The Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot for women is a stylish boot that provides ample traction, support, and comfort for long-term use. The higher price point and the differing opinions of fit may deter some, but as long as you try on the boot before purchasing and ensure that the fit will work with your foot, this boot should provide weather protection, adjustability, and support for miles.
The Scarpa Mojito Shoe for women is sturdy and durable enough for approaches or short day hikes, yet stylish enough to wear around town with just about any outfit; in short, a perfect shoe for those who value versatility. Simply built, there is little that can wear out, and yet the shoe is surprisingly lightweight and easily packable. While more effective approach shoes do exist, (at much the same price) and there are certainly more supportive hiking shoes available, there is no denying the bomber construction and supreme versatility of the Mojito, and for that reason, it remains a crowd favorite.
The Nike Free RN Flyknit running shoe for women is an extremely lightweight, breathable, and comfortable shoe that is well suited for the gym, the office, walks, or road runs. The amazing flexibility and springy sole of the shoe make it ideal for shorter road runs, races, and speed training, while the sleek look translates well to the office or city. While not meant to withstand water, mud, off road runs, or longer runs, this shoe is almost unbeatable in terms of breathability and comfort on the road.
Vasque’s Grand Traverse Hiking Shoe for women is a midweight shoe that is best suited for hiking, slickrock scrambles or mountain biking. It is comfortable to wear around town or if your job has you standing on your feet all day. The Vibram soles are grippy and flexible, but thin, so they do not provide enough support underfoot or at the ankle for technical trail runs or backpacking in rough terrain. The sizing runs small, and this shoe will best fit women with a narrow foot.
La Sportiva’s Mutant Trail Running Shoe for women is a sturdy shoe that will carry you reliably over uneven terrain, through mud, rain, snow, and river crossings. The supportive construction may be too beefy for long runs on hard surfaces, but they will hold up on rocky ground. They fit best women with narrower feet; women with wider feet may need to size up.
The Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX Backpacking Boot for women is a sturdy backpacking boot. The boots are comfortable right out of the box, although women with very wide feet or high arches found they did not fit well. The boots breathe but may be a little warm on hot days, while a Gore-Tex membrane keeps the water out. The boot is designed for multi-day backpacking trips, but is comfortable to wear on day hikes, work days and walking around town.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor Trail Running Shoe for women is a sturdy, comfortable trail running shoe that can also be used as an approach shoe or for day hikes. It is breathable, grippy and provides good arch support. While heavier than some others, the shoe provides support and protection on rough terrain.
The KEEN Terradora Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot for Women is a comfortable, lightweight hiking boot best suited for day hikes. Most users report they are waterproof and the soles grip well. Choice of colors makes them fashionable enough to wear around town after hiking, and they are flexible enough to wear for trail running. The main drawback seems to be that the boots can fray after moderate use, making them no longer waterproof.
The Danner Jag Hiking Boot for women is a stylish, lightly-insulated, and lightweight boot that is a good choice for casual hikers who put style over substance. The limited traction and reports of pressure on your foot while walking make this not the best choice for longer hikes, backcountry treks, or multi-day backpacking hikes, but the attractive colors and look make it a fun option for walking around town or shorter day hikes.
The La Sportiva Wildcat Trail Running Shoe for women is a lightweight, breathable, and versatile shoe that is suitable for hikers and runners alike. The support is less than a traditional boot, but the shoe is heavier than some lightweight trail-runners, making this a hybrid shoe that is suitable for adequate performance in both sports.