A winter hike can be a magical experience. However, it only takes one lousy pair of boots to spoil the entire trip. The best winter hiking boots for women are warm, durable, and comfortable enough for long periods of wear in harsh, taxing conditions.
Below, we’ll take a look at the top pairs for every budget and situation.
Quick Reference Guide:
Best Overall: Salomon Yalta Winter Hiking Boots
Best Budget: Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots
Best Weatherproof: Salewa Raven Combi GTX Boots
Best High End Quality: Zamberlan Women’s 996 Vioz GT Hiking Boots
Best Lightweight: Lowa Lady Light GTX Backpacking Boots
Best Overall: Salomon Yalta Winter Hiking Boots
If you’re looking for boots that provide warmth, comfort, and safety without burning a hole in your wallet, look no further. These boots come with a rubber sole that provides a solid grip on unpredictable surfaces. Their waterproof system keeps all the moisture out, and the inner lining keeps your feet warm and comfortable in the harshest of winters.
They also have a cushioned footbed to provide superior support during use, and the lace-up closure offers a more secure fit. These boots offer excellent value for money but may leave you wanting more if you’re looking for color variety or flash.
Pros
– Unique lug pattern that grips on all surfaces
– Lightweight and comfortable
– Thinsulate insulated membranes for maximum warmth
Cons
– Limited designs
– Some users complain about sizing/inconsistent fit
Shop this item here: Salomon Yalta Winter Hiking Boots
Best Budget: Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Plus Hiking Boots
These boots come with a rubber sole which provides advanced traction on rough terrains. The dual-zone tread pattern on the sole ensures a solid footing on ice and snow. The body is made of full-grain leather, making it waterproof and durable. The mesh lining on the inside ensures breathability.
These boots come in various colors, so you don’t have to compromise on style when you hit the trails. Solid comfort and safety coupled with a great price make these boots a popular choice amongst women hikers.
Pros
– Durable enough to handle all conditions
– Great grip and traction
– Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
– Not very flexible, a bit on the stiff side
– Some users complain about their toes cramping near the front
Check out prices here: Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boots
Best Weatherproof: Salewa Raven Combi GTX Boots
If you’re looking for boots that don’t compromise on style or functionality, Salewa Raven boots are a great pick. These are superior quality boots with some excellent features. They have a nylon & fiberglass insole for added comfort.
These hiking boots are also incredibly lightweight and durable. Salewa Boots have a PU coated leather upper which gives excellent protection against water. They come with a no blister guarantee which is a bonus.
Pros
– Extremely lightweight
– Very comfortable fit
– Doesn’t cause any friction or blisters
Cons
– They are a higher budget hiking boot
– Slightly rigid and stiff
You can find current pricing here: Salewa Raven GTX Women’s Hiking Boots
Best High End Quality Boots: Zamberlan Women’s 996 Vioz GT Hiking Boots
If you don’t like to cut corners when it comes to your hiking boots, Zamberlan boots are the ones for you. Made of full-grain leather, these boots provide excellent protection against water. They have a Vibram sole, built exclusively for Zamberlan by the company.
These boots are made in Italy and the high-quality craftsmanship is visible. The inner lining of these boots is breathable and the cushioning provides comfort and prevents blistering.
Pros
– Completely waterproof
– Minimal break-in time for maximum comfort
– Accurate, variable sizing
Cons
– Pricier than most competitors
– Limited color options
You can shop this hiking boot here: Zamberlan Women’s 996 Vioz GT Hiking Boots
Best Lightweight: Lowa Lady Light GTX Backpacking Boots
If you like your hiking shoes to be lightweight and super comfortable, Lowa lady light boots might be the best choice for you. The fact that these boots are ultra-light makes them a great choice for backpacking trips. The Vibram outsole provides excellent grip even on the most slippery terrains.
The lining blocks water really well while also allowing your feet to breathe. These boots fit really well and have a comfortable toe box to prevent cramping and bunching during longer hikes.
Pros
– Accurate sizing
– Extremely lightweight
– Snug fit
Cons
– limited choice on colors
– some reviews say they wish there was more cushioning on the insole
Check out current pricing here: Lowa Lady Light GTX Backpacking Boots
Choosing the best winter hiking boots for women can be tricky. To get the best bang for your buck, you’ll want to prioritize based on what’s most important to you. Consider your location, the temperature as well as the common terrain for your hikes before you pick a pair.
Finding a pair of hiking boots you love is worth the hassle if you’re an enthusiastic outdoorswoman. The boots should last several years and many miles, all while keeping you comfortable during your most memorable trips.
