A guide to the best summer hiking shoes for women that offer breathability and comfort.
Summer is here, and that means it’s time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather! Hiking is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy nature, and clear your head. But with all the sweat and heat, it’s important to have the right footwear. You want a pair of shoes that are breathable, comfortable, and supportive enough to handle the trails.
We’ve put together a list of the 16 best summer hiking shoes for women to help you find the perfect pair. We’ve considered factors like breathability, durability, and comfort. Whether you’re planning a day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, we have a shoe for you.
We’ve included a variety of styles and price points, so you can find the perfect pair for your budget and needs. So grab your hiking poles, pack your water bottle, and get ready to hit the trails!
Read more on 15 Best Hiking Shoes for Women with Bunions
No matter your hiking style or experience level, finding the right pair of hiking shoes is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. So keep reading to learn more about the best summer hiking shoes for women.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots
A durable and comfortable hiking boot that's perfect for a variety of terrain.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 10 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Contagrip outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, Quicklace system for easy on and off, Gore-Tex waterproof and breathable membrane, EnergyCell midsole for cushioning and support, Contagrip outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Very supportive and comfortable
- Provides excellent ankle support
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a little stiff at first
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain.
- You want a boot with good ankle support and traction.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for warm weather.
- You prefer a more minimalist hiking boot.
Bottom Line:
The Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a durable and comfortable boot that can handle a variety of terrain. They're supportive, waterproof, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail, the X Ultra 4 Mid Gore-Tex is a solid choice. While they are a bit heavier than other options, they are still comfortable and easy to wear. They are a bit stiff at first but break in quickly.
Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
A classic, comfortable, and versatile hiking boot that is perfect for a wide variety of trails.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 11 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Leather and mesh upper, KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, KEEN.DRY waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a little heavy
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain.
- You want a boot with good ankle support and traction.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for warm weather.
- You prefer a more minimalist hiking boot.
Bottom Line:
The Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a durable and comfortable boot that can handle a variety of terrain. They're supportive, waterproof, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail, the Targhee III Mid Waterproof is a solid choice. While they are a bit heavier than other options, they are still comfortable and easy to wear. They are known for their durability and longevity.
Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
A popular choice for hikers of all experience levels, the Moab 2 is a comfortable and versatile hiking boot.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 10 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Leather and mesh upper, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Vibram outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, Vibram outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a little heavy
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain.
- You want a boot with good ankle support and traction.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for warm weather.
- You prefer a more minimalist hiking boot.
Bottom Line:
The Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a durable and comfortable boot that can handle a variety of terrain. They're supportive, waterproof, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail, the Moab 2 Mid Waterproof is a solid choice. They are known for their comfort and durability. They are a bit heavier than other options, but they are still comfortable and easy to wear.
Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots
A budget-friendly hiking boot that offers great value for the price.
Read more about this on 18 Best Lightweight Hiking Shoes for Women
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 11 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Leather and mesh upper, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Omni-Grip outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, Omni-Grip outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a little heavy
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain.
- You want a boot with good ankle support and traction.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
- You are on a budget.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for warm weather.
- You prefer a more minimalist hiking boot.
Bottom Line:
The Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a durable and comfortable boot that can handle a variety of terrain, all at an affordable price. They're supportive, waterproof, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail without breaking the bank, the Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof is a solid choice.
Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots
A high-quality hiking boot that is known for its durability and comfort.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 12 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Leather upper, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, PU midsole, Vibram outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, PU midsole for cushioning and support, Vibram outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely durable and comfortable
- Provides excellent ankle support
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
- Known for their long-lasting quality
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain.
- You want a boot with good ankle support and traction.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
- You are willing to pay a premium for high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a budget.
- You prefer a more minimalist hiking boot.
Bottom Line:
The Lowa Renegade GTX Mid Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a durable and comfortable boot that can handle a variety of terrain. They're supportive, waterproof, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail, the Renegade GTX Mid is a solid choice. They are known for their durability, quality, and comfort. They are a bit pricey, but they are worth the investment if you are looking for a boot that will last for years to come.
Vasque Breeze LT Low Hiking Shoes
A lightweight and breathable hiking shoe that is perfect for warm weather.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 2 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Vibram outsole
- Features: Low-cut design for flexibility and breathability, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, Vibram outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Lightweight and breathable
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for warm weather hiking
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as supportive as a mid-cut boot
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for warm weather.
- You want a shoe with good traction and comfort.
- You need a waterproof shoe for hiking in wet conditions.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a boot with ankle support.
- You are hiking in cold weather.
Bottom Line:
The Vasque Breeze LT Low Hiking Shoes are a great choice for hikers who need a lightweight and breathable shoe for warm weather hiking. They're comfortable, supportive, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a shoe that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail without weighing you down, the Breeze LT Low is a solid choice.
Oboz Bridger Mid BDry Hiking Boots
A comfortable and durable hiking boot that is perfect for a variety of trails.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 11 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Leather and mesh upper, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Oboz outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, Oboz outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a little heavy
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain.
