How to Select the Right Women's Hiking Footwear for Any Terrain

Finding the right hiking shoes for different terrains can be a blissful experience, or it can be a trial and error with all sorts of consequences and pain. The many opinions on the internet don’t make it easy to sort out fact from fiction, either. If you’re just starting to venture onto trails or planning a new adventure, you may be wondering if your current hiking shoes will translate to the trail.

I’ve hiked 7,000 miles across the country on long-distance trails and cross-country routes, so I’ve tried just about every kind of women’s hiking sandal, shoe, and boot in the game. In this guide, I'll lace up the facts on what makes for great women’s hiking footwear (and hiking footwear in general, as most all of below is applicable to men and other gender nonconforming outdoor lovers too) and how to apply them to different terrains, from smooth, long-distance trails to challenging alpine environments.

With the right information and a little bit of prep, you'll be putting your best foot forward on every trail. I'm here to help. Read on for my comprehensive guide to how to choose the perfect hiking footwear for any terrain.

The importance of selecting the right footwear for specific terrains

Your feet are your only transportation on hiking trips so choosing the footwear that keeps them comfortable is critical to get from point A to B. Most hiking shoes will do well in a variety of terrains and climates, but you should be properly equipped in some niche situations. Shoes that are not equipped for snowy and alpine terrain could put you in an unsafe situation, and footwear that is too heavy, like hiking boots, will leave you exhausted and struggling to meet your mileage.

Features to look for in women's hiking footwear

The uppers will indicate a shoe’s durability, breathability, and waterproofing. Leather uppers are the most durable and warm but less breathable, while meshy synthetic uppers are the opposite. GORE-TEX membranes can help keep feet dry in some scenarios but tend to lack breathability and may trap water inside your shoe.

The soles of a shoe are composed of the midsole and outsole. Running shoes usually contain foam in the midsole, which is lightweight and comfortable but not particularly durable. For the outsoles, manufacturers use a variety of rubbers (revolutionized by Vibram) that affect the durability and traction of the shoe. Approach shoes differ by using a softer rubber compound and tread design that is suited to gripping on rock but is not as efficient in mixed terrain. The soles also vary in stiffness—trail running shoes are often soft and comfortable while approach shoes and boots tend to be stiff and may have shanks or plates for added support.

Toe and heel welts can be found on certain boots to allow for automatic crampons. It’s a niche necessity and most hikers will do fine with semi-automatic crampons or microspikes, but it’s a feature to consider if your objectives will take you into alpine terrain.

Comparing boots, shoes, and sandals for hiking

Hiking Boots

Hiking boots run the gamut from stiff mountaineering models to lightweight hiking boots. Ankle support is a contentious topic—studies have shown that most boots don’t actually provide enough rigidity to protect your ankles from sprains, but many still prefer the perceived support. High-top hiking boots are best for plus-sized hikers, those with a history of sprains, and folks hiking in snowy environments and on extremely uneven and rocky terrain like what you find in the Northeast.

Burly leather boots were the traditional hiking shoe from the early to late 1900s but footwear has evolved like the rest of our gear. If comfort and mileage matter to you, their weight means that they’re best left to the nostalgic sartorialists and trail crews.

Synthetic boots vary from lightweight hiking boots by running brands like Hoka and Altra to heftier mountaineering models by La Sportiva and Scarpa. Many modern, waterproof hiking boots have a GORE-TEX membrane and will dry faster than leather boots. They are not as durable as leather boots and may not be resoleable (though Danner does make a numebr of resolable hiking boots), but they often are cheaper, lighter, more breathable, and have an easier break in period.

Snowy terrain is the only place where boots and GORE-TEX waterproofing are essential. Some hikers can get by in approach shoes on spring endeavors, but in general the stiffer shank and waterproofing inherent in winter boots are necessary to kick step through snow.

Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoes strike a middle ground between lightweight trail runners and hiking boots. They typically have robust soles with deep lugs for traction on varied terrain, water-resistant uppers to keep feet dry, and reinforced toe boxes to guard against rocks and roots. Unlike trail runners, women's hiking shoes have stiffer midsoles for better support on uneven ground and when carrying light loads. However, they're more flexible and lighter than hiking boots, making them better for faster-paced hikes on trail.

Trail Running Shoes

Trail running shoes often have a rock plate in the midsole and deeper lugs on the outsole than road shoes to deliver better traction on a variety of terrain surfaces. This style of running shoe is low cut and usually utilizes breathable (and sometimes waterproof) mesh in the upper and foam in the midsole, making trail runners the lightest option but also the least durable. If the trails you're hiking on are typically well maintained (like pine needle beds of the PNW and much of California) then trail runners are the best hiking shoes. They are also great in the desert and when your feet will be submerged in water. (The Altra Lone Peak, and Norda 001 are options I've tested and trust.) Though they are not ideal on more technical scrambles, in snowy conditions, or in areas that are overly rocky, as they do not offer much ankle support. A pair of good hiking boots are better for super rocky terrain.

Approach Shoes

Approach shoes are designed for scrambling and walking on rock. Their outsole and toe box feature a softer rubber compound that sticks well to rock, much like climbing shoes. Most are stiffer than hiking and running shoes, and you’ll have to examine the lugs in the sole to see how well it will perform on trail vs rock (La Sportiva TX3s are a classic hybrid). They are designed for use in summer alpine terrain.

Sandals

Certain brands, like Bedrock Sandals, Luna Sandals, and Chaco Sandals, specifically target minimalist hikers with features like cushioned midsoles, Vibram soles, and comfortable, chafe-free straps. They lack the protection of a closed-toe shoe in some scenarios, though, so you’ll want to consider the terrain and how graceful you are on your feet. They are a great option for general trail and watery hikes.

