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The best hiking boot for you depends on how it fits and where you hike—not on a single “best” label. Travel + Leisure’s roundup, updated June 22, 2026, names the Merrell Moab 3 Mid its best overall, but its other picks target different priorities, from low weight to traction and leather construction. Use the distinctions below to narrow your choices, then check current prices, sizes, and availability before buying.
How the eight picks differ
The recommendations and observations below are Travel + Leisure’s, not a head-to-head laboratory ranking. Its stated process involved testing 56 pairs of women’s hiking boots on hikes in the U.S. and beyond. Testers inspected construction, wore each pair at home for at least an hour, then completed at least two hikes of one to two hours per use over four weeks across varied terrain and climates. They also assessed claimed waterproofing in rain or river crossings and recorded blisters, redness, hot spots, and foot pain. The publisher says it will continue assessing long-term quality.
| Boot | Travel + Leisure distinction | Reported details and trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| Merrell Moab 3 Mid | Best overall | Listed at 1.8 pounds per pair and waterproof. Testers reported a true-to-size fit, wide-width availability, minimal break-in, support across conditions, and steady grip on rough terrain and wet or icy rocks. They reported more than six months of use without visible wear; that observation is not a durability guarantee. |
| Arc’teryx Kopec Mid GTX | Best lightweight | Listed at 1.4 pounds per pair. The article cautions that it is not especially breathable. |
| Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped | Best value | Travel + Leisure’s value pick. Its displayed price can change, so check the current listing before purchasing. |
| Oboz Women’s Katabatic Mid Waterproof | Most comfortable | Selected for comfort; the roundup does not establish further comparative performance details here. |
| Salewa Women’s Mid PTX | Best traction | Selected for traction. That distinction should not be read as a guarantee on every surface or in every condition. |
| Danner Mountain 600 EVO | Best leather | The roundup’s leather option; no further comparative performance detail is established here. |
| Forsake Patch Mid II WP | Most durable | Listed at 1.6 pounds per pair, with a full-grain leather and textile upper and waterproofing. Testers reported a secure fit and no visible wear after multiple hikes. The article notes limited breathability and little built-in arch support. |
| SCARPA Women’s Rush TRK GTX | Mixed terrain | Listed at 2.1 pounds per pair. Testers tried it on snow, mud, slick rocks, a river, and a waterfall; they reported support, quick break-in, and dry feet after submersion. They also found it heavier than the other picks and less breathable in warm conditions. |
These are useful starting points, not a universal ranking. Travel + Leisure’s observations describe its testers’ experiences; another person’s fit, traction, waterproofing, or wear may differ.
Choose by fit, trail, and weather
Start with fit and width
A boot should feel snug without squeezing. Leave enough room for hiking socks and for feet to swell during a hike. Taylor Fox, the Travel + Leisure editor and author, says she personally sizes up by half a size; treat that as her approach, not a rule for every foot. Try boots on with the socks you expect to hike in, and pay attention to heel movement, toe room, arch support, cushioning, ankle height, and whether the tongue rubs.
#1 Best Overall
- OMNI-TECH: For prolonged exposure to moderate rain and snow. Multilayered, waterproof, seam-sealed construction that allows the inside to breathe, keeping feet dry and comfortable no matter the conditions.
- TECHLITE: For lightweight impact absorption on varied surfaces. Long-lasting cushioning with high energy return.
- OMNI-GRIP: For multi-terrain traction on rock, dirt, and gravel, in wet/dry conditions. Specially formulated compounds and tread design for cross-terrain stability and grip with strategically blended lug patterns.
- HANDY FEATURES: This adventure-ready hiker features a durable suede and mesh upper, metal hardware, and a cushioned collar for comfort.
- BUILT TO LAST: Columbia’s attention to detail is what sets our footwear apart. Specifying only the highest quality materials, expert stitching, and craftsmanship. This is long-lasting footwear you will enjoy for seasons to come.
Match support and traction to the hike
Consider the terrain and the load you expect to carry. A rocky or uneven route may make support and grip more important; for a lighter outing, weight may carry more weight in your decision. An ankle-height boot is not automatically the right choice for every hiker, so focus on how its support and cushioning feel on your foot. The roundup’s traction distinction for the Salewa is a publisher-specific pick, not a promise for all trail surfaces.
