The new year means many of us are cleaning out our gear closets, replacing old gear, or buying gear for the very first time. Maybe your New Years' resolution is to start hiking, or maybe you’ve worn through the soles of your favorite pair of boots. Whatever the reason you might be shopping around, we have put together a comprehensive list of some of the best women's hiking boots. This list includes low-profile and mid-height boots that are suitable for a variety of outdoor activities and types of terrain. Whether you need a technical boot for alpine excursions or a comfortable fit for lengthy day hikes, we have something for you.

1. Danner Women's Trail 2650 Mid-GTX Hiking Shoe

The Danner Women’s Trail 2650 Mid GTX Hiking Shoe is arguably one of the best lightweight hiking boots. Featuring a Vibram outsole, GORE-TEX membrane, and plenty of breathability, this waterproof boot is constructed for technical adventures while offering a cushioned, lightweight feel.

The Vibram 460 Outsole and rugged lugs provide excellent traction on a multitude of terrain and the OrthoLite Footbed provides comfortable and stable support. Weighing only 22 ounces, this shoe is great for multi-day hikes, longer day hikes, and backcountry adventures. And the removable Ortholite insoles allows the wearer to customize the fit and stability to their liking. Sporting classic Danner mountain boot colors and design features, this shoe is sure to be a standout on the trail.

2. KEEN Women's Targhee II Waterproof Mid-Hiking Boots

Easily one of the most popular and best hiking boots around, the KEEN Targhee II is a mid-cut, waterproof, lightweight leather boot. It has become a classic in the outdoors community and one of Curated’s most recommended hiking boots. The hydrophobic mesh lining keeps the feet dry by wicking away moisture, while the Eco Anti-Odor controls unpleasant odors. And, non-marking multi-directional lugs create better traction on varied terrain.

Whether hiking through the mountains or trekking through the lowlands, these boots will offer comfortable stability. They especially excel in wet and muddy conditions due to their 4mm lugs, leather uppers, and waterproof membrane. And the mid-cut height and contoured heel offer extra stability and support for any adventure.

Plus, the Targhee IIs are constructed from environmentally preferred premium leather from an LWG-certified tannery and are PFC-free. KEENs have a roomy toe box and tend to fit mid- to wide-sized feet the best—so keep that in mind before purchasing.

3. KEEN Women's Targhee III Waterproof Hiking Boots

Keen's Targhee iii is a sturdy, versatile, low-profile hiking shoe that performs well in a variety of environments. Its lightweight construction makes it ideal for backpackers and thru-hikers, while the multi-directional lugs provide traction in most terrain.

These hiking boots feature an external stability shank and a heel-lock system that provides ankle support. The breathable mesh lining keeps feet cool while the waterproof leather outer sole keeps feet and socks dry in rainy and muddy conditions.

It’s no wonder the Targhee iii is one of our most popular shoes. Comfort and stability packaged with a performance fit make this a great shoe for long days on your feet.

4. La Sportiva Women's Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX

For those who need a hiking shoe that will stand up against tough terrain and harsh conditions, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II may be the best choice. Designed with GORE-TEX technology, this boot was made to withstand the elements. The waterproof and breathable lining keeps the feet cool and dry while the FriXion AT 2.0 outer sole and the Impact Brake System offer superior support and traction.

Thoughtful details such as the cushioned midsole, heel stabilizer, and comfort collar with a pull tab will prevent blisters and keep feet and ankles comfortable and relaxed during long or difficult treks. At 345 grams, the Ultra Raptor is ideal for long-distance hikers that need extra support. Plus, this shoe’s medium fit makes it ideal for average-sized feet.

5. Salewa Alp Mate Winter Mid WP Women's

For those looking for a versatile winter boot that can be worn hiking in the backcountry or strapped into a pair of snowshoes, the Salewa Alp Mate Mid-Cut hiking boot could be the perfect fit. Constructed with high-quality suede, a robust stretch fabric upper, and a durable rubber outsole, this boot is ideal for venturing out over tough terrain—whether it be ice, snow, rock, or mud. The inner lining is breathable and waterproof, keeping feet warm and dry in wet, cold conditions.