Tips for trying on and testing hiking footwear before purchase (aka How should hiking boots fit?)

Once you’ve decided on a style and are ready to invest, make sure your hiking shoes fit properly. You’ll want a snug heel and a little bit of room in the toe box so you don’t lose toenails on descents. This is especially important if you plan on hiking long distances, as your feet will most likely swell. Approach shoes are the one exception, as they’re usually a little more snug so your feet don’t slip in consequential terrain.

Be sure to find out the width of your feet by having them measured at a store. Trying shoes on at the end of the day with the socks you intend on wearing outside is the best way to make sure you end up with shoes that fit. Some shops even have slanted platforms that simulate climbs and descents.

Maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your hiking footwear

Buying a well-fitting shoe and supplementing with orthotics if necessary is the best way to maximize your shoes’ lifespan, as a correct gait will prevent abnormal wear and tear. For further care, keep your shoes out of direct sun and heat, as rubber soles are known to warp in strong sun and heat can delaminate approach shoes. Leather boots must be waterproofed at least once a season with Nikwax or another leather oil, and they should be resoled when the treads have worn down. If your shoes do soak through, be sure to pull your insoles out when drying them.

Different hiking shoes will have different break-in times. Trail runners don’t require breaking in while hiking boots will take a while to loosen up. Sandals are the opposite of boots in that you’ll want to break in your feet instead of the shoes-building up calluses over time where the straps rub or wearing socks are the only way to prevent blisters.

Understanding different hiking terrains and their challenges

Whether you’re planning a trip or sticking close to home, you should be able to classify your hiking terrain into one of the following categories: trail, desert, wet, summer alpine, and snow.

Be sure to consider how you’ll be moving across the terrain as well—the smooth John Muir Trail doesn’t mean much if you’ll be primarily hiking off-trail on the Sierra High Route. Cross-country travel generally means any walking you’re not doing on a trail, be that following a wash in the desert or crossing an open meadow in Virginia. You’re more likely to encounter obstacles on cross country terrain, so shoes that protect your toes are best practice when you’re hiking off-trail.

Trail

General trail is where most people are going to spend most of their time. Trail building and maintenance can vary hugely, but in general, if there is a somewhat distinguishable path of dirt or gravel, it is considered a trail.

Desert

Desert terrain is typically very dry, sandy, rocky, and full of sharp objects. The rocks can vary from the smooth Utah sandstone to the jagged rocks of Arizona and New Mexico, so your footwear needs may vary. Breathability is key in hot terrain like this though, and you don’t need the waterproofing of GORE-TEX or thick boots. Very meshy trail runners will invite sand in, though, so shoes with sturdier uppers (or no uppers, as with sandals) and gaiters can mitigate some of the sand.

Wet

Any trail can be a wet trail, depending on the weather. But when I talk about wet terrain, I’m thinking about more than just run-of-the-mill mud—I’m referring to soggy hikes through the Everglades or the Zion Narrows, where most of your hiking is wading through water. Here you will encounter slippery surfaces and have your feet wet most of the time.

Alpine

Summer alpine terrain can vary wildly but includes anything above treeline. In alpine terrain, you’ll likely hit soft meadows and lakes, class 4 scrambling across rock, snowy passes and glaciers, and fields of talus and scree. The time of year you’re traveling will completely dictate your footwear.

Snow

Snowy hiking can mean anything from flat winter hikes in the Midwest to kicking in steps up a couloir. The types of boots for snowy treks are going to vary from winter mountaineering boots to lightweight hybrid hiking boots, and you’ll have to balance the approach and the technical aspects when choosing your footwear.

What are the best lightweight women's hiking boots?

The best lightweight hiking boot for each person will vary, but some popular lightweight models include the Hoka Anacapa 2 Breeze Mid, Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex, and the La Sportiva TX Hike. Altra makes boot versions of their most popular shoes, including the Timp, Olympus, and Lone Peak, and Astral has been a growing brand in the thru-hiking community and makes the Astral Pisgah Boots. Ahnu once made the most popular women’s hike boots in the business until they were acquired by Teva, so the Teva Ridgeview and Grandview GTX boots may be worth exploring as well.

Are breathable women's hiking shoes good for summer hikes?

Breathable shoes keep your feet as cool and dry as possible. Excess moisture will create odors and a host of foot problems (including blisters), so choose shoes that allow for air circulation if you have sweaty feet or are heading out into hotter temps.

Can women's hiking sandals be used for long trails?

Some sandals have evolved to be as comfortable as any other hiking shoe and are the preferred footwear of many thru-hikers. The main appeal is their comfort in water and as camp shoes. They tend to be more durable than other hiking shoes as well and some hikers have been known to thru-hike 2,000+ miles on a single pair.

What are the benefits of women's trail running shoes?

Trail running shoes are lightweight and breathable, making them a good option for hikers who move fast and far. They are also very quick to dry, thanks to the breathable mesh uppers.

How do women's hiking sneakers compare to traditional hiking boots?

Hiking shoes are much lighter and lower cut than hiking boots. They tend to have softer midsoles and more breathable uppers. Hiking shoes are generally more durable and stiffer than trail runners, making them a great middle ground for those who want to switch from boots without committing to very lightweight trail runners.

Do you need to break in hiking boots?

Don’t be tempted to wear your boots out immediately - leather boots require serious break in time. Hikers should wear them for short spans, indoors and outside, and gradually increase the time worn until the leather forms to your foot.

Synthetic boots will soften up a little but they will not form to your foot the way leather does, so be sure to buy boots that don’t have any hot spots and fit well from the start.