A comfortable boot for one person can be a living nightmare for another. The Bridgers require a longer break-in period than some, but they make up for it in long-term durability. The majority of the brands you'll see in this review use some form of Vibram or ContraGrip rubber for their outsoles. SIZING: Runs large (size down by if youre on the edge); wide sizes available, PROS: Out-of-the-box comfort, lightweight, supportive soles, durable, secure fit. Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know. We even wore the less comfortable boots for miles to report our findings, so you don't have to discover a boot's discomfort the hard way. The overall construction of boots is generally more stiff and stable than hiking shoes. Most durable hiking boots: Salomon Quest 4 GTX, Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, Lowa Renegade GTX Mid, La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX, Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX & Oboz Bridger Mid BDry. If a model doesn't last through our official testing period, the manufacturer likely needs to do some serious re-evaluation. The materials used in the construction of the X Ultra 4 Mid are durable and long-lasting. 360-degree stability is the name of the game with the Bridger Mid. If you liked this list, youll love the CleverHiker Gear Guide where we test and recommend tons of outdoor adventure gear from a variety of categories. Shes hiked thousands of miles on trails across America, including the Appalachian Trail, John Muir Trail, and the Long Trail. Though this plays more into the support metric, it is worth noting that lugs and tread patterns have a large impact on the overall performance of a boot. We felt very little side-to-side movement and no matter the terrain, we felt safe and secure. The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX offers all the features and support of a traditional hiker but with a modern twist. A lot of our assessment of comfort comes down to personal preference, but construction, materials, and design all play a strong role here, too. MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 8.5): 1 lb. Weve logged over 10,000 trail miles and test outdoor gear for a living. Thanks guy . The following boots didnt make our final list, but theyre very popular and theyve still got a lot of good things going for them. In other words, both the Gore-tex and eVent liners were impressively breathable. It's important to realize that waterproof liners make boots take much longer to dry out if they do end up wet on the inside of the boots. DURABILITY & MATERIALS - Hiking boots can be a big investment, so finding a durable pair will help you get the most bang for your buck. We first tested them while walking from one side to the other without stopping, and all of the models in our review succeeded. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis or you just need more cushioning and support in an otherwise rigid shoe, swapping insoles may be your solution. The shanks serve as a protective barrier from impact on rugged surfaces. Knowing that your footwear will keep you from slipping is crucial, especially over washed out or exposed sections of trail. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. The Nucleo High gave us unparalleled waterproof protection and helped these hiking boots stand out from the rest. On the other hand, waterproof boots arent very breathable on hot days, and they can be heavy and slow to dry when they get wet. Breaking in dozens of pairs of hiking boots over the past five years has given us plenty of experience in evaluating the overall comfort and support each model provides. choosing the right socks makes a big difference in comfort while hiking. MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): 1 lb. Traditional leather boots are almost always going to be more durable than the lightweight footwear. ride This will ensure that your toes dont slide forward and hit the toe box on downhill sections of trail. If youre looking for maximum ankle support, you should go with a boot that sits higher up on the ankle and make sure to tie the laces tightly. The Oboz Bridger Mid BDry was also a high performer here, thanks to nylon shanks and thermoplastic urethane forefoot plates. Insoles can also help take up a little extra space in footwear for a customized fit if youre between sizes. The Gore-tex Extended Comfort treatment found in the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II provided superior waterproof protection while also releasing moisture. Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on our latest posts then visit our Facebook page and Instagram to join the community conversation. Featuring a Nano-Cells technology and an unparalleled Gore-tex surround membrane, these boots not only kept our feet dry but also allowed for moisture to escape the boot for increased comfort on the trail. BREAK-IN PERIOD - Youre going to take thousands of steps on any backpacking or hiking trip, so you need to know that your footwear will fit comfortably and wont cause blisters. Boots often have shanks and plates either above or beneath the midsole layers, adding support and stability. Someone with a narrow foot might never get a good fit (and therefore feel discomfort) in a wider cut pair, like the Keen Targhee III, the Altra Lone Peak, or the Topo Athletic Trailventure WP. 6.8 oz. The Oboz Sapphires is stiff underfoot and supportive in the ankle, making them a great option for rugged, rocky terrain. Image by: @jitterbug_art, The OR Helium Rain Jacket and Pants (updated for 2020) are among the most affordable options in the ultralight rain gear market. The Contragrip outsoles, in addition to the 5mm lug depths in a reverse chevron pattern, provide superior traction on a variety of surfaces, from loose sand to boulder hopping. We tend to prefer the lighter boots for most situations, though there is a use for the heavier durability and support of boots like the Renegade. Also, be sure to check out our CleverHiker Gear Guide to see all of our top gear picks. Once feet become wet, they are prone to blisters and hot spots. It is challenging to fully assess the durability of a boot after three months of use. If youre looking for a pair of the best womens hiking boots you've come to the right place. While we never experienced any durability with this hiking boot during our extensive testing period, we can't help but wonder if the synthetic texture upper and the inner Gore-tex membrane may not last as long as a traditional hiking boot with a full leather upper. SIZING - Feet can swell during long days on the trail, so its good to buy hiking footwear at least a half size larger than your normal shoes. sapera Hiking socks should be comfortable, durable, and made with materials that wick moisture away from your skin. We love that the Ontarios feel very stable without restricting movement, but the ankle support isnt as solid when compared to boots like the Lowa Renegades. Black Lives Matter Non-waterproof boots are lighter and more breathable, and though theyre susceptible to getting wet, they dry fairly quickly. The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX is an exceptional lightweight hiking boot that offers superior comfort, breathable Gore-tex protection from the elements, and a durable and aggressive lug pattern that will keep you sure-footed when covering uneven terrain. On the other end of the spectrum, the Salomon Quest 4 almost feels like a mountaineering boot in terms of stiffness, which may be too much support for some situations and preferences. Comparing tread patterns on the Oboz Bridger Mid BDry, Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX, La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX, and Vasque Breeze III Mid GTX. The Salomon OUTline is one of the lightest hiking boots that we tested. here are some links to popular articles: We fully understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and thats one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We own and field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm. If you intend to hike in a region that could get your feet wet, bring an extra pair of socks. While our testers experienced comfort directly out of the box, we recommend sizing up about a half size in these boots as they run a bit on the small side. ALSO AVAILABLE IN: 85 Mid WP (retro look), PROS: Stylish, good traction, out-of-the-box comfort, stable, lightweight, CONS: Narrow fit isnt for everyone, less supportive than other boots. Were generally not as concerned with ankle support when looking at ultralight boots, but its worth mentioning that the latest iteration of these shoes is more supportive than previous models. For the most part, this comes down to the type of terrain you plan on traveling most in your boots (i.e., talus, smooth trails, mud, steep and rocky, etc.). The use of Vibram rubber makes the Renegade a sticky shoe on granite slabs and boulders. We also like how the lacing system and the upper design work together to pull the upper snug against the ankles. High performers like the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX also feature innovative technology combinations such as the Fixion XF 2.0 rubber outsoles, a Trail Bite Heel, and an Impact Brake System Axis. Our testers were shocked by the waterproof technology, which kept our feet dry and warm during our submersion tests. Read review: La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX. We've bought and tested close to 50 unique pairs of women's hiking boots over the last 10 years, most recently testing 15 of the best models available today. That's a mouthful, but the technology worked to give us the confidence to move over any terrain. Follow CleverHiker on Facebook to catch our latest updates & shares. While we don't expect synthetic uppers to last as long as leather ones in general, we've seen these boots time and time again last several hundreds of miles. All of the boots in this review have a stiff sole that