Stylish Hiking Boots For Women – 2023 Update

Are you looking for some suggestions for stylish hiking boots for women this summer? Don’t hit the trails before you dwell into these 8 items and a full list of advice below.

Here is what I have to offer:

• Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot – Best for day hikes
• Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot – Best for winter trails
• Hi-Tec Skamania Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot – Best for serious hikers
• ARIAT Terrain Waterproof – Best for plantar fasciitis
• Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX W Hiking Boot – Best waterproof
• Ariat Terrain Work Boot – Best for active girls
• Ahnu Montara Waterproof Boot – Best for high arches
• Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot – Best for vintage fans

Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot – Best for day hikes

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B01HGVY0TM” imgid=”81ZByzAHLsL” altimg=”Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot”]

Product Specifications

Color	Navy Morning, Boulder/ Blush, Bungee Cord, Espresso, Granite
Material	Suede leather and mesh upper
Ankle Height	Mid-cut
Water Resistance	Yes
Weight	0.98 lbs
Highlight Features	Merrell M Select™ FIT.ECO+ blended EVA contoured footbed, 5mm lug depth, organic odor control, M Select™ DRY technology

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• Athletically styled
• Breathable mesh lining
• Organic odor control
• Short break-in time

” cons=”

• Arid underfoot support

“]
What makes these puppies so unique? They require only one day to break in, and their performance afterwards is exceptional. With molded nylon arch shank, Merrel Moab 2 MP offers security up to the ankles.

What’s more, the boots, featuring breathable mesh lining and M Select DRY waterproof, are a good deal under $200. For ladies who love athletically styled hiking boots, nothing can beat the Merrel Moab 2 MP.

The only apparent drawback is the arid underfoot support.

Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot is the perfect choice for day hikes. You will love its durability and comfort.

Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot – Best for winter trails

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B006A11X1I” imgid=”81Hwcno8kjL” altimg=”Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot”]

Product Specifications

Color	Grey ash/ riptide, Quarry/ cool wave, black/ poppy red, Cordovan/crown jewel, Delta/ red velvet, Mud/eve
Material	PU Coated Leather
Ankle Height	5.25 inches
Water Resistance	Yes
Weight	0.81 lbs
Highlight Features	Advanced traction outsole,  Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• Durable midsole
• Superior cushioning
• Multiple colors and sizes.

” cons=”

• Small toe box

“]
Looking for a pair of hiking boots that can nail cold winter and slippery trails? Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus is available to get rid of your concern.

With advanced traction outsole, these puppies can hold it okay in any terrains in almost any conditions, regardless of water, dessert, or mud.

They are incredibly lightweight with multiple colors and sizes to choose. Columbia Newton Ridge Plus also comes with a removable insole and Merrel air cushion to absorb shock and increase stability. No blisters or discomfort ever found!

What isn’t great? Some reviews claim that the toe box is small, so you need to look for an extra size to try on before making the purchase.

Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Hiking Boot with superior cushioning and support, is perfect for tough winter trails.

Hi-Tec Skamania Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot – Best for serious hikers

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B00LIP24LY” imgid=”81EbgZstN-L” altimg=”Hi-Tec Skamania Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot”]

Product Specifications

Color	Grey/viola, Natural/pink, Taupe/dune/ violet ice
Material	Suede and mesh
Ankle Height	5 inches
Water Resistance	Yes
Weight	1.2 lbs
Highlight Features	Ghillie lacing system with rustproof, Removable molded EVA footbed, Dri-Tec waterproof

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• High-performance mesh and waterproof suede
• Removable contoured footbeds
• Lightweight

” cons=”

• Thick arch support

“]
For serious hikers, nothing is better than Hi-Tec Women’s Skamania Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot. The waterproof membrane is breathable and moisture-wicking, which keeps your feet comfortable and dry during the journey.

While EVA foam midsole offers a cushion for your feet, the rugged outsole enhances tractions and grips on the ground. Overall, I love the boots because of its sturdy design and roomy size.

Some people complain that the arch support is too hard, so you need to wear thick socks to prevent discomfort.

Hi-Tec Women’s Skamania Mid-Rise Waterproof Hiking Boot, reliable materials and comfortable design, is a must-have item for serious hikers.

ARIAT Terrain H2O Waterproof – Best for plantar fasciitis

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B0012MMWM4″ imgid=”81jCj4zInAL” altimg=”ARIAT Terrain Waterproof”]

Product Specifications

Color	Copper, Distressed brown
Material	Full-grain leather
Ankle Height	5 inches
Water Resistance	Yes
Weight	3.44 lbs
Highlight Features	Seam-sealed construction,  Duratread™ outsole, ATS® performance, Waterproof Pro

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• Best for plantar fasciitis
• 100% waterproof, full-grain leather
• Moisture-wicking lining

” cons=”

• Limited choices of color

“]
Typically, it is hard to find suitable boots for plantar fasciitis; however, the ARIAT Terrain Waterproof takes first prize!

People with this repetitive strain injury can walk in different types of terrain with these hiking boots without feeling pain. The pair also live up to users’ expectation with 100% waterproof, full-grain leather.

