While hiking boots are a must Hiking shoes are a really good thing to have in your gear locker for the trail as well. They provide another option for lighter hiking on trails and easier terrain.
Typically, I prefer to use hiking boots when hiking, but hiking shoes they have their place. They also look damn good with a pair of jeans, so they are a versatile investment.
Here in this article, I want to lay out the best hiking shoes for women in 2023, that are currently available. They all, more or less, have all the functionality and features that you, as a day hiker should be looking for in a pair of hiking shoes.
f you can’t wait and just want to know how to get our top hiking shoes recommendation, then check out the La Sportiva Spire GTX, they’re our favorite.
They all also score well across multiple review sites and multiple user review’s so if you’re in the market for a new pair of women’s hiking shoes, there are plenty of options listed here for consideration.
Note, that prices are not listed in definitive detail here. Prices chop and change all the time so we don’t reference them specifically. To see live prices, click on the product image or links and you will be taken to the live price for each pair of shoes on Amazon.
OK, so with that all done and dusted, let’s roll on and look at some of the top women’s hiking shoes!
1. La Sportiva Spire GTX
Pros:
- Comfortable fit
- Superb traction on varying terrain
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Expensive
La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoes for Women Features Summary:
- Abrasion-resistant mesh uppers provide durable protection while a Nano Cell 2.0 structure supplies maximum breathability
- Nano Cell 2.0 Technology works with the GORE-TEX SURROUND aeration channels within the footbeds and midsoles to supply 360° breathability along with waterproof protection
- STB Control System integrates ventilation outlets into midsoles designed to add structure and torsional stability for comfort, stability and a snug fit
- Vibram® XS Trek and Impact Brake System™ outsoles supply traction and grip
- Weight: 1 lb. 8.2 oz. (Pair)
Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use
The Spire GTX are a top notch hiking shoe offering from La Sportiva. These shoes are very functional and designed with the trail in mind. They give you excellent stability and superior grip via the Vibram XS Trek rubber outsole, which performs well on varying terrain, wet or dry.
The OrthoLite Insole/EVA/thermoplastic polyurethane inserts, delivers one of the standout aspects of these shoes, which is their stability without sacrificing on flexibility. So whether you like to amble and saunter on the trail or you prefer to push things at a faster pace, these shoes are perfect for the job.
The upper is made from a combination of mesh / polyurethane Techlite, which provides really great breathability. The shoes are comfortably tied using the functional lacing system, providing a secure fit and lots of comfort.
The rubber sidewall toe wrap also provides added stability but more importantly, it provides protection from hard objects e.g. when hiking over rocks. Your toes will thank you for it 🙂
These shoes are an excellent choice, which also provide good waterproof protection. We love these shoes and they are a great fit for a broad variety of activities, not just hiking, across the year.
While definitely pricier than some of their competitors, the La Sportiva Spire GTX are well worth the investment as you get excellent quality for your money.
2. Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry
Pros:
- BDry membrane that is both waterproof and breathable for dry feet.
- Flexible and supportive rubber outsole with deep, well-spaced lugs for excellent grip.
- Provides torsional stability and support thanks to its lightweight nylon shank and B-Fit dual-density EVA midsole.
- Comes with a premium insole that acts as a shock absorber, whilst providing stability, support and wicking of internal moisture for optimum comfort.
Cons:
- Heavier than a lighter weight fitness-style shoe, an advantage if you want to wear occasionally with a backpack, less so for speed.
Oboz Sawtooth II Low BDry Hiking Shoes Features Summary:
- Waterproof nubuck leather uppers and breathable, moisture-wicking nylon mesh liners combine protection and breathability to keep your feet dry and comfortable
- B-DRY waterproof and breathable membranes let sweat escape while keeping moisture out
- O FIT Insoles™ offer exceptional fit, feel and performance
- Dual-density EVA midsoles provide cushioning while keeping feet light and agile
- Nylon shanks offer protection underfoot, increasing surefootedness on varied terrain
- Heel counters crafted of abrasion-resistant textile and rubber increase comfort
- Protective toe overlays protect against abrasion
- Asymmetric collars articulate with ankle motion, accommodating for unique ankle bone locations
- High-friction, nonmarking rubber outsoles grip in all directions thanks to the toothy side lugs and directional lugs underfoot
Best Uses: Light trail hiking, general day-to-day use
Oboz are a new footwear brand from Bozeman, Montana, inspired by the desire to discover the millions of acres of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Each pair of shoes created by Oboz is handcrafted from high quality materials that met the brand’s demanding performance standards.
