19 best walking boots for women, approved by Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber
Whether you're a fan of the gorpcore trend, into your hot girl walks or love a good weekend hike, it's worth knowing about the best walking boots. We love our loafers and ballet flats this season but – whilst it's hard to admit – every wardrobe needs some practical footwear (studded ballerinas, you're safe).
When it comes to wellness, you might already have your favourite gym or running trainers on rotation – but the humble hiking boot can't be forgotten. Here, we reveal the best walking boots and hiking boots for women – but make it GLAMOUR – from brands like The North Face, Berghaus and Timberland. We're sorry, but your wellies just won't cut it anymore.
SKIP TO: Shop the best walking boots for women | Why do people wear walking boots? | Is it better to walk in trainers or walking boots? | What should I look for in walking boots? | Should walking boots be tight or loose?
Best walking boots for women 2024 at a glance:
- Best walking boots overall: Timberland Chocorua Mid Lace-Up Hiking Boot with Gore-Tex® Bootie, £160, Timberland
- Best year-round hiking boots: Cloudrock 2 Waterproof Hiking Boots, £115, On Running
- Most affordable hiking boots: Jack Walker Women's Trekking and Hiking Boots, £54.99, Amazon
- Most waterproof walking boots: Berghaus VC22 GORE-TEX Waterproof Trail Hiking Boots, £170, ASOS
- Fashionable women's hiking boots: Bogner Arosa Shearling-Trimmed Textured-Leather Hiking Boots, £445, NET-A-PORTER
Gorpcore came on the scene a few years back. The trend's namesake comes from normcore (yes literally what it sounds like – average, normal clothing) and the popular hiking snack, gorp. “What's ‘GLAMOUR girl’ about gorp?” you're probably asking. Well, the fashion set have proven practical can actually be really stylish. There's a place in your wardrobe for comfort. Think The North Face puffer jacket over fleeces and cargos, complemented with Arc'teryx or Salomon shoes.
Don't just take our word for it. Bella Hadid has been seen styling her Salomons with flared trousers and cargo skirts. Hailey Bieber has also shown the trend can look polished, just add sunnies and your favourite gold jewellery. Chic and comfy.
But back to what we're really here to talk about, because it's not just about looking on trend. Good old-fashioned walking remains constant as the one activity everyone can build into their day-to-day – and one that never fails to boost moods. Besides the obvious benefits for your physical health, the positive impact of a walk can’t be overemphasised.
It doesn't have to be hard work, either – we're not here to tell you you should be marching long distances in your new hiking boots. Just look at Emily Thornton and Lucy Hird – a.k.a. Soft Girls Who Hike – who have amassed a casual 11 billion views on TikTok since they coined the term “soft hiking”. They currently have 46k+ followers on TikTok and Instagram and have even created a soft hiking club – a community of hikers that encourages enjoyment of time in nature through movement without having to push yourself to the limit. The benefits should be enjoyed by everyone, whatever your background and fitness level.
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We asked Emily and Lucy what they look for in a hiking boot. “We always recommend getting measured and advised at your local outdoor shop. Some places even do gait analysis for hiking shoes so you can be sure which one is right for you,” they tell us. But it's not just about the fit – they suggest always wearing them in before any long hikes so you're ready to go, blister-free. Soft Girls Who Hike recommend the Moab Speed 2 Mid GORE-TEX from Merrell. “They're really comfortable, good ankle support and come in three cute designs! They feel very light on your feet for longer hikes too.”
Whether you're actually mountaineering, backpacking/rucksacking, trekking on rocky terrain, or keen to simply stride through your local park, it's time to add some bestseller walking shoes to your collection of activewear essentials. PSA: if you're headed out for a long stomp, be sure to layer up with a waterproof jacket, gilet vest, sweat-wicking T-shirt and a pair of gym leggings and walking or hiking socks – and don't forget the essentials like a water bottle for hydration.
Why do people wear walking boots? Are walking boots worth it?
Walking boots are infinitely better for long-distance walking than your normal running trainers, largely because they support your ankles, reducing the risk of twists and sprains. Just like you need to choose the best swimwear for watersports, it's worth investing in some good outdoor footwear that's fit for purpose.
Is it better to walk in trainers or walking boots?
