9 Best Women’s Wide Hiking Shoes 2026

The Columbia Women’s Strata Trail Low bursts onto the scene with a refreshingly breathable mesh and suede upper, making it a standout for hikers who dread sweaty, overheated feet on warm-weather treks. What truly sets it apart is the Omni-Grip rubber outsole, delivering confident bite on dry trails and light gravel, while the Techlite midsole offers surprising cushioning for a shoe at this price point. It’s a lightweight champion built for those who prioritize airflow and all-day wearability without sacrificing trail readiness.

On moderate hikes and paved nature paths, the Strata Trail Low feels nimble and responsive, thanks to its low-to-the-ground profile and gusseted tongue that effectively blocks trail grit. The synthetic overlays add structure without stifling breathability, and the shoe handles transitions from dirt to pavement with ease. However, it falters on wet rocks or muddy inclines—Omni-Grip lacks the aggressive lug depth needed for slick conditions, making it better suited for fair-weather adventures than true all-terrain dominance.

Compared to the heavier-duty Merrell Accentor 3 or the fully waterproof Vasque Talus, the Strata Trail Low is the go-to for breathability-first hikers who log miles in dry, warm climates. It’s not built for alpine scrambles or sudden downpours, but for summer day hikes and trail-to-town versatility, it delivers exceptional airflow and comfort. When stacked against the NORTIV 8 budget model, it offers superior traction and midsole responsiveness, making it a more refined choice despite a slightly higher cost.

The Merrell Accentor 3 doesn’t just walk the talk—it stomps it, with a suede and mesh upper wrapped in a protective rubber toe cap that screams durability. Built for hikers who abuse their footwear, this shoe balances ruggedness with comfort, thanks to the Merrell Air Cushion heel that dampens impacts on rocky descents and the sticky rubber outsole that clings to surfaces with surprising tenacity. If you’re the type who scuffs through trails rather than tiptoes, this shoe is engineered to keep pace.

In real-world testing, the Accentor 3 excels on mixed terrain—gravel, packed dirt, and uneven stone steps—where its lightweight EVA midsole provides stable cushioning without feeling mushy. The breathable mesh keeps heat at bay during long hikes, and the toe cap genuinely protects against stubs and scuffs, a rare win in low-cut hikers. That said, it’s not fully waterproof, so stream crossings or rainy days leave feet vulnerable, and the fit runs slightly narrow, which could pinch wider forefeet despite its generous sizing.

When pitted against the Columbia Strata Trail Low, the Accentor 3 trades some breathability for superior build quality and impact protection, making it ideal for rugged day hikes and trail runners who value longevity. It’s less about cutting weight and more about enduring season after season—perfect for backpackers needing a reliable, no-nonsense shoe. While the KEEN Targhee 4 offers more arch support and waterproofing, the Accentor 3 delivers better value in durability per dollar without overengineering.

Step into the Vasque Talus Low, and you’re greeted with a 1.8 mm waterproof nubuck leather build that radiates confidence when puddles, mud, or sudden rain threaten your hike. This is no fair-weather hiker—its UltraDry waterproof membrane forms a complete seal, ensuring feet stay dry even when wading through wet grass or crossing damp logs. Paired with the Vibram Mega Nuasi outsole, it delivers aggressive, terrain-devouring traction that grips slick rock and loose scree with authority, making it a top pick for unpredictable trail conditions.

On extended hikes through dew-soaked meadows and rocky ascents, the Talus Low shines with its dual-density EVA footbed and TPU shank, offering a stable, supportive ride that minimizes foot fatigue. The molded midsole provides excellent underfoot protection, and the wide width option ensures toes aren’t cramped on long descents. However, the nubuck leather requires occasional conditioning to maintain its water resistance, and the shoe runs slightly warm in hot climates due to its sealed construction—breathability is sacrificed for dryness.

Against the KEEN Targhee 4, the Talus Low holds its own with a lighter weight and more aggressive Vibram lug pattern, though it lacks KEEN’s recycled materials and plush arch support. It’s the ideal choice for hikers in damp or variable climates who demand true waterproof performance without boot-like bulk. Compared to the Saucony Excursion TR16, it offers far superior wet-weather protection and sole durability, making it a smarter investment for serious trail use.

The Saucony Excursion Tr16 charges out of the gate with carbon-rubber lugs that dig into soft soil and loose gravel like claws, making it one of the most grippy low-cut hikers in its class. This shoe is built for trail dominance, where footing is unreliable and confidence underfoot is non-negotiable. The VERSARUN cushioning strikes a smart balance—firm enough for responsiveness, soft enough for all-day wear—while the wide width option gives toes room to splay naturally on uneven ground.