Ariat only offers two colors for women to choose from.

Those with plantar fasciitis should definitely put ARIAT Terrain Waterproof in their shopping list.

Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX W Hiking Boot – Best waterproof

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B072PPXZMM” imgid=”915Oe5og5cL” altimg=”Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX W Hiking Boot”]

Product Specifications

Color	Crown blue, Shadow, Blue/ evening blue/ sunny lime, Acai, Shadow/castor/gray/ beach glass
Material	Textile and Synthetic
Ankle Height	4 inches
Water Resistance	Yes
Weight	0.92 oz
Highlight Features	GORE-TEX Performance, Waterproof PU Coated Leather

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• GORE-TEX
• Snug fit, foothold
• Stability and cushioning
• Lightweight

” cons=”

• Slightly high tongue

“]
Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX W Hiking Boot is designed specifically for women. It has many things to offer, from top-notch waterproof PU coated leather, advanced chassis, to OrthoLite to GORE-TEX performance.

Your feet are secure, stable and comfortable with snug fit and foothold. It is also incredibly lightweight too.

I notice that the boots have a slightly high tongue that could make some people uncomfortable.

Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX W Hiking Boot, comes with PU Coated Leather, will shed water out of your way.

Ariat Terrain Work Boot – Best for active girls

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B07NBZHNGK” imgid=”81WrvKosYWL” altimg=”Ariat Terrain Work Boot”]

Product Specifications

Color	Cordovan, Distressed brown/ camo, Walnut/ serape, Tundra, Taupe
Material	Full grain leather
Ankle Height	4 inches
Water Resistance	No
Weight	0.65 lbs
Highlight Features	ATS® performance, Duratread™ outsole

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• Full grain leather with stylish serape print details,
• Duratread outsoles,
• A moisture-wicking lining,
• ATS Pro comfort footbeds

” cons=”

• Not suitable for rough terrain and wet conditions

“]
Ariat Women’s Terrain Work Boot is indeed my all-time favorite hiking boots. With its stylish serape print details, these terrain work boots are the perfect choice for active women.

Though it is a pair of work boots, you can also use it for walking, hiking and riding as well.

It features duratread outsoles, a moisture-wicking lining, and ATS Pro comfort footbeds, which offer the best boot-wearing experience.

The downside is the boots aren’t suitable for rough terrain and wet conditions for too long.

The unique design of Ariat Women’s Terrain Work Boot makes it the ideal option for active cowgirls.

Ahnu Montara Waterproof Boot – Best for high arches

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B00RL6U7Z4″ imgid=”91prf5loFUL” altimg=”Ahnu Montara Waterproof Boot”]

Product Specifications

Color	Midnight blue, corduroy, Muir green, Black
Material	Waterproof-oiled leather
Ankle Height	5 inches
Water Resistance	Yes
Weight	1 lbs
Highlight Features	Breathable eVent bootie, D-ring lacing system

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• Waterproof-oiled leather,
• Rubber toe and heel,
• Breathable

” cons=”

• Not for narrow feet

“]
Ahnu Women’s Montara Waterproof Boot guarantees to bring surprising experience with its good arch support. You can start the boots right out of the box since it requires little to no break-in time.

Featuring breathable, waterproof-oiled leather, the Montara boots offer comfortable wear for miles on end.

The drawback? These boots might not want a good catch for ladies with narrow feet.

So women with high arches don’t have to worry anymore because Ahnu Women’s Montara Waterproof Boot is here to save the day.

Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot – Best for vintage fans

[imgb trackingid=”donatwald-20″ asin=”B00K230C58″ imgid=”91I3-p-kj9L” altimg=”Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot”]

Product Specifications

Color	Brown, Cascade
Material	100% full-grain leather
Ankle Height	5 inches
Water Resistance	Yes
Weight	42 oz
Highlight Features	Made in the USA, Vibram® Kletterlift rubber outsoles, Water-resistant Cambrelle linings, Handcrafted stitch-down construction

[su_pros_cons pros=”

• Full-grain leather
• Made in the USA
• Dri-Lex lining
• Danner’s hand-crafted stitch down construction

” cons=”

• No-waterproof lining

“]
Danner Women’s Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot brings a taste of vintage for hikers. The Mountain Light Cascade has paid tribute to the famous hiking styles in the 1970s.

The antique effect comes from the two subtle colors brown and cascade as well as the stylish design.

The boots also feature Danner’s hand-crafted Veldtschoen construction, which offers more space and stability for wearers. However, the lack of waterproof lining makes this pair of boots less appealing to serious hikers.

Danner Women’s Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boot offers vintage fans the most classic look to bring on the trail.

How to choose stylish hiking boots for women (buying guide)

A pair of hiking boots could be a make-or-break element for your trip. A fit pair of boots will not only provide support to your feet but also make your whole trip a pleasant experience.

So, how to choose a stylish hiking pair of boots for women?

Define your preferences

Before heading to any footwear store, make sure you run through the list of questions below. These questions are essential since they help you define your preferences on hiking.

