15 best walking boots for women with serious style credentials
There's no better time than a brand new year to turn your love of a stroll into a full-time hobby. Here, we reveal the best walking boots and hiking boots for women with genuine style credentials, from brands like The North Face, Danner, Berghaus and Timberland. We're sorry, but your wellies just won't cut it anymore.
I'm not usually one for fitness-themed New Year's resolutions (I never stick to them and end up feeling rubbish about myself), but this year's is a gentle ‘get outside more’, so I'm in need of the best walking boots for women to accompany me.
It's time to give my fashion trainers a break and turn to proper hiking footwear instead. Hot girl walk, anyone?
Best walking boots for women 2024 at a glance:
- Best walking boots overall: Women's Cragstone Leather Waterproof Hiking Boots, WERE £140 NOW £98, The North Face
- Best all-season hiking boots: Cloudrock 2 Waterproof Hiking Boots, £195, On Running
- Most affordable hiking boots: Jack Walker Women's Trekking and Hiking Boots, £39.99, Amazon
- Most waterproof walking boots: Berghaus VC22 GORE-TEX Waterproof Trail Hiking Boots, £170, ASOS
- Fashionable women's hiking boots: Lace-Up Hiking Boots, £345, GANNI
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?
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, when your mental health might be struggling, can’t be overemphasised.
"Research has found that there are significant psychological benefits in being around nature," says Dr. Becky Spelman, counselling psychologist at The Private Therapy Clinic. "It's calming for people and helps them to be mindful and be present in the moment. The benefits should not be underestimated – it really does wonders for mental health."
Taking it step by step.
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 socks/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? Find 15 chic, comfortable and technical pairs below.
1. North Face Hiking Boots For Day Hikes, Hill Walking & More
Cragstone Leather Waterproof Hiking Boots
Why we love them: Designed to withstand scratches from rocks, rugged terrain (and anything else abrasive you come across on your walks) these boots are seriously tough. The DryVent membrane is waterproof and windproof - yet breathable - while the soles are lightweight and optimised for hiking, featuring sturdy 3.5mm lugs. Even if you’re walking on uneven surfaces these boots have heel-positioning tech which helps keep you stable with every step.
- Size range: UK 3 - 9.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Moulded 3D Nubuck leather and textile.
- Weight per boot: 347.2g.
Save when you shop for the best walking boots for women with these The North Face discount codes at checkout.
2. Comfortable Walking Boots For Women
Columbia Women's Crestwood Walking Shoe
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 3-10.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Textile and leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
3. High-Quality Black Walking Boots For Versatility
Cortina Valley Waterproof Hiking Boot
Why we love them: Protect your feet from the elements on your walks this winter with these Timberland boots crafted from waterproof Better Leather and the brand's exclusive TimberDry waterproof membrane (made with 50% recycled plastic). Other eco-conscious materials used in their construction include GreenStride soles (made with 75% renewable bio-based material) and ReBOTL fabric linings containing 50% recycled plastic diverted from landfills. We love to see it.
- Size range: UK 3.5 - 9.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Premium Nubuck better leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
Save when you shop for the best walking boots for women with these Timberland discount codes at checkout.
4. Hiking Boots For Women: Berghaus
Berghaus VC22 GORE-TEX Waterproof Trail Hiking Boots
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.
5. Alpine Walking Boots For Women
Skechers Women's Trego Alpine Trail Walking Shoe
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 act quick if you have a favourite.
- Size range: UK 2-8.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Leather and synthetic.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
Save when you shop for the best walking boots for women with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
6. Waterproof Walking Boots For Women
Why we love them: Available in three 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.
7. Bright Walking Boots
Adidas By Stella McCartney Terrex Rubber Hiking Boots
Why we love them: Shaped from panels of red and orange rubber, adidas by Stella McCartney's Terrex hiking boots are fitted with insulating COLD.RDY technology and cushioned ankle support. So they're cool and functional.
- Size range: UK 3.5-9.
- Waterproofing: N/A.
- Upper material: Rubber.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
8. Waterproof Walking Boots Women: Softshell Regatta Style
Jack Walker Women's Waterproof Hiking Boots
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 durable. Now all you need is a pair of walking sticks and some toasty base layers.
- Size range: UK 3 - 10.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Suede leather and mesh.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
Save when you shop for the best walking boots for women with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
9. Hiking Shoes For The Countryside
Barbour Burne Lace Up Leather Hiker Boots
Why we love them: They look smart enough to wear to lunch at a nice pub after a long ramble in the countryside, and are built to last thanks to the smooth leather upper, padded ankles and sturdy rubber soles.
- Size range: UK 3-8.
- Waterproofing: Water-resistant.
- Upper material: Leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
11. Most Stylish Walking Boots For Short Walks To Long
Why we love them: GANNI is our go-to for on-trend and stylish fashion, so why wouldn't they be somewhere we'd browse for walking boots? These ones feature the brand's signature chunky sole and contrasting stitching to complement the faux fur/shearling lining.
- Size range: UK 2-11.
- Waterproofing: N/A.
- Upper material: Recycled polyester and calf leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
10. The Best Walking Boots For Cold Conditions
Why we love them: Looking for some sort of walking boot/snow boot hybrid? You've found them. If you need something for stomping around in when you're not slaying the slopes then these will absolutely do the trick.
- Size range: UK 3-9.
- Waterproofing: Water-resistant.
- Upper material: Textile and faux-leather.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
Save when you shop for the best walking boots for women, including Adidas Terrex, lightweight boots, trail running shoes, Merrell boots, hiking shoes with special toe box/toe caps and lacing systems for wide feet and foot shapes, plus the lightest Eva soles with these ASOS discount codes before you rush to the checkout.
12. Best Hiking Boots: Best Womens Suede Walking Boots
Women's Lennox Hiker STKD Waterproof Boots
Why we love them: Available in three colours – black, taupe and tawny – these walking boots are waterproof despite their suede uppers, thanks to a seam-sealed waterproof construction. Sleek and sensible.
- Size range: UK 3-10.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Full grain leather and suede combination.
- Weight per boot: N/A.
13. Arcteryx Walking Boots For Women With Gore-Tex Lining
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.
14. Walking Boots For Women For Under £50
Regatta Womens Clydebank Water Resistant Walking Ankle Boots
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 membrane for extra protection.
- Size range: UK 3-8.
- Waterproofing: Yes.
- Upper material: Suede and mesh.
- Weight per boot: 447g.
Save when you shop for the best walking boots for women with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
15. Gore-Tex Membrane Wakling Boots For Women
Outpulse Mid Gore-Tex Women's Hiking Boots
Why we love them: Multi-faceted to match your mood, the OUTPULSE MID GORE-TEX is as adaptable as it is dependable. Protective and grippy, built on a midsole with a premium energy return footbed and cushioning (that'll help avoid blisters), thanks to Fuze Foam compound. They're a really comfortable pair of boots.
- Size range: UK 3.5-10.5.
- Waterproofing: N/A.
- Upper material: GORE-TEX.
- Weight per boot: 328g.
