Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities enjoyed by many people, but you must choose the right hiking shoes for beginners that can help you enjoy the outdoors without any discomfort or injury. Most people enjoy hiking, but only a select few know how to hike in the right shoes. Whether you’re just starting out or have been hiking for years, you need a pair of hiking shoes that are comfortable and will keep your feet safe.
How Best Women’s Hiking Shoes for Beginners? The simple answer is this is a pair of shoes that will keep your feet dry and comfortable. They are also lightweight and easy to carry. If you are just starting out, then it is important that you know what to look for when buying your first hiking shoes.
While there are many brands that make hiking shoes, you can’t afford to get something that is too heavy or too expensive. You need to find a pair of hiking shoes that is comfortable and easy to walk in. You don’t want to spend hours walking in uncomfortable shoes.
Choosing the women’s hiking shoes for beginners is not an easy task, but you will find that it will be worth your time and effort to find the perfect pair of hiking shoes for beginners. So I am pleased to find some great options out there for beginner hikers that won’t break the bank.
At a Glance:
- Lightweight
- Durable and comfortable
- The outsole provides plenty of traction
- Wide sizes available for men and women
- Non-Gore-Tex version available
- Quality arch support
- Comfortable
- Durability of Vibram Megagrip outsoles
- Makes hiking feel easier
- The 5 Best Women’s Hiking Shoes for Beginners
- 1. Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking
- 2. Jack Wolfskin Force Striker Texapore Shoes
- 3. Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Hiking Shoes
- 4. Oboz Sawtooth II Low Hiking Shoes
- 5. Danner Mountain 600 Mid Hiking Boots for Men
- Top 5 Best Women’s Hiking Shoes for Beginners – Buyer’s Guide:
- 1. Weight:
- 2. Stiffness and Stability:
- 3. Lacing Systems:
- 4. Toe Protection:
- 5. Insoles:
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion:
The 5 Best Women’s Hiking Shoes for Beginners
If you are going on a hiking trip for the first time, it can be a bit scary and overwhelming. It is important to know what kind of shoes you should wear for a hiking trip and which ones will be most suitable for beginners.
You should also consider the weather conditions and the terrain of the place where you are going. Hiking shoes are important for beginners because they protect your feet, especially your heels, from any sharp objects or rocks. Don’t forget to read here Can Hiking Shoes be Used for Walking?
In this guide, I have covered the detailed reviews of the 5 Top women’s hiking shoes for beginners that can protect your feet from the tough terrain of hiking.
1. Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking
The Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking is a comfortable, versatile, and durable hiking boot. It features a synthetic leather upper, breathable mesh lining, and a durable rubber outsole. The boot has a medium-wide fit, and it measures 7.5 inches at its thickest point.
The X Ultra 3 GORE-TEX hiking boots are constructed with GORE-TEX, a waterproof and breathable membrane so that it can repel moisture and allow for air to pass through. This helps you stay dry, warm, and comfortable.
This is the ultimate hiking shoe for serious hikers who want to take on the toughest trails and get the most out of every single step. It’s got a premium leather upper, which feels luxurious and is super comfortable, and the rubber outsole provides reliable traction on slippery surfaces.
The heel is reinforced with a solid rubber material and is a perfect choice for hiking, running, and trail climbing. It has a soft and cushioned insole to ensure comfort, and a breathable mesh lining so that sweat can easily evaporate.
When it comes to fit, you get plenty of room in the footbed, and the tongue is positioned for maximum comfort. The X Ultra 3 is a great choice for hiking, and if you want something that’s going to last for years to come, it’s the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable and comfortable
- The outsole provides plenty of traction
- Wide sizes available for men and women
- Non-Gore-Tex version available
Cons
- Gore-Tex means that shoes hold heat
- Quick-lace system isn’t the most durable
2. Jack Wolfskin Force Striker Texapore Shoes
Jack Wolfskin is one of the best known outdoor gear brands out there, so it’s no surprise that their shoes are pretty good too. The Force Striker Texapore shoes have a lightweight upper with a rugged synthetic sole. This is a perfect blend of durability and comfort, making them suitable for all types of activities.
Jack Wolfskin includes a collar and tongue in the shoe, both made from soft, supple synthetic fabric. They’re removable, so you can wash them easily and they won’t be bulky in your pocket. These are made from a soft synthetic material that feels fantastic.
