Best Walking Boots For Women 2026 | Tested and Reviewed
Tested and selected by our team of experts - here's our pick of the best women's hiking boots for three-season walking, including options from Salomon, The North Face, Hanwag and more.
We’ve tested a lot of hiking boots here at Outdoors Magic, with 14 options making it into our round-up of the best walking boots for women this year. Including tough-as-nails thru-hiking boots, lightweight fast-hiking shoes, barefoot-style options, waterproof trailblazers, and many more – our women’s gear testers have trudged out many miles in these boots on UK trails and mountains and beyond.
But what makes a good hiking boot? Without banging on too much, during our tests we’ve found that the best three-season walking boots strike a good balance between weight and protection, while being grippy underfoot, and waterproof throughout. Beyond that, which features are more important to you will depend on what exactly you’re using the boots for, and what the terrain is going to look like.
And though finding the right style and size is essential, over the years we’ve also found that you’ll need to find the right shape when it comes to women’s walking boots. In general, women’s feet tend to be wider in the toe area and narrower in the heel. Of course, this is not always the case, but a lot of women’s shoes have been built around this idea.
The midsole is sometimes also changed as women (generally) tend to weigh less than men so the shoe is built to sustain less impact on the ground. This is why you’ll often notice that the women’s shoe weighs less than the men’s option – the midsole is designed to be lighter. The run-off from this is that because we don’t stomp as hard with our weight on the ground, the grip on the shoe might not work as well. Brands might then compensate by creating deeper lugs on their women’s shoes.
Men’s shoes, on the other hand, tend to be wider and larger overall with less variation in width in toe box and heel area. Unisex shoes, in theory, should bridge the gap here, but I’d say it’s definitely worth trying these on in person just in case these subtle differences haven’t been taken into account.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that these designs are all based on generalisations so it’s always wise to do some research beforehand. Luckily for you, that’s where we come in. The women’s gear testing team, including myself, have tested a whole bunch of hiking boots from brands such as Salomon, Keen, Scarpa, The North Face and more. Taking into account women’s specific ‘last’ foot shape, we’ve reviewed and chosen our favourite hiking boots for a variety of different preferences here. You’ll also find options for women who’s feet lie outside of this generalised shape too.
The Best Walking Boots For Women
Here’s an overview of the best walking boots for women, each one fully tested and reviewed by our team of outdoor experts. As you can see from some of the pictures, the women’s gear team (including myself) used the boots in a whole range of places including the Scottish Highlands, the slopes of Mount Olympus, the wilds of Wales, England’s Lake District, and across the waters to the Emerald Isle. These are our highlights:
In this list of the best women’s hiking boots, all of the pairs are designed for three-season use, but they all vary in regards to their capabilities over certain terrain. This means that some will be great for easy trails, whereas others are purpose-built for demanding scrambling or long-distance trekking. They’re all waterproof hiking boots too, some made with Gore-Tex, others with different brands or their own proprietary membranes.
Our Ratings
With our ratings, our cushioning is assessed on a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being very hard and 10 being very soft, and with the stiffness, 1 being very flexible and 10 being very stiff.
Updates to this List
This article was updated in August 2026 to ensure that all of the products are still available for purchase. Simond’s MT500 leather boots also replaced the Helly Hansen Mid Cascade boots as our best value option.
1. AKU Superalp Nubuck Gore-Tex Boots
Our Best Overall Hiking Boot: This gets our pick as the best in test. The versatility, quality and comfort sealed the deal for our testers.
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AKU Superalp Nubuck Gore-Tex
Our tester’s verdict: “A trekking focused boot that I’ve found ideal for rough terrain, long distances and heavy loads. The durability and premium materials are also a highlight for me, as well as the shock absorption and stability underfoot.”
Price: £320 Weight: 810g (per boot) Best for: Hiking, mountain walks, long-distance trekking Pros: Very durable, great for long distances and heavy loads, protective, comfy fit Cons: Heavy, not the most versatile Stiffness rating: 7/10 Cushioning rating: 6/10
Purpose-built for backpacking, the Superalp Nubuck is a premium hiking boot made with top quality Italian materials. Of course, not everyone loves a burly boot. But if you do, we think you’ll get along very well with the Superalps.
