The Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2026

The Quick & Dirty: For hikers who want trail runner agility backed by mountain-ready stability & control, this is the gold standard; just know the narrow fit & single-pull lacing aren’t for every foot shape.

The newly released Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX ($170) is a lightweight hiking shoe that’s as agile as a trail runner but has all the stability, grip, and waterproof protection needed for more technical terrain. We loved its predecessor, the X Ultra 4 GTX. But in this iteration, Salomon addressed most of our concerns, elevating it from a hiking shoe we like to one we love.

Even after wearing them all day (without any break-in period), they still felt amazing while on a spring hike along a partially snowy, partially clear trail in Grand Teton National Park. Our tester wears a size 9.5, and they ran true to size. The X Ultra 5 GTX hiker fits snugly without cutting off circulation or feeling uncomfortable. If you have wider feet, we highly recommend the wide version because the toe box is narrower than most.

They’re extremely supportive and stable, as we discovered on multiple alpine hikes in the Tetons and on more mellow terrain at Point Reyes National Seashore. While wearing these, we maintained maximum control and never felt in danger of an ankle roll, even while pushing the limits of adventure on technical terrain. Plus, the waterproofing kept our feet dry when needed, but didn’t feel too hot on dry days.

As for improvements to the 2025 version, Salomon improved the grip. We noticed more traction on rocky terrain and didn’t slip on wet, loose descents like the X Ultra 4 shoes. Also new is the ultra-durable upper, which provides added protection and support. We also appreciated the added comfort of a new, softer collar, which stays in place much better.

The unique lacing system tucks away, making it less likely for them to untie. Plus, it offers a clean look. However (and this is the one concern Salomon didn’t address in the upgrade), there isn’t a backup option if anything goes wrong with the system.

Choose the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX hiking shoes if you want a comfortable yet agile, breathable yet waterproof hiking shoe to carry you through challenging explorations with confidence and style.

The Quick & Dirty: If reliability & budget are your top priorities for everyday miles, this classic is unbeatable; just know it feels significantly heavier & less nimble than modern, athletic hikers.

The Merrell Moab 3 ($120) is a classic hiking shoe designed to take you to beautiful and amazing places. It is rugged, durable, and comfortable for both day hikes and longer excursions. Featuring 5mm lugs, it provides excellent traction on a variety of terrains. The protective toecap and bellowed tongue guard against any obstacles you might encounter on the trail.

This shoe offers a classic, roomy fit with a wide toe box and ample volume, making it ideal for hikers with wider feet or those who prefer a more relaxed feel. The padded heel and midfoot deliver solid support, while the overall fit is comfortable right from the start, requiring little to no break-in time. The Moab 3 runs true to size; our tester typically takes a 9.5, and it fits like a glove.

We appreciate this shoe for its reliability, reasonable price, and durability, which often outlasts that of other hiking shoes. Unlike some newer models that resemble trail running shoes, the Merrell Moab 3 feels stable and secure. However, if you’re looking for something lightweight and fast, this shoe may not be suitable, as it has a bulkier, more traditional feel.

This updated version of a classic is an affordable and dependable hiking shoe made partially from recycled fabrics. It has even more supportive insoles, cushioned midsoles, and grippier outsoles. Plus, it comes in a wide range of color options.

We particularly appreciate the breathable mesh upper, reinforced with a suede leather overlay. The shoes are easy to lace up and tighten, always feeling durable and trustworthy. The Merrell Moab 3 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a long-lasting hiking shoe that won’t strain their budget.

The Quick & Dirty: When your mission involves heavy packs & technical rock, this is the supportive tank you want; just know it carries a premium price tag & tends to run large.

The La Sportiva Spire GTX ($209) is a solid option if your adventure includes technical terrain and/or snow, rain, mud, or water crossings. The GORE-TEX membrane ensures that your feet will stay dry no matter what, while the aggressive lugs are sure to keep you upright in the gnarliest terrain.

While this hiking shoe is built like a trail running shoe, it feels more rugged and stable than the super lightweight options. As soon as we put the La Sportiva GTX through some mega-wet spring conditions, we knew it would stand up to just about any weather scenario.

This shoe is unique as a perfect choice for a multiday fastpacking trip. If you want to shed weight but need a comfortable waterproof shoe, the La Sportiva GTX is tough to beat. These shoes are on the expensive end of the market, but for good reason. The tread is robust, using Vibram’s compound.