• Are you a frequent hiker or occasional one?
• Do you prefer day hiking trip with comfortable and enjoyable paths or are you up for more challenges with heavy-duty terrain?
• Are you a frequent hiker who often embark on long and varied terrain?
• Do you have any problem with your ankles?
• Are you on orthotics at the moment?

Once you collect all the answer, you have an overview picture of what you need and don’t need for a pair of boots.

If you are a frequent hiker with rough and challenging terrain go for either hiking boots or trail runner with full ankle support. Those with ankle or knee problems should also consider a pair of arch and ankle support as well.

It is essential to consult a podiatrist if you suspect your condition. Their assessment and recommendation will guide you to buy the right footwear for future trails.

Last but not least, be conscious of where you will hike. Will it be a comfortable path to hike for a day? Or is it a rough terrain off the beaten track? For some terrains, you need waterproof boots while others will require lots of stability.

Choose the right store to start with

If this is the first time you buy hiking boots, never start with online stores! Trust me; this is the less favorite way you want to spend your money on hiking boots! So ladies, take some time and check the nearby stores. I would suggest to try them on in the morning and later in the evening since your shoe size changes during the day.

Get fitted

Once you find a pair in your dream, don’t just make a hassle decision after putting one shoe on. This is the deadly mistake that most newbies make.

Even if you find hiking boots from your favorite brands with all supportive features checked you still need to make sure that your feet like the pair too!

Remember to bring these with you when you’re at the store:

• Two pair of comfortable hiking socks
• Footbeds
• Orthotics
• Your current hiking boots if you already have ones.

So put on your socks, insert any footbeds and orthotics and then wear the pair on. Make sure that you spend time on the boots: stomping, walking, or whatever you like. Don’t rush yourself; otherwise you will end up with an expensive, useless pair.

When it’s all set and done, wear your brand-new hiking boots for the first week so that you can accelerate the break-in time.

Who makes the most stylish hiking boots for women?

In the boot making field, it isn’t hard to find reliable manufacturers for women. However, not everyone could make stylish hiking boots.

There are a few vendors I entrust with their craftsmanship and dedication when it comes to a voguish pair of hiking boots.

Here is the list:

• Danner
• Ahnu by Teva
• Merrell
• Columbia
• Hi-Tec
• Ariat
• Salomon

FAQs

Do I need winter hiking boots?

Well, it depends on your personal preference in footwear.

Some standard hiking boots are created with beautiful spikes and insulation that get most of the job done even in the winter. And of course, some won’t work as well in such a harsh condition.

For the most part, winter hiking boots consumers buy them for the insulation and the excellent grip. Both of these features ensure that the boots will not sink in the snow and your feet will not get frozen because of the temperature and some possible moisture.

What is the difference between hiking boots and walking boots?

	Hiking boots	Walking boots
Designated condition	Rough, rocky, uneven terrain or steep slope.	A long, flat or gentle route with limited rocks and climbing.
Weight	Heavyweight	Lightweight
Waterproof	Most of them	Some of them
Ankle support	Great (specially designed cushions and lacing system around the ankle)	Limited
Foot support	Great (extra paddings insoles)	Limited (softer paddings)

Are waterproof hiking boots breathable?

Maybe. This depends a lot on the model as well as your preference.

Some of the best water-repelling membranes ever installed in hiking boots are manufactured by Gore-Tex. And loyal customers having this specific design in their boots are saying that this is a must.

However, there are still some hikers that are against it. They think that this is unnecessary since sometimes, breathability is compromised.

So, once again, this is situational.

Should you buy hiking boots a size bigger?

Usually, it’s sensible to buying hiking boots a size bigger. And there are 2 reasons behind this:

• The boots must be able to adapt to different socks and insoles
• When walking downhill, the toes get uncomfortable and even injured if they keep pressing against the toe cap.

How many miles does it take to break in hiking boots?

The average mileage for you to break in hiking boots ranges from 10 to 20 miles. Many factors come into and change the whole game. This includes your physique, the condition of your hikes, the design of the boots and so-on.

How often should you replace hiking shoes?

There is no perfect time frame since everyone’s situation is very different. The only way you can find out whether or not your hiking shoes need replacing is to perform some tests with it. If they have one of these symptoms, it’s high time you got rid of them.

• Leakage when hiking in wet conditions
• Discomfort or blisters on your feet
• Fraying laces and stitches
• Padding collars getting thin

Are hiking boots or shoes better?

Since both of these footwears serve the purpose of a good hiking trip, you need to look at your situation and decide that for yourself.

	Hiking boots	Hiking shoes
Pros	Good ankle support, protective on rough terrain, good traction, durable, warmer.	Comfortable, light, nimble, quick-drying, require no breaking in, easy to pack.
Cons	Heavier, take time to break in, take longer to dry when wet, harder to pack.	Little ankle support, less protective on rough surfaces, less durable.

The bottom line

It will take a while until you find a pair of comfortable and fashionable hiking boot; however, the reward is worth everything. If you consider hitting the trails this summer, now is a good time to start looking for one.

Hit me up when you still need some more inspirations for stylish hiking boots for women.