Unlike many of its competitors, the Women’s Sawtooth II Low BDRY hiking shoe has been designed to provide the extra stability and support needed to support loaded backpacks, making them an excellent choice for people who generally hike light but may do several longer backpacking trips a year.
Purchasing a pair of Sawtooths could enable you to avoid paying out for an additional pair of hiking boots to use just for those fewer longer trips.
The Sawtooth benefits from its own Sawtooth rubber outsole with deep lugs that are set well apart allowing greater flexibility, grip and support over any type of terrain.
The outsole includes a 3D molded external heel counter which has extra support and serves also as a heel lock making descents much easier and safer. A lightweight nylon shank supports the midfoot area, while the dual-density EVA midsole adds cushioning and stability.
The Sawtooth II come with superior O FIT Insoles™ that offer exceptional fit, feel and performance.
Your feet are also further protected by the breathable, waterproof B-DRY membrane that prevents any moisture from entering the durable leather and breathable synthetic mesh upper, whilst enabling perspiration to exit the shoe.
The Sawtooth is an impressive hiking shoe with a range of well designed performance features. It’s high quality and the fact that it comes with such a good insole, means that even though it is at the higher end of the price scale, it is not overly priced.
The only drawback with the Women’s Sawtooth II Low BDry is that its superior cushioning, shock absorption and comfort make it heavier than a lot of hiking shoes, although not unpleasantly so, and this extra weight can serve as support for if you want to wear them for backpacking.
This hiking shoe is a great versatile all-rounder and serves well as a replacement for a traditional hiking boot thanks to its extra support.
3. Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX
Pros:
- Lightweight hiking shoe, designed for hiking fast and light.
- Gore Tex breathable and waterproof liner.
- Descent Control technology.
- Rubber outsole with large lugs, designed for traction and grip at speed.
- Advanced chassis between the outsole and midsole for enhanced motion control.
Cons:
- Salomon QuickLace system is not to everyone’s taste.
Salomon Women’s X Ultra 3 GTX Shoes Features Summary:
- Textile and Synthetic
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately mid-top from arch
- Shoes are specifically designed for a woman’s anatomy, holding feet in place even during technical descents
- An asymmetrical chassis designed to accommodate a woman’s anatomy maximizes stability and cushioning while minimizing fatigue on rugged terrain.
- Two different types of rubber are strategically placed on the sole, resulting in a more intense grip.
- Special patterned area on the heel grabs terrain more aggressively, giving you more control when you’re moving along at a healthy clip. Salomon 2 year limited warranty
Best Uses: Trail running, hiking, general day-to-day use
French alpine brand Salomon have been passionately crafting outdoor sportswear since 1947. The Women’s X Ultra 3 GTX trail running shoe has been designed for those looking to hike light and fast.
Ideal if you like to hike ascents and run flats and descents, the Ultra 3 GTX makes use of advanced Descent Control technology for safe, easier descents, even in wet conditions.
The Ultra 3 GTX has a special Salomon rubber sole that uses strategic placing of two types of rubber to give you grip where you need it. The specially patterned heel allows more effective grip at speed, while the large, spaced out lugs give excellent traction.
In between the outsole and midsole, Solomon’s advanced chassis provides enhanced motion control, for safety and security with speed and agility. The injected EVA midsole adds shock absorption and cushioning, essential for moving comfortably at speed.
Complete with a EVA shaped footbed and OrthoLite sockliner for drier, more comfortable feet, the Ultra 3 GTX also benefits from a breathable, waterproof Gore Tex performance membrane. The abrasion-resistant synthetic upper is durable, complete with toe and heel protection.
The only downside of this excellent performance shoe is the lacing system that is not to everyone’s taste. The Salomon QuickLace system does not allow you to tighten a certain part of the shoe, and in spite of the lace pocket, the lace ends can dangle and become slightly annoying.
However, this hiking shoe is a great, versatile all rounder and is a perfect choice for those looking to hike at fast paces with some running combined, without losing any of the durability and protection of an actual hiking shoe.
4. Merrell Siren Edge 3
Pros:
- Comfortable hiking shoe with added cushioning and a Vibram rubber outsole.
- Shock absorbing heel and EVA foam midsole.
- Bellows tongue to keep debris out. M-Select FIT.ECO contoured footbed for comfort and organic odor control.
