13 Best Hiking Shoes for Women in Australia in 2023

The right hiking boots are an essential component of any successful bushwalk. We’ve gathered a few of our favourite pairs for you to find your fit so you can get your outdoor fix blister free

Australia is an expansive country with beautiful landscapes and countless hiking trails to explore. Whether you’re looking to hike through the stunning Blue Mountains, trek through Tasmania’s wild forests or even walk along the Great Ocean Road, you need a reliable pair of hiking shoes.

If you’re in the market for a pair of hiking shoes, there are a number of things to keep in mind when shopping around — namely a pair that keeps blisters, wet feet, and sore ankles away. Finding the right hiking gear for women can be challenging in general, so check our guide on that.

How to Find the Right Hiking Shoe Size

If you’re considering buying a pair of hiking shoes, it’s important to guarantee you get the right size. You may want to consider a pair that’s one size larger if you plan on walking long distances. Feet can swell on long walks, and it’s always better to have extra room in your shoes.

If you’re going through a brand’s lineup of models online, don’t forget to use their sizing guide or contact customer service before you buy. Here are a few additional tips on proper sizing you should keep in mind.

Measure the Length of Both Feet

Use size guides that indicate the centimetre equivalent of standard sizes as different brands can have different ways of sizing their shoes.

Don’t forget that human feet are asymmetric, and your left and right feet can be of ever so slightly different lengths.

Measure both feet and use the size guide to find the perfect fit for the longer foot. Measuring insoles can also provide some insight into the shoe’s size.

Hot Tip: Measure With Your Socks on

If you plan to wear socks with your hiking shoes, put them on before measuring your feet. Socks will add to your effective feet size, and this will help you get the exact size that’s right for you.

We also recommend wearing socks designed for moderate temperatures, as they will give you the flexibility you need when planning your hikes around the weather.

Consider the Influence of Health Issues

If you have health conditions that can affect the size of your feet, take them into consideration when choosing a pair of shoes and always consult your doctor beforehand.

For instance, if you have diabetes, you may need extra-wide shoes to accommodate foot swelling.

On the other hand, if you have plantar fasciitis, a type of inflammation that causes heel pain, you may need shoes with extra support and cushioning to protect your feet.

What to Look for in Hiking Shoes

To the inexperienced eye, all hiking shoes can look the same. Specific features, however, can make some shoes better suited to you than others. Here are a few important things to consider when choosing your perfect pair of hiking shoes.

The Cut

Hiking shoes come in three basic cuts: low-cut, mid-cut, and high-cut.
Low-cut shoes are designed for easy walks and short hikes, as they offer good ankle mobility.
Mid-cut shoes provide more support to your ankles and are perfect for long hikes.

Finally, high-cut shoes offer the best support and protection but may limit your ankle mobility.
When choosing your shoes, think about the type of hikes you’re planning. We recommend going for low-cut or mid-cut shoes if you’re just starting out. However, if you’re an experienced hiker who enjoys rough terrains, you’re probably better off with a sturdy pair of high-cut shoes.

The Material

Hiking shoes are normally made of leather or synthetic materials so as to be waterproof and durable.

Leather shoes are generally more durable and offer better protection for your feet. However, they’re also heavier and take more time to break in.

Synthetic shoes are lighter and easier to break in, however they may not be as durable as leather shoes and or offer the same level of protection.

When choosing your shoes, think about the conditions you’ll be hiking in and the amount of support you’ll need. If you’re planning long hikes on unstable terrain, leather shoes are the wisest choice. Synthetic material, on the other hand, is your best friend if you’re just starting out or going on shorter hikes.

The Insoles

The insoles of your shoes play a big part in the level of comfort and support you feel. Most hiking shoes come with removable insoles that can be replaced. If the insoles are not removable, make sure to pick a pair of shoes with good cushioning and support.

If you have a medical condition, consider buying women’s hiking shoes with orthopaedic insoles. They’ll offer the best support and cushioning, and can be custom-made to fit your feet perfectly.

