The Best Hiking Boots for Women of 2025

Read Review: A Great Light Hiking Boot Gets Better

An impressively lightweight hiking boot, it’s easy to tell that the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX ($185) comes from a brand that prioritizes moving through the mountains with ease and efficiency. These boots aren’t technically the lightest in our lineup, but they feel extremely light and agile on our feet, regardless.

Softer materials around the collar and heels and a lower-density midsole help tailor the fit to women. This boot is undeniably comfortable and noticeably softer than other boots we tested.

Previous iterations of these boots, including the X Ultra 4, have been long-time award winners in our guide. However, Salomon continues making upgrades that further elevate the boots’ performance. The updated X Ultras sport a PFAS-free GORE-TEX membrane that ups the waterproofing and durability. On a couple of spring hikes in Grand Teton National Park, we slogged through partially frozen puddles and snowy trails but didn’t even get slightly damp.

We were impressed with the traction on these boots, which easily handled rocky terrain, snowy trails, and gritty slabs. We did a slip test on wet rock, and the newly improved All Terrain Contagrip outsole did a great job keeping us upright.

This time around, Salomon added a new ultra-durable upper, which provides added protection and support. An advanced chassis adds greater support and stability. On multiple hikes with big ascents and descents, we maintained maximum control even while pushing the limits of adventure on technical terrain.

While the softness of these boots makes them undeniably comfortable, we would like to see a more rigid, supportive collar. While a high collar often means more ankle support, which is generally preferable while carrying heavier loads, the softness of the collar in these boots doesn’t inspire as much confidence as others we tested, including the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX. We also noticed these boots run bigger than others we tested at the same size, so we recommend you size down half a size.

Overall, the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX boots are ideal for hikers seeking supportive, grippy, waterproof boots that can safely and quickly transport them to countless breathtaking destinations.

The Moab 3 Mid Waterproof ($150) boot is an affordable, reliable, updated version of Merrell’s ever-popular Moab 2. Partially recycled fabrics, more supportive insoles, more cushioned midsoles, and even grippier outsoles set these apart from their predecessors. They are also lighter, weighing 1 pound 13 ounces for a pair compared to the 2-pound weight of the older version. 

We took this pair up gullies through meadows and across many streams, all the way to the treeline. The 5 mm-deep lugs are very noticeable underfoot and provide great traction over rocky stream crossings and over talus fields and slabs. The breathable mesh upper is reinforced by a suede leather overlay, so if you want an even more waterproof version, it comes in a GORE-TEX model as well.

The Moab 3 boasts a removable contoured footbed with reinforced heel cushioning to alleviate pressure from powerful heel strikes. They fit true to size with a roomy toe box and a comfortable, broken-in feel right out of the box — great for hikers with wider feet or those who prefer a more relaxed fit. If you prefer a more technical or snug fit, these won’t be the boots for you; consider the On Cloudrock or the Salomon Ultra X.

 These boots are simple and durable, if a bit clunky. For a price point that’s not too different, there is the Salomon OUTpulse Mid GORE-TEX ($160) that has a lighter feel. But we like that the Moab 3s are super easy to lace up and tighten down. They’re a perennial favorite and one of the best women’s hiking boots you can get for the price.

The On Cloudrock Mid Waterproof ($220) hiking boots bring the brand’s signature running shoe comfort to a cushioned hiker built to be agile and fast. Lightweight yet surprisingly stable, these boots bounce back with every step thanks to On’s “superfoam” midsole. From our first hike to our most recent, we actually felt like we were walking on a cloud. With excellent energy return and a balance of flex and support, this feeling lasted for miles and miles over rugged terrain in the Tetons.

The high-cut design adds ankle support without feeling bulky, and the waterproof membrane keeps feet dry through rain and shallow stream crossings. Plus, a nubby outsole delivers stellar traction on everything from wet rocks to gravel trails.