The boot also has a removable insole, and it has a nice set of laces that can be tightened to fit a wide range of feet sizes. The boot features a gusseted tongue and collar, which helps prevent water from entering.
It features a water-resistant, Gore-Tex fabric for a breathable and waterproof construction. The lace hooks at the collar allow you to adjust the lacing as needed, and there’s also a protective rubber toe cap that will keep your feet safe.
There are also no zippers or Velcro that can break apart over time, which is another advantage over most hiking shoes.On the bottom of the shoe, there’s a Vibram outsole that provides traction for rough terrains and allows you to move smoothly when hiking.
Pros
- Quality arch support
- Comfortable
- Durability of Vibram Megagrip outsoles
- Makes hiking feel easier
Cons
- Run small/narrow
- Limited color choices
3. Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Hiking Shoes
The Merrell Moab 2 Ventilator Hiking Shoe is a versatile shoe, and it has been designed to withstand the elements. It features a bellows tongue that keeps out debris, and it has been treated with waterproofing and oil-resistant finishes.
The rubber outsole is durable and grippy. It provides traction and is very durable. There are plenty of vents for increased breathability, and the lugs on the midsole provide extra grip. The suede uppers are a nice upgrade over the leather, and they’re soft and supple.
The toe cap is designed to protect your feet from rough terrain, and it’s removable so you can change it out if it gets damaged. The mesh lining allows sweat to dissipate, and it feels soft against your skin.
The company has designed the Moab 2 Ventilator Hiking Shoes with a ventilated mesh upper and an open mesh heel, which allows for airflow and ventilation. It also has a breathable mesh tongue and collar for additional comfort.
They’re designed with a wide toe box, so I had no problem wearing thick socks, and they didn’t pinch my toes. The soft, breathable mesh uppers keep you cool in the summer, and there’s an antimicrobial treatment on the insides, so you won’t stink either.
Pros
- Good ankle support
- Affordable
- Hard-wearing
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Not ideal for technical terrain
- Can feel a bit cumbersome
4. Oboz Sawtooth II Low Hiking Shoes
The Oboz hiking shoes are designed to be worn on trails and the company claims that they can handle rocky terrain, uneven surfaces, and wet terrain. These Oboz hiking shoes are built with a breathable mesh upper that allows moisture to escape while still keeping you warm and dry.
They’re lightweight and feature a flexible sole that provides excellent grip. They’re made with premium rubber soles and are super comfortable. For a low-cost, comfortable pair of hiking shoes, the Oboz Sawtooth II is a great option.
The asymmetrical collar is designed to comfortably articulate with your ankle, and a molded rubber heel counter helps maintain a snug, comfortable heel hold over time. This hiking shoe is ideal for hiking, walking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
The midsole is made from durable EVA foam, which is great for absorbing shock. This is an important thing for hikers because it prevents your feet from being jolted around. This makes the shoes great for long hikes, and also for those who spend time on their feet at work.
These shoes are waterproof and have been tested to IPX7 standards, meaning they’re suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The Oboz Sawtooth II is a great hiking shoe that can be used for any activity, but it’s especially useful for backpacking and hiking.
Pros
- Offers great traction
- One-year defect warranty
- Highly durable
- Supportive insole
Cons
- Heavy
- Upper absorbs water
5. Danner Mountain 600 Mid Hiking Boots for Men
Danner also makes a version of these boots for women, but I’d stick with the men’s versions. These boots are designed to work well in the mountains, so you can hike in them without worrying about getting blisters or sore feet.
The sole is flexible enough to flex with your foot, but still firm enough to support the weight of your foot. They also have a few traction features, like the ridges along the bottom of the sole. The shaft is very comfortable, and the ankle strap is adjustable, so you can find the right fit.
These are great because they have a nice soft suede upper that feels really comfortable on your feet. They’re made with a breathable, moisture-wicking lining and a padded collar to provide extra comfort. They also have a double-buckle design that makes them easy to get on and off.
They’re made of leather and have a removable insole, so you can easily clean them. They have a protective toe cap, which provides excellent protection for your toes, while a sturdy heel keeps your feet stable.
Danner boots are designed for outdoor activities, and you can use them to trek in the mountains, walk around the park, or hike through the woods. They’re also ideal for snowboarding, skiing, and hiking, so you’ll find yourself using them quite often.