Compare Prices

A number of global outdoor footwear brands like Columbia, Salomon, and Merrell are available in Australia, but you can also find excellent options from local companies as well.

The generally accepted price range for good hiking shoes varies from $150 to $250, but you can easily find a high-quality Australian pair for $100 or even less. A much more appealing alternative to buy local and save cash!

Robust Features

Australia’s rich landscapes require lightweight hiking shoes that can withstand a range of different terrains. A good pair of hiking shoes comes with a combination of robust features that improve your experience and don’t slow you down.

Harsh weather conditions add to the stress on hiking gear, so your shoes need to be made to endure both hot days and soggy conditions.

High Adaptability

Versatile hiking shoes are made from breathable materials to help keep your feet cool and dry on long walks.

When shopping for shoes it’s important to consider versatility. A good pair needs to be lightweight and comfortable while providing strong ankle support and traction.

On our list of the 13 best hiking shoes for women in Australia, you’ll find the best options blend comfort and practicality to make a happy camper out of any Explorer.

What’s the Difference Between Hiking Boots and Hiking Shoes?

The main difference between hiking boots and hiking shoes is their level of support and protection.

Hiking shoes are designed for easy walks and short hikes. They offer good ankle mobility (not protection) and are usually made of lighter materials.

Hiking boots are meant for long treks over uneven terrain. If you plan to go on long hikes we recommend choosing boots over shoes. The best hiking boots may be heavier, but they make up for it with greater durability and protection.

Now that you know what makes a good hiking boot or shoe, let’s zoom in on 15 of the best women’s hiking shoes in the Australian market today.

1. Merrell Women’s Moab 2 Vent Hiking Shoes 

Specs:

• Material: 100% Leather
• Closure: Traditional lace closure
• Lining: Breathable mesh
• Midsole: Lightweight EVA foam
• Convenience: Breathable mesh lining with lightweight EVA foam
• Lug: 5mm

Reasons to buy:

+ Waterproof and breathable
+ Lightweight and suitable for everyday wear

Reasons to avoid:

– Slow to dry

Price: $50

BUY NOW

Merrell’s women’s hiking shoes are designed to provide all-day comfort on the trail. The Merrell Moab 2 Vent hiking shoes are made with a suede and mesh upper for durability and breathability, and a Vibram outsole for excellent traction. They also feature an EVA midsole for cushioning, and are available in a range of colours and sizes.

Moab 2 Vent hiking shoes are comfortable to wear all day. Consider getting a pair with a removable contoured footbed and reinforced heel cushioning for medium-level support.

The Vibram Rubber Sole offers excellent traction on a range of surfaces. The shoes have good slip resistance that keeps you safe on slippery or wet surfaces. They’re also comfortable and have a contoured footbed that supports your feet as you tackle the ups and downs of the trail.

Merrell Moab 2 Vent hiking shoes rely on exclusive Vibram TC5+ outsole technology. Merrell has also included a removable insole in this design to offer you the desired level of support and cushioning.

A drawback of Merrell Moab 2 Vent hiking shoes is that they’re made from a somewhat heavy material that’s slow to dry. If they get wet on the trail, they’ll take at least 24 hours to dry (and wet feet lead to blisters!).

2. The North Face Women’s VECTIV Exploris FUTURELIGHT Shoes

Specs:

• Lining: Quick-dry lining for active use
• Laces: Ghillie lacing system
• Midsole: High-rebound, single-density EVA 
• Outsole: Surface Control
• Lug: 4mm lugs

Reasons to buy:

+ Stylish colour combination
+ Made for athletic purposes

Reasons to avoid:

– Might look too sporty for casual looks

Price: $189 (RRP $270)

BUY NOW

Simply put, this is an excellent breathable and waterproof hiking shoe for women who enjoy exploring mountains. The North Face’s VECTIV lightweight hiking shoes are made with a comfortable, women-focused construction that includes a wider forefoot and heel counter for stability on the trail. Thanks to VECTIV technology, these hiking shoes provide all-day comfort while you’re out exploring, and the FUTURELIGHT membrane offers reliable waterproofing and breathability.

