Do women need specially designed hiking boot?
Most of the hiking shoes and backpacking boots discussed above come in women's sizes, and critics are split on whether they fit better than unisex designs. Nonetheless, we found reviews recommending several models specifically designed for women, and if you have especially narrow feet, or narrow heels but a wide forefoot, you may find these to be a better fit. The main drawback is that none of these use eVENT waterproof lining, the most breathable type so far. However, several Gore-Tex-lined light hiking boots earn notable recommendations in reviews.
The Gore-Tex-lined Asolo Stynger Gtx (*Est. $200), sized only for women, is well ventilated with Cordura nylon mesh segments in the water-resistant suede uppers. Except for the heavier Zamberlon Civetta (*Est. $260), the Asolo Stynger is the top-rated women's hiking boot at both REI.com and Moosejaw.com. Women say that these hiking boots are comfortable for day hiking, as well as for backpacking with loads up to 35 pounds or so. Most women say they're comfortable right out of the box. Reviewers praise it for excellent traction, comfort and water resistance, but we found a few complaints about poor durability. At 2 pounds 8 ounces, these boots are also a bit heavy for light hikers.
The women's version of the Vasque Breeze GTX XCR (*Est. $160) also earns praise from reviewers at REI.com and Moosejaw.com. One advantage is that the Gore-Tex XCR lining is supposed to be more breathable than regular Gore-Tex. The Vasque Breeze GTX XCR is also slightly lighter than the Asolo Stynger Gtx, at 2 pounds 6 ounces. However, we did find a few reports that this light hiker isn't completely waterproof.
For lighter weight, it's worth considering the Merrell Chameleon ARC Mid Waterproof (*Est. $120), cut a bit lower than the two light hiking shoes discussed above. Merrell makes its women's hiking shoes and boots on gender-specific lasts for a better fit, so it's not surprising that this boot earns high marks from female testers. Women reviewing the Chameleon ARC Mid Waterproof hiking boot at REI.com praise it as comfortable and waterproof, with excellent traction.
Backpacker editors named it one of the two best women's light-duty hiking boots in the 2008 gear guide. (The 2009 issue doesn't pick a successor.) Based on extensive field tests by women, editors say it provides enough support for backpacking loads up to about 45 pounds, even on rough trails. That's about the weight many women would prefer to carry anyway, and a pair weighs just 2 pounds 1 ounce.
For excellent fit for most women, Backpacker editors also recommend the Asolo Attiva GTX (*Est. $210). These light hikers weigh three ounces more than the Merrell Chameleon ARC Mid Waterproof, but are cut higher for more ankle support. Testers for Backpacker magazine's 2008 gear guide issue found the Attiva GTX boots durable and comfortable even with a 45-pound load, but "not exceptionally breathable." Quite a few of the women reviewing them at Buzzillions.com found them comfortable right out of the box.
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