Vibram has become popular in hiking shoes because of the brand’s reputation for quality, durability, comfort, and traction. The soles are made from vulcanized rubber. GORE-TEX is used because it is waterproof but also allows for some breathability. Also, the arch support in these shoes makes long days possible without feeling foot fatigue. This shoe does well in mud, on slick rocks, and almost everything else.

Many other La Sportiva shoes we’ve tested cater to hikers with narrow feet. The Spire GTX still trends toward a performance fit, but its average toe box and heel width are sure to work for a wider range of feet than some other La Sportiva models.

These use European sizing, which offers smaller, more precise increments than U.S. sizes. For example, a U.S. women’s 10.5 typically translates to a EU 43.5 or 44, so you can dial in your fit a bit more easily. For those who typically fall in between sizes, we suggest sizing down since some testers find them to run large.

One of our favorite features of this shoe was the lug system. Lugs are spaced wide enough that mud doesn’t get caked to the shoe, but they also add tons of grip on all kinds of terrain. We also love the Impact Braking System, a pattern set into the outsole to help with speed control on descents. While this shoe is on the pricey side, the added features make it worth the investment for the right hiker.

Read Review: The Old Goats Get Even Tougher

The Quick & Dirty: Max-cushion lovers & high-mileage fastpackers will find this to be the most responsive choice on the list; just know it runs narrow & isn’t built for consistently wet conditions.

The Hoka Speedgoat 6 ($155) is marketed as a trail running shoe, but it’s a workhorse that’s also excellent for hiking. It’s a very lightweight, fun, responsive shoe that would be great for days when you want to cover ground at a quicker pace.

It’s an excellent choice for fastpacking, as long as you’re not encountering tons of wet weather. That said, the Speedgoat is quite rugged and designed to tackle technical trails quickly. This shoe is worn by elite runners at huge trail running events, so it will likely be comfortable on any trail you choose.

Even though the drop on this shoe is low — only 4 mm — that doesn’t mean it lacks cushioning. It just means the entire shoe is equally cushioned, rather than the bulk of the support only being in the heel. The Women’s HOKA Speedgoat 6 fits true to size with a secure feel around the heel and midfoot, and just enough room up front for your toes to spread out.

It’s a bit on the narrow side compared to some other trail shoes, but the updated upper has more give and molds nicely to your foot. If you’ve got wider feet, the wide version is probably the better bet for all-day comfort.

The materials used are 100% vegan and recycled, which is a plus for some. The upper won’t offer much in the way of waterproofing, but they do dry fairly quickly.

We tested these shoes on technical slick rock in Moab, Utah, where we hiked around Canyonlands National Park, on slick rock, and in sandy washes. It was fun to hop around and enjoy the grippy outsole and the lightweight, breathable feel of the upper. The Hoka Speedgoat 6 is the ideal shoe for warm hiking days across varied terrain. 

The Quick & Dirty: This hybrid shines for those who want a smooth, energetic ride without sacrificing waterproof protection; just know it trades away some stability on technical terrain for that extra bounce.

Designed for fast and light hikers, the La Sportiva Prodigio Hike GTX Women’s Shoe ($179) merges the agility of a trail runner with the protection and stability of a hiking shoe. This makes it a top-notch choice for those seeking to cover ground quickly without sacrificing support and comfort.

Right out of the box, the Prodigio Hike’s plush cushioning feels comfortable. La Sportiva’s XFlow midsole foam delivers exceptional shock absorption and responsiveness, similar to that of a running shoe, which is crucial for tackling uneven trails. On hikes of varying lengths from 3 to 12 miles, we felt as if we were bouncing along on air. Plus, the women’s specific fit securely hugs the heel and midfoot while the slightly wider toebox allows your little piggies to spread out in style.

A mesh upper and a GORE-TEX Invisible Fit liner strike a balance between breathability and waterproofing. We didn’t think it possible for one shoe to do both, but our feet never felt hot on warm days, and puddles and light rain stayed at bay. The small gaiter (made from GORE-TEX ePE Extended Comfort membrane) is an added bonus that keeps snow, rocks, dirt, and sand out of your shoes in a big way.

Out on the trail, the Prodigio Hike strikes a balance between lightweight construction — approximately 10.2 ounces per shoe — and robust protection, making it effective for rocky scrambles and slippery terrain. The 5 mm lugs on the outsole kept us upright on a range of surfaces, from wet rocks to gravel-laden paths to packed snow. If you want a supportive, bouncy option without the gaiter, try the more traditional looking La Sportiva Prodigio ($155).