Cons:
- Durability can be an issue if you intend to be doing some serious hiking over rugged terrain.
Merrell Women’s Siren Edge 3 Hiking Shoes Features Summary:
- Mesh and 3D-printed TPU upper
- Traditional lace closure
- Kinetic Fit™ TRI removable contoured insole provide light support to all three arches of the foot
- Molded nylon arch shank
- Vibram® TC5+
- Vegan-friendly
- 3.5mm lug depth
Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use
Merrell have been manufacturing high-quality hiking footwear for over 30 years. Each and every pair is designed to fulfil four core values: comfort, durability, design and versatility.
The Merrell Siren Edge 3 Hiker is an extremely popular hiking shoe that has been conceived to fulfil all of these values and more.
The Siren Edge has a tough Vibram TC5+ rubber rubber outsole complete with multi-directional 3.5mm deep lugs, giving excellent traction and grip as well as durability.
The EVA midsole enhances comfort and shock absorption. Combined with the air-cushioned heel, your feet will feel comfortable over long distances of varied terrain.
Stability and rigidity is provided by the molded nylon arch shank, while the Kinetic Fit™ TRI removable contoured insole provides light support to all three arches of the foot.
Comfort and freshness are further enhanced by the Siren Edge’s breathable mesh and Mesh / 3D-printed thermoplastic polyurethane upper.
The bellows tongue keeps debris such as sand, gravel and vegetation out of your footwear, while the robust, tie-up laces allow you to adjust your shoe’s fastening for a perfectly adjusted, comfortable fit.
Merrell’s Siren Edge 3 is a great choice for those looking for a versatile walking shoe that performs well day after day, over a variety of terrain. This hiking shoe performs well on the trail, but is also stylish and comfortable enough to be worn around town or on city breaks.
Although designed primarily as a hiking shoe, the Siren Edge 3’s durability is questionable when used regularly over rough terrain and in certain cases, this low-cut hiking shoe may be better replaced with a more high-cut, sturdier shoe for more adventurous hiking off the beaten trail.
Priced around the middle of the women’s hiking shoe price range, this hiking shoe performs well but could perhaps do better given its price, although comfort-wise, it really is a popular option.
5. Merrell Moab 2 Vent
Pros:
- Vibram rubber outsole with 5mm lugs for excellent grip and traction.
- Durable, breathable upper for protection and enhanced comfort.
- Shock-absorbing heel and toe protection
- Organic odor control blended EVA contoured footbed for stability and comfort.
Cons:
- Added features, cushioning and its durable construction mean that the Moab 2 Vent is heavier than a lot of other hiking shoes such as the Siren Edge.
Merrell Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoe Features Summary:
- Leather & Mesh Upper
- Vibram TC 5+ Outsole
- Durable
- Nylon Arch Shank
- Air Cushion Comfort
Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use
Outdoor footwear specialists Merrell have designed the Moab 2 Vent hiking shoe with performance in mind, for a durable shoe that won’t let you down even over rough terrain.
The Moab 2 Vent features a Vibram rubber outsole with 5mm lugs for ultimate grip and traction over all terrain, in all weather conditions.
The Moab Vent 2 has a number of added features that enhance comfort and provide greater stability over long distances on the trail, such as its EVA midsole, shock-absorbing Merrell air cushioned heel and molded nylon arch shank.
Extra cushioning, heel and arch support is provided by the EVA contoured footbed with M Select FIT.ECO treatment providing organic odor control. A durable lace-up suede and mesh upper, complete with rubber toe protector makes the Merrell Moab 2 Vent a comfortable, solid hiking shoe that won’t let you down.
A bellows tongue adds further cushioning and keeps trail debris and moisture out, while its lining allows feet to breathe preventing moisture buildup. All of this comfort and cushioning does, however, add to the weight.
If you’re thinking of swapping your boots for the Moab 2 Vent then they will feel light and comfortable, but if you’re used to wearing trail runners, they can feel very heavy at first.
It all depends on your needs and where you intend to be wearing them most. In short, the Moab 2 Vent is a durable, moderately-priced hiking shoe that will provide you with excellent protection, comfort and support.
6. KEEN Voyageur
Pros:
- Roomy toe box.
- Durable, waterproof leather upper with breathable mesh underlay.
- Rubber sole with 4mm multi-directional lugs.
- Torsion stability ESS shank and EVA midsole.