The VECTIV shoes have rocker geometry midsole pods that help with natural foot movement, and are finished with a sock liner for added cushioning. This makes for a great walking experience, whether on the trail or off it. The shoes will free up your foot movement and let you focus on your surroundings and enjoy the hike.

Additionally, the single-density 3D TPU plate underfoot provides multi-directional stability. Simply put, this means that your VECTIV shoes will keep you safe and balanced while you’re out on uneven terrain. As you walk uphill or downhill the shoes adjust their grip accordingly, delivering a strong sense of stability and hold.

The footbed is made with 5% recycled rubber and the Surface Control rubber outsole is perfectly optimised for hiking.

The only drawback with this model is its sporty look, which may not appeal to hikers who want a more casual look.

3. Scarpa Mojito Trail GTX Womens Hiking Shoes

Specs:

• Midsole: EVA
• Outsole: Vibram XS Trek rubber
• Weight: 450g

Reasons to buy:

+ Weather protection
+ Suitable for technical trails
+ High protection in bad weather
+ Few synthetic materials

Reason to avoid:

– Narrow opening

Price: $269.95 (RRP $299.95)

BUY NOW

Scarpa’s Mojito Trail GTX Women’s Hiking Shoes are suitable for technical trails and bad weather, offering good protection against the elements. These sturdy shoes are made of durable materials and feature Vibram XS Trek rubber outsoles for superior traction on any terrain. 

The shoe’s upper is made of weather-resistant, water-repellent suede leather, which protects the feet from the elements. No less than 18mm thick, it has a Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable membrane, ensuring dry and comfortable feet even in wet conditions. 

An EVA midsole provides cushioning and support. 

One appealing characteristic of this model is that it contains very few synthetic materials. Synthetic fabric is used only inside the ankles and tongue inset. The heel and toe are covered with wide rubber for extra protection.

Due to their greater durability and weather protection, these hiking shoes are well suited for climbing and scrambling on dry or wet rocks. 

One drawback is that the shoes have a narrow entry, meaning people with wider feet might need to try a size up.

4. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid WS

Specs:

• Material: Heinen terracare Nubuck Leather
• Lining: GORE-TEX
• Midsole: Double Injection DuraPU
• Outsole: VIBRAM EVO

Reasons to buy:

+ Wide range of colours
+ The Renegade’s award-winning fit

Reason to avoid:

– Very expensive compared to other items on the list

Price: $499

BUY NOW

Looking for the best all-round hiking boot you can find? The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid WS should be at the top of your list. The boot ticks a whole lot of boxes for demanding hikers — reliable waterproofing, perfect grip, and supportive cut. The natural leather of the upper provides supple comfort, but also means the boot needs more special care than fabric shoes. It’s a worthy investment, however, that’ll last you a very long time.

The Renegade GTX is also a standout model in terms of ankle support. The collar sits up high and provides excellent protection for your feet and ankles. This is very handy if you’re carrying a lot of weight on your back or traversing difficult terrain.

The Renegade GTX will provide you with Lowa’s award-winning fit, comfort, and versatility. And if you decide to invest in a pair, the wide range of sizes Lowa provides means you’re more than likely to find the perfect pair of Lowa Renegade GTX Mid WS for your feet. Choose between narrow and wide options, and between half-size models to find just the right fit.

Given all these benefits it’s no surprise these women’s hiking boots are priced beyond the reach of many hikers. The Renegade GTX is the most expensive item on our list, so it’s not a good choice for the budget-conscious.

