Not so long ago, hiking boots did the job they were supposed to – support the ankles, keep your feet dry, protect them from falling boulders etc – but they felt like wearing blocks of unforgiving concrete. Today, thankfully, comfort is a primary concern, alongside durability and performance, and special features depending on what type of walking you’re into.
So, whether you’re a walking holiday veteran, or simply a dog-walking enthusiast, here are our top ten women’s hiking boots of the season:
Best for Durability
Brasher Women’s Supalite GTX Leather Boot – from £109.99
With over one million sold, these popular boots are GORE-TEX-lined for performance and comfort and weigh only 976 grammes, making them the lightest, most waterproof and breathable walking boots. Ideal for rough paths or long days out, they also feature an anti-clogging rubber sole to absorb shocks.
Best for Beginners
Hi-Tec Women’s V-lite Fasthike Mid WP – retail price £65
A highly-affordable lightweight and waterproof boot, ideal for low-level trail walking or beginners. These boast a suede and nubuck leather upper with soft-padded collar and protective rubber toe-bumper. A good all-rounder.
Best for Explorers
Meindl Women’s Softline Ultra – retail price £149.99
Remarkably light and stable, the Softline uses clever construction and innovative fabrics to reduce weight and improve comfort. GORE-TEX-lined for all-weather protection and with a DIGAfix lacing system that pushes the heel into place, these are ideal for prolonged distance rambling.
Best all-rounder
Scarpa Ranger GTX Lady – retail price £140
Fast becoming another classic in the ‘Ranger’ collection, these feature a new GORE-TEX lining, making them highly waterproof and breathable. They offer maximum lightness and comfort – designed to go from box to trail without having to break them in.
Best for Comfort
Contour Lady Nevada Walking Boot – retail price £90
Styled in very supple calf leather, these are lined with waterproof and breathable Hydroban, and have EVA shock absorption. Each boot is broad ‘easy’ fit, so they’re perfect for the wider-footed woman to ramble in ultimate comfort.
Best for Holiday Trekking
Scarpa NEW ZG65 XCR Lady – retail price £120
This model has been updated with a fresh, modern look. Hi-flex gives firm stability for more technical terrain, and they are GORE-TEX-lined with a Vibram sole. These are perfectly suited to mid-terrain trekking, especially in warmer climates.
Best for Technological Features
Kayland Contact 1000 – retail price £155
A supreme walking boot for trekking and hiking. The tongue and collar have a special padding and ergonomic design – the tongue is asymmetric to mould to the shape of your shin bone for ultimate comfort. Also contains lateral flex technology and a protective rubber toe.
Best for High Altitude
Scarpa Manta GSB Lady – retail price £220
Six times the winner of Trail’s best four-season boot. A staggering 10% weight loss has been achieved since by changing and lowering the sole unit, making it more dextrous. A generous rubber rand has been added despite the weight reduction. This mountaineering boot is proven to be exceptionally comfortable and universally-fitting.
Best for Speed-hiking
The North Face W Hedgehog GTX XCR – retail price £80
These athlete-proportioned speed hiking shoes have all the benefits of a sturdy hiking boot, such as GORE-TEX and Vibram soles, but with lightweight features such as an ergonomically designed footbed, mid-cut shape and moulded EVA heel.
Best for Luxury
Scarpa ZG10 GTX Lady – retail price £180
This exceptionally comfortable and luxurious model combines modern design features with the unique experience of a full leather upper. The lightness and cushioning of the Vibram Hi-Trail sole makes this Scarpa’s most comfortable leather walking boot to date.