limits flexion under the ball of the foot and lateral flexibility through the midsole. We're Dave & Annie, the outdoor adventurers behind CleverHiker. A tough climb up to Indian Pass on the Continental Divide provided some pretty spectacular views. The Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 Gore-Tex scores well for support because they have a sleek but still cushioned ankle and a very supportive sole. That said, the eVent fabric is rather thin and prone to durability issues when snagged on sharp rocks or downed trees. We heavily factored quality traction into all of our footwear recommendations. The soles have deep, multidirectional lugs that extend over the sides of the outsole to provide grip no matter what angle your foot strikes the ground. The Salomon X Ultra Mid 4 GTX weighs 1.63 pounds, with the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid Gtx close behind at 1.68 pounds, while the Lowa Renegade weighs 2.33 pounds, to give some perspective. Leather models provide a heavier feel than mesh and synthetic uppers commonly found on hiking shoes, thus offering less breathability. Overall, the Altra Lone Peak Mid provides more support to the feet and ankles than almost any other model we tested. Although some believe that waterproof membranes limit breathability, we found that all of the liners were adequate in keeping water out while keeping our feet wicked and dry. Link in bio, Crisp rushing water and distant snowy peaks in the Wind River Range. Lead tester Jane Jackson heading out onto the trail to test some of the highest quality and most popular hiking boots for women available today. We're also pleased to see that the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor rings up much lower in price than several other models in this competition while performing at the highest level. These boots perform great on trail, and their cushy ankle collar and low weight make them comfy to wear all day. The models with all-leather uppers tend to be more durable because they have fewer seams (commonly, the first place to show weakness). Some women may find enough support in the original insoles. Boots that received the highest scores in traction were able to stick to rocks and talus, handle well in wet and muddy conditions, and protect the foot from debris. BOTTOM LINE: The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid are much lighter and less bulky than traditional boots. This was one of my favorite shots from the hike. From remote locations near Zion National Park to all over the Eastern Sierra, through burnt and decomposing soil to boulder hopping in the alpine, we hiked till we dropped to clearly discern the pros and cons associated with each model. For fast and light adventures that call for more support than a trail runner can provide, The Lone Peak Mids cant be beat. 5.4 oz. The most durable of all the synthetic models, the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid Gtx features a protective toe cap and an abrasion resistant air mesh upper. We also noticed that the lacing system is secured with mesh, which we imagine would wear out over time, though we had no issues in our testing period. Waterproof treatments are not permanent, you will eventually need to reapply a treatment to keep your shoes sealed. 3.9 oz. The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid has an adjustable lacing system that can be tweaked to provide more support in the ankle than the foot. CleverHiker.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Being able to lock your foot into place within the boot can increase comfort in difficult terrain, and some lacing systems are better at this than others. We continue to put miles on our favorite models after formal testing ends to see how they hold up long-term, too. SIZING: True to size; the fit runs a little wide/high-volume, and wider sizes are available, PROS: Affordable, out-of-the-box comfort, durable, breathable, CONS: High heel-to-toe drop isnt for everyone, wide fit isnt for everyone, bulky. Often it is the addition of brand-name materials such as Gore-Tex waterproof liners and Vibram rubber outsoles that will tack on extra cost for the manufacturer and, subsequently, you. We love backpacking, international travel, useful gear, and all things nature. MANAGING MOISTURE & BLISTERS - If youre on an extended trip in wet conditions or you find yourself caught in a downpour during a day hike, your feet will likely get wet no matter what type of footwear you're wearing. PROS: Ultralight, wide toe box, out-of-the-box comfort, flexible, good level of support for the weight, CONS: Less durable than some (waterproof membrane wears out quicker than others). Hiking boots with the best ankle support: Salomon Quest 4 GTX, Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX, Lowa Renegade GTX Mid & Oboz Bridger Mid BDry, The Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX provide ample ankle support and require almost no break-in time. The TrailClaw feature allows for a sure-footed