Walking boots are better suited to rockier and uneven terrains than trainers as they offer more support and protection to your ankles (think scrapes and cuts when you're walking on harsher terrain), so you shouldn’t even need gaiters. If you're only going to be walking on roads and through parks, a walking shoe or trail-style running shoe should be adequate though.
What should I look for in walking boots? How do you tell if boots are good for hiking?
When you're shopping for the best walking boots for women, there are a few things to consider. First: the fabric. Walking boots largely come in either leather or softer fabric. Leather boots are the more traditional and high-end, price-wise, in the walking boot arena. They tend to be warmer, and leather is naturally waterproof, although it does tend to be stiffer so your boots will take longer to break in. Nylon boots are lighter and the fabric flexes to your feet, meaning you'll be instantly ready to hit the trails and most textile boots come ready waterproofed, so you can still walk on a rainy day.
You should also check that your walking boots have good grip, too, particularly if you're going to be doing a lot of “off-roading”. In short: women's walking boots should have all the same features as men's walking boots, and while it's always good to try them on in-store you can find what you're looking for online 99% of the time.
Should I buy walking boots a size bigger?
Walking boots should have a snug but comfortable fit. You don't want them so tight they cut off blood flow, but you shouldn't be able to take them off without untying them, either. They may need breaking in at first, so it's recommended you buy ones that fit you when you're wearing thicker socks than usual. These days, there are lots of softer walking boots (like vegan walking boots) which are lighter, more comfortable, and easier to break in, but they can be less warm and less robust. Whatever you choose to try, always spend a few hours wearing them round the house – with your walking socks – before you venture out to be sure.
For non-walking related activities, be sure to check out our regular winter boots recommendations and the best winter coats for women.
What is the best walking boot? Read of for 19 of the best hiking boots - that are chic, comfortable and technical - below.
Why we love them: Built with omni-grip non-marking traction rubber, the Crestwood walking shoes from Columbia feature techlite lightweight midsoles for long lasting comfort and superior cushioning. That means a high-energy return with every step you take.
- Size range: UK 3-11.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Textile and leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Rubber.
Why we love them: With pull tabs for easy entry, plus GORE-TEX sock-like cuffs for debris-free strolls, these Berghaus boots are perfect for the avid walker.
- Size range: UK 4 - 7.5.
- Waterproofing: N/A.
- Upper material: Polyester.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Chunky VIBRAM sole.
Why we love them: The MID LTR GTXs are made from a mix of suede and canvas overlaid with hard-wearing rubber so you're ready for any weather and terrain.
- Size range: UK 3.5-9.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Suede and canvas.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Rubber sole.
Why we love them: These versatile shoes will see you through climbs and ascents with reinforced SensiFit construction designed to hold your foot in place - ideal for those tough downhills. You could also take inspo from Bella and wear this pair for everyday with cargos.
- Size range: UK 3.5-9.5.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Leather and textile.
- Weight per boot: 350g.
- Sole: Rubber.
Why we love them: This pair of shoes can take you from city to trail in style. You'll be comfy thanks to a supportive TimberCush™ system and a TimberGrip™ lug outsole designed for traction.
- Size range: UK 3.5-9.
- Waterproofing: No.
- Upper material: Textile upper with abrasion-resistant coating.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: TimberGrip™ lug outsole.
Why we love them: These Jack Walker women's walking boots are like airbeds for your feet. Yep: the insoles are that comfy. Much better for your feet than those cold AF wellington boots – they'll make long treks a dream. They're waterproof, lightweight and offer durability. Now all you need is a pair of walking sticks and some toasty base layers.
- Size range: UK 3 - 9.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Suede leather and mesh.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Rubber.
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Why we love them: Simple in design, if you're worried about what you'll look like while trekking through alpine forests, these walking boots come in wide fit as well as standard. They're available in 11 different colourways, but a lot of them tend to go out of stock – so be quick if you have a favourite.
- Size range: UK 2-8.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Leather and synthetic.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Rubber.
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Why we love them: For less than £50, we think these are some of the best walking boots you can treat yourself too. They feature a suede and mesh upper, deep padded collar and tongue for all day comfort, as well as Isotex waterproofing – which means the seams are sealed with an internal waterproof membrane for extra protection.
- Size range: UK 3-8.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Suede and mesh.
- Weight per boot: 447g.
- Sole: Ethylene vinyl acetate.