It’s important to note that the softer FriXion Red rubber outsole, while grippy, may wear down faster than alternatives like Vibram. The upper is also less rugged than other La Sportiva designs, so we question the durability over time.

We also noticed that while the softer midsole felt like walking on a cloud, it contributed to a slight feeling of instability on very technical terrain. We’re willing to make this compromise for comfort and energy return, but a shoe like The North Face Offtrail Hike might suit you better if you’re looking for unmatched balance.

Overall, the Prodigio Hike GTX is a high-performance option tailored for hikers who want to rack up the miles while combining speed, comfort, and agility.

Read Review: Zero-Drop Trail Runner Gets Durability Upgrade: Altra Lone Peak 9 Review

The Quick & Dirty: An icon for a reason, this is the go-to for a natural, zero-drop stride & a wide toe box; just know the minimal support can feel “underbuilt” if you’re carrying a heavy load.

The Altra Lone Peak 9 ($140) is a super lightweight, zero-drop trail runner built for moving fast on varied terrain from spring forest trails and quick creek crossings to slick desert rock. Moderate cushioning and a rock plate provide enough protection to double as a capable hiking shoe.

Like past versions, it has Altra’s signature zero-drop platform and roomy toe box for a natural stride and reduced pressure on knees and hips. Zero-drop shoes are not for everyone, though, and can feel strange at first, so ease in gradually if you are new to them. They also offer less support under a heavy pack, which makes them better for lighter loads and faster travel.

The Lone Peak 9 brings welcome updates over the 8 with a redesigned upper, outsole and midsole for greater durability and grip. The recycled ripstop mesh upper shows less wear so far and the extended MaxTrac outsole coverage boosts traction on scrambles and descents. Fit stays true to size with a slightly more secure midfoot and heel than past versions. Hikers with very narrow feet or those between sizes may want to size down for the best fit.

It remains moderately cushioned but now feels more comfortable on long days while keeping ground feel. A Velcro tab at the heel makes adding gaiters easy for sandy or snowy trails. Compared with a more built-up option like the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Low, the Lone Peak 9 feels far lighter and more flexible underfoot but gives up some cushioning and support. It is best for hikers who want minimal weight and maximum ground feel rather than heavy loads or plush cushioning.

If you love to feel the ground and enjoy having no weight on your feet, the Altra Lone Peak 9 shoes will be right up your alley.

The Quick & Dirty: When all-day softness is the only thing that matters for mellow weekend loops, this “cloud” hiker is king; just know it lacks the precision and breathability needed for technical, hot-weather peaks.

On shoes are known for their distinctive cloud-like cushioning, and the On Cloudhorizon Waterproof ($190) brings that technology to hiking. During a wet August, we took it to Colorado’s Mount Massive Wilderness while crewing the Leadville 100 and hiking to Halfmoon Lakes. Over rocks, downed trees, and creek crossings, it felt light, soft, and surprisingly protective — and stayed comfortable even after hours on our feet.

The CloudTec Phase midsole soaks up impact from big steps and uneven trail features, creating a pillowy feel in an incredibly lightweight shoe. Fit is true to size with a relaxed toe box and secure midfoot and heel. The flexible upper adapts to most foot shapes, making it ideal for average to slightly wide feet, though narrow-footed hikers may find it roomy.

With a 6 mm heel-to-toe drop, it lands in a sweet spot between low-drop options like the Altra Lone Peak 9 and more built-up shoes such as the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Low. That balance gives midfoot, forefoot, and heel strikers a supportive, natural stride. The waterproof membrane blocks rain effectively but can run warm on hot, dry days, so it’s better for cool or wet conditions than midsummer treks in Moab.

For mellow to moderately challenging hikes where comfort matters most, the Cloudhorizon Waterproof shines. Just remember, it favors cushion and light weight over technical performance and airy breathability.

The Quick & Dirty: When you want plush, bouncy cushioning that doesn’t sacrifice midfoot stability, this is a long-mile standout; just know it runs big and the exposed foam is prone to scuffs on sharp rock.

While we’ve had good experiences with Adidas BOOST foam in trail running shoes, we were not expecting to love the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker ($220) this much for hiking. With a middle of the road price and instant step in comfort, this shoe quickly became a favorite on rocks, dirt, sand, and even snow.

