Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2023

Reasons to Buy

• Provides great foot support
• High traction performance
• Superior breathability
• Well-constructed and durable
• Comfortable even during long treks

Reasons to Avoid

• Slightly pricey
• May need a break-in period
• Not suitable for extreme weather conditions

The Important Specs

• Sole: Vibram XS Trek with Impact Brake System
• Midsole: Compression Molded EVA, TPU inserts
• Upper Material: Abrasion-resistant mesh, Nano Cell 2.0 Technology
• Lining Material: GORE-TEX Surround

Review Roundup

For the lady hikers out there, the La Sportiva Spire GTX gets all check-marks for reliability and comfort which makes it one of the best picks for your hiking experience. These shoes rank high for durability, making them a great long-term companion on the trail. Their level of grip and sturdy Vibram outsole make them suitable for rain, shine, mud, or rock.

Previous buyers mentioned how they have held up remarkably well even after months of heavy-use and many backcountry miles. Inicial break-in period is mentioned frequently as these shoes take a few hikes to fit like a glove. After it, users praised their arch and ankle support, offering comfort, that leaves their feet feeling fresh even after a long day of trekking.

The Gore-Tex Surround technology incorporated in the design not only makes these shoes effectively waterproof but also does a great job of breathability. This means rain or sweat, your feet will stay dry, preventing unpleasant foot conditions that can develop when hiking. Some users mentioned that their feet did get a bit warm in particularly sunny conditions, which is to be expected with any waterproof footwear.

Another thing that stands out about the Spire GTX is just how lightweight they are. This is an excellent point of consideration for hikers and backpackers who are conscious about the weight they put on their feet. Reviews frequently commented about the noticeable light-feel, mentioning how nice it was to have one less thing to worry about while on the trail.

While many consumers love the fit and wear of these shoes, a few have mentioned that sizing could be a tad tricky with the La Sportiva Spire GTX where the fit was a bit narrow. So, if you have wider feet, you might want to consider trying these shoes on before making a purchase, or look into other models that have more toe box room.

As for aesthetics, the shoe sports a sleek, modern design in a few different color options which buyers have found to be appealing for outdoor gear. Some few users found the shoe design slightly stiff aesthetically, but this seems like a matter of personal preference.

Overall, consumers rate the La Sportiva Spire GTX as a high-performing hiking shoe with its durability, waterproofing, and lightweight design. Some potential downsides are the initial break-in period and a narrower fit. With a careful fit, these shoes prove to be reliable and comfortable trail cruisers.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent traction control on rough terrain
• Waterproof and breathable
• Provides substantial foot support
• Comfortable fit right out of the box
• Durable and long-lasting construction

Reasons to Avoid

• A bit pricey
• Toe box may be narrow for people with wider feet
• Might be too heavy for ultralight backpackers

The Important Specs

• Midsole: EnergyCell
• Outsole: Contragrip MA
• Material: Leather and Synthetic
• Lining Material: Gore-Tex

Review Roundup

The Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX is one heck of a hiking shoe, ladies. Decked out with some advanced tech and neat design features, these shoes have been kicking up dust on trails all over the world. Packed with performance-enhancing features, they bring to the table a perfect blend of comfort, traction, and durability. Being feather-light, they just feel natural on your feet - like an extension of your body.

The backbone of this shoe is Salomon's Advanced Chassis technology, which offers great stability and reduces muscle fatigue, even on long hikes. With it, you're not going to feel like you're dragging anvils tied to your ankles. That's a big plus!

For waterproofing, Salomon has brought in the GORE-TEX technology. It does a stellar job at sealing out water on those soggy trails, while also being quite breathable. Say goodbye to that squishy, uncomfortable sensation when you inadvertently step in a puddle.

The outsole boasts Salomon's ContraGrip technology contributing towards excellent traction on all kinds of terrain. Combined with the sturdy toe guard, you're well-protected against hopelessly jagged or slippery surfaces.

However, while the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX undoubtedly has a lot going on, it's not without minor hang-ups. Some users have pointed out that the lacing system can be a bit fiddly to get used to. Ideally, once fastened, shoe laces should be out of mind and sight, but with these shoes, you might find yourself doing a quick double-check now and then. And although the breathability is generally great, in hot weather, there might be some increased warmth that could lead to discomfort.

From online reviews, it's clear that most buyers overwhelmingly adore this rugged yet stylish hiking shoe. Women sporting the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX praise its comfort, stability, and waterproof capabilities. However, a small fraction of buyers indicate the need for improvement in the lacing system and breathability.