We think it’s best suited to hillwalking and alpine trekking, particularly those doing multi-day stuff while carrying heavy packs, or traversing rugged terrain. In that respect, we’d say it’s particularly well-suited to four-season hillwalking and peak bagging – at least in conditions that don’t require crampons. It’s not the best choice for light hikers or short-day walkers who prioritise minimal weight and flexibility.
The AKU Superalp nubuck boots on test in the Lake District. Photo: Dave MacFarlane.
OM tester Jazz has ben using the Superalp Nubuck boots this winter. She reports: “While most hard-wearing, leather boots require some breaking in, I actually found these really comfortable straight out-of-the-box. You wouldn’t expect it from how rigid they look, but for me at least, they felt really cosy and supportive. I have it on good authority that this is due to AKU’s unique last shape that helps give their shoes an anatomical fit.”
“One of the Superalp Nubuck GTX’s standout qualities, in my opinion, is its shock absorption and cushioning. Thanks to the dual-density PU midsole, it handles rough terrain really well and helps reduce foot fatigue on long walking days.”
Full Specifications
Upper: nubuck 2.6 mm / rubber rand protection / gore-tex performance comfort lining / vibram fourà outsole / double density pu midsole / lasting board: 6-4 mm nylon, 10% carbon fibre, die cut eva / UK size 3 to 14 available.
Our Runner Up Pick and a former choice as Best in Test: Expect supreme comfort and a very grippy outsole.
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Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge Mid Gore-Tex
Our tester’s verdict: “These are some of the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn. I’ve found the fit to be very snug, in a good way. There’s a lot of arch support and that greatly enhances the comfort for me. I’ve found the toe box to be comfortable too; neither narrow or wide, to me it’s just right.”
Price: £150 Weight: 365g (per boot) Best for: Hiking and mountain walks
Pros: Lightweight, sturdy, grippy Cons: Doubts about durability Stiffness rating: 6/10 Cushioning rating: 8.5/10
With its aggressive sole, its light weight build and breathable upper, the Salomon X Ultra 360 Edge might be a walking boot but this thing encourages you to move quickly.
The Contagrip outsole is very grippy on a range of surfaces – though, like most shoes, it has its limits on wet rock – and the whole sole unit is protective and shock absorbing. There’s plenty of flex to it too, which makes this great for those long distance days.
Our tester Hannah out and about with the Salomon X Ultra Edge 360 boots.
If you don’t want anything too solid, durable and heavy and appreciate an agile boot then you’ll like the overall lightweight construction here. The breathability is high too, so these are excellent for those warmer weather hikes over landscapes where a sandal or trail shoe won’t cut it.
Our tester said: “These are some of the most comfortable boots I’ve ever worn. I just love pulling them on. I think what I love most about them is that they provide so much confidence on usually slippery ground and they let me take in my surroundings instead of having to keep my eyes fixed on the trail.”
Best Lightweight Hiking Boot for Women: Our pick for the hiking boot that balances performance and weight the best, according to our tests.
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Asolo Falcon GV EVO
Our tester’s verdict: “These boots have seen me through a lot, most recently on a long ascent up Mount Olympus. I love how versatile they are – they can be worn for anything from country walking through to long, rocky mountain ascents.”
Price: £180 Weight: 315g (per boot) Best for: Hiking and backpacking on rocky trails Pros: Lots of good balances, high quality craftsmanship, light and protective Cons: Might be too narrow for those with wide feet, particularly at the forefoot Stiffness rating: 7/10 Cushioning rating: 7/10
Our tester Hannah used these for a month-long backpacking trip through Greece and, along the way, wore them for a long ascent of Mount Olympus. She rates them highly, noting how their balance between flexibility and sturdiness makes them a good all-rounder that can be worn for anything from country walking through to long, rocky mountain ascents.
On test in Greece.
After a long testing period, Hannah says that the boots have held up extremely well, with clear evidence of good craftsmanship and quality materials. Expect good grip on a range of surfaces, a root and rock-proof midsole and Gore-tex waterproofing.
Full Specifications
Waterproof gore-tex liner / Vibram Megagrip outsole / suede upper / 5mm lugs / removable insole / padded tongue and ankle cuff / toe bumper / metal eyelets.