Cons:
- Not for those looking for a flexible, sneaker style fit due to its rigid, protective sole.
KEEN Voyageur Hiking Shoe Features Summary:
- 100% Leather and mesh
- Waterproof and breathable
- Rubber sole
- Cleansport NXT™ for natural odor control
- 4mm multi directional lugs
- Contoured heel lock Torsion stability ESS shank
Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use
Keen is one of the most popular outdoor footwear manufacturers, and their Women’s Voyageur Hiking Shoe is a perfect embodiment of the brand’s commitment to comfortable, versatile and high-quality footwear.
This mid-height, waterproof hiking shoe is sturdy and durable, making it an excellent choice as an alternative to a traditional hiking boot.
The Voyageur has a non-marking rubber outsole with added grip provided by its 4mm multi-directional lugs for added traction. The outsole provides good grip over a variety of terrain even in wet, slippery conditions.
Stability and comfort are provided by the ESS shank and dual-density oppression molded EVA midsole. Even after many miles over rugged terrain, your feet will feel protected and cushioned.
Comfort is further enhanced by the Voyageur’s EVA metatomical dual-density footbed which supports your feet for extra stability. The Voyageur has a waterproof leather and mesh upper, designed to keep your feet dry, while allowing them to breathe.
The roomy toe box and patented toe protection are excellent features for mountainous terrain, making ascents and descents much easier, as well as protecting the shoe itself.
Pull-on loops and a lace-up fastening, make the Voyageur easy to put on and take off, as well as providing a more individualized fit. This hiking shoe is an ideal hiking boot replacement for those looking to do some serious walking over varied terrain.
Furthermore, the Voyageur is reasonably priced and offers great value for money, thanks to Keen’s excellent product durability.
However, if you’re looking for a flexible, trail-runner style hiking shoe, this is possibly not the right choice for you as it is quite inflexible, with the aim of providing added foot protection over uneven terrain. As a hiking boot substitute for lighter hiking, it is however, a great choice.
7. KEEN Targhee II
Pros:
- KEEN.DRY membrane provides a waterproof seal.
- S3 heel with contoured heel lock and patented toe protection.
- Durable nubuck upper with breathable mesh.
- Excellent traction with rubber outsole and 4mm multi-directional lugs.
Cons:
- Rigid and heavy, if you’re looking for a hiking shoe for occasional day hikes this may seem a little clunky and too much like an actual hiking boot.
KEEN Targhee II Hiking Shoes Features Summary:
- 100% Waterproof nubuck leather upper
- Cleansport NXT™ for natural odor control
- 4mm multi directional lugs
- Contoured heel lock
- KEEN.Dry waterproof breathable membrane Torsion stability ESS shank
Best Uses: Day hiking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use
The Keen Women’s Targhee II hiking shoe has been designed to provide as full a hiking boot replacement as possible, that is waterproof, rugged and reliable.
Manufactured with high-quality materials and KEEN’s outdoor expertise, the Targhee II is an ideal choice for those looking for a hiking shoe for extended hiking trips over extreme terrain. Like a hiking boot, this shoe provides a maximum of protection ensuring that your are safe and comfortable both on and off trail.
The Targhee II has a durable, rigid rubber outsole with 4mm multi-directional lugs providing excellent traction, even in slippery conditions, such as over wet rocks.
Its special Keen S3 heel (Shock, Suspension and Stability) complete with contoured heel lock and patented toe protection make these hiking shoes serious competition for any pair of hiking boots.
Ascents and descents are made much easier thanks to the heel lock, while the roomy toe box allows your feet to adapt to the descent, with the S3 heel providing cushioned support on impact. Support and stability are further enhanced by the shoe’s torsion stability ESS shank and its dual-density compression molded EVA midsole.
With its EVA metatomical footbed that molds to your feet, the Targhee II supports your feet with an individualized fit and comfort.
Feet are kept dry thanks to the KEEN.DRY membrane that prevents moisture from entering the shoe, while the shoe’s liner wicks away moisture from the skin to the breathable mesh and durable nubuck leather upper.
The shoe features a lace-up front for an adjustable fit with a supportive collar. The Targhee II is excellent value for money and is moderately priced. It is a durable, feature-packed hiking shoe that provides a huge heel of support and protection no matter what the terrain.
However, while this certainly is an excellent hiking shoe, it is possibly almost too similar to an actual hiking boot for anyone looking for a hiking shoe for short day hikes.
