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Though theyre heavy, theyre really comfortable, one tester wrote.

Best hiking boots for women in 2024

Courtesy of the brands / Laneen Wells

The soles also assisted in that by providing a nice grip, our tester wrote.

They also look great and are casual enough for everyday wear, she adds.

Plus, Marcangeli adds, the Mountain Trailer Lite offers incredible arch support.

Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots

They prefer this specific modelthe Danner Mountain 600because its comfortable and provides just the right amount of support.

But the Mountain 600 does more than look good: It performs exceedingly well too.

In fact, youll be pretty miserable.

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots

Heres what to keep in mind for find the right boot for your foot and hiking style.

(Thats not to say that all boots will feel pain-free during your first hike.

Some require a break-in periodespecially leather boots.)

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots

you oughta find the right fit foryourfeet, says Bishop.

The boots fit should be like any other athletic shoe in your closet, says Dr. Teter.

Basically, it shouldnt feel too tight or too loose.

Cross Hike 2 Mid GoreTex Hiking Boots in branded black and dark brown color way on white background

You should be able to wiggle your toes and have some space in front of them, Bishop says.

If your little toe feels squished, go up a half size or full size.

Bishop notes that a higher shaft can help you feel more stable when carrying a heavy pack.

Cross Hike 2 Mid GoreTex Hiking Boots in branded black and dark brown color way on white background

Boots with a mid-height shaft can still provide a bit of support without weighing you down.

If in doubt, just let the areas you most frequently visit make the decision for you.

If you do decide on a pair ofwaterproof hiking boots, youll have plenty of options.

Cross Hike 2 Mid GoreTex Hiking Boots in branded black and dark brown color way on white background

Brands use different types of waterproofing, including interior membranes and exterior coatings.

Lugs provide stability and enhance your boots traction, to further prevent you from slipping.

Some lugs are deep and set at sharp angles.

34 KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid

Boots with shallower lugs are more suitable for mellow trails with consistent terrain and good weather conditions.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 GORETEX Trail Running Shoes

Nucleo High II GTX Hiking Boots

Oboz Sypes Mid Leather Waterproof Hiking Boots in tan colorway

Altra Lone Peak AllWthr Mid 2 in green and white colorway

Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots

Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite Mid GTX Hiking Boot in red and teal colorway

Hoka Kaha 2 GoreTex Hiking Boots on a white background

Hoka Kaha 2 GoreTex Hiking Boots on a white background

Hoka Kaha 2 GoreTex Hiking Boots on a white background

Mountain 600 Hiking Boots in branded brown and red color way on white background

Mountain 600 Hiking Boots in branded brown and red color way on white background

Mountain 600 Hiking Boots in branded brown and red color way on white background

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