On test hikes in early spring snow in the mountains of Colorado, it handled a wide range of conditions with ease. No matter the distance, the Terrex Free Hiker 2 Low delivered the lightweight feel of a trail runner with the stability of a more substantial hiking shoe. It does run large, though, and our tester, who usually wears a women’s 9.5, found a size 9 to be the best fit. We recommend sizing down a half or full size, or trying it on in person to dial in the fit.

Once properly sized, the shoe hugs the foot without feeling restrictive. The stretchy upper wraps comfortably around the foot and ankle, while the heel stays locked in on uneven terrain. Though breathable, it kept our feet impressively dry on soggy spring trails and while trekking through high alpine snow. The BOOST midsole feels light and exceptionally cushioned, helping reduce fatigue on longer days, while the EVA frame adds welcome stability when the trail gets rough. Continental rubber outsoles proved grippy and dependable on steep terrain, and the upper and outsole held up well in testing. Our one lingering question is the exposed foam along the midsole, which may show wear sooner than more protected designs. Still, this is a comfortable, well cushioned hiking shoe that blends trail runner agility with enough support and grip for long days on varied terrain.

The Quick & Dirty: When long days on mixed terrain call for a rolling, stable gait and reliable waterproofing, this shoe delivers; just know the oversized heel can feel clunky in tight, rocky passages.

We’ve always had a soft spot for gear that sparks conversation on the trail, and few brands do that better than Hoka. The new Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX ($180) is no exception. This unconventional hiking shoe divides opinion, but after miles on mixed terrain — from slick boardwalks to rocky climbs in the Tetons — we found it among the most capable low hikers we’ve worn this year.

Hoka’s late-stage Meta-Rocker creates a smooth, rolling stride that’s ideal for steady, deliberate hiking. On steeper climbs we had to lean into the rocker for a quicker push-off, so it suits hikers who prioritize grounded confidence over speed.

The Vibram Megagrip outsole bites into muddy and rocky surfaces, and the SwallowTail heel adds downhill stability — though it can catch on roots or tight boardwalks. Sizing runs large, so going down half a size is smart. The cushioning is classic Hoka: plush without feeling bouncy. After full days on the trail, our feet felt fresher than in many other low hikers. Almost every component — mesh, overlays, even laces — uses recycled materials, a meaningful upgrade from the first Anacapa without sacrificing durability.

Heavier and pricier than some competitors, the Anacapa 2 still combines comfort, stability, and grip better than most. If your hikes take you across wet meadows, slick rocks, and long stretches of mixed terrain, it delivers stability, all-day comfort, and serious traction — making it a reliable companion for weekend trips and unpredictable trails.

The Quick & Dirty: When the trail gets steep, sloppy, and unpredictable, this rugged hiker keeps you locked in; just know it requires a legitimate break-in period and caters to narrower feet.

Built for rugged adventures, The North Face Offtrail Hike GORE-TEX shoes ($185) combine all-weather protection with a confidence-inspiring, stable design. The full GORE-TEX membrane keeps our feet dry through stream crossings and surprise downpours, while the sturdy outsole grips reliably on slick rock, loose dirt, and steep switchbacks.

The cushioning feels firm but responsive — great for technical hikes where you want precision and control rather than the soft, pillow-like comfort of other models we’ve tested, like the On Cloudhorizon hiker. They feel secure and supportive, especially on uneven terrain. And, the burly upper and toe caps add a layer of durability that’s ready for bushwhacks or scrambles.

The fit runs slightly narrow, particularly in the toe box. Our tester wears a 9.5, and that size worked for her, but she has narrow feet. If you’re in between sizes or have a wide foot, we recommend sizing up and/or trying them on before buying.

As we would expect with a slightly stiffer, stable shoe, we needed to break in these shoes for a short time. After a few hikes, they molded to our feet with no issue, but it’s worth mentioning since so many more cushioned hiking shoes are ready to crush it out of the gate.

For those seeking a waterproof, tough-as-nails hiking shoe with a ready-for-anything vibe, the Offtrail Hike delivers.

The Quick & Dirty: This is the perfect “one-shoe” solution for hikers who want style that transitions from the summit to the brewery; just know the cushioning is firm & the heel can feel narrow.

We’d wear the Danner Trail 2650 ($170) on the trails, but also with a pair of jeans just walking around town. It doesn’t look like all the other hiking shoes, which might be a good thing.