Pros
- A great summer hiking boot option
- Nice old school look pairs well with jeans to get used off the trail as well
- Lightweight, Waterproof & Grippy
Cons
- Not recommended for backpacking
- Very minimal toe guard
Top 5 Best Women’s Hiking Shoes for Beginners – Buyer’s Guide:
1. Weight:
In hiking, the weight of your footwear is a crucial consideration and can affect the way you move and the speed at which you travel across the terrain. You’ll start to feel the weight of your heavy boots after a few miles on the trail.
If you have a decent amount of experience in hiking and would like to speed through the terrain, lighter-weight gear is recommended. They’re not as durable and it’s easier to sustain a stubbed toe or sprained ankle, but if your body is accustomed to the rigors of hiking, you’ll perform well and the miles will seem to fly by.
2. Stiffness and Stability:
Selecting the proper hiking boot is a matter of determining how much stiffness and stability you need. Their internal layers are surrounded by a stiff piece of plastic, called the shank. Selecting a hiking boot is more than choosing the type of material you need.
The length of the shank determines how stiff the hiking boot is. It varies from full-length to just below the arch. Full-length shanks are found in heavier boots, such as more heavy-duty options and those intended for mountaineering.
3. Lacing Systems:
The most noticeable part of a shoe is its lacing system. If this is too loose or too tight, it could affect how comfortably the shoe fits. If the system itself isn’t holding your heel securely, it could cause hot spots or blisters. If the culprit is just the laces themselves, it’s an easy fix: Replacing them with new ones should do the trick.
If you’re looking for a shoe that provides all-day comfort with a snug fit, then you don’t have to look any further. The Salomon X Ultra 3 and 4 have a single-pull lacing system, which is a nice change from the standard double-pull lacing.
4. Toe Protection:
Hiking trails are notorious for being littered with rocks, roots, and other potential hazards, so we highly suggest you pack a pair of hiking shoes with some type of toe cap. Without it, you may end up with a trip-ruining impact when you inevitably look up from the trail to admire the scenery.
Trail running shoes, as their name implies, have more protection than typical hiking shoes because they cover more ground. Approach shoes have excellent protection because of their wraparound rubber rand at the front of the shoe.
5. Insoles:
Although the stock insoles that come with nearly every hiking shoe generally are cheap, for others it might not make a difference. Luckily, removing your insoles is super easy, and replacing them with an aftermarket model that’s specific to your foot size and shape can remedy most shoe maladies.
New insoles can vary from the size of the shoe to provide more or less volume in your shoe, improve the fit under your arch, and increase or decrease the cushion and impact shock. We recommend checking out Superfeet insoles for their wide selection of options.
And read these ugly hiking shoe buying tips to be sure that what you’ve got is the best fit for your hiking feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best shoes to wear when hiking?
1. Danner Trailcomber Women’s Hiking Shoes.
2. Nike ACG Air Mowabb Hiking Shoes.
3. Danner Trail 2650 GTX Men’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes.
4. Merrell Altalight Women’s Waterproof Hiking Shoes.
5. Merrell Moab 2 Vent Men’s Hiking Shoes.
6. Merrell Alverstone Mid Waterproof Women’s Hiking Boots.
What is the best hiking boots for a beginner?
One of the leading brands of trail shoes for outdoor adventures is Keen. Its Trail Model lineup provides excellent traction and comfort, making them great for the majority of outdoor activities. When it comes to the features and attributes, the Trail Model is simply the best.
Can you wear running shoes on a hike?
Is it okay to hike in running shoes? Yes, we can’t argue with that. But there are some things to think about. The short answer is that it’s totally fine to go hiking in running shoes. The long answer is that it depends. There are some things to consider. Whatever shoe makes your feet happy and gets you out on the trail is the right shoe for you.
Are sneakers good for hiking?
If you’re hiking, even a pair of regular sneakers will be fine. If you want to go hiking in cold, rainy conditions, a sturdy boot with a waterproof membrane is probably your best choice. You can also find waterproof trail-running shoes.
Conclusion:
Hiking shoes are one of the best outdoor activities available to anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. They’re a great way to get out and enjoy the fresh air, and they provide an excellent workout in the process.
But, if you’re just starting out as a hiker, you’ll need a pair of hiking shoes that will keep up with you while you’re out there. There are many types of hiking shoes, so it’s important to find a pair that works well for you.
The best hiking shoes will be the ones that you can wear all day long without having to change them. I’ve tried to put together a list of the best women’s hiking shoes for beginners, and you’ll find that they’re pretty affordable, too. I would suggest checking out these five models.