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Why we love them: These are a steal at 30% off their original price. Their multi-sport design is light enough for everyday hikes but still technical enough for alpine walks. They support your feet with a lightweight yet stable feel and classic lacing system.
- Size range: UK 3.5-10.5.
- Waterproofing: No.
- Upper material: Mesh upper with synthetic overlays and gusseted tongue.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Continental™ Rubber.
Why we love them: Supportive, comfortable, and noticeably lightweight, the durable ACRUX TR GTX® is a technical trekking boot for multi-day routes in challenging terrain. The Vibram® Megagrip rubber outsole and aggressive lug geometry combine for confident traction in wet or dry conditions, and a GORE-TEX insert delivers proven waterproof, breathable protection.
- Size range: UK 3.5-8.5.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: GORE-TEX.
- Weight per boot: 470g.
- Sole: Vibram® Megagrip outsole.
Why we love them: Timberland's classic hiking boots feature the waterproof protection of Gore-Tex® construction with a durable solid rubber outsole and multi-directional lugs designed for traction. The chocolate brown colour is both practical and on trend.
- Size range: UK 3-9.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Upper made with waterproof Premium Timberland® Leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Solid rubber outsole.
Why we love them: If you're into the aesthetic but not planning on hiking great distances this is the fashion pair to consider. The track sole will offer better grip than other boots in your wardrobe and the textured-leather is lined in plush shearling to keep you cosy.
- Size range: UK 2-9.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Textured leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Rubber.
Why we love them: Whether you're running or hiking through unpredictable terrain Hoka's use of cushioning technology and thick sole will keep your feet supported.
- Size range: UK 4-10.5.
- Waterproofing: No.
- Upper material: Synthetic.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Rubber.
Why we love them: These are an update on The North Face's failsafe hiking boot in a harnessed waterproof GORE-TEX® style so you won't even notice those puddles.
- Size range: UK 3-9.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Durable Mesh, PU-Coated Leather & Synthetic-Nubuck Leather.
- Weight per boot: 387g.
- Sole: High-traction Vibram® XS Trek outsole.
Why we love them: If you know you'll be taking on icy or snowy conditions this winter this pair of boots feature a Contagrip outsole with impressive tread resistance. They'll also keep you cosy thanks to a winter insole. The off-white colourway is also pretty chic.
- Size range: UK 3-10.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Ethylene vinyl acetate.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
- Sole: Ethylene vinyl acetate.
Why we love them: Available in two colour-ways, the Cloudrock 2 Waterproof walking boots for women boast Missiongrip™ rubber which adds traction while the new forefoot lugs bite into soft trails in wet and dry conditions. There is a hiking-specific toe-rocker which provides responsive precision with every step. What's more, the Swiss-engineered FlexLock system means laces can be tied traditionally or with a single pull and won’t catch on your other boot. It’s likely that if you’re heading into nature you’ll care about the boots’ sustainability credentials too - these are made from 30% recycled content (which includes 95% recycled polyester.) Oh and they’re waterproof.
- Size range: UK 3 - 9 (it’s recommend you take 1 size up).
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: N/A.
- Weight per boot: 202g.
- Sole: Missiongrip™ rubber sole.
Why we love them: Whilst they aren't necessarily for trekking these New Balance shoes are for anyone into trail running. They feature a Vibram® outsole to create a protective shell of durability and are finished with a standout pattern.
- Size range: UK 3.5-8.
- Waterproofing: No.
- Upper material: Synthetic and mesh upper.
- Weight per boot: 235g.
- Sole: Vibram® outsole.
Why we love them: Soft Girls Who Hike recommended this Merrell pick for being comfortable with good ankle support. We're also told they're very light on your feet for longer hikes too.
- Size range: UK 2.5-8.5.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: GORE-TEX waterproof membrane.
- Weight per boot: 349g.
- Sole: Vibram TC5+ outsole.
Why we love them: If you're looking for a lifestyle shoe that offers high-performing support for negotiating a range of conditions this is a pair to consider. They're cushioned with OrthoLite® foam footbeds making them lightweight and breathable. They also have a grippy sole for extra support underfoot.
- Size range: UK 3-9.
- Waterproofing: No.
- Upper material: Combination of Suede and 70% Recycled P.E.T. Mesh.
- Weight per boot: 332g.
- Sole: Bio-based outsole rubber.