We can’t stop wearing these shoes, even when we’re not on the trails. The suede upper seems to match everything and feels so comfortable for dog walking and errand running. If you need a go-to that performs in the wild but also back in civilization, give the Danner Trail 2650 a try. We would take these shoes to Italy to hike the Dolomites and still feel chic going to dinner, whether back in town or at one of the refugios.

When we hiked in these shoes, they felt both durable and lightweight. The Vibram 460 outsoles have self-adapting lugs and a specially formulated Vibram Megagrip compound to increase resilience and grip in all kinds of weather. If you’ve ever hiked in Colorado, you know that the terrain can switch from sand to slick rock to pine needles in a matter of miles. The Trail 2650 feels great no matter what’s underfoot.

The Trailguard TPU shanks are a nice addition. They provide stability and foot protection on rough, uneven terrain. We initially thought this was all for show, but we actually grazed a few trees and noticed the protection more than once. Unfortunately, the fit is a tad narrow, so you may want to try these on if you’re in between sizes or if you have wider feet.

These might not be the go-to if you’re going to be hiking in the Pacific Northwest in tons of nonstop rain and wet conditions, but normal variable weather will be no match for the Danners.

Read Review: Bestselling Outdoor Boot in the World Upgrades to a Shoe: Merrell Moab Speed 2 Review

The Quick & Dirty: When you want a familiar, breathable hiker that feels “broken-in” right out of the box, this is an easy win; just know it prioritizes traditional comfort over sporty, trail-runner speed.

The Merrell Moab Speed 2 ($140) is the Subaru Outback of hiking shoes. It’s safe, trusted, comfortable, and reliable, and it’s reasonably priced compared to many other shoes on the market. While many hiking shoes trend toward the trail runner fit and feel, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 sticks to the roots of hiking but in a lower cut. So, it feels like a more supportive option, but it fits like a shoe.

This shoe has lots of little details that we appreciate. Merrell has been making hiking shoes for a long time, and it shows with the Moab Speed 2. The padded collar and tongue are immediately comfortable and help keep debris out.

The Lightweight FlexPlate technology provides torsional rigidity. It feels like having just the right amount of stability and forefoot flexibility. Many hiking and running shoes these days use a Vibram outsole, but the TC5+ outsole was explicitly formulated for Merrell and provides excellent traction for all kinds of trail conditions.

We tried these in wet, grassy conditions, on steep slopes, and over chunky, rocky terrain. The cushioning allows your feet to never get tired or beat up, and does not hinder maneuverability. The Vibram traction lugs are specifically designed for great footing, no matter the conditions. And they fit true to size and comfortably right out of the box.

As with all Merrells, we love the breathable mesh lining on the upper. It’s flexible, allows the feet to move naturally, and also dries quickly. We also noticed that this shoe doesn’t get stinky, which is always a plus! It’s made of vegan materials, many of which are recycled. The Moab 2 is a go-to for anyone looking for a solid, reliable hiking shoe that will last.

The Quick & Dirty: A relief for hot-weather hikes where weight & breathability are the main factors; just know it gives up the underfoot protection & traction found in burlier mountain shoes.

While testing during the hot transition from spring to summer in the Tetons, we discovered the Oboz Katabatic LT Low Hiking Shoes ($145) are especially well-suited for warm-weather day hikes or fast-and-light missions, where breathability and agility matter most. These shoes are designed for adventurers who want to move fast without sacrificing support. Oboz pairs a breathable mesh upper with a responsive midsole for all-day comfort.

These lightweight shoes (just over 10 ounces per shoe) could pass for trail runners in terms of looks. Despite their streamlined design, they offer a structured heel cup and Oboz’s signature arch support for a secure, fatigue-reducing fit.

The multidirectional lugs provide average traction in dirt, gravel, and even light mud. Still, Oboz’s proprietary rubber doesn’t offer as much grip as shoes using Vibram or Continental rubber, like the Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2. The wide toebox allows toes to wiggle while the heel keeps the foot locked in.

This shoe isn’t our top pick for carrying heavy packs or technical scrambles. We need more time to evaluate durability fully, but the minimalist build raises questions. They also deliver less cushioning and protection from rocks and weather than burlier hiking shoes like the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX. If water resistance is your top priority, check out the Katabatic LT Low GTX Waterproof Hiking Shoes.

Whether you choose the regular or waterproof model, the Katabatic LT Low hits the sweet spot between a trail runner and a hiking shoe, making it ideal for adventures where you want to move as fast as the winds for which the shoe is named.