Caring for your hiking boots is not just about making your boots look cleaner – products like Nikwax’s Hiking Care Kit restore your boot’s waterproofing, help prevent mud and dirt from degrading the materials and stitching, and also restore the overall breathability of the boot. Improving the breathability, in turn, will regulate the internal climate of the boots, massively reducing the possibility of getting blisters. Together, all of these factors hugely increase the lifespan of your boots, helping you stay out on the trails for much, much longer.
Best Value Hiking Boot for Women: This is a recent addition to the list. It peformed really well during our tests and has an excellent price point, particularly considered the full grain leather build.
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Simond MT500 Leather
Our tester’s verdict: “I’d say this is an excellent choice for hikers who want a traditional leather boot without the stiffness often associated with this type of footwear. It’s also a boot that performs far beyond what its price tag might suggest.”
Price: £129.99 Weight: 580g (per boot) Best for: Multi-day backpacking, trekking, non-technical hiking trips over long periods Pros: Good balance of support and flexibility, comfy out-the-box, excellent value, grippy Vibram outsole, secure lacing, tough leather Cons: On the heavy side, may feel too flexible for people carrying ultra heavy loads/ for rockier terrain Stiffness rating: 6/10 Cushioning rating: 6/10
Designed for multi-day trekking and hillwalking, the Simond MT500 combines a waterproof membrane, high-cut leather upper and Vibram outsole with a more flexible sole than many traditional trekking boots. Fresh out of the box, they were comfortable immediately, with generous padding around the collar and tongue and noticeably more freedom of movement around the ankle. The result is a boot that feels less cumbersome while still providing a secure, supportive fit.
That flexibility doesn’t come at the expense of stability, however. Across uneven ground, the MT500 remained supportive, while the sole’s natural flex made long-distance walking feel comfortable and efficient. The Vibram outsole also performed well across wet grass, muddy paths, packed earth and moderately rocky trails, providing dependable grip even on a few loose and stony sections. While they’re not designed for technical mountaineering, they feel well suited to demanding hillwalking and trekking routes.
On test along Offa’s Dyke path.
The waterproof and breathable membrane is designed for extended use in wet conditions, with Simond claiming protection for around six hours of walking in rain. On test, we had no problems with water ingress whatsoever, and while not as breathable as some synthetic alternatives, they feel on par with most waterproof leather hikers on the market.
The leather upper and reinforced toe add to the boot’s robust feel, although we’ll have to report back on the durability after more months of use. Overall, the construction feels capable of handling regular use on British hills, trekking routes and long-distance trails.
At around £130, the MT500 offers a compelling combination of leather construction, waterproofing and a Vibram outsole – features that can cost considerably more elsewhere. It doesn’t feel like a budget compromise either: the materials, finish and on-trail performance are impressively polished for the price. For walkers looking for a comfortable, supportive boot that sits between lightweight hiking footwear and traditional backpacking boots, the MT500 strikes a very nice balance.
Full Specifications
Full grain leather upper / Vibram outsole / removable insole / PU heel insert / Simond’s in-house waterproof-breathable membrane / high cut design / secure lacing system with high hooks and blocker hook designs / 2-year warranty / leather will require aftercare / manufactured in the EU.
5. Hanwag Banks SF Extra Lady GTX Boots
Best Women’s Hiking Boot for Wide Feet: Our pick for those hikers with wide feet.
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Hanwag Banks SF Extra Lady GTX
Our tester’s verdict: “This is a brilliant boot, it feels extremely well made and is comfortable ‘out of the box’. There is some flex in the sole, so it won’t be my choice for graded scrambles, but it is a great option for long days hiking in the UK national parks.”
Price: £250 Weight: 525g (per boot, size 8) Best for: Hiking and hillwalking
Pros: Comfortable, sturdy, well-made, wide range of fits Cons: Too flexible for some, too hot for warm days Stiffness rating: 7/10 Cushioning rating: 6/10
The Hanwag Banks are a well-made three-season walking boot that are a particularly good option if you sometimes struggle with fit, since the Banks comes in a variety of different styles and widths designed to suit multiple foot types. This includes the Banks Straight Fit Extra, for those with a wider forefoot, the Banks Narrow, and the standard Banks Lady.