Given its protective features anyone looking at purchasing the Targhee II would also do well to consider the Mid hiking boots version of the Targhee II.
8. Lowa Renegade II GTX LO
Pros:
- Vibram Renovo rubber outsole for excellent grip and traction.
- PU midsole and full nylon shank for stability.
- Breathable Gore Tex membrane for dry feet.
- Durable nubuck leather upper.
Cons:
- Expensive price compared to competitors.
- Narrow fitting without much space in the toe box.
Lowa Renegade II GTX LO Hiking Shoes for Women Features Summary:
- 100% Leather
- Vibram sole
- GORE-TEX waterproof, breathable lining
- Climate control footbed
- PU Monowrap Frame midsole
- Full length nylon stability shank
- Vibram Renovo outsole
Best Uses: Trail hiking, camping, general outdoor use, day-to-day use
Lowa have been handcrafting superior hiking footwear in Europe for almost 90 years and the Renegade II embodies their high levels of quality and craftsmanship.
The GTX LO model is the waterproof, low cut version of the Renegade boot line featuring a Gore Tex membrane for breathable dryness.
Sturdy and supportive, the Renegade has been designed to provide excellent grip over a variety of terrains thanks to its Vibram Renovo outside with multi-directional lugs.
Combined with the stability provided through its PU Monowrap Frame midsole, for lightweight cushioning and lateral stability and its full-length nylon shank, this hiking shoe provides all the support you need for backpack weights up to around 20 pounds (9 kg).
The Gore Tex membrane works in tandem with the moisture-wicking climate control footbed, to ensure that your feet remain dry, from both the inside and the outside. The breathability of the Gore Tex membrane allows perspiration to pass through while keeping external moisture out.
The durable, abrasion-resistant nubuck upper securely holds your feet in place, although the toe box is not as roomy as other brands and for some people the narrow fitting may be a problem, be sure to check this. Derby-style lacing complete the upper and allow a customized fit.
Understandably, for a shoe made in Europe, the price is pretty high, although the durability and quality of the materials used are excellent. The Renegade is an excellent hiking shoe, that will keep your feet dry and comfortable wherever you choose to wear it.
9. TNF Hedgehog Fastpack II GTX
Pros:
- Lightweight with excellent stability for agility and faster-paced hiking.
- Breathable and waterproof Gore Tex membrane.
- CRADLE technology for added stability, meaning better grip and less chance of slipping.
- Durable Vibram rubber outsole for excellent grip and traction over all terrains in any weather.
Cons:
Can be a little rigid for fastpacking or faster-paced hiking. If you’re aiming to run more than hike, you may prefer a more flexible model.
TNF Hedgehog Fastpack II GTX Hiking Shoes Features Summary:
- Upper: PU-coated leather and synthetic nubuck upper
- Abrasion-resistant mesh
- DryVent™ waterproof membrane
- HF-welded navicular lock overlay
- Eco-friendly OrthoLite® X35™ Hybrid™ footbed
- Sole Unit: Single-density EVA midsole
- CRADLE™ heel-stability technology
- Nylon midfoot shank
- ESS midfoot shank
- Vibram® XS Trek outsole
Best Uses: Trail hiking, fastpacking, general outdoor use, day-to-day use
The North Face is renowned for the high quality of its outdoor wear, with pieces that not only offer exceptional performance, but which also make use of innovative technological advances combined with modern styling.
The Women’s Hedgehog Fastpack II GTX Hiker is a lightweight hiking shoe designed for agility and pace.
Its durable Vibram outsole provides the necessary grip and traction for all terrain types, while the dual-density, compression molded EVA midsole uses The North Face CRADLE technology to provide extra support.
The lightweight TPU shank, quarter weld and heel with CRADLE stability technology provide further support and stability or better grip and security over all types of surfaces.
The Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiker benefits from a PU coated leather and abrasion resistant, breathable mesh upper. The Gore Tex membrane ensures that feet stay dry by allowing perspiration moisture to escape from the shoe’s interior, while keeping external moisture out.
This hiking shoe is suitable for year-round use, although you may prefer the full protection of a boot in winter, depending upon where you are located.
The Hedgehog Fastpack GTX Hiker has a traditional lacing system that can be adjusted for a personalized fit, helping to keep your feet securely in place.
Surprisingly, this hiking shoe is quite reasonably priced and offers excellent value for money. It provides great protection and stability, whilst remaining lightweight for faster paced hiking.