Balance waterproofing with breathability
Waterproof construction can be useful in wet conditions, but Travel + Leisure notes a breathability trade-off. For frequent rain, muddy paths, or wet crossings, waterproofing may be a priority. In warm weather, a less waterproof, more breathable design may feel more comfortable. Conditions vary, and the roundup’s waterproof observations do not guarantee that a boot will keep every wearer dry in every situation.
Rank #2
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot features a seam-sealed construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
- DURABLE HIKING BOOT: This women's boot is inspired by classic mountaineering style. A durable mid cut waterproof hiker that provides great traction and comfort. This classic Columbia hiking boot, will deliver reliable and comfortable service.
- ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides high grip across a wide variety of terrain, and versatile three season use.
- REINFORCED TOE AND HEEL CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended years of use, we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers, and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard these key wear points.
- HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this hiking boot's waterproof combination of supportive leather and suede construction.
Weigh weight, durability, and price together
Compare weight with the support and protection you want, rather than choosing the lightest boot by default. Durability claims in this roundup come from reported wear observations, not a shared long-term test across all eight models. The Columbia is labeled the value pick, but the article’s displayed price is time-sensitive; compare current prices and confirm your size is available before deciding.
Try new boots before a long hike
- Try them on at home. Wear each pair for at least an hour, with your hiking socks, and check for pressure, rubbing, heel movement, and toe room.
- Take a short walk. If the fit seems comfortable indoors, test the boots on a short walk before committing to a long or remote hike.
- Pay attention to hot spots. Redness, pain, or rubbing can signal that the fit or lacing needs attention. Do not assume a boot that feels comfortable out of the box will stay comfortable on a long hike.
Clean and store hiking boots
For routine dirt, Travel + Leisure suggests wiping boots with a damp cloth. For especially muddy boots, it recommends soapy water or shoe cleaner. After a long hike or getting wet, let boots dry fully before storing them. Shoe cleaner is optional; the roundup does not endorse a particular product.
Rank #3
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot features a seam-sealed construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
- DURABLE HIKING BOOT: This women's boot is inspired by classic mountaineering style. A durable mid cut waterproof hiker that provides great traction and comfort. This classic Columbia hiking boot, will deliver reliable and comfortable service.
- ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides high grip across a wide variety of terrain, and versatile three season use.
- REINFORCED TOE AND HEEL CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended years of use, we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers, and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard these key wear points.
- HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this hiking boot's waterproof combination of supportive leather and suede construction.
How other test guides frame the choice
Other publishers also organize boot recommendations around specific uses, but their results should not be combined into one ranking: they test different models under different protocols. REI’s 2026 guide describes months of testing by member testers across dozens of pairs and hundreds of miles. CleverHiker’s 2026 guide, updated May 8, reports more than 40 designs evaluated over ten years and more than 2,000 collective hiking days. OutdoorGearLab’s 2026 guide, updated April 9, says it has tested women’s hiking boots since 2014 and evaluates comfort, support, water resistance, traction, durability, and weight.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: The Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot features a seam-sealed construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
- DURABLE HIKING BOOT: This women's boot is inspired by classic mountaineering style. A durable mid cut waterproof hiker that provides great traction and comfort. This classic Columbia hiking boot, will deliver reliable and comfortable service.
- ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides high grip across a wide variety of terrain, and versatile three season use.
- REINFORCED TOE AND HEEL CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended years of use, we’ve reinforced the toe and heel barriers, and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard these key wear points.
- HANDY FEATURES: Treacherous days out on the trail are comfortable and worry-free with this hiking boot's waterproof combination of supportive leather and suede construction.
Rank #4
- Waterproof Hiking Performance: Features a waterproof membrane that seals out water while allowing moisture to escape, helping keep feet dry and comfortable on wet trails and unpredictable terrain.
- Durable Leather & Mesh Upper: Combination pigskin leather and breathable mesh upper offers long-lasting durability, ventilation, and abrasion resistance for rugged outdoor use.
- All-Day Comfort & Arch Support: Contoured removable footbed with reinforced heel cushioning and molded nylon arch shank provides enhanced stability and support during extended hikes.
- Superior Traction with Vibram Outsole: Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole with 5mm lugs delivers reliable grip and traction on rocky, muddy, and uneven surfaces.
- Shock-Absorbing Cushioning System: Air Cushion heel and responsive midsole compound help absorb impact, reduce foot fatigue, and promote smoother transitions on the trail.
- REI Expert Advice: Best Hiking Boots
- CleverHiker: Best Hiking Boots for Women
- OutdoorGearLab: Best Hiking Boots for Women
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