The latter has a roomy toe box but a snug, close fit around the ankle. The inner lining is really soft and the boot feels fantastically cushioned overall. Overall the performance is impressive. A nubuck upper with a Gore-Tex lining offers reliable waterproof-breathable performance. Grip underfoot is also good, since the Vibram Endurance Pro outsole gives sure-footed traction on both slippery grass and rocky, uneven trails.
Our tester trialling the Banks GTX in North Wales
Our tester Nic Hardy said, “When I first slid my foot into the boot, I knew I was off to a great start…This is a brilliant boot, it feels extremely well made and is comfortable ‘out of the box’. There is some flex in the sole, so it won’t be my choice for graded scrambles, but it is a great option for long days hiking in the UK national parks.”
Full Specifications
Available in men’s and women’s versions and specialist fits / suede nubuck leather and textile upper / Gore-tex waterproof liner / Vibram Endurance Pro sole / Leather Working Group approved / 1.5mm PU foam wedge at mid sole.
Our tester’s verdict: “This is a straightforward, great-performing boot that I find myself reaching for a lot these days. Outside of anything technical or properly boggy (the ankle is shorter than most mid boots), I’ve found these an ideal option for UK trail walking in spring through to autumn.”
Price: £190 Weight: 360g (per boot) Best for: Trail walking, UK backpacking, warm weather hiking, everyday
Pros: Breathable, comfy, versatile design, Nubuck upper Cons: Too low for bog territory, not the most protective Stiffness rating: 6/10 Cushioning rating: 7/10
OM gear tester Jazz reports, “This is a straightforward, great-performing boot. In fact, it’s now my go-to-boot for summer hiking. It’s a bit of a walking boot /walking shoe hybrid, where you get the breathability of a walking shoe and the protective ankle support of a boot all in one. The mid-cut design is actually ever so slightly lower than most traditional boots, which, in my opinion, makes it a great, breathable boot option for hiking in the warmer seasons.”
OM tester Jazz testing the Scarpa Cyrus 2 Mid GTX boots on some hikes this summer.
“Along with some trail hiking in England and Wales, I’ve also been using the Scarpa Cyrus 2 boots as an everyday dog walking shoe, and as a gardening boot! It’s got the cushioning, the waterproofing, and (very importantly, of course) the look to make it a versatile option for a whole bunch of different activities. I can see it working well for lightweight travelling too, where you know you’ll be racking up the miles across a variety of terrains.”
Here Jazz is pictured testing the Scarpa Cyrus 2 Mid GTX boots during a mixed bag of weather in the UK. Photo: Cinthia Lilen.
“So far, I’ve had no problems with the waterproofing and the Nubuck upper has been coping well with abrasion on the trail. The ankle padding has been super comfy in particular, and while I wouldn’t rely on it for anything ultra technical, I’ve been impressed with the traction and grip so far, especially on some rockier routes in the Dartry Mountains in Leitrim, Ireland. That being said, if you’re on non-stop rock all day, you’ll start to feel it after a while, but for a few rocky sections here and there, it’ll do the job.”
One year check-in: “These are still my go-to summer boots for UK terrain. When it’s warm out, but you’re still likely to come across some boggy and/or water-logged sections of terrain, these strike the perfect balance for me between breathability and protection for me.”
Full Specifications
Gore-Tex ePE (PFAS free and bluesign approved) waterproof membrane / Nubuck upper / ergonomic padding at the ankle and tongue / EVA midsole / Scarpa Presa outsole with Super gum compound / bonded-strobel hybrid construction / re-soleable.
7. LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid
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LOWA Renegade Evo GTX Mid
Our tester’s verdict: “The Renegades have impressed me a lot this winter. I think they balance durability, foot support and protectiveness really well, especially over long distances. They feel really well made too and I can see them lasting a long, long time.”
Price: £220 Weight: 590g (per boot) Best for: UK hillwalking, trail hiking, all-rounder Pros: Really comfy out-of-the-box, reliable grip, rugged build Cons: Not the most cushioned, runs warm Stiffness rating: 6/10 Cushioning rating: 5/10
OM tester Jazz has been thrashing the Renegade Evo boots around this winter and reports: “they’ve been a very reliable boot. Right out of the box the fit felt really comfy – supportive around the heel and ankle without feeling restrictive. The gore-tex lining hasn’t failed me yet, though that does mean they’re naturally a little too warm on milder days.”