5. Keen Targhee II Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Specs:

• Material: Waterproof nubuck leather upper
• Lining: Hydrophobic mesh
• Outsole: Non-marking rubber
• Weight: 357.2g

Reasons to buy:

+ Removable footbed
+ Natural odour control
+ Water-resistant
+ Comfortable

Reasons to avoid:

– Weak arch support
– Low breathability

Price: $189.95 (RRP $239.99)

BUY NOW

Keen’s Targhee II Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes are a good choice for women who want a comfortable, stylish, and waterproof pair of hiking shoes for their outdoor adventures. The shoes have a non-marking rubber outsole, which provides good traction and stability on wet and dry surfaces.

The lug outsole adds traction and durability to the shoe, while the hydrophobic mesh lining prevents water from seeping in.

Keen’s Targhee II shoes are comfortable to wear for several reasons. Firstly, the tongue is well padded and doesn’t rub against the feet. Secondly, the toe box is roomy, which helps keep feet comfortable on long hikes. The large toe box allows thick or two pairs of socks to be worn for added insulation. Cleansport NXT supports natural odour control that maintains a feeling of freshness.

There are two main drawbacks to consider, however. The shoes have low breathability and may leave the socks wet and feet sweaty. To improve ventilation, choose a model with sufficient perforation for proper breathability.

Secondly, the shoes have weak arch support and people with high arches may need to insert an insole for extra comfort.

However, the metatomical dual-density EVA footbed is removable, which is great for people who need to use their own custom orthotics.

6. Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Mid Waterproof Shoe

Specs:

• Material: Mesh / Suede
• Outsole: The innovative Adapt Trax
• Midsole: Techlite Foam
• Lug: 4mm outsole lugs 

Reasons to buy:

+Trusted brand
+Lightweight (just 290g)
+High quality

Reason to avoid: 

– Available only in dark colours

Price: $179.99 (RRP $299.99)

BUY NOW

The Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Shoe combines sporty and elegant design elements. The shoe is made from high-quality materials and is designed to provide solid support and comfort. More than just a hiking shoe, these are suited for all kinds of outdoor activities, and feel light and comfortable even for just walking around town.

One thing to know about the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Shoe is the materials it’s made of – the upper is mesh / suede heel overlay, and the midsole is tech lite. However, the innovative Adapt Trax outsole system creates optimal lug placement for any terrain, wet or dry. This means you don’t have to worry about slipping on the trail.

Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Shoe has ghillie lacing, a secure fit, and an Omni-Tech waterproof membrane with breathable seam-sealed bootie construction to keep your feet dry and comfortable all day long.

Consider the Columbia Women’s Trailstorm Shoe for your next hike if you love true adventure and rugged terrain. Outsole lugs (4 mm) with angular front and rear orientations keep the balance between traction and durability on any terrain. And with all its robust functionality, each shoe weighs just 290g.

The only drawback we found is that the shoes are only available in dark colours. 

7. Arc’teryx Aerios FL Mid GTX Women’s Hiking Shoes

Specs:

• Membrane: GORE-TEX
• Weight: 320g

Reasons to buy:

+ Running-inspired design
+ Lightweight
+ Breathable
+ Good-looking

Reasons to avoid:

– Less flexible
– Slow to dry

Price: $285 (RRP $300)

BUY NOW

Arc’teryx’s Aerios FL Mid GTX Women’s Hiking Shoes were inspired by running shoes, which shows in their design. They’re very lightweight and breathable, and are ideal for hiking, trekking, and similar outdoor activities. 

The supportive Aerios FL Mid GTX design is specifically for fast and light hiking on technical trails. The running-inspired design results in minimised friction. The collar provides additional support and seals out debris. The tongue is integrated, which improves comfort and breathability.

At only 320g, they won’t weigh a hiker down on long hikes. The GORE-TEX membrane adds another layer of protection against the elements while still allowing feet to breathe.

Aerios FL Mid GTX hiking shoes breathability allows hikers to keep cool even when the temperature rises. The breathable mesh upper and waterproof liner help moisture escape. As a result, the temperature is regulated and there’s an elevated feeling of comfort inside the shoe.

Agility, stability, and confidence underfoot come from the Vibram Megagrip outsole, compressed EVA midsole, and integrated TPU shank.