The fit runs a tad small and has a snug, sock-like feel ideal for narrow to medium-width feet. Our tester falls in between a 9.5 and 10, so she sized up for the best fit. We recommend sizing up and/or trying this on before buying. The stretchy collar and secure lacing system hug the ankle comfortably, though those with wide feet may find the toebox a bit tight.

While they excel in comfort and speed, they’re not the burliest option for technical terrain or for carrying heavy loads. Those tasks are better suited to a traditional hiking boot like the Salomon Quest. For fast hikers or those coming from a running background, the Cloudrock Mid WP delivers a smooth ride and all-weather versatility.

Read Review: Boot Up: Waterproof ‘Nucleo’ High GTX Review

A more traditional backpacking boot, the high-cut, mid-duty nubuck Nucleo High is big news for La Sportiva. After specializing in narrow-lasted boots for years, it’s the first hiking boot they’ve made for both average-width and wide feet. The leather boot is protective and sturdy in the way only a leather boot can be, and thanks to a GORE-TEX liner, it’s also waterproof.

The breathability of the Nucleo High II GTX ($239) is enhanced by micro-vents under mesh from the arch of the foot to the ankle along the line of the sole — GORE’s Surround system. A Vibram rubber rand and toecap deflected scuffs and rocks. The Vibram sole also provided steady grip climbing, enhanced braking traction on descents, and the slightly rockered shape made it easier to heel into a step and toe out of it.

Well-padded fabric at the Achilles gave us plenty of pressure-free range-of-ankle movement on steep descents. On rocky trails, a polypropylene stiffener in the midsole protected our feet from bruising, and the arch support is excellent. Like many La Sportiva models, the toe box is narrow, which provides a secure feel on technical terrain, but may feel restrictive for those with wider feet.

We found it true to size in regards to length, but a little tight in the forefoot. However, after a few hikes, the leather upper stretched, allowing for a more comfortable fit. They do come in wide sizes, so that’s an option too.

Overall, the Nucleo High stands out as one of the best women’s hiking boots for long backpacking trips. Your feet will thank you for its ankle support, good traction, and ease of stomping through streams. Plus, it is super lightweight, weighing only 1 pound 6 ounces for a pair.

Looking for a hiking boot that melds hiking performance with sneaker-like comfort? Look no further than the Merrell Moab Speed 2 Mid GTX ($180), a lightweight boot built for adventurers that doesn’t compromise stability, protection, or comfort.

Based on the Moab, which debuted in 2007 and is Merrell’s most successful product to date, the Moab Speed was a risky change to a fan favorite, but it paid off. And now, the Moab Speed 2 is taking the hiking community by storm.

It’s incredibly comfortable when you first step into it and doesn’t require break-in time. Our first hike, a steep 5-mile adventure up a rocky canyon, brought no complaints. In fact, we felt a solid amount of energy return with each step. The ride was cushy and supportive, likely due to the 30% more foam Merrell added to the midsole this time around.

We appreciated the generous toebox so our feet could relax and spread out, but without the clunky feel we mentioned in our review of the Merrell Moab 3. This shoe feels true to size in terms of length. However, the wide toebox and loose heel made the fit feel slightly sloppy. For all-day comfort, this works well, but for a performance fit, we recommend a pick like the Salomon X Ultra 5.

Though more streamlined and lightweight than others, the Moab Speed 2 boots don’t skimp on protection or support. The protective toecap and bellowed tongue safeguard you from anything you might encounter on the trail. The GORE-TEX membrane delivers superb waterproofing, so we stayed dry and warm when crossing creeks or traversing snowfields on early spring hikes in the Tetons.

And the beefy, nubby Vibram sole delivered extreme traction. On a steep, wet, off-trail hike from Grand Teton’s Lake of the Crags, we didn’t slip a bit, while our hiking partner, who was testing the KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof boots, slipped a fair amount.

This is an ideal hiking boot for day hikes, mountain adventures, and short and light overnights, but it lacks breathability for hot summer hikes. We discovered this on a 10-mile suffer-fest in the desert in St. George, Utah, when our feet overheated.