- You want a boot with good ankle support and traction.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for warm weather.
- You prefer a more minimalist hiking boot.
Bottom Line:
The Oboz Bridger Mid BDry Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a durable and comfortable boot that can handle a variety of terrain. They're supportive, waterproof, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail, the Bridger Mid BDry is a solid choice. They are known for their comfort and durability. They are a bit heavier than other options, but they are still comfortable and easy to wear.
Danner Mountain Light Hiking Boots
You can find more information on 22 Best REI Hiking Shoes for Women
A classic hiking boot that is known for its durability and comfort.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 13 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Leather upper, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Vibram outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, Vibram outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely durable and comfortable
- Provides excellent ankle support
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
- Known for their long-lasting quality
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit pricey
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a durable and comfortable hiking boot that can handle a variety of terrain.
- You want a boot with good ankle support and traction.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
- You are willing to pay a premium for high-quality materials and craftsmanship.
Don't buy it if:
- You are on a budget.
- You prefer a more minimalist hiking boot.
Bottom Line:
The Danner Mountain Light Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a durable and comfortable boot that can handle a variety of terrain. They're supportive, waterproof, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail, the Mountain Light is a solid choice. They are known for their durability, quality, and comfort. They are a bit pricey, but they are worth the investment if you are looking for a boot that will last for years to come.
Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots
A lightweight and breathable hiking boot that is perfect for warm weather.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 7 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Vibram outsole
- Features: Mid-cut design for ankle support, Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, Vibram outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Lightweight and breathable
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for warm weather hiking
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as supportive as a mid-cut boot
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking boot for warm weather.
- You want a boot with good traction and comfort.
- You need a waterproof boot for hiking in wet conditions.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a boot with ankle support.
- You are hiking in cold weather.
Bottom Line:
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX Hiking Boots are a great choice for hikers who need a lightweight and breathable boot for warm weather hiking. They're comfortable, supportive, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a boot that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail without weighing you down, the Zodiac Plus GTX is a solid choice.
The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack Lite Hiking Shoes
A lightweight and comfortable hiking shoe that is perfect for a variety of trails.
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb 3 oz (per boot)
- Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole, Vibram outsole
- Features: Low-cut design for flexibility and breathability, waterproof membrane, EVA midsole for cushioning and support, Vibram outsole for grip on varied terrain.
Reasons to buy :
- Lightweight and breathable
- Comfortable and supportive
- Durable and waterproof
- Great for a variety of terrain
- Offers good traction
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as supportive as a mid-cut boot
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight and breathable hiking shoe for warm weather.
- You want a shoe with good traction and comfort.
- You need a waterproof shoe for hiking in wet conditions.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a boot with ankle support.
- You are hiking in cold weather.
Bottom Line:
The The North Face Hedgehog Fastpack Lite Hiking Shoes are a great choice for hikers who need a lightweight and breathable shoe for warm weather hiking. They're comfortable, supportive, and provide excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. If you're looking for a shoe that can handle the challenges of a long day on the trail without weighing you down, the Hedgehog Fastpack Lite is a solid choice.
Brooks Cascadia 16 Hiking Shoes
Find more on 16 Best Affordable Hiking Shoes for Women
A tried and true favorite for trail runners and hikers alike, the Brooks Cascadia 16 is known for its stability and durability.
Specifications :
- Weight: 10.7 ounces (women’s size 7)
- Drop: 8mm
- Midsole: BioMoGo DNA and DNA LOFT
- Outsole: High-abrasion rubber with TrailTack
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent stability and support.
- Durable and comfortable.
- Versatile for a variety of trails and distances.
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a bit heavy for faster runs or longer hikes.
- The wide toe box can feel a little loose for some runners.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a durable and stable shoe for hiking and trail running on a variety of terrain.
- You want a shoe that will provide good support and cushioning.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight shoe for fast runs or ultralight backpacking.
- You prefer a narrow fit.
Bottom Line:
The Brooks Cascadia 16 is a great all-around trail shoe that is perfect for hikers and trail runners who want a comfortable and stable shoe that can handle a variety of terrain. If you're looking for something durable and supportive, this is a great option.
Altra Lone Peak 7 Hiking Shoes
The Altra Lone Peak 7 is a popular choice for those who prefer a zero-drop shoe and a spacious toe box.
Specifications :
- Weight: 9.4 ounces (women’s size 7)
- Drop: 0mm
- Midsole: Altra EGO
- Outsole: MaxTrac outsole with GaiterTrap
Reasons to buy :
- Wide toe box for natural foot movement.
- Zero-drop design for a more natural feel.
- Durable and comfortable.
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as stable as some other trail shoes.
- The zero-drop design may take some time to adjust to.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a shoe with a wide toe box and a zero-drop design.
- You want a shoe that provides a natural feel and encourages a more natural gait.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a very stable shoe.
- You are new to zero-drop shoes and don’t want to risk injury.