Last but not least, the shoes look stylish compared to more common bulky or sporty models. They come in a sleek and minimalistic build with the Arc’teryx logo adding a touch of style.

The two drawbacks to consider are their slow drying and stiffness. Though the material is waterproof and doesn’t let water in, it dries slowly when it gets wet from the outside.

In addition, the shoes are not as flexible as some other models and require a breaking-in period.

8. Keen Steens WP Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes

Specs:

• Material: Waterproof full-grain leather upper
• Lining: Breathable mesh
• Midsole: EVA
• Outsole: KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber
• Lug: 4mm multi-directional

Reasons to buy:

+ Waterproof 
+ Sturdy build
+ Good ankle support
+ Eco-friendly
+ Natural odour control
+ Secure

Reason to avoid:

– Looks bulky

Price: $99.98 (RRP $229.99)

BUY NOW

Keen’s Steens WP Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes are suitable for a wide range of terrain from canyons to desert trails.

Keen’s Steens shoes use 4mm multi-directional, deep lugs on the sole, providing excellent grip and safety on slippery or unsteady terrain. Grooves along the sides prevent slipping across slick surfaces. The heel area is also reinforced to provide more stability on hikes.

There are no residual chemicals used in the shoe’s build that can harm the environment. The materials used are natural and provide odour control.

The removable insole is infused with probiotics, which help to naturally eliminate odour from sweat and prevent the growth of bacteria. The mesh lining is also breathable and helps to keep feet cool and dry on hot days.

These hiking shoes are fitted with the Keen DRY membrane, a waterproof and breathable barrier that lets moisture out without letting water in. The leather on the shoes is also full-grain and waterproof, providing even more protection against the elements.

One downside of these shoes is their bulky look. While not the most stylish hiking shoes on the market, with their slightly boxy appearance, they’re still comfortable and provide good support on long hikes.

9. The North Face Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight Women’s Hiking Shoes

Specs:

• Midsole: High-rebound, single-density EVA 
• Outsole: Surface Control rubber
• Lug: 4mm
• Weight 310g

Reasons to buy:

+ Lightweight
+ Eco-friendly
+ Breathable

Reasons to avoid:

– Not suitable for multi-day hikes
– Not suitable for cold weather
– Low ankle support

Price: $225 (RRP $250)

BUY NOW

The Women’s Vectiv Fastpack Futurelight hiking shoes from The North Face are a great choice for single-day hikes, quick walks, and other outdoor activities that aren’t overly strenuous. The shoes are made of a lightweight, breathable material that’s eco-friendly and comfortable to wear.

One of the reasons these hiking shoes are suitable for quick walks is that they weigh just 310g, which is light for their class.

The North Face’s Vectiv shoes are also highly breathable, mainly due to the use of innovative Futurelight, a trademarked but widely-recognized type of breathable, waterproof material. Futurelight makes the shoes perfect for warm weather hikes or other activities where you need your feet to stay cool.

However, these shoes are unsuitable for winter, as they don’t provide enough warmth or ankle support. While the low-cut design saves weight, it also makes the shoe less supportive due to weak ankle support.

That’s one of the main reasons these hiking shoes are considered ideal for one-day hikes, but not so much for multi-day hikes where more ankle support is needed.

The OrthoLite X55 footbed is made with 5% recycled rubber content.

The North Face’s trademarked Futurelight membrane ensures the shoes are completely waterproof yet still breathable. In other words, the membrane is both durable and permeable.

10. Keen Ridge Flex Waterproof Women’s Hiking Shoes 

Specs:

• Material: Premium leather from LWG-certified tannery
• Weight: 394.1g

Reasons to buy:

+ Energy-savvy
+ Durable

Reasons to avoid:

– Suitable only for wide forefoot
– Not suitable for hot weather 
– Very sticky

Price: $179.99 (RRP $299.99)

BUY NOW

Keen’s Ridge Flex Waterproof Women’s Hiking Shoes have a unique feature that hasn’t featured on any other shoe on this list. These shoes are made with KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology, which helps hikers exert themselves less by requiring 60% less energy to bend. As a result, hikers expend much less energy while walking.