Choose the non-GORE-TEX version or the lower version if you primarily hike in hotter climates. And, if you’re going on a more extended backpack trip or tackling technical terrain, the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX will deliver better support and stability.

Still, if you’re looking for a comfortable, stable, and durable daily driver, the Merrell Moab Speed 2 GTX is hard to beat.

Light and able to leap small creeks in a single bound, the newest version of the SCARPA Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX ($189) is the hiking boot world’s version of a mullet — with a better fashion sense. It’s a trail runner on the bottom but a supportive hiking boot on top.

One boot weighs a mere 13.1 ounces. Despite that bantamweight measurement, the boot delivers solid protection. A Dynamic Stabilizer Torsion (DST) insert — a TPU frame in the heel area that provides extra support against torsion or twisting — makes them feel secure. A padded ankle cuff keeps footing stable on sketchy terrain.

Tested in Patagonia and while researching an urban hiking guide to Austin, the Rush 2 Pros didn’t need any break-in time, and they worked well for narrow feet. They run true to size with a middle-of-the-road fit; they’re not too narrow and not too wide. We typically fit better in more narrow footwear, and these boots fit well with that foot profile.

They’re waterproof and breathable and effectively hold out moisture while sloshing through creek crossings. We also like the color palette — sage gray on the outside with apple green accents and interior padding.

Unlike most hiking boots, which have two or three metal hooks at the top to fine-tune the fit, the Scarpa has just a single pair. We looped our laces through those same hooks twice to perfect the fit.

The tongue is soft, and reinforced toe boxes keep tootsies protected in the likely event that you bang them into a boulder while you’re out exploring. If you need extra arch support, other options like the more traditional Nucleo High II GTX  might work better.

Ultimately, this versatile and confidence-inspiring design has an untraditional feel, given that the shoe is made with lighter materials than we’ve seen in other SCARPA hikers and offers stability, comfort, and temperature regulation.

These boots work well for hikers who want the nimble, fleet-footed feel of a light trail runner, with the ankle support of a beefier boot.

If you’re looking for the traditional 360-degree ankle support of a full-leather boot but want it in a lighter, more breathable, and more flexible package, the Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots ($230) are your answer.

These boots strike an impressive balance between comfort and stability. The pliable upper feels soft and forgiving right out of the box, while a rigid chassis provides structure and wraps the ankle like a supportive brace. This design helps reduce fatigue on long days with heavy packs, making the Quest 4 a go-to for backpackers tackling technical trails or carrying serious weight.

Traction is another standout feature. The aggressive, deep lugs bite into soft terrain and slick surfaces alike, giving you confidence in muddy trails, wet riverbanks, and during sudden downpours. The GORE-TEX waterproofing holds up admirably — and it’s PFC-free, which is a nice sustainability bonus.

Smart design details enhance trail performance: a gusseted tongue keeps out trail debris, while the lace system features setback ankle hooks that let you fine-tune the lower foot tension separately from the ankle — ideal for dialing in a custom fit on long ascents or descents.

This isn’t your casual, wear-around-town boot — it’s overbuilt for daily errands or easy dog walks. But if you’re after a protective, supportive hiker that doesn’t feel overly stiff or sweaty, the Quest 4 is a top-tier option. And if you want something lighter for shorter missions, Salomon’s X Ultra 5 boots are excellent alternatives at a lower weight and price.

The Hoka Kaha 3 GTX ($240) blends maximum cushioning with serious all-terrain performance. This third iteration’s updated design retains the brand’s plush, supportive ride while adding more stability and durability for rugged conditions. These boots are comfortable enough to wear all day without foot fatigue, whether you’re carrying a heavy pack or cranking out the miles.

Thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane, these boots are highly waterproof and ideal for stream crossings and wet weather. This level of weather protection comes with a trade-off: the Kahas don’t breathe well and can be too toasty for warm temps. The Vibram Megagrip outsole provides excellent traction on slick rock, mud, and loose gravel. A thick layer of cushioning adds a springy feel underfoot and offers solid energy return that helps us keep that spring in our step mile after mile. The tall, sturdy ankle collar boosts confidence on technical or steep terrain, which is particularly important for us since we’re prone to ankle sprains.

On super steep ascents and descents of Snowking Mountain in our hometown of Jackson, Wyoming, and on longer adventures along the Teton Crest Trail, the Kaha 3 boots surprised us with their stability, support, and comfort.

The Hoka Kaha 3 aren’t the lightest or most agile boots, and the thick padding can feel bulky. If you prefer a more responsive, close-to-the-ground feel, consider trying the On Cloudrock Mid. The Kaha 3 boots run a bit small; however, when we sized up from a 9.5 to a 10, as the website recommends, we achieved a perfect fit. Our only other gripe is the price tag. At $240, they’re the second priciest on our list. If you hike a ton, you’ll want the comfort, durability, and waterproofing of the Hokas. If not, check out the Merrell Moab 3 Mid for a more affordable waterproof option.

For hikers who want serious support, protection, and cushioned comfort, the Kaha 3 GTX stands out, especially for long-distance trips and wet, rugged terrain.

The Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX ($220) hiking boots are a fantastic option if you’re looking for a blend of style, comfort, weatherproofing, durability, and eco-conscious design. This is an updated version of the Danner Mountain 600, which did not have a GORE-TEX waterproof lining and had an upper made of suede instead of full-grain leather.

Not only does the 600 Leaf GTX improve on these qualities, but it’s also made to be recraftable — meaning you can send them into Danner to be resoled or reconditioned, extending the lifespan of your boots for years to come. Not only does this save you money in the long run, but it’s also a win for the environment — less waste and more value​.

If you value both style and substance, you’ll appreciate the classic look of these boots. The rich chocolate chip and roasted pecan color combination offers a timeless appeal that stands out without being flashy. Plus, Danner includes two sets of laces — one flat and one round — so you can customize the look to your liking​.

The true-to-size fit and flexible lacing system mean you won’t have to spend weeks breaking them in. The OrthoLite footbed and Vibram SPE midsole join forces to cushion your steps and reduce fatigue, and the GORE-TEX lining does a stellar job of keeping water out while letting your feet breathe.

On the trail, the traction is rock solid. The Vibram Fuga outsole with MegaGrip technology gives you the confidence to tackle everything from wet, slippery rocks to muddy trails without worrying about losing your footing. They do run a bit warm due to the full-grain leather and the GORE-TEX lining, which is something to consider.

They are also heavier than other boots we tested in our lineup. But the trade-off is a sturdy boot sure to keep your ankles safe and your feet comfortable for miles to come. 

If you’re looking for a boot that’s ready for the trail right out of the box and will be with you for the long haul, the Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX is hard to beat. It’s a comfortable, reliable companion that you can feel good about wearing, both for its performance and its sustainable design​.

If you’re looking for a comfy, sturdy boot that can withstand rugged terrain, consider The North Face Offtrail LT Mid GORE-TEX ($200).

We tested the Offtrail LTs in Torres Del Paine and Los Glaciares national parks in Patagonia, where they provided a stable platform for scrambling over sheep-sized boulders, across drizzle-dampened logs, and through scree fields of egg- and cantaloupe-sized rocks. We sloshed through shallow puddles without even a hint of moisture breaching the shoe, and a rubber toe cap protected our tester’s foot when she inadvertently smashed it into rocks.

Rows of irregularly shaped, 5mm-high traction lugs on the soles kept us from skidding, even in steep terrain. They’re available in maroon, our choice, but also come in more neutral khaki and soapstone colors.

Folks with narrower feet will need to cinch up the laces — traditional lace loops along the top of the foot, plus three metal eyelets higher up — to ratchet down the fit. They felt snug and held our ankles in place while simultaneously giving our toes enough wiggle room. But if your feet are wider than average, your pinkie toes might get scrunched.

