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Best women's walking boots: 5 proven pairs for trails and hills

Nesim Yılmaz · 21.10.2026

Women's walking boots aren't just smaller men's boots: most brands build them on a separate last with a narrower heel and a different instep. That matters, because with walking boots fit beats any spec sheet. Here are five models people have bought for years – from comfy all-rounders to sturdy boots for rocky paths and the fells.

We haven't lab-tested these boots ourselves. Our picks are based on manufacturer information, construction and the criteria in our hiking boots guide.

At a glance

1. Merrell Moab 3 GTX – the comfy all-rounder

The Moab has been one of the best-selling walking shoes for years. It's comfortable from day one, needs little breaking in and suits lots of feet. For woodland, gentle hills and travel it's a safe choice.

Good for: beginners, day walks, travel.
Note: less grippy on wet rock than Salomon or Lowa.
Sizing: True to size.

2. Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX – light and precise

The X Ultra has a sportier fit: light, snug at the heel, with a sole that grips well on rocks and roots. Ideal if you like to cover ground quickly.

Good for: fast walks, technical paths.
Note: on the narrow side – try them on if you have wide feet.
Sizing: Runs slightly small; many go half a size up.

More in our Moab 3 vs X Ultra 4 comparison.

3. Lowa Renegade GTX Mid – the supportive classic

The Renegade is a boot for when things get rougher: it supports the ankle, the sole is stiffer and it copes with a heavier pack. On the fells, in the Lakes or on multi-day routes it comes into its own.

Good for: hills, fells, carrying a pack.
Note: needs some breaking in; heavier than walking shoes.
Sizing: True to size; half a size up for thick socks.

4. Hoka Anacapa 2 Mid GTX – cushioning for long days

Hoka brings a running-shoe feel to walking boots: lots of foam, a rockered sole and still a waterproof mid cut. If you have sensitive joints or spend long days on forest tracks, you'll appreciate the cushioning.

Good for: long distances, comfort, easier on joints.
Note: feels less direct on very uneven ground.
Sizing: True to size.

5. Keen Targhee – for wider feet

Keen is known for a roomy toe box, so the Targhee is a good bet if other boots pinch at the front. It's comfortable, tough and available with a waterproof membrane.

Good for: wider feet, everyday and walking.
Note: a little heavier and less sporty than Salomon.
Sizing: True to size, roomy at the front.

More tips in our guide to shoes for wide feet.

Which boot suits you?

• First walks, woodland, travel: Merrell Moab 3.
• Fast pace, rocky paths: Salomon X Ultra 4.
• Hills, a pack, multi-day: Lowa Renegade.
• Long distances, maximum comfort: Hoka Anacapa 2.
• Wide feet: Keen Targhee.

Fitting tips

Try boots on in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly bigger, and with the socks you'll walk in. Allow about a thumb's width at the front so your toes don't hit the end on descents, and make sure the heel barely lifts. Our size chart helps you convert between UK, EU and US sizes.

Frequently asked questions

Do women need women-specific walking boots?

Not necessarily, but they often fit better: women's models are usually narrower at the heel. If you have wider feet, a men's model a size smaller can sometimes fit better.

Walking shoes or boots?

For woodland and good paths, shoes are enough. On rocky ground, with a pack or with weak ankles, a mid boot gives more support.

Do I need Gore-Tex?

For the UK's wet walking seasons, usually yes. In summer, a boot without a membrane is cooler. More in our Gore-Tex guide.

Why don't you show Amazon prices and photos?

Amazon only allows prices and product images through an interface we don't use yet. So we link straight to the product pages, where you'll see current prices, sizes and photos.

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