In practice, the Excursion Tr16 performs best on muddy trails, forest paths, and rocky switchbacks, where its aggressive tread pattern bites deep and holds firm. The breathable upper handles moderate airflow, though it doesn’t match the Columbia Strata Trail Low’s ventilation. While it’s highly capable on technical terrain, the lack of a waterproof membrane means wet conditions will soak through, and the shoe’s support leans minimal—those needing heavy ankle stability or orthotic compatibility may find it underwhelming.

Next to the Vasque Talus Low, the Excursion Tr16 trades waterproofing and premium materials for lightweight agility and unbeatable trail grip. It’s the go-to for hikers who prioritize traction above all else and stick to dry-season adventures. When compared to the budget NORTIV 8, it delivers far superior outsole durability and midfoot control, making it worth the jump for serious trail enthusiasts who demand performance over polish.

The KEEN Targhee 4 doesn’t just claim to be the best overall hiking shoe—it earns the title with a trifecta of waterproofing, traction, and comfort wrapped in a planet-conscious build. Its KEEN.DRY membrane keeps feet bone-dry in puddles and light rain, while the KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole delivers sticky grip on wet rocks and muddy inclines where lesser shoes slip. Add in the removable Luftcell footbed with exceptional arch support, and you’ve got a shoe that feels broken-in from day one.

Out on the trail, the Targhee 4 handles everything from steep scrambles to long-distance day hikes with unwavering stability. The direct-attach construction means the sole won’t peel over time, a common failure point in budget hikers, and the high-abrasion rubber toe guard shrugs off trail debris and rock kicks. The wide toe box is genuinely roomy, promoting natural toe splay, and the recycled PET laces add a subtle eco-touch without sacrificing function. It’s a bit heavier than non-waterproof models, but the trade-off is worth it for all-season readiness.

Stacked against the Vasque Talus Low, the Targhee 4 offers better arch support and eco-conscious materials, though the Vibram sole on the Vasque has a slight edge in extreme traction. Compared to the Merrell Accentor 3, it provides superior waterproofing and underfoot cushioning, making it the clear winner for hikers who want one shoe to rule them all. It’s the most complete package in the lineup—ideal for weekend warriors and thru-hikers alike who refuse to compromise.

The Hike Footwear Lazuli Pro redefines trail comfort with a barefoot-inspired design centered around a massively wide toe box that lets toes splay, wiggle, and function as nature intended. This isn’t just a hiking shoe—it’s a foot health revolution, promoting natural movement, better posture, and reduced joint strain with its ultra-thin, flexible sole that transmits trail feedback directly to the foot. Ideal for hikers battling bunions, plantar fasciitis, or toe cramping, it delivers a grounded, connected feel missing from most bulky hiking shoes.

On soft trails, packed dirt, and grassy paths, the Lazuli Pro moves with feline grace—light, quiet, and responsive. The non-slip rubber sole offers decent grip on dry terrain, and the breathable mesh keeps feet cool during warm hikes. However, the minimal cushioning means rocky or root-strewn trails become painful fast, and the lack of arch support demands strong intrinsic foot muscles. It’s not for everyone—especially those used to supportive, structured shoes—but for barefoot converts and foot-first hikers, it’s a liberating upgrade.

Compared to the KEEN Targhee 4 or Vasque Talus Low, the Lazuli Pro sacrifices protection and cushioning for freedom and foot health. It’s the ultimate choice for low-impact hiking, forest walking, or rehab-focused movement, not rugged alpine climbs. When weighed against the Saucony Excursion Tr16, it offers zero competition in support or traction, but wins hands-down in toe box width and natural motion—a niche star for a growing movement.

The NORTIV 8 Women’s Hiking Shoes punch far above their weight with a budget-friendly build that doesn’t skimp on essentials—slip-resistant soles, breathable mesh, and reflective accents make this a practical pick for casual hikers and daily walkers alike. It’s engineered for all-day comfort, with a roomy fit and arch support that surprise at this price, and the lightweight construction makes it easy to forget you’re wearing hiking shoes at all. For dog walkers, urban explorers, or light trail users, it’s a stealthy, no-frills workhorse.

On paved trails, park loops, and gentle dirt paths, the NORTIV 8 delivers reliable grip and decent breathability, while the reflective details boost safety during early morning or dusk outings. The midfoot support keeps feet stable on uneven ground, though the cushioning flattens out over long distances. It’s not built for technical terrain—the outsole rubber lacks durability on sharp rocks, and the upper material feels thin compared to Merrell or KEEN. Still, for entry-level users, it’s a smart gateway into hiking footwear.

Next to the Columbia Strata Trail Low, the NORTIV 8 offers similar breathability at a lower cost, but with less refined traction and midsole resilience. It can’t match the Saucony or KEEN in performance, but for those dipping a toe into hiking without overspending, it’s a high-value starting point. It’s the best budget entry for fair-weather strolls and light outdoor work—not a trail conqueror, but a dependable companion for everyday adventure.