A reinforced heel cup provides rigid support, but the collar that wraps around the ankle, along with the tongue, is well-padded. Although they’re heavier than some competitors, the boots get high marks for comfort. Our toes never slid into the front of the toe box, and a loop of fabric on the heel makes them easy to pull on and off.

The North Face Offtrail LT boots work best for hikers planning to tackle rugged terrain, where you need a sturdy boot but don’t mind a few extra ounces.

Read Review: PFC-Free, Comfortable, Durability Guaranteed

The KEEN Targhee IV Mid Waterproof ($170) is a comfortable mid-height hiking boot that requires little to no break-in period to achieve maximum comfort. KEEN’s iconic toe bumper and roomy toe box, coupled with a light leather upper and moderately aggressive outsole, make this a jack of all trades suited to handling a wide range of conditions.

When we first put these boots on, we immediately noticed two things: how comfortable they felt and that they were a tad roomy. On our first hike, we were pleasantly surprised by the support and cloud-like cushioning they offered over 6 miles, as well as the comfortable tongue and easy lacing system. Over the following few months, we took them on countless hikes in the Tetons, where they didn’t disappoint.

Spring, summer, and fall in the mountains bring all sorts of weather, so we tested the Targhee IVs in everything from bone-dry trails to wet, sloppy snowy, and they did well in all by the coldest or warmest conditions. Aggressive and grippy lugs provide decent traction over rocks and slabs, but not as much as any boot we tested.

On one rainy hike to Lake of the Crags, we slipped a few times when scrambling off-trail over rocks. The same happened on steep dirt sections of the wet trail, so if you’re looking for a boot built with more traction for more technical hikes, we recommend the Salomon X Ultra 5 instead.

Wide-footed people rejoice because the KEEN Targhee IV is definitely a wide boot. There is plenty of space in the forefoot to accommodate the width and thick socks. A heel capture system ensures that your heels stay snug and supported to reduce any friction or heel slippage.

Editor Chris Kassar, however, is narrow-footed and found her normal size in this boot to be too large. We recommend sizing down a half size at least if you have narrower feet or considering another boot altogether. They’re not insulated or the most breathable boots we tested, but they crush it in the mountains in summer and at lower elevations in spring and fall.

We appreciated how the Targhee IV Boots gave us all the cushioning and support we could want when carrying modest loads for an overnight backpacking trip up Paintbrush Canyon. However, we noticed that when crossing creeks, the waterproofing that KEEN uses isn’t as bombproof as the GORE-TEX used in other boots like the SCARPA Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX.

Thanks to KEEN’s sustainability efforts, this is a boot you can feel great about buying and wearing. These boots have no PFCs (KEEN did away with PFC use in 2018), and use a glue-free KEEN.FUSION bond (instead of glue) that is lighter on the planet. KEEN offers a lifetime guarantee against delamination, and even after putting them through the wringer for 6 months, these remain as new as when we first got them (albeit a bit dirtier).

If you’re looking for mid-weight hiking boots that will carry you through all sorts of weather, trail conditions and the ups and downs of the shoulder seasons, the Targhee IV Boots are your ideal.

The Altra Lone Peak 9 Waterproof Mid Boots ($180) are comfortable, breathable, lightweight, zero-drop hiking boots that offer solid ankle support.  

The Lone Peak 9’s midsole foam provides responsiveness but lacks the bounciness of other models, resulting in less energy return compared to shoes like the Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GTX. This design enhances ground connection for a more natural feel.

The MaxTrac outsole ensures grip and durability, while a StoneGuard insert protects against debris and rough terrain, balancing flexibility and stability. The extended sole allows for a natural rolling motion, and a gusseted tongue keeps out debris during hikes.

The zero-drop design helps maintain a natural stride, reducing pressure on the knees and hips, making it ideal for long-distance hikes. However, new users should transition gradually.  