Overall, the Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX shines as a strong and reliable companion for your feet on the trails. The few areas of improvement are relatively minor, and the shoe has been well-received by consumers and is rated highly on top outdoor product review sites.

Reasons to Buy

• All-weather comfort
• Excellent traction
• 3D molded heel
• Good value

Reasons to Avoid

• Longer break-in period
• A bit narrow in fit

The Important Specs

• Heel: 3D-molded TPU heel counter
• Sole: SurfaceCTRL grip outsole
• Insole: OrthoLite footbed
• Material: Synthetic upper and sole
• Technology: FutureLight waterproof breathable membrane

Review Roundup

The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight hiking shoe ticks a lot of boxes for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking shoes are a tough category, after all you're looking for something that can rough it on the trails but also keep your tootsies comfy, and this shoe from The North Face does a pretty good job of meeting these demands.

First thing's first, let's talk about comfort. Loads of users were pretty thrilled with the underfoot cushioning that these shoes provide. Even after hours on the trail, feet still felt snug and protected. The padded collar and tongue also add a nice level of coziness that’s pretty important when you're covering significant miles.

Then there's the protection aspect. These shoes feature what they call a 'Futurelight' membrane, a fancy term for a waterproof barrier that also breaths. Users were pretty stoked about being able to stomp through puddles and boggy trails while keeping their feet dry. The rubber toe cap adds another layer of protection from those sneaky trail-side rocks and roots.

In terms of grip, it seems The Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight didn’t disappoint. Thanks to the tough rubber outsole, hikers reported a solid contact with the ground, even on slippery, uneven or rocky terrain. As one hiking enthusiast put it, 'I felt like Spiderman climbing a wall'.

However, no shoe is perfect, and users did mention a few downsides. A couple of hikers reported that the shoes took a little longer than they’d like to break-in. There were also comments about the sizing being a little off - narrow in the toes and overly roomy around the heel for some folks, making the fit a bit of a guessing game.

Also, if lightweight is your top priority, take note. While the Futurelight membrane does a great job at keeping feet dry, it adds a bit of extra weight. Some hikers pointed out that they can feel a bit hefty after a long day of walking.

Reasons to Buy

• Affordable without skimping on quality
• Sturdy and resilient construction
• Exceptional foot support for long hikes
• Good traction on a variety of surfaces
• Waterproof yet breathable material

Reasons to Avoid

• Some users note a longer break-in period
• May not be suitable for more technical terrain
• Not the lightest option on the market

The Important Specs

• Material: Leather and synthetic upper with Vibram sole
• Traction: 5mm lug depth
• Breathability: Mesh lining improves air flow
• Waterproofing: M Select DRY seals out water

Review Roundup

The Merrell Moab 3 for women certainly stands out in the budget-friendly hiking shoe category. With a design that catches eyes and a price tag that doesn't break the bank, it's hard not to take a second look at this pair. According to customers, the Moab 3 by Merrell is a good value for money, which is key when considering their budget options.

When it comes to comfort, a major concern for many hikers, the consensus among reviewers is that the Merrell Moab 3 does a good job. Most buyers find the shoe quite comfortable, even for long hikes. The shoe's advanced cushioning system and flexible material impart a coziness that lasts for hours on end on the trail.

The shoe's durability has also been generally well received. Customers who've roughed it out in these shoes for a while opine that they're up to the challenge. They hold up well to tough terrains and prolonged use, which many hikers consider a vital feature in a hiking shoe.

Let's talk about traction: The Merrell Moab 3 does a commendable job in this aspect too. Many buyers appreciate the solid grip on all sorts of surfaces, which is brought about by its Vibram outsoles. Safety is a key focus when you're treading the trails, and nothing brings comfort like knowing your shoes will hold sturdy.

Now, the shoe is not without its drawbacks. Some customers have shown concern over the fit of the shoe, with mentions of it being a bit narrow for wide feet. Others noted that the shoe might need a break-in period before reaching its full comfort potential. It's always helpful to try on the shoe prior to a long hike to prevent any discomfort along the way.

In terms of water resistance, it's a mixed bag. Some customers praise their decent water resistance, while others say they didn't hold up as well in damp conditions. Remember, though, that this factor largely depends on how often and under what conditions you're planning to use the shoe.

When it comes to the overall aesthetic, many buyers are pleased. They appreciate the modern, stylish design that doesn't sacrifice function for aesthetics. The shoe comes in various colors which means you're likely to find one that suits your taste. However, there were a few who mentioned they would've liked a wider range of color options.