Built for winter performance, the Alp Mate features Kevlar cables for flexibility and support. The Alpine Wool lining offers optimal thermal insulation management. The durable EVA midsole creates a soft, cushioned platform with excellent shock absorption, while the climbing lacing and adaptive eyelets can be adjusted to the wearer’s preferences.

6. Salewa Women's Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GORE-TEX® Shoes

The Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite is a fantastic three-season technical shoe for hiking over rocky and uneven terrain. Perfect for a day in the mountains, this comfortable shoe offers a ton of stability due to its mid-cut height, forgiving ankle cuff, and heel stabilizer.

The rubber toe cap offers extra protection and makes this a great option for long, rocky approaches. And, the unique tread pattern and deep lugs offer high performance in a wide range of terrain from muddy grasslands to rocky trails to the snow- and ice-covered alpine.

Weighing in at 930 grams, this wider-fitting shoe is ideal for long day hikes and multi-day backpacking excursions. The climbing lacing can be adjusted to offer more support on difficult trails or to give a more relaxed fit while walking around town.

7. Scarpa Women's Maverick Mid GTX Shoes

The Scarpa Mavericks are a lightweight mid-cut hiking boot built to keep its wearer light and fast on the trail. Heavy loads and elevation gain are no match for these shoes.

Great for hiking and backpacking alike, these boots will endure various conditions, with deep self-cleaning lugs and a GORE-TEX lining. SCARPA Crossover soles with SuperGum rubber provide next-level grip on a variety of terrains, and the Dual-Density EVA midsole provides ample support while the synthetic leather and fabric upper support the ankles without being too rigid. Scarpa boots generally tend to fit narrow and medium-width feet the best.

8. The North Face Women's Activist Futurelight Shoes

For a lighter, lower-profile trail runner that feels like a pair of sneakers, check out the North Face Futurelights. At 21 ounces, these waterproof and durable shoes are ready to clock long weekends in the backcountry. Perfect for trail running, hiking, and backpacking, these hiking shoes sport a breathable yet waterproof FUTURELIGHT membrane and a protective rubber toe cap.

The performance mesh upper and gusseted tongue offer just enough support without compromising comfort. Plus, an Eco-friendly OrthoLite Hybrid footbed and single-density EVA midsole cushion the feet while offering arch support to keep their wearer moving efficiently. This hiking and running shoe is also comfortable enough for running errands or walking around town.

9. Women's Altra Lone Peaks

An iconic trail running shoe, the Altra Lone Peaks boast updated features such as new upper construction and a customizable lacing system designed for a better fit on the trails. Deep lugs provide traction on slippery terrain, while the mesh-uppers provide plenty of breathability. A great alternative to a heavy hiking boot, these Altras are perfect for trail running, thru-hiking, or day hikes.

(Read a more detailed review of the women's Lone Peak's here!)

10. Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

For over a decade, the Merrell Moab has been a top choice for hikers and backpackers. The new Moab 3 features a more supportive insole, a softer, cushioned midsole, and a Vibram outsole for maximum traction and comfort. The Moab 3 is also environmentally friendly, utilizing recycled materials—including 100%-recycled laces and webbing.

This boot features a waterproof membrane to ensure the feet stay dry by keeping water out and letting moisture escape. Further, the rubber toe and heel are abrasion resistant and protect the feet on rocky terrain. These boots come in both medium- and wide-width options.

Connect With Us

With so many footwear options, it may be difficult to decide which hiking boot is the right fit for you. Our Curated Camping and Hiking Experts would be happy to provide you with free advice on the pros and cons of each shoe and make customized recommendations based on your individual needs…so reach out to us!