However, if you’re looking to really fast pack rather than hike with a small amount of running, you may be better with a more flexible sports-style shoe than this shoe.
10. KEEN Terradora 2
Pros:
- Keen.Dry membrane keeps getting dry while allowing them to breathe.
- ESS internal shank for enhanced stability.
- Rubber outsole with 4mm lugs.
- Metatomical EVA cushioned footbed.
Cons:
- Watch the sizing, narrower fit than a traditional KEEN shoe
KEEN Terradora 2 Hiking Shoes for Women Features Summary:
- KEEN.DRY waterproof/breathable membranes keep outside moisture at bay while allowing inside moisture to escape
- PFCs break down very slowly in the environment, so KEEN has switched to a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) treatment that is still effective in repelling water and dirt
- Women-specific low-density EVA midsoles
- Anatomic flex grooves enhance natural movement
- KonnectFit heel-capture system creates a locked-in feel
- Removable dual-density EVA footbeds with arch support provide long-lasting comfort
- Stability shanks deliver lightweight support
- KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsoles with 4mm multidirectional lugs offer high-traction grip
- Fit tip: This style has a narrower fit than a traditional KEEN shoe
Best Uses: Light trail hiking, general outdoor and day-to-day use
Popular outdoor footwear brand Keen have created the Terradora 2 Waterproof hiking shoe as a versatile, go-to shoe that can be worn around town as well as for occasional hiking.
It’s a great choice if you are looking for a shoe for a walking trip or hike that you can also wear on other occasions afterwards. The lightweight Terradora features a rubber outsole for grip, with 4mm multi-directional lugs to help grip in the wet and over uneven terrain.
Enhanced stability is provided by its ESS shank and low density EVA midsole. The dual density EVA footbed adds cushioning and comfort.
The Keen Terradora Waterproof benefits from a Keen.Dry membrane that keeps water out of the shoe whilst allowing feet to breathe. However, the textile and synthetic mesh upper is not quite as durable as it could be.
For this reason, this hiking shoe is best suited for light use over well maintained trails.
If you’re looking for a comfortable shoe that you can wear for occasional walking and around town, then the Keen Terradora could be the one for you, although it isn’t meant to be put through very challenging terrain.
The Terradora is, however, available at a low price making it a decent purchase for anyone looking for a hiking shoe that will not require extensive wear.
11. Merrell All Out Blaze Aero Sport
Pros:
- Quick drying mesh upper.
- Molded TPU heel counter for added stability on wet, rocky descents.
- Merrell Omni-Fit lacing system to keep your laces securely tied underwater.
- Durable, slip-resistant Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole.
Cons:
- Non removable inserts.
- Open-weave fast drying fabric can let in or trap debris and vegetation, not suitable for rough terrain.
Merrell Women’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Shoes Features Summary:
- 100% Textile
- Synthetic sole
- Merrell Omni-Fit lacing System provides a precise, glove-like fit
- Bellows tongue keeps debris out
- Molded TPU heel counter for added stability
- Breathable mesh lining.5mm lug depth Vibram TC5+ outsole
Best Uses: Trail hiking, water activities, general outdoor and day-to-day use
Outdoor performance shoe manufacturer Merrell have designed the All Out Blaze Aero Water Shoe for creek exploration and high temperature hiking. With its quick drying, breathable mesh upper your feet will stay dry over land and dry off quickly after time spent in the water.
Featuring a Vibram TC5+ outsole for durability and protection, you’ll have great grip and traction over wet slippery rocks thanks to the 5mm deep lugs, essential for creek exploration. The molded TPU heel counter aids stability and will help you over rocky descents.
The All Out Blaze water Shoe features a mesh lining for extra breathability and ventilation combined with the mesh upper and a non-removable foam insert.
Although the bellows tongue is designed to keep debris out, bear in mind that due to the open weave nature of this shoe’s upper, you don’t want to be wearing it where small bits of vegetation, thorns or gravel can make their way into the interior or become lodged in the fabric.
The shoe fastens with Merrell’s Omni-Fit lacing system which helps to ensure that your laces stay tight in the water, where conventional styles risk pulling off.
This hiking water shoe provides good support and excellent ventilation, making it a good choice for hot weather hiking over well maintained trails without any debris and of course for water exploration.
The All Out Blaze Hiking Water Shoe is competitively priced at the low end of the price spectrum, making it great value for money if you intend to be hiking in areas with creeks or for keeping your feet cool in high temperatures.