In general, customer reviews for the Merrell Moab 3 are mostly positive. It's a comfortable, durable hiking shoe that promises good traction and a reasonable level of water resistance. While it may not be perfect, it delivers excellent value for the cost, which is what most budget-conscious hikers are looking for.

Reasons to Buy

• Superb traction on all surfaces
• Durably constructed
• Provides great support for feet
• Well-designed footbed
• Robust waterproofing and breathability

Reasons to Avoid

• Takes a bit of time to break-in
• May be on the pricier side for some

The Important Specs

• Midsole: Powerflow
• Waterproofing: GORE-TEX
• Upper Material: Mesh and synthetic
• Outsole Material: G-Grip rubber

Review Roundup

The Inov Roclite G 315 GTX V2 steps up to the trail with a mix of supportive design, lightweight build, and waterproof strength that's hard to beat. As a pair of ultralight hiking shoes, they don't weigh you down during those long treks, which for many, is a big plus.

One noteworthy feature of the Inov Roclite G 315 GTX V2 is its GORE-TEX membrane. It's one thing to talk about being waterproof, but this shoe walks the walk, offering exceptional protection from moisture for those unexpected creek crossings or sudden rainfall.

Users have highlighted the shoe's excellent traction as a standout feature. Thanks to its ROCLITE outsole with Tri-C rubber compound and multi-directional claw-shaped cleats, each step you take is secure, whether uphill or downhill, on gravel or on mud. This element has proven a game-changer on varying trail conditions and terrains.

Another aspect consistently praised by purchasers was the shoe's comfort. The flexible construction, padded collar, cushioned midsole and roomy toe box all contribute to a comfortable experience on the trail.

However, some users experienced a longer break-in period with these shoes. While not unique to the Inov Roclite G 315 GTX V2, it's still something to be aware of before embarking on any long hikes or backpacking trips.

Another area where opinions diverged was the shoe's durability. While a majority of users found these shoes to be quite hard-wearing, a few had concerns about the shoe's longevity after extensive and rough use. As with anything, expect some wear and tear after putting it through rigorous use.

Overall, the Inov Roclite G 315 GTX V2 has received glowing reviews for its lightness, comfort, grip, and waterproofing. Just remember to give them a decent break-in period and consider whether your outdoor adventures align with the shoe's durability capabilities

Reasons to Buy

• Top-tier hiking performance
• Excellent traction and grip
• Durable and well-constructed
• Crafted with Gore-Tex technology for exceptional breathability and waterproofing
• Low break-in period

Reasons to Avoid

• Higher price range
• May fit too snug for people with wider feet
• Not as lightweight compared to other hiking shoes in the market

The Important Specs

• Material: Mixed material construction combines TPU mesh laminate with nubuck leather
• Waterproof: Gore-Tex technology aids in both waterproofing and breathability
• Lacing System: Standard lace fastening for secure and adjustable fitting
• Sole Material: Incorporates Vibram Megagrip technologies for superior traction

Review Roundup

The Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX 2 shoes are some of the most reliable companions for ladies who love to hike in the mountains. Loaded with useful features, they are designed to tackle any terrains you can throw at them.

One of the key highlights has to be its breathability. Wearers rave about its GORE-TEX material that efficiently wicks away the sweat, providing all-day comfort. That's not all; the same material also stands as a protector against water – be it a sudden rain pour or a walk through wet grass.

When it came to the fit, most found it true to its size. The lightness and form-fitting design give you a kind of sneaker-like feel which many hikers greatly liked. Not to mention, the shock-absorbing EVA midsole that effectively eases every step you take.

Nonetheless, the most applauded feature was its traction. The Vibram sole is reliable in slippery conditions, providing exceptional grip. A few users even claimed they felt more confident and secure when they were wearing these hiking beauties.

Now, no product is without its downsides, and the same applies to Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX 2. Some customers reported that the shoe laces were not up to the mark. They complained that the laces were too slippery causing them to untie easily. But, on the brighter side, it can be easily fixed with a pair of aftermarket laces.

Another gripe was the price. Yes, they seem a bit on the hefty side but shoppers pointed out that the quality and performance justify the cost. A handful of users who had problem feet found the insoles could be a bit more supportive.

So, the verdict? The Arc'teryx Aerios FL GTX 2 are a reliable pair of hiking shoes that offer unmatched comfort and top-notch performance. Sure, there may be a couple of tweaks needed here and there but according to most users, they're still a gem of a find in the mountain hiking footwear market.