The best walking boots for women reviewed (2023)

Mercifully, we've reached a point where women's outdoor gear is actually bespoke. Brands no longer take a men's version and just shrink it and pink it. Women's walking boots are reasonably abundant these days and this guide is all about highlighting the best of them.

Generally, women have shorter, narrower feet than men. In order to make a hiking boot for women that fits properly, the shape needs to reflect that. There are of course, women with larger feet who fit men's boots better, and that's just fine. In fact, women who fit men's hiking boots get a better choice of models because there isn't yet a women's version of every hiking boot.

That being said, the women's walking boot menu is much richer than it used to be and getting ever better.

What to look for in women's hiking boots

Upper material: Leather boots are typically the most durable and hard-wearing walking boots. But they're often more expensive to buy and take some breaking in. Synthetic boots are usually lighter, more breathable, and less expensive. But they're often less robust. This is a generalisation and there are outliers on both sides.

Fit: Up front, your toes should have enough room to spread naturally. Your heel should be cupped firmly. It's a middle ground between being too tight and being too loose and risking blisters.

Toe bumper and rand: These are really handy features for added durability and abrasion resistance. If you frequent rocky terrain or mountains, look for these.

Lacing: The longer the lacing extends up and down the boot, the more precise and personalised fit you can achieve.

Tongue: Boot tongues need good padding and a gusset running as high up the tongue as possible to help keep out debris and water.

Ankle cuff: Higher ankle cuffs are better at keeping out water, mud, and debris. They also aid ankle support. However, lower cuffs are better for boot flexibility, lightness, and agility.

Midsole: The midsole is for cushioning and protection. Rigid midsoles are better for uneven and mountainous terrain while greater flex is better for speed and agility.

Outsole: This is the underside of the boot. Tread patterns vary depending on their intended use. For example, widely spaced lugs are great for mud, and a deep heel breast is great for downhill braking.

AKU Trekker Lite III GTX

Grisport Lady Glide

Oboz Women's Bridger Mid B-Dry

Meindl Bhutan Lady MFS Walking Boot

Hanwag Banks Lady GTX

Vivobarefoot Tracker II FG Women's

Muck Boot Women's Apex Lace-Up

Hiking boot cleaning and care

Despite the intense demands we put on our walking boots, they will last you many years. But only if you care for them properly. If you keep the fabrics clean after use, and rejuvenate the waterproofing every so often, your boots will perform better and for longer.

This is good for you because you get better use from your boots and saves you money. And it’s much better for the planet.

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