We had high hopes for these hikers but faced some issues. While the Hydro Guard membrane kept puddles out, the mesh allowed water in, leaving us with wet socks after spring hikes with snow or light rain. Altra’s signature ultrawide toebox allows plenty of space for the toes to spread, but these boots run small in length. These were quite short, which cramped our toes. We had to order a full size up to find a comfortable fit, so we recommend trying them on and/or sizing up.

Overall, the Lone Peak 9 Waterproof Mid boots are a solid option for zero-drop fans looking for lightweight comfort and support, but proper sizing and realistic weather expectations are essential.

The La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid Leather GTX Hiking Boots ($219) are a real game-changer for those who need a blend of comfort, durability, and performance on off-trail terrain. These boots are available in both standard and wide widths, ensuring you can find the perfect fit whether you have narrow feet or need a bit more room. The fit is tailored to accommodate the unique shape of women’s feet, offering a snug, supportive feel that reduces the chance of blisters and hotspots, especially on long hikes​.

What really stands out is how the boot balances rugged performance with comfort. The nubuck leather upper is not only durable but also softer and more forgiving than traditional hiking boot materials, making it feel like a well-broken-in boot even on your first hike. The integrated GORE-TEX lining ensures your feet stay dry without too much overheating, which is crucial for all-day comfort on the trail.

The 6.75-inch high collar offers excellent ankle support, which is particularly beneficial on uneven terrain or when carrying a heavier pack. The boots’ cushioning is also top-notch, with a shock-absorbing EVA midsole that softens the impact on hard surfaces, making them comfortable for long hikes or multi-day treks.

The FriXion Blue outsole provides outstanding traction on rocky, uneven surfaces, which is perfect for alpine hiking or scrambling over rough terrain, an area in which La Sportiva is known. These boots fit a bit on the snug side, so we recommend sizing up a half size for added comfort. Still, the traction and stability these boots offer make them a great companion for demanding hikes​ and are another contender in the “hiking boots that feel like trail runners” category.

The Salomon Elixir Activ Mid GTX ($170) remains one of our favorite all-around go-to boots. It’s sturdy enough to take on long hikes with big packs on, but also feels lightweight enough for just an afternoon trek. We love this boot because of the plush foam midsole, which feels soft and comfortable but never heavy. It has a cambered geometry, which encourages forward motion in the same way that a lower-cut trail runner does. 

But it’s more durable than a trail runner and has a GORE-TEX lining that ensures your foot stays dry and comfortable even during creek crossings or mixed-weather conditions. We also love the Contagrip rubber outsole. This boot has lower-profile lugs, which provide great grip on varied terrain and in wet or dry conditions. 

The padded collar supports the ankle, and for lacing up, the tongue is streamlined and soft. Tightening the laces is easy and smooth. Our tester’s feet are on the narrow side so the moderately sized toebox works for her profile. However, wider feet may feel constricted.

We tried this boot in both the deep early spring snow of the Colorado Rocky Mountains and the techy slickrock of southern Utah. We recommend the Salomon Elixir Activ Mid if you’ll be taking a variety of hikes that require big miles and long hours. It might be too much boot if all of your days are short hikes in dry, sunny conditions. But if variety is the name of your game, we can’t say enough good things about this boot. 

While we speak highly of many of the lightweight, trail-runner-esque boots in this review, we recognize there is a time and place for heavy, leather boots like the well-performing Lowa Renegade GTX Mid ($255). When you embark on long backpacking trips where you’ll carry a heavy pack, having a boot that can support you over many miles and with all the extra weight becomes crucial.

Sturdy, nubuck leather and a mid-cut keep your ankles secure. Full-length, nylon stabilizers provide noticeable support, and our feet didn’t become too tired logging longer miles on the trail. The Renegade runs true to size and works well with a range of foot sizes and shapes.

GORE-TEX linings do a great job at keeping your feet from getting water-logged, although the leather construction of the boot is less breathable overall than similar synthetic pairs like the SCARPA Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX.