and very responsive shoe, meaning you can push hard in difficult terrain. If you do a lot of hiking off-trail or you tend to carry a heavier pack, you may be more confident in a more burly and durable boot. This model weighed in at 1.52 pounds for a size 7.5 US, which is on the lower end of the spectrum. Did we mention this high-performing hiker is available at a reasonable price? Were proudly donating 100% of our revenue from today to the following organizations to address social justice and policy change. The cushioned sole that provides a stable base also offers unparalleled comfort. Salomon also really nails it in terms of tread pattern and rubber featured on both the X Ultra 4 Mid and OUTline Mid GTX. Overall, deeper lug depths, like those on the Lowa Renegade GTX and the Keen Targhee III Mid, provide more traction than boots with a less aggressive tread. The Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX and the OUTline Mid GTX are also impressively comfortable but have a more streamlined, sleek profile conducive to hiking through talus and alpine terrain. SIZING: True to size; available in narrow and wide sizes, PROS: Supportive, durable, excellent traction, stable on loose terrain, CONS: Heavy, expensive, stiff upper, requires longer break-in period. Besides impressive comfort, the Ultra Raptor also offers a 5-inch shaft and comfort collar that surround the ankle and a durable lacing system that creates stability while in motion. Best waterproof hiking boots: Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX, Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX, Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid & Lowa Renegade GTX Mid, Best non-waterproof hiking boots: Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid Aero & Merrell Moab 2 Mid Ventilator, Comparing the lightweight Merrell Ontario Mid WP to the heavy-duty Salomon Quest 4 GTX, BEST HIKING BOOTS OVERALL FOR ANKLE SUPPORT, DURABILITY & TRACTION. NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund BOTTOM LINE: The Salomon Quest 4 GTX are some of the best hiking boots on the market when it comes to ankle support and stability. In addition to all of the testing criteria, most of us factor a product's cost into our purchase decisions. But overall, we find the Nucleos extremely comfortable and highly recommend them for those looking for a boot with a good balance of beefy support and low weight. That said, they dont provide as much ankle support as some other boots on our list so theyre not as ideal for rugged, off-trail adventures. Again, having this adjustability in the midfoot is key for wide-footed hikers, so make sure to check the range of the boots you're considering if your foot shape requires it. We often wonder if something is "worth" what we are paying and if a larger price tag equals better quality. Theyre comfy right out of the box, supportive, durable, and amazingly breathable for waterproof boots. The traction was on par with the best hiking boots that we tested, featuring Frixion XF 2.0 rubber outsoles with an Impact Brake System and Trail Bite heels, allowing for excellent traction and control in various mountain landscapes. BEST HIKING BOOTS FOR BACKPACKING WITH A HEAVY LOAD. Another high achiever in this category is the La Sportiva Nucleo, which offers the support of a more traditional hiking boot but with flexible Nubuck leather for a better range of motion. Some manufacturers have started using a proprietary rubber or waterproofing material to cut down on these costs. The Keen Targhee III Mid delivers the protection of a leather boot while having enough mesh to remain breathable, which sets it apart from other leather models in this review. To avoid foot cramps and discomfort, accurately support the arches of your feet. Despite their tough build, the Moabs require very little break-in, and the mesh spots provide good breathability. Lightweight backpacking video guides and reviews of the best ultralight tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, stoves, and more. Excellent comfort, right out of the box, our testers love the La Sportiva Nucleo. Weve got you covered from stocking stuffers to big-ticket items. Features like a Fixion XF 2.0 rubber outsoles and Trail Bite Heel, kept us sure-footed on the trail. Check out our Best Hiking Socks list to see our top picks. The light construction and running shoe style design of the Topo Athletic Trailventures make them feel super light on the foot. The Bridgers are made for those who need a dependable and supportive boot for backpacking with a heavier pack or for challenging day hikes over rough trails. Jane has traveled hundreds of miles on foot across the world. 15.4 oz. Some people find that stiffer soles provide more comfort, while others prefer a more flexible ride. Thats not to say that heavier boots are bad though. 