Additionally, these hiking shoes for women are also very durable. The KEEN.DRY technology provides waterproof protection, while KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN traction creates better grip.

Keen’s Ridge Flex Waterproof Women’s Hiking Shoes are suitable for any terrain. In terms of fit and comfort, they seem to be designed to better accommodate a wide forefoot with a lot of room in the toe box. Therefore, for women with narrow to average foot size, these shoes may feel too big, or may require thicker socks.

Additionally, with their full leather construction these hiking shoes can feel a little too hot to wear in the summer. They are, however, great for cold weather or seasons like spring and autumn.

One major downside to these shoes is that they’re very sticky. The outsole rubber is very soft, which makes the shoes stick to any surface, including rocks. As a result, it can be cumbersome to take them off and put them on.

Conversely, some may see this as an advantage as it provides good grip and traction.

11. Salomon Outline Prism GTX Women’s Hiking Shoes

Specs:

• Outsole: Rubber
• Weight: 260g

Reasons to buy:

+ Flexibility of a running shoe
+ Lightweight
+ Suitable for any surface
+ Slim fit

Reason to avoid:

– Not suitable for big feet

Price: $157.47 (RRP $249.99)

BUY NOW

Salomon’s Outline Prism GTX Women’s Hiking Shoes are a great choice for anyone who wants a flexible and lightweight hiking shoe. As the picture suggests, they’re designed like running shoes and provide the same level of comfort and support.

The Salomon Outline is lightweight, weighing in at only 260g, making it perfect for Explorers who want to avoid carrying extra weight when hiking. They’re also extremely flexible, providing good traction and support on any surface. The shoes are designed for maximum flexibility and foothold.

Contagrip MA technology is designed for use on a wide variety of surfaces, as it balances the geometry and the rubber compound for the best possible grip. Due to Contagrip MA technology, the shoes are convenient on wet, dry, hard, and loose surfaces and provide good stability even on the most challenging terrain.

One advantage worth highlighting is the slim fit. The shoes are designed to hug the foot, which provides a snug and comfortable fit. Compared to other, more bulky hiking shoe models, the Salomon Outline creates a more casual look.

The only disadvantage of Salomon Outline Prism GTX Women’s Hiking Shoes is that they may be unsuitable for hikers with large feet. If the insole is replaced with an after-market insole, there may be an issue with the low amount of space in the toe box. That’s why the model is more suitable for women with slim feet.

12. Hoka Anacapa Low GORE-TEX Women’s Hiking Shoes

Specs:

• Material: Lightweight leather
• Weight: 387g

Reasons to buy:

+ Eco-friendly
+ Protective from rocks
+ Comfortable walking experience 

Reason to avoid:

– Not recommended for use with substantial aftermarket orthotic

Price: $299.95

BUY NOW

Hoka’s Anacapa Low GORETEX Women’s Hiking Shoes are both eco-friendly and protective hiking shoes. In fact, the model is one of the most eco-friendly on our list, as it features recycled polyester textiles for part of the shoe’s construction. 

Recycled polyester is used in the collars, mesh, and laces of the shoe. The outer leather comes certified by the Leather Working Group. The other materials used in these hiking shoes include PFC-free water repellency, a 50% soy-based sockliner and recycled material for the Gore-Tex fabric used.

These sustainable components are also waterproof and more durable than the standard synthetic materials used in most hiking shoes.

The nubuck leather and mesh backed by Gore-Tex protect from rocks and trail debris, creating a comfortable walking experience for the wearer.

The midsole is also cushioned and provides good shock absorption.

Meanwhile, the heel upper significantly enhances the walking experience by locking the heel firmly into place and spreading long-term wear from minimal heel lift. Though the heel upper looks odd for hikers accustomed to lacing systems, it’s secure and comfortable.