When hiking on well-maintained trails in the desert sun, we preferred the light breathability of boots like the Scarpa Rush 2 Mid Pro. But we know that it’s always good to have a more supportive pair for backpacking trips in California’s High Sierra, and wouldn’t hesitate also to make these a part of our quiver. 

Overall, you will sacrifice some breathability and agility when opting for these boots, and they are not for the casual day hiker. But if you’re a serious backpacker who requires some serious support, reliable water resistance, and comfort over long miles of varying terrain, you’ll be pretty satisfied with the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid.

The HOKA Anacapa 2 Mid GTX ($195) may get you some peculiar looks out on the trail and might not be our top choice for more technical terrain, but these boots live up to the comfort standards for which HOKA is well-known. 

Although at first glance these boots may appear bulky, they are actually quite lightweight, weighing in at 1 pound 13.4 ounces. Their upper is made of waterproof Nubuck Leather to help seal out wet weather. A high ankle offers support and keeps out more water and debris, and a Vibram outsole provides great traction. 

And this version of the Anacapa boasts a “self-cleaning” lug pattern that channels mud away from the lugs as you step, forcing it to slide off the sole and allowing the deep, sticky tread to work its magic. This, paired with a GORE-TEX liner, makes these boots power players in wet, sloppy conditions.

The most notable (and visible) part of these hiking boots is the extended heel, which allows for smoother heel-to-toe transitions. This rockered design, paired with the generous cushion of the outsole, feels incredible on maintained dirt trails. It allows you to move quickly and comfortably, almost as if you were wearing trail runners instead of a heavier hiking boot. 

When transitioning to more technical hiking terrain, however, like any third-class scrambling or traversing of rocky off-trail ridgelines, it was harder to trust the stability and grip of these boots. All of a sudden, the extended heel and rockered outsole feel bulky and unsteady. We would not recommend this hiking boot if you primarily participate in off-trail adventures. But a great alternative that increases stability without sacrificing comfort is the On Cloudrock Mid.

We appreciate that nearly every element of this updated version — from the mesh liners to the midsole made of 30% sugarcane — is designed with recycled components. This makes it a much more sustainable boot than the previous iteration without sacrificing longevity.

One thing we noticed is that the fit of this Hoka model is different than others we’ve tested; though true to size in length, these felt narrower in the toe box. Our tester has narrower feet so they work for her, but if you have wide feet or bunions, consider sizing up.

If you want to log some serious mileage on dirt hiking trails that don’t involve a lot of scrambling, the Anacapa 2 Mid GTX provides great comfort, water resistance, and stability. 

Oboz Footwear’s Sawtooth collection of hikers has been around for 10 years. In that time, the Sawtooth has only gotten very minor updates (like the ones made in 2019 in the Sawtooth II).

But now, 10 years later, Oboz decided to make some big upgrades to its classic hiker. It’s worth noting the Sawtooth X ($175) comes in low and mid styles, but we tested the mid-rise.

While the original Sawtooth models were largely popular, some big complaints were the fit around the ankle and the narrow fit in the sides and toes. It seems as if Oboz has set out to solve this with its design of the Sawtooth X, which has a markedly different heel shape, as well as a slightly wider toe box for a more comfortable fit.

The new model also includes a different midsole material (rubber-blended foam), and a new rubber on the outsole called True Tread for better traction.

We’ve taken these boots out on some very technical, scrambly hikes here in Colorado, specifically to test the new traction. The multi-directional lugs (it seems like there are more of them!) perform great on both loose, packed, and rocky terrain.

The last new feature? Recycled PET in the laces — which so far have proven durable when yanking on and lacing up these boots. Things that remain the same in the hiking boot from previous models include the nubuck leather on the upper, Oboz B-DRY waterproof breathable membrane, and O FIT insoles.

Already, we think the fit is great (better than other Sawtooths), and the added CORDURA in the upper definitely increases the durability of this boot.