Bottom Line:
The Altra Lone Peak 7 is a great option for hikers and trail runners who prefer a wide toe box and a zero-drop design. If you’re a fan of zero-drop footwear, the Lone Peak is a great choice for casual hikes and longer adventures.
Hoka Speedgoat 5 Hiking Shoes
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 is a top-performing trail shoe known for its cushioning and grip.
Specifications :
- Weight: 10.5 ounces (women’s size 7)
- Drop: 4mm
- Midsole: Vibram MegaGrip
- Outsole: Hoka’s proprietary “Early Stage Meta-Rocker”
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent cushioning and grip.
- Versatile for a variety of trails.
- Lightweight and comfortable.
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a bit wide for some runners.
- The "Early Stage Meta-Rocker" design can feel a bit unstable for some.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want a shoe with excellent cushioning and grip.
- You prefer a wider fit.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a very stable shoe.
- You have a narrow foot.
Bottom Line:
The Hoka Speedgoat 5 is a great option for hikers and trail runners who want a comfortable and cushioned shoe with excellent grip. It’s a great choice for those who want a shoe that can handle a variety of terrain, including technical trails.
Salomon Outpath GTX Hiking Shoes
The Salomon Outpath GTX is a great choice for hikers who want a waterproof and breathable shoe.
Specifications :
- Weight: 11.1 ounces (women’s size 7)
- Drop: 8mm
- Midsole: EnergyCell
- Outsole: Contagrip with Mud Guard
Reasons to buy :
- Waterproof and breathable.
- Durable and comfortable.
- Great traction on a variety of surfaces.
Reasons to avoid :
- Can feel a bit heavy for some runners.
- Not as breathable as some other trail shoes.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a waterproof and breathable shoe.
- You want a shoe that provides good traction on a variety of surfaces.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a lightweight shoe.
- You are hiking in very hot conditions.
Bottom Line:
The Salomon Outpath GTX is a great option for hikers who want a waterproof and breathable shoe that can handle a variety of terrain. If you’re hiking in wet conditions, this is a great choice.
La Sportiva Bushido II Hiking Shoes
The La Sportiva Bushido II is a lightweight and versatile trail shoe that is popular for both hiking and trail running.
Specifications :
- Weight: 7.4 ounces (women’s size 7)
- Drop: 6mm
- Midsole: Injection molded EVA
- Outsole: Frixion AT with Impact Brake System
Reasons to buy :
- Lightweight and versatile.
- Excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.
- Comfortable and breathable.
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as durable as some other trail shoes.
- The minimalist design may not provide enough cushioning for longer hikes or runs.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a lightweight and versatile shoe for hiking and trail running.
- You want a shoe that provides good grip on a variety of surfaces.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a very durable shoe.
- You are hiking in very rugged terrain.
Bottom Line:
The La Sportiva Bushido II is a great option for hikers and trail runners who are looking for a lightweight and versatile shoe. It’s a good choice for those who want a shoe that can handle a variety of terrain, but it’s not as durable as some other options on the market.
Saucony Peregrine 12 Hiking Shoes
The Saucony Peregrine 12 is a popular choice for trail runners who want a lightweight and responsive shoe.
Specifications :
- Weight: 8.9 ounces (women’s size 7)
- Drop: 4mm
- Midsole: PWRRUN+
- Outsole: PWRTRAC with EVERUN topsole
Reasons to buy :
- Lightweight and responsive.
- Good traction on a variety of surfaces.
- Comfortable and breathable.
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as durable as some other trail shoes.
- The minimalist design may not provide enough cushioning for longer hikes or runs.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You are looking for a lightweight and responsive shoe for trail running.
- You want a shoe that provides good grip on a variety of surfaces.
Don't buy it if:
- You are looking for a very durable shoe.
- You are hiking in very rugged terrain.
Bottom Line:
The Saucony Peregrine 12 is a great option for trail runners who are looking for a lightweight and responsive shoe. It’s a good choice for those who want a shoe that can handle a variety of terrain, but it’s not as durable as some other options on the market.
Choosing the right hiking shoes for summer can be tricky, with so many options available. But with this list of 16 best summer hiking shoes for women, you can be sure to find the perfect pair for your next adventure. We've considered everything from breathability and comfort to durability and support, so you can hit the trails with confidence. Whether you're planning a day hike or a multi-day trek, these shoes will keep your feet happy and healthy all summer long.
Remember that choosing the right hiking shoes is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Consider the terrain, the length of your hike, and your personal preferences when making your decision. It's also essential to break in your new shoes before hitting the trails. This will prevent blisters and discomfort during your hike.
Learn more about Find the 18 Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Women
Don't let the heat or humidity stop you from exploring the great outdoors. With the right footwear, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer. So, grab your hiking poles, pack your water bottle, and get ready for an adventure. Happy hiking!
With proper preparation, you can conquer any trail. And with the right pair of shoes, you can enjoy every step of the way. So, lace up your boots and hit the trails this summer. The adventure awaits!
Omar 
Yasmin 
Hassan