduce security, heel lockdown less firm
04. La Sportiva Spire GTX – Best for Supportive Backpacking
The La Sportiva Spire GTX combines waterproofing with breathability using Gore-Tex Surround technology, ideal for long backpacking trips. It offers a stable midsole and sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole for traction on varied terrain. Durable and comfortable for extended wear, it’s a top choice for serious hikers needing support and protection.
Pros: Waterproof and breathable, supportive, durable, excellent grip
Cons: Higher price, slightly heavier
05. Altra Lone Peak 9 – Best for Wide Feet and Trail Running
Altra Lone Peak 9 is perfect for those with wide feet or who prefer a zero-drop shoe promoting natural foot positioning. It has a spacious toe box and moderate cushioning, blending trail running agility with hiking durability. The outsole grips well on dirt and rocks but lacks waterproofing. It excels in comfort for long days and fast hiking.
Pros: Wide toe box, zero drop, comfortable, good traction
Cons: Not waterproof, less protective on rugged terrain
06. Oboz Katabatic Low B-Dry – Best for Breathability and Comfort
The Oboz Katabatic Low B-Dry offers a waterproof yet breathable mesh upper and membrane, balancing dryness and airflow. Its supportive midsole and aggressive outsole provide stability on technical trails. Lightweight and comfortable, it fits snugly to prevent slipping but may require a break-in.
Pros: Waterproof and breathable, supportive, good traction
Cons: Narrow fit, break-in needed
07. Hoka Anacapa 2 Freedom – Best Cushioned Hiking Shoe
The Hoka Anacapa 2 Freedom delivers plush cushioning with durable traction, ideal for hikers prioritizing comfort. Its Vibram Megagrip outsole handles wet and muddy trails well, while the midsole absorbs impact effectively. Lightweight and breathable, it’s best for dry to moderate conditions but lacks full waterproofing.
Pros: Plush cushioning, good traction, lightweight
Cons: Not waterproof, less durable on rough terrain
Final Thoughts
These seven hiking shoes represent the best in comfort, durability, and performance for women in 2025. Choose based on your trail conditions, foot shape, and hiking style to ensure every step on the trail is supported and enjoyable.