Whether you're just starting out or ready to trade in a well-worn pair of hiking boots, it's important to invest in a quality pair of hiking boots. Hiking is much different than walking as it uses more muscles, puts you in different terrain, and is harder on your feet.
The right pair of hiking boots will have ample arch support, be waterproof, and have quality soles that will be grippy in slippery terrain. As someone who rolls her ankles all the time, I only buy "midi" hiking boots that cover my ankles. They provide much more support than some popular hiking boots that look similar to running shoes!
When it comes to hiking boots, quality is much more important than style. A high-quality pair of boots will last you about 300 miles, so don't be afraid to invest in a more expensive pair! When it comes to hiking boots, you are paying for the quality. Here are 8 affordable options for quality waterproof hiking boots from reputable brands:
Columbia Women's Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Boot. These boots boast a 4.7 star rating on Amazon with over 22,000 reviews. If you're just starting out, this is an affordable option that has been tested by thousands of new hikers!
KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid Hiking Boots - Women's . These are the hiking boots that I use personally, and so far they've lasted me 6 years and hundreds of miles. I have gone for 8-10 mile hikes and didn't experience any foot pain or blisters!
Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boots - Women's. If you're a plus-size hiker like me, chances are that you're looking for hiking boots that come in Wide sizes. These hiking boots are available up to an 11-Wide in women's sizes and have a 4.6 star rating through REI.
Eddie Bauer Women's Hunt Pac Mid Boot. If you often hike in streams or on wet, muddy terrain, duck boots are a great option! The rubber sole extends up the boot for extra water protection.
If you're looking for extra waterproof protection while keeping your feet cool, look for a technology called GORE-TEX. Hiking boots with GORE-TEX are more expensive, but have this breathable fabric that helps keep your feet dry and cool on longer hikes and backpacking trips. Here are a couple pairs of boots with GORE-TEX technology:
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots - Women's. Lowa GTX or GORE-TEX hiking boots are perfect for long day hikes in any weather or terrain!
Salomon Women's QUEST ELEMENT GORE-TEX Leather Hiking Boots for Women. Salomon is a brand known for their GORE-TEX hiking boots. They have quality soles that are more textured for mountainous hiking trails.
If you are hiking in a mountainous region or want extra slip protection for every trail, look for a technology called Vibram Megagrip. These hiking boots will have extra rubber outsoles with special traction design! Here are a couple pairs of extra grippy hiking boots:
HOKA Kaha 2 GTX Hiking Boots - Women's. These performance hiking boots have GORE-TEX footwear fabric, Vibram Megagrip traction technology, and are treated with a special waterproof repellent. On top of all that, they're made out of recycled materials!
Teva Ridgeview Mid Hiking Boots - Women's. These retro-colored hiking boots are made with 50% recycled materials, have extra cushion in the footbed, and have that Vibram Megagrip rubber for extra traction!
I hope that this guide for hiking boots ranging from most affordable to more advanced hiking technology! Although it's true that sometimes you're paying for a brand name, when it comes to hiking boots, you pay more for special technology that helps you stay cool and dry on the trail. Don't forget to also protect your feet with hiking socks that will help keep you blister-free on the trail!