12. KEEN Presidio II
Pros:
- Rubber outsole for grip.
- EVA dual density footbed.
- Patented toe protection.
- Durable, water-resistant nubuck upper.
Cons:
- Designed primarily as a versatile shoe, its focus on looks and discreet design make it impractical as a full-time hiking shoe.
Keen Women’s Presidio II Hiking Shoes Features Summary:
- Full-grain and nubuck leather uppers are backed with breathable mesh linings
- Compression-molded EVA midsoles and removable polyurethane footbeds provide arch support and rich comfort
- Cleansport NXT™ for natural odor control
- Nonmarking rubber outsoles
Best Uses: Light trail hiking, general day-to-day use
Keen are renowned for their durable and practical outdoor footwear, with the women’s Presidio II Shoe becoming a rapid bestseller thanks to its comfort and versatility.
Equally at home out on the trail or about town, the discreet Presidio relies upon classic styling for a shoe that keeps feet comfortable all day long.
The Presidio II has a non-marking rubber outsole, so it can be worn in a variety of locations. The supportive midsole and cushioned, contoured EVA dual-density footbed provide the comfort you need for a day spent on your feet, complete with Cleansport NXT treatment for natural odor control.
With its durable, water-resistant nubuck leather upper, this outdoor-wear shoe is finished with metal eyelets and a lace up front for a highly adjustable fit.
The cushioned tongue keeps your feet comfortable and supported, while the leather lining improves breathability. The Presidio is completed with Keen’s patented toe protection that prevents painful toe stubbing.
Priced towards the mid-to-high end of the price spectrum, the Presidio is a highly wearable shoe, and the focus has been firmly placed upon creating a versatile shoe that can be worn on a variety of occasions, including light hiking.
It’s low-cut silhouette and discreet outsole appear to have been designed for the town rather than the country.
While this shoe is comfortable, supportive and an extremely popular choice for those on their feet all day, it is more ideally suited as a versatile urban shoe that can be worn on the occasional short hike rather, than a hiking shoe per se.
Its water-resistant upper is not as breathable as mesh hiking shoes nor as waterproof as those with membranes. The discreet, non-marking sole has good grip but is lacking the traction of an actual hiking shoe.
If you’re looking for a practical, versatile shoe to wear for long days on your feet, for work, city breaks or paved trails then the Keen Presidio is an excellent choice. If you need a dedicated hiking shoe to stand in for an actual hiking boot, then this shoe is going to disappoint.
Some Quick Thoughts on Buying Advice
In this section, before we close, let’s take a short look at buying advice for hiking shoes.
Like hiking boots, personal taste and preference plays a huge part in getting a pair of hiking shoes that meet your needs and that you feel comfortable with. Leaving out style and look, individual physical foot shapes alone mean that what suits one woman, may well not work for another.
Basically, everyone has different and specific requirements including a preference for a particular style or look. Some love a hiking shoe that more or less looks like a hiking boot, although shorter of course, while others want a more modern fashion type statement from their hiking shoes.
The good news is, unsurprisingly, the market caters for all tastes, shapes and sizes! You can also learn much from people’s functional user experience with particular models of hiking shoes.
The most important bottom line piece of buying advice to know before you buy is simply, know what you need your hiking shoes for.
Everything listed on this page, are all excellent hiking shoes with lots of good user experience with them. However some of them are better suited to particular activities than others.
For example, some shoes are great for a bit of trail running, if you like to mix that in with your hiking, or fastpacking. Some have extra capability in terms of traction in water, if you like to hike up through creeks. Others are more for light trail hiking and general use.
If you’re totally new to buying hiking shoes and would like some more information on how to choose, check out our buying guide to give you an idea of what you should be thinking about before picking a suitable pair of shoes for your needs.
Conclusion
So that’s it! I hope you enjoyed this quick preview of the best hiking shoes for women in 2023. As you can see, there is a lot of great choice on offer for sure.
As I said at the start, I don’t think hiking shoes can fully replace hiking boots, but they are an essential part of any hikers kit, and well worth the investment. So if you’re on the hunt for a new pair of hiking shoes, definitely check some of these options out.
As mentioned above, always remember to know your requirements before buying a new pair of hiking shoes or boots. There can be a big variation in price and there is no point buying more than you need.
I really hope you found this post useful, if you did, please like and share it around your networks 🙂