“On trail, the grip’s been fab. The tread bites into sludgy mud and loose gravel confidently, and I’ve rarely experienced a slip. The support’s been great too, especially under heavy loads. The cushioning isn’t super plush – so I’d look elsewhere if that’s your thing – though I think that’s the trade-off for reliable support over longer distances.”
Here the LOWA Renegade boots are pictured on test in Ireland.
The Renegades come in at a decent weight – not superlight but light enough – but the added protection and durability make it worthwhile we reckon. The build quality feels good so far too, though it’s worth noting that these boots are not resoleable. We also liked the lacing system, which give a nice and precise, wraparound fit.
All in all, the Renegade Evo GTX Mid boots have proved themselves to be a dependable and comfortable boot that we’d happily recommend for UK hillwalking, trail hiking and backpacking.
Full Specifications
Nubuck-textile build / Vibram Rene Trac outsole / Gore-tex waterproof lining / LOWA Monowrap support frame (PU) / PU-foam padding throughout / available in a standard, narrow or wide fit / not resoleable.
8. Helly Hansen Cascade Mid Boots
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Helly Hansen Cascade Mid
Our tester’s verdict: “I recently used these on an ascent up Mount Fuji where the trails were very rocky and characteristically volcanic, and thought the Cascades performed great. I’m constantly impressed with how versatile these boots really are.”
Price: £160 Weight: 380g (per boot) Best for: Lightweight hiking, day hiking, short multi-day adventures Pros: Lightweight, flexible, recycled content Cons: Not very durable Stiffness rating: 4/10 Cushioning rating: 5/10
OM gear tester Jazz reports, “The Helly Hansen Cascade boots helped me move through some boggy terrains this winter. They’re very lightweight too, giving each step a bouncy yet secure feel.”
“Featuring Helly Hansen’s own Helly Tech waterproof membrane, I tested these boots on some very boggy paths after a stint of non-stop rain in the UK and they held up well. You’ll find a whole bunch of HH’s very own technologies here actually, as well as a protective toe guard and heel cap, a cushioned insole and padded collar, a PFC-free durable water-repellent treatment, and loads of recycled materials. Two thumbs up for eco efforts.”
The Cascades on test along the South Downs Way.
“There was enough stiffness to the boot that I felt protected from rockier terrains while still feeling like I had enough flexibility to move my feet freely on the trail. Particularly when going uphill, the flex allowed me to really lean into the trail and bend the shoe, while still feeling securely gripped to the trail by the rubber outsole. The extra cushioning was a nice touch too, and the padded collar made a real difference, again, when going uphill. That being said, if you prefer that ultra-ultra-foamy feeling underfoot, I’d probably look elsewhere.”
It got pretty muddy out there.
“I also recently used these shoes to hike up Mount Fuji where the trails were very rocky and characteristically volcanic, and thought the Cascades performed great. There were a few foot jamming moments where I’d wished I had burlier boots on, but other than that, I was impressed with how versatile these boots are.”
Full Specifications
100% waterproof Helly Tech membrane / upper: >70% recycled materials / main lining: 100% recycled polyester (second lining: 73% recycled polyester, 27% polyurethane) / midsole: 30% recycled EVA / insole: EVA / outsole: 30% recycled, non-marking rubber (HH Max-Grip) / Swift-Frame stabilizer / protective toe guard and heel cap / cushioned insole / padded collar / PFC-free DWR / 100% RPET reinforcement tape and collar reinforcement
9. Haglöfs Incline GTX Mid
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Haglöfs Incline GTX Mid
Our tester’s verdict: “These are a solid pair of hiking boots if you’re looking for something somewhere in between an alpine boot and a lightweight synthetic boot. During my tests, I’ve found them tough, durable, and surprisingly light feeling, with a dependable grip out on the trail.”
Price: £210 Weight: 750g (per shoe) Best for: Long-distance hiking and trekking, autumn and winter use Pros: High-quality materials, tough and durable, surprisingly light feeling, dependable grip Cons: Not the most versatile, too stiff for some Stiffness rating: 8/10 Cushioning rating: 4/10
The Haglöfs Incline GTX Mid boots are ideal for hikers who want durability, support, and protection. If you’re looking for something ultra-cushioned and a little luxurious, we’d recommend that you look elsewhere, but if you’re after something in between a traditional leather boot and a modern lightweight hiker, we think you’ll appreciate what the Incline has to offer.