One drawback to consider is that Hoka’s Anacapa Low Gore-Tex Hiking Shoes are not recommended for use with substantial after-market orthotics because they’re not very roomy.

13. Scarpa Moraine PlUSmid GTX Women’s Hiking Boots 

Specs:

• Material: Nubuck leather
• Weight: 410g

Reasons to buy:

• Improved ankle protection
• Designed for the anatomical shape of women feet
• Eco-friendly

Reason to avoid:

• Low side protection

Price: $269.95 (RRP $299.95)

BUY NOW

Scarpa’s Moraine PlUSmid GTX Women’s Hiking Boots are mid-cut hiking boots that offer improved ankle protection and are designed to fit the anatomical shape of women’s feet. 

The shoes feature a dual-zone fastening system — loops on the lower section and hooks on the upper section — which provide improved ankle support. This allows for a more comfortable and secure fit and better overall protection. 

PlUSmid GTX hiking shoes are made from nubuck leather, a high-quality and durable material that provides good abrasion resistance and durability.

The shoes are designed to fit the anatomical shape of the female foot, which means these hiking shoes have a more narrowed toe box and instep volume. There’s also a higher-cut ankle shaft and tongue, which enhances protection.

The shoes are eco-friendly, using significant amounts of recycled material, including a synthetic leather upper, rubber outsole, laces and PC lining. The midsole incorporates EcoPure EVA additive to reduce the shoes’ carbon footprint.

One drawback is that the side protection on these shoes is not very good. This can leave the hiker vulnerable to scrapes and cuts if brushing up against something sharp while out on the trail.

Women’s Hiking Shoes FAQs

1. How much toe room do hiking shoes need?

Leave about a thumb’s width in your shoe for true comfort.

When it comes to the fit of your hiking shoes, err on the side of too much rather than too little room in the toe box.

This is because your feet will swell when you hike, and you don’t want your shoes to be too tight. Extra room in the toe box will also allow you to wear thicker socks if needed.

As a general rule, go for a model with about a thumb’s width of space between the end of your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This’ll give you enough room to move your toes and keep them from getting cramped.

2. Is it safe to wear running shoes on hikes?

Yes, if you’re hiking on easy terrain and aren’t carrying a lot of weight.

Running shoes are designed for, well, running. They’re normally lighter and have less support and protection than hiking shoes or hiking boots. However, they can be a good choice for easy hikes over short distances.

If you’re gearing up for a more challenging hike, we advise wearing lightweight hiking shoes or hiking boots instead, as light running shoes offer less protection and may not support your feet on rugged terrain. You even run the risk of a twisted ankle or worse by wearing running shoes on certain hikes.

It’s worth nothing that if you’re thinking about switching up running styles, by moving from pavements to more challenging trails, we suggest considering a pair of trail running shoes over traditional runners.

3. Which hiking shoes have the best arch support for women?

Try different shoes to find the best fit for you.

Women’s arches are usually higher than men’s, so you may need to find special shoes with a high arch. However, the question of which shoe is the best is highly subjective. Try different models to see which one fits you and your feet the best.

If you have high arches, you may need to find shoes that have more arch support. If you have low arches or flat feet, you may want to find more versatile shoes that can adjust to your needs.

As always, if you have health issues, consult with your doctor before going on a hike, so they can recommend the best shoes for you.

4. Should hiking shoes fit loosely or tightly?

Comfortable hiking shoes should fit snugly but not very tightly.

The comfort rule applies here as well: not too loose, not too tight. Your shoes should be snug enough to support your feet but not so tight that they’ll cause discomfort or pain.

Remember that your feet are likely to swell when you hike, so leave some extra room for them. Also, when you hike downhill, your feet might slide forward in your shoes, and you don’t want them to be too loose or too tight as you walk.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve read this far, you’re now armed with the information you need to pick the right pair of women’s hiking boots for your next trip.