15.3 oz. 6.1 oz. Then, we examined the water resistance when submerged in water while standing in place. Theyre designed with an extra wide toe box, and they require very little break-in to achieve a comfy-all-day fit. But theyll last a long time and the cushioning and support they provide is excellent for day hikes and weekend trips. PRICE - We tend to be willing to spend a bit more for quality footwear because we truly believe the success of our adventures depends on having happy, healthy feet. The Renegade is one of the more substantial and long-lasting boots we've tested. HIGHLY BREATHABLE WATERPROOF HIKING BOOTS. WATERPROOF VS NON-WATERPROOF - Waterproof boots can be a real lifesaver if you often hike in wet, muddy areas. After growing up in Oklahoma, Trish has spent the last fifteen years of her life primarily in the wilderness, traveling to many of the same locations as Jane. Well-placed lugs can also provide additional stability and support on uneven terrain, making for a more stable walking experience. These boots - and the Moab Low shoes - have been a favorite among hikers for many years due to their comfort, durability, and friendly price. Thick ankle padding and soles coupled with rugged toe caps makes for an impressive hiker when the going gets rough. The Salomon OUTline and Altra Lone Peak Mid toe the line between a hiking boot and an athletic shoe. The taller the ankle shaft height, the better chance you can keep your feet dry in seriously wet conditions no real surprise there. To measure water resistance, we walked each pair after walking through creeks up to five inches in depth. We recommend the Targhees for hikers looking for a wide-fitting boot at a great value price. See our full review here: https://www.cleverhiker.com/blog/outdoor-research-helium-rain-jacket-amp-pants-review, Need a gift for the outdoorsy person in your life? Best ultralight hiking boots: Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid & Merrell Ontario Mid WP, Best lightweight hiking boots: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP & Keen Targhee III Mid WP, Best heavy-duty hiking boots: Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX & Lowa Renegade GTX Mid, The Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid are much lighter than traditional hiking boots. We focus on padding, supportive comfort, materials, lacing systems, and how our feet felt after many miles on the trail. In most cases, these two characteristics go hand-in-hand. MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): 2 lbs. Most comfortable hiking boots that dont require much breaking in: Vasque Breeze AT Mid GTX, Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX, La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX, Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid & Merrell Ontario Mid WP, Best hiking boots with a wide fit: Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid, Keen Targhee III Mid WP &Merrell Moab 2 Mid WP, Rocking the Lowa Renegade Gtx MID boots on a waterfall hike. As an organization, we feel this issue is too important to remain silent and do nothing. The Ontarios may not be as burly as some others, but theyre a great choice for those who want a boot that looks and feels good on the trail as well as in town. This felt significant to us, and when we found that both boots held their own in other metrics as well, we were very impressed. Casey Handley is an avid outdoor adventurer and self-described gear nerd. This boot is an all-around champ. You'll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. In general the most comfortable boots give your toes some room to spread, have cushioning that supports your foot shape, and have some flex in the upper so it moves with your foot. The Salomon Quest 4 and the La Sportiva Nucleo also feature this lace lock and some seriously substantial laces. WATERPROOFING TREATMENTS - Waterproof footwear is ideal for soggy day hikes, but its important to remember that waterproof doesnt mean that water can never get in. 0.5 oz. Wet feet can lead to hot spots and blisters, but this can be prevented if you have a healthy foot care routine. Searching for your next trail running shoe? We felt like the traction of the OUTline was a cross between the sticky rubber of a climbing shoe and the traction you'd expect from a traditional hiking boot. This ankle height is the main difference between a hiking boot and a hiking shoe regarding support. Its much better for footwear to be a little big than too small. MEASURED WEIGHT PER PAIR (SIZE 9): 2 lbs. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. They are also available for order in a wide option for a more customized fit. A pair of US Women's size 8.5 weighs 1.53 and 1.60 pounds, respectively, which means that each foot is only carrying around 12-13 ounces. The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX offers a lightweight design without sacrificing performance. Boot support is determined by sole stiffness, midsole construction, arch support, and forefoot flexibility. For rugged trails where the ankle is prone to roll, boots with relatively high ankle heights are optimal, along with effective lacing systems.