Most Recommended Women's Hiking Shoes of 2023

Updated

Need a new pair of hiking shoes? Our Curated experts try to make that decision a whole lot easier. They have made thousands of recommendations to campers and hikers of all kinds. Check out this list of most recommended women's hiking shoes, then chat with a Camping & Hiking expert to find out which shoe is best for you.

Lucas Henzler, Camping Expert
Cecilia R, Camping Expert
Mike Smeaton (Griz), Camping Expert
By Footwear ExpertsLucas, Cecilia, Mike and others
The Salewa Women's Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GORE-TEX® Shoes are a top pick for 2023, offering a perfect blend of comfort, support, and lightness. These shoes are waterproof and breathable, making them ideal for long hikes and backpacking trips. They provide excellent ankle support, and their weight is comparable to trail runners. Whether you're planning a regular day hike or a mountain range adventure, these shoes are up to the task.
Ideal for
  • Long hikes
  • Backpacking trips
  • Adventures requiring ankle support
  • Hikers preferring lightweight footwear
  • Hikers encountering wet conditions
Not ideal for
  • Ultralight backpacking
Nathan Lambert, Camping Expert
Lucas Henzler, Camping Expert
Ellian Weisbeck, Camping Expert
by Curated experts Nathan Lambert, Lucas Henzler, Ellian Weisbeck
The Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot is a top pick for the adventurous woman in 2023. Its durability and waterproof features make it perfect for rugged terrains and longer trips. With a weight of 1.7 lbs, it's light enough for backpacking yet offers excellent ankle support. The full-grain leather design provides superior protection against the elements, although it may require a longer break-in time.
Ideal for
  • Longer hiking trips
  • Hiking in rugged terrains
  • Backpacking
  • Carrying heavier loads
  • Those needing extra ankle support
Not ideal for
  • Those seeking highly breathable boots
  • Those who prefer a shorter break-in time
Kami B, Camping Expert
Cecilia R, Camping Expert
by Curated experts Kami B, Cecilia R
The Salewa Women's Mountain Trainer Lite Shoes are a top pick for 2023, ideal for those transitioning from boots to shoes or those who prefer a supportive, sturdy trail shoe. These shoes are lightweight yet offer excellent support, making them perfect for off-trail travel and rugged, rocky, wet terrain. They feature a POMOCA rubber outsole, trusted by expert alpinists and ski mountaineers, and a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane for unrivaled waterproof comfort and breathability.
Ideal for
  • Transitioning from boots to shoes
  • Those who prefer a supportive, sturdy trail shoe
  • Off-trail travel
  • Rugged, rocky, wet terrain
  • Those who value waterproof comfort and breathability
Davis P, Camping Expert
Alex Dolan, Camping Expert
by Curated experts Davis P, Alex Dolan

Which gear are you interested in?

The Salewa Women's Mountain Trainer Lite GORE-TEX® Shoes are perfect for those who love hiking in unpredictable weather conditions. These shoes are not only flexible and supportive, but they also come with a rubber toe cap for increased durability. The heel stabilizer provides support on unstable terrain, and the high wear-resistant fabric, including Gore-Tex technology, offers ultimate waterproofing for those wet weather days or stream crossings.
Ideal for
  • Hiking in unpredictable weather conditions
  • Crossing streams
  • Walking on unstable terrain
  • Those who require durable footwear
  • Those who value flexibility and support in their hiking shoes
Kate Wilson, Camping Expert
by Curated expert Kate Wilson
The Salewa Women's Alp Trainer 2 Mid GORE-TEX® Shoes are a top pick for the adventurous hiker. With a waterproof Gore-Tex membrane, these shoes ensure dry feet in unexpected weather. Their customizable multi-fit footbed offers exceptional comfort, while the lightweight design doesn't compromise on support. The mid-height provides ankle support, and the Vibram outsole offers ample traction. These shoes are also durable and supportive for challenging terrains, making them ideal for hikers carrying heavy loads.
Ideal for
  • Hikers seeking comfort and adaptability
  • Adventurous hikers facing challenging terrains
  • Hikers who need waterproof shoes
  • Hikers carrying heavy loads
  • Hikers seeking lightweight yet supportive shoes
Kat Smith, Camping Expert
Gregg Mason, Camping Expert
by Curated experts Kat Smith, Gregg Mason
The Salewa Women's Alp Mate Mid Shoes are the perfect companion for the adventurous woman. Designed for trekking, hiking, and backpacking, these shoes are waterproof, breathable, and dry quickly. They offer excellent flexibility, heel support, and protection thanks to the Salewa 3F system. The mid-height design provides extra ankle support, while the sturdy upper, rubber toe cap, and heel stabilizer add to the overall stability. Whether you're exploring alpine trails or encountering snow, these shoes are built to support natural movement and provide great traction.
Ideal for
  • Trekking and hiking
  • Backpacking
  • Alpine trails
  • Snowy conditions
  • All-day wear
Amy B, Camping Expert
Kat Smith, Camping Expert
Gregg Mason, Camping Expert
by Curated experts Amy B, Kat Smith, Gregg Mason
The Tecnica Women's Plasma S hiking shoes are a top pick for 2023, thanks to their unique heat-moldable CAS uppers and footbed, which offer a perfect fit right out of the box. These lightweight shoes provide excellent traction, making them ideal for hikers who value comfort and stability on the trail. However, the heat molding process must be done in-store, which may not be convenient for everyone.
Ideal for
  • Hikers who want a perfect fit without break-in period
  • Those who value lightweight hiking shoes
  • Hikers who need excellent traction
Not ideal for
  • Those who cannot access a shoe store for the heat molding process
Amy B, Camping Expert
Mike Smeaton (Griz), Camping Expert
by Curated experts Amy B, Mike Smeaton (Griz)

Curated experts can help

Have a question about the article you just read or want personal recommendations? Connect with a Curated expert to find exactly what you are looking for!
Result Summary
  1. Salewa Women's Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GORE-TEX® Shoes
  2. Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot
  3. Salewa Women's Mountain Trainer Lite Shoes
  4. Salewa Women's Mountain Trainer Lite GORE-TEX® Shoes
  5. Salewa Women's Alp Trainer 2 Mid GORE-TEX® Shoes
  6. Salewa Women's Alp Mate Mid Shoes
  7. Tecnica Women's Plasma S
Which Footwear product is right for you?
Get personalized recommendations from a certified gear expert. Take a short quiz to get started!