Jazz using the boots through a stormy spell in the Lake District. Photo: Dave MacFarlane.
OM tester Jazz has been using the Inclines throughout autumn and winter. She reports, “Once broken in, these boots hit a sweet spot between support and all-day wearability. From my experience, the cushioning isn’t plush but it’s firm and stable, especially when the trail gets uneven. I particularly appreciate how they handle side-hilling or loose rock; the midsole and ankle cuff give you enough rigidity that your foot doesn’t twist or over-flex when the ground gets awkward.”
They’re not ultralight, and they do require a break-in period, but once settled, they deliver dependable performance for the majority of terrains and forecasts here in the UK. If you value reliability and longevity, and don’t mind a little extra weight, we think these boots are a good long-term companion for the trail.
Full Specifications
Gold-rated split skin uppers / insulated 4-layer waterproof Gore-tex Sierra membrane / semi-rigid EVA midsole / Vibram Xstrek compound in the outsoles / toe and heel rubber reinforcements / B2 rated C-1 crampon-compatible / lace locking system for easy individual lacing.
Our tester’s verdict: “I’m a big fan of the high-cut style and the tough mix of Nubuck and synthetic materials in the upper. You feel very protected from all sides and it really gives you the confidence to thrash your feet about on the trail.”
Price: £200 Weight: 635g (per shoe) Best for: Four-season hiking (without snow), multi-day treks Pros: Very waterproof, tough materials, high ankle support Cons: Not very cushioned, heavy Stiffness rating: 6.5/10 Cushioning rating: 4/10
OM gear tester Jazz reports, “Now this is what I’d call a burly boot. Designed with all four seasons in mind, I’ve now tested these boots from spring through to autumn (winter testing results pending) and think this is a solid performer for the mixed terrains here in the UK. Most recently I used them out and about in the Langdale Pikes after some serious downpours of rain, and found them great for trudging through the mud (more like bogs to be honest).”
Though on the heavy side, that’s kind of the whole point with this shoe. It’s for those rugged outdoor days where you’re expecting a bit of everything in terms of terrain and weather. The Opti-stud Vibram sole offers reliable traction too – “I found that it particularly excelled in muddy and rocky terrains. Like many shoes, however, it has its limits on slimy rocks.”
I like the high-cut style and the extra padding around the ankle – I only wish there was a little more padding underfoot.
“I’m a big fan of the high-cut style and the tough mix of Nubuck and synthetic materials in the upper. You feel very protected from all sides and it really gives you the confidence to thrash your feet about on the trail. The laminated overlays and hardy feeling toe box add to the general feeling that these boots should last a long while.”
The Berghaus Storm Trek hiking boots on test in the Lake District.
“All that being said, I’d look elsewhere if you prefer something ultra-cushioned. I found that I had to pair my thicker hiking socks with these boots as they were a little too harsh for me, particularly at the toe box when going downhill. Even so, at £200, I’d still consider this good value for your money considering you’re getting a boot for all seasons. It’s also worth bearing in mind that these boots are not crampon-compatible.”
Full Specifications
Gore-tex lining / Opti-stud Vibram outsole / Ortholite footbed / built on women’s last shape / free repairs for life.
How to Clean and Reproof a Pair of Walking Boots
Care for your boots
Nikwax Hiking Care Kit
Caring for your hiking boots is not just about making your boots look cleaner – products like Nikwax’s Hiking Care Kit restore your boot’s waterproofing, help prevent mud and dirt from degrading the materials and stitching, and also restore the overall breathability of the boot. Improving the breathability, in turn, will regulate the internal climate of the boots, massively reducing the possibility of getting blisters. Together, all of these factors hugely increase the lifespan of your boots, helping you stay out on the trails for much, much longer.
Here’s our own guide to keeping your boots in tip top shape. Give it a watch – it’ll make your boots last a lot longer and the process is super easy.
If you’re looking for low cut options, go check out our list of the best walking shoes for women for this season. You can also find more walking boots tested by the OM team over in our round up